Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia Archives

Volkswagen R-Line in Malaysia expanded to four models

‘R’ is a popular alphabet among car manufacturers as it is associated with the word ‘Racing’. Usually, ‘R’ is used it to designate the sportiest variants of their models. Volkswagen began using ‘R’ with the 3.2-litre Golf R32 model some 15 years ago and then decided to have a R variant for each Golf generation that would be the most powerful in its time.

The R branding became increasingly successful and by 2010, the R GmbH division was established to look after the development and marketing of the hottest VW models. And while it has been performance-oriented, the division has this year announced that its direction will follow the trend of electrification. In fact, it has maintained the reputation of high performance even in EVs with the ID. R – the fastest car ever to race up Pikes Peak in America.

Then there’s also the R-Line which draws on the R image but without performance enhancements. The R-Line began as a trim level created by Volkswagen Individual but eventually became a range of its own, managed by the R division.

Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line 2012 — *The first R-Line model in Malaysia was the Passat CC R-Line, introduced in 2012.*

Volkswagen Golf R-Line 2018 — *Current Golf R-Line*

The first R-Line model in Malaysia was a version of the Passat CC introduced in 2012, followed by Golf Mk.7 a year later. Thus far, the Malaysian market has only had the R-Line available with the Golf but today, additional models have been launched to expand the R-Line to four models. Besides the Golf 7.5, which debuted in the early part of 2018, there is now the new Arteon R-Line, Tiguan R-Line and Passat R-Line.

Arteon R-Line (RM221,065)
The Arteon R-Line is the new flagship of the Volkswagen range in Malaysia. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) obviously expects it to make a strong impression on the market and has invested in local assembly which is done at the plant in Pekan, Pahang.

“As our new flagship, the Arteon elevates the Volkswagen brand for us as it beautifully captures design, performance and function while offering a greater feeling of exclusivity. Having it as an R-Line model adds sportiness even more to the heart of the Arteon,” said VPCM’s Managing Director, Erik Winter.

The Arteon is the direct successor to the Passat CC and has the same sleekness with a fastback profile. It sits on the MQB platform (which made it easier to assemble locally) and comes with a 2-litre TSI turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine with an output of 190 ps/320 Nm.

Power delivery to the front wheels is through a new and improved 7-speed double wet clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG). Drivers can customize performance characteristics with five driving modes – Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport and Individual – as well as Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) which offers up to 15 selectable increments.

As a flagship model, the Arteon R-Line obviously comes with a wide range of luxury items, along with the sporty image. Front passengers can sit comfortably on the 14-way ErgoComfort seats and the driver gets an additional massage function.

For audiophiles, the Arteon is fitted with a 700W Dynaudio sound system that comprises 11 speakers plus a subwoofer, and 16-channel digital amplifier. Adding to the luxurious ambience are Silver Rise aluminium inserts, Titanium Black headliner, an analogue clock and 3-colour ambient lighting.

The 11.7-inch Digital Cockpit keeps drivers well informed with data displayed on customizable screen views (up to 6) and over 30 combination options, including 2D and 3D navigation and a full 100% map view.

For connectivity, the 9.2-inch Discover Pro touchscreen (split view) infotainment system allows drivers to connect wirelessly via Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto and Mirrorlink also available via a Type C USB port. The system has voice control and gesture control for handsfree operation.

A first for Volkswagen in Malaysia is the car’s Easy Close feature which provides a 20-second delayed closing of the boot, giving the driver freedom to remove items in the boot using both hands. Handsfree opening can be easily done by just placing a foot under the rear bumper.

Tiguan Allspace R-Line (RM209,575)
The new Allspace variant signifies the longer wheelbase that makes possible the addition of a third row of seating, so up to 7 persons can be accommodated. While the Tiguan Allspace Highline comes with front-wheel drive and a 1.4-litre TSI engine, the R-Line version has Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Upholding its R-Line legacy, the Tiguan Allspace R-Line has the highest power and torque in its class – 220 ps/350 Nm – generated by a 2-litre TSI turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine. Like the Arteon R-Line, it also has a 7-speed DSG. Besides the 4Motion’s four modes for different conditions, the driver can also customize the powertrain characteristics as well as the chassis to suit personal driving styles and even to stretch each litre of fuel.

With three rows of seats, there’s the possibility of multiple seat configurations to suit different needs. The second and third row backrests can be folded individually and when both rows are flat, there’s a massive boot volume of 1,775 litres.

The interior is a combination of sportiness and functionality with connectivity features such as a Digital Cockpit and 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system with 8 speakers. Standard features include 3-zone climate control, cruise control, powered tailgate, LED lighting units front and rear and a tyre pressure monitor.

Passat R-Line (estimated RM200,000 – RM210,000)
The new Passat R-Line is not available just yet, but Volkswagen dealers will accept bookings from today. Like the Passat Elegance launched earlier this year, the Passat R-Line is also locally assembled. Being assembled locally, like the Arteon and Tiguan, means there is full exemption of the 10% sales tax until the end of the year.

The accessories developed by the R division for the Passat are sportier front and rear bumpers, side R-Line badge and a lot of chrome trim, plus 19-inch Verona alloy wheels. As for the interior, R-Line trim is in the form of Nappa carbon-style black leather seats, steering wheel and aluminium sports pedals.

For connectivity, the Passat R-Line has Volkswagen’s Discover Pro infotainment system with a 9.2-inch touchscreen. Convenient features include voice control, gesture control, a customizable 3-view split screen and Wireless App-Connect with Apple Car Play.

The Passat R-Line is not just about sportier looks but also delivers strong performance with its 2-litre TSI turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine (190 ps/320Nm) paired with the new and improved 7-speed wet clutch DSG.

The other models in the 2020 range
The Volkswagen range for Malaysia this year presently consists of the Arteon, Passat, Tiguan, Golf 7.5, Vento and Polo, with their respective variants. Prices range from RM221,065 to RM74,800 so there should be a Volkswagen to suit your budget.

2020 VW Tiguan Allspace Highline — *There’s also the new Tiguan Allspace Highline with 3 rows of seats with only front-wheel drive and a 1.4-litre TSI engine, priced from RM165,000.*

As part of its ‘Volkswagen Cares’ initiative, every new unit comes with 3 years of free scheduled maintenance, a 5-year warranty with no limit on mileage and 5 years complimentary roadside assistance.

If you are in the Klang Valley, you can get a closer look at the new Volkswagen R-Line models at the Volkswagen Tour which is on at the 1Utama shopping centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, until Sunday August 16. There’s also an opportunity to experience the cars at the same location, which is what VPCM encourages the public to do.

Revised prices for Volkswagen models in Malaysia

12,732 Volkswagen vehicles in Malaysia being recalled for transmission issue

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced a voluntary recall for models produced between 2011 and 2015 to rectify the hydraulic pressure accumulator within the 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) caused by a production deviation.

In individual cases, it has been found that the hydraulic pressure accumulator starts to run at an excessive pressure and this can cause a leak, leading to possible pressure loss. This can interrupt power transmission between the engine and gearbox.

A total of 12,732 Volkswagen vehicles have been identified as being affected by this recall. The affected models are the Beetle, Cross Touran, Golf (Mk 6 and Mk 7), Jetta, Passat (B7), Passat CC, Polo (6R) and Scirocco. This exercise does not affect Volkswagen models produced from 2016 and newer.

Volkswagen recall — *Some of the models sold between 2011 and 2015 in Malaysia which are being recalled.*

The nationwide campaign will be executed in phases in order to manage the number of cases, and notification to identified owners will be conducted by mail with immediate effect. In the event that you own one of the Volkswagen models mentioned but do not receive any communication from VPCM, it could be that they do not have your contact details because you are not the original owner and their database has not been updated with details of the current owner. Nevertheless, your vehicle will still be accepted under the recall exercise.

Owners can also visit the Volkswagen website to check if their vehicle is affected or call Volkswagen customer care at 1800-18-8947 for further information.

*Owners can use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) usually located on the dashboard as shown to check whether their vehicle is affected.*

They may then contact any authorised Volkswagen service centre to book an appointment and have their vehicle inspected and parts replaced, if need be. VPCM has taken the necessary steps with its dealer partners to ensure parts availability and that the exercise is conducted smoothly and efficiently. All labour and replacement parts for this service will be at no cost to owners.

Additionally, owners will receive a free Volkswagen Care Plus (VCP) membership card as a token of appreciation from Volkswagen. An integral part of Volkswagen Cares, VCP is an exclusive program for owners with vehicles that are 5 years old and older. Member privileges include three 20% service discounts vouchers, 2 years of complimentary Roadside Assistance, and 24-hour on-site battery support (terms and conditions apply).

“As a responsible car manufacturer, customer confidence and peace of mind is of utmost importance to us, and we hope that our owners understand that this campaign is necessary to ensure their continued confidence in the performance of their vehicles,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.

He expressed his regret for the inconvenience caused to the owners and added that while the affected vehicles have been identified, it is possible that not all the vehicles will require parts replacement. “This is a significant exercise for us, and we would like to ensure that all these vehicles are inspected. This campaign is part of our Volkswagen Cares initiative, and we are committed to a high level of customer safety, service and satisfaction,” he explained.

Free 5-Star Service Check for Volkswagens

Free 5-Star Service Check for Volkswagens

With the lifting of restrictions, especially the prohibition on inter-state travel, Malaysians are motoring again. As always, the vehicles should be in good condition to avoid being inconvenienced by breakdowns or worse, a system failure that could cause an accident.

As part of its VW Cares initiative, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is offering a 5-Star Service Check to all Volkswagen owners to ensure their vehicles are in good running condition. This is especially important if the vehicle was stationary in the past few months.

The 5-Star Service Check, available at all authorised Volkswagen service centres nationwide, is a comprehensive visual check conducted by the service advisor together with the customer to review and highlight potential wear and tear and identify any severe issue.

It’s free!
The areas inspected include the body and paint condition of the vehicle, lighting, brakes, windscreen and windows, wheels and tyres. The checks do not take long and owners do not have to pay anything.

Money-saving offers
Should any parts need to be changed, owners can enjoy savings while being assured of them being genuine Volkswagen parts or parts approved by Volkswagen. Some examples are batteries (20% off), tyres (up to 20% off), windscreen (5% discount), wiper blades (RM20 less per set), brake pads (discount of RM50 a set), and brake discs (discount of RM50 a disc). These offers are available until December 31, 2020.

Volkswagen Passat — *Whether you’re going on a short journey or a longer one, be sure your car is in good condition to avoid the inconvenience of a breakdown.*

While at the service centre, owners can also get an approved fuel additive at RM40 than that the usual price. For a more thorough cleaning job inside the engine, VPCM recommends Walnut Granulate Blasting, a method that is approved by Volkswagen AG. The process removes carbon deposits quickly, safely and without weakening the metal parts.

Service appointments can be booked online (click here) and for more information, visit www.volkswagen.com.my/volkswagen-service/repair-and-service.

Volkswagen owners can get more with VIP

Volkswagen Store opens for online business on Shopee

For the past couple of years, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has been steadily increasing its brand presence online, starting first by offering a limited number of special edition units for sale. Now, it is moving into e-commerce in a bigger way by having an official online store as a complement to its Volkswagen eShowroom which was launched earlier this year.

The new online store at Shopee, a popular platform, conforms to Volkswagen’s new brand design principle of ‘digital-first’. As Malaysians embrace the new normal, e-commerce platforms like Shopee, together with Volkswagen’s own eShowroom are key points of contact for new and existing customers, playing a key role in their shopping and purchase decisions.

Volkswagen 7.7 Sale — *VPCM will be offering special deals on Shopee.*

Exclusive deals
The Volkswagen Store on Shopee will feature the complete line-up of models, providing a convenient alternative to those shopping for a new car. In conjunction with the coming ‘7.7 Mid-Year Sale’, VPCM is offering exclusive deals for Volkswagen models booked via Shopee between June 23 and July 7, 2020.

Customers need only pay RM199 to be entitled to rewards ranging from RM4,279 up to RM14,819, depending on the models selected. This includes exclusive online deals and savings, free home delivery within a 20-km radius from the dealership processing the purchase, free deep sanitization package worth up to RM150, and a free Volkswagen LEGO camper worth RM499. Seven lucky customers who purchase a Volkswagen during the promotion period will also stand a chance to win RM700 Shopee voucher.

VW eShowroom — *Besides the Volkswagen Store at Shopee, there is also the **Volkswagen eShowroom**.*

Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM, said the move to Shopee is a way for the brand to optimise its services on digital applications while offering the best deals and convenience when it comes to buying a Volkswagen. “We have achieved great success with our digital and e-commerce initiatives and being present on Shopee was the next natural step for us. This partnership with Shopee leverages on their digital expertise and platform to connect with our customers whilst offering them irresistible deals in conjunction with Shopee’s ‘7.7 Mid-Year Sale’,” he said.

UNITED limited editions of Volkswagen Passat and Tiguan launched

Revised prices for Volkswagen models in Malaysia

Here are the revised prices of Volkswagen models distributed by Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) which will be effective from June 15, 2020:

Volkswagen 2020 Prices With Sales Tax Exemption — *Note: Prices do not include registration fees and insurance premiums.*

♦ For locally-assembled models, the exemption of Sales Tax is 100% of the 10% rate. The Volkswagen models applicable are the Polo, Vento, Tiguan and Passat. These are assembled at the plant within the HICOM Automotive Manufacturers complex in Pekan, Pahang.

♦ For models imported in completely built-up (CBU) form, the exemption of Sales Tax is 50% of the 10% rate, which is 5%. Models which are CBU are the Golf R-Line, Golf GTI and Golf R.

♦ The Sales Tax exemption is only applicable to 2020 models and will be allowed up till December 31, 2020.

♦ All the models listed come with 3-years of free maintenance, a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty and 5 years of complimentary roadside assistance (terms and conditions apply).

Current promotion
On top of the price reduction, customers can also get additional savings such as the first 6 months of H-P instalments covered by VPCM. This offer is applicable to the Tiguan SUV and new vehicles must be registered by June 30, 2020. There are additional rebates and free home delivery service for customers when using the Volkswagen eShowroom to book online.

For more information or to locate an authorised Volkswagen dealership in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.

Customers who buy Volkswagens can have new vehicle delivered to their homes

Customers who buy Volkswagens can have new vehicle delivered to their homes

The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly brought about changes in many ways, to the extent that we now have to adapt to what is known as the ‘new normal’. In the case of the car industry, dealers have now to follow new standard operating procedures to protect their customers as well as their employees.

Every dealership must now carry out temperature checks, provide and use hand sanitizers, practice social distancing, cashless payments and many now ask customers to wear facemasks as well. Understandably, there are still customers who are hesitant about going to a showroom, even if they have a new car to collect.

For such customers, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has a new initiative under its Hands campaign whereby the handover can be done without them having to go to the showroom. It’s a new option where the new vehicle will be delivered to the home of the new owner.

For convenience and safety of customers
Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM, said that the initiative showed the company’s evolution in keeping up with the new shopping habits of consumers. “With the introduction of this service, we are closing the loop and making it easy for our customers to buy a Volkswagen from the comfort and safety of their own homes. It is as simple as selecting their preferred model on the eShowroom, finalizing the sales process and having the new car delivered right to their doorstep,” he explained.

VW delivery — *If they prefer, customers will not have to go to the showroom to pick up their new Volkswagen and the dealership will send it to their home by a flatbed truck.*

The service is available nationwide from all authorized Volkswagen dealerships up to a distance of 20 kms from the dealership serving the customer No, it won’t be Grab delivering the new vehicle nor will a sales consultant be driving it. It will be put on a single flatbed carrier truck and fully covered in canvas to protect it from damage. The customer will not have to pay for the service.

Adhering to strict safety guidelines, the carrier trucks are also cleaned and disinfected before and after each delivery, with drivers regularly checked and practicing COVID-19 safety measures. Owners will receive an SMS notification once their new car has been collected and is en route to their doorstep. As added safety measure, the owner’s Welcome Kit and car keys will be safely placed in the locked car.

Volkswagen Deep Sanitisation package
For owners seeking additional peace of mind, the Volkswagen Deep Sanitisation service package is now available, and starts from as low as RM80. The treatment package works to eradicate more than 99% of germs and bacteria in the cabin, including the air-conditioning system.

For more information, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.

Volkswagen’s ‘Buckle Up’ campaign educates children on importance of road and car safety

Volkswagen’s ‘Buckle Up’ campaign educates children on importance of road and car safety

In these times of the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of messages to the public focus on social distancing and personal hygiene to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. However, traffic accidents still happen and road and car safety are still important.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has not forgotten this and is taking an initiative to educate the younger generation on the importance of road and car safety. The company has created the ‘Buckle Up’ animation series on YouTube for children.

Targeting children 3 – 7 years old
Part of the brand’s social responsibility here in Malaysia, the entertaining series brings online the much-loved Volkswagen mascot, a familiar face and adored by children at roadshows and events. Specifically targeting children aged between 3 to 7 years old, the content is communicated in a fun and entertaining way and covers topics such as how to cross the road, understanding traffic lights and the importance of wearing a seatbelt.

“As a responsible brand, we are socially accountable to our stakeholders and the public – at the same time not forgetting the little ones. It is never too early for us to teach children how to keep safe, and we believe that in the long run, this will help them develop the right attitude and behaviour on the road. Of course, with children being more internet-savvy, the perfect avenue to communicate this is online” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.

The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research reported that road accidents are the fourth common cause of death in Malaysia, and more than 1,500 children under the age of 10 died in road accidents from 2007 to 2017. Last year, Malaysia had the third highest fatality rate from road accidents in Asia, behind Thailand and Vietnam.

A follow-up campaign
Volkswagen first launched the ‘Buckle Up’ campaign in 2015 and partnered with the Association of Registered Child Care Providers Malaysia or PPBM to educate the general public on the importance of child passenger safety through training modules across 280 childcare centres nationwide.

Since then, Volkswagen has constantly communicated child safety through training modules to dealers at the Volkswagen Academy in Selangor, to customers and owners via dealership events, and on social media platforms.

The Volkswagen ‘Buckle Up’ campaign series is available on Volkswagen’s YouTube channel here. Parents are encouraged to subscribe to receive the latest updates and notifications when new episodes are added.

Volkswagen and Tarik Jeans collaborate to save the Malayan Tapir

All authorised Volkswagen service centres open for business

Volkswagen owners in Malaysia who have been waiting to send their vehicles to the service centres for required maintenance, deferred during the Movement Control Period (MCO), can now do so. – Following the recent announcement by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), automotive service centres can resume operations at full capacity.

As such, all authorised Volkswagen service centres in the country will now resume their operations. Showrooms will, however, remain closed for the time being while the MCO is in effect.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) said that its service dealers will adhered to the strict guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) required by MITI. In connection with this, a ‘Safe Hands’ campaign is adopted taking customers’ and employees’ health into consideration.

The new standard operating procedure includes contactless vehicle acceptance, video walk-throughs, sanitization before and after repair, and cashless payments with e-invoicing during the contactless car pick-up. Additionally, selected dealers will offer vehicle pick-up and drop-off arrangements.

Customers need to make an appointment in advance and are advised to contact their respective service centres for this. Those Volkswagen owners and frontliners who had previously booked their appointments via the Welcome Back campaign will receive priority slots, depending on availability.

“As we prepare to attend to the aftersales needs of our customers, we do this keeping in mind that social distancing is the new normal, and that hygiene and sanitization is now an essential part of daily precautionary measures. I am pleased to say that our ‘Safe Hands‘ SOP adheres to these new standards and will apply to all aspects of our business operations, and not just at our service centres,“ said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.

Mr. Winter added that other safety precautions implemented at service centres will include regular sanitization of the premises and regular temperature screenings on all staff and customers.

For further information or contact information for authorised service centres, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia shows appreciation for efforts of frontliners

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia shows appreciation for efforts of frontliners

To show appreciation to the nation’s frontliners in the War against COVID-19, Volkswagen Passengers Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has updated its ‘Welcome Back’ aftersales campaign announced earlier. The frontliners refer to the government hospitals doctors, nurses and administrators, personnel of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Malaysian Armed Forces as well as RELA and Malaysia Civil Defense (Angkatan Pertahanan Awam).

For this brave and dedicated group of Malaysians, there are additional benefits if they are Volkswagen owners. The benefits are a small token of appreciation to ease their burden and offer peace of mind.

The additional benefits include priority booking, complimentary car sanitization and a 10% discount off the total bill (terms and conditions apply). Volkswagen owners who are frontliners are required to indicate their respective occupational areas when registering online, and a Volkswagen representative will be in touch for verification.

Once verified, the additional benefits will be credited into their Volkswagen Cares App wallet and will be ready to be used for their pre-booked appointment. The appointment must be made within 30 days after the Movement Control Order is lifted.

The ‘Welcome Back’ campaign, announced earlier, offer Volkswagen owners a gift and an additional RM50 engine oil voucher (for owners not redeeming their free maintenance service and non-Volkswagen Cares Plus members).

To register and book an appointment, visit www.volkswagen.com.my where the Volkswagen Cares mobile app can be downloaded to enjoy the benefits.

Volkswagen prepares to welcome back owners in Malaysia after MCO ends

Volkswagen prepares to welcome back owners in Malaysia after MCO ends

Due to the Movement Control Order (MCO) being in effect, a significant number of Volkswagen owners have had to put their vehicle’s aftersales needs on hold as all service centres nationwide are closed. Although workshops can operate, they are only allowed to perform emergency services and not regular maintenance work.

Looking ahead to the time when the MCO ends, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has prepared a ‘Welcome Back’ campaign for owners under the Volkswagen Cares initiative.

Keeping customer’s convenience in mind, VPCM invites owners to register and book their appointments on the Volkswagen website and upon submission of interest, a representative from an authorised Volkswagen dealership will be in touch to make the necessary arrangements. The appointment must be made within 30 days after the Movement Control Order ends.

All Volkswagen owners who register during this period will receive free Volkswagen merchandise. Additionally, owners who are not redeeming their free maintenance service and are not Volkswagen Care Plus (VCP) members are entitled to an additional RM50 engine oil voucher. Those entering their fifth year of vehicle ownership are encouraged to sign up for the Volkswagen Care Plus programme to enjoy its benefits.

As mentioned in an earlier report, Volkswagen Malaysia will continue to honour the warranty of vehicles that were not able to meet the scheduled service maintenance due to the restrictions of the Movement Control Order.

All Volkswagen owners are required to download the Volkswagen Cares mobile app to enjoy the benefits. To register and book an appointment, visit the Volkswagen website.

Volkswagen has an online showroom

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