Were you planning on getting a new Volkswagen this month and then the Movement Control Order (MCO) started and you can’t get to the showroom to finalise the purchase? Don’t worry because Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has one outlet even in your pyjamas at 2 am!
It’s the Volkswagen eShowroom where you can find out about the various models available and start the purchase process. Special rebates are also offered for bookings made during the period specified so you can also save money. Additionally, these exclusive deals are also available on its flagship store on Lazada.
The eShowroom exclusive savings are on top of the ongoing promotion campaign. Customers who make a booking for a model and are entitled to the exclusive offers must register and take delivery of their vehicle by June 30, 2020.
In the event delivery by June 30, 2020 is not possible (due to any additional government-imposed MCO), VPCM will provide further extension and inform customers accordingly.
At present, the eShowroom has 8 models/variants to choose from. Although production of the Beetle ended last year, there are still a few units left so don’t miss the last opportunity to own a ‘future classic’.
VPCM has given assurance to existing owners that if their vehicle’s service appointment happens to fall within the MCO period (currently March 18 to April 14 2020, the company will still honour the warranty.
The Roadside Assistance service will remain operational for owners who can call the toll-free number at 1-800-88-2389. Your vehicle will be towed to the nearest authorized dealer but repair work will only commence after the MCO ends. Customer Care services remain available during this period and can be contacted by calling 1-800-18-8947.
Four months ago, the last Sumatran rhinoceros in Malaysia died and with its death, the species became extinct in this country. Scientists estimate that the rapid loss of species today is between 1,000 and 10,000 times higher than the natural extinction rate. This depressing fact is blamed on humans – population growth, consumption, habitat destruction and wildlife trade.
So it is humans who must do something about ensuring that what is referred to as ‘the 6th extinction crisis’ is diminished if not stopped. Individuals and companies are putting in efforts in various way and Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) recently teamed up with local denim streetwear brand, Tarik Jeans, to raise funds and awareness for the endangered Malayan Tapir.
An exclusively designed capsule collection, ‘Modern Nostalgia’, has been created which features key elements from both brands, where modern and iconic Volkswagen models are married with local classic and vintage design elements. The limited edition collection comprises of a variety of items such as T-shirts, caps, bandanas, tote bags, key chains and clothing patches.
Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM, expressed delight in being able to partner with Tarik Jeans on this cause. “A key pillar for Volkswagen is sustainability, and the group is investing heavily in this cause with over 500 sustainability projects worldwide. We are pleased to play our part in this meaningful project, and we will certainly not stop here as we will continue to explore ways to contribute to making a difference,” he said.
According to Afiq Iskandar, Founder & CEO of Tarik Jeans, the Malayan Tapir has always been part of the Tarik design aesthetics so much so that it was added as the brand’s logo (in addition to the main logo of the mamak ‘teh tarik’). “In commemorating Tarik’s 10th year anniversary, we are honoured to partner with an innovative global automotive brand such as Volkswagen. ‘Modern Nostalgia’ as a capsule collection speaks a lot about the archetypal Volkswagen models and Tarik’s penchant for the retro-futurism Malaysian design scheme,” he said.
About the Malayan Tapir
The Malayan Tapir is an endangered species here, together with the Malayan tigers, Borneo elephants or orangutans. As ‘gardeners of the rainforest’, the tapir plays a crucial role in maintaining the biological diversity of their habitat as they help disperse and fertilize seeds much needed for the reproduction of trees. It would be terrible to also lose them as we have lost the Sumatran rhinoceros.
The Malayan tapir is the only Asian species native to the island of Sumatra, Peninsular Malaysia and Southern Thailand with a distinctive coat pattern. The tapir has a lifespan of up to 30 years, but agricultural developments and deforestation, being hunted for food and even sport as well as illegal animal trafficking have resulted in an alarming decrease in their numbers. It is estimated that there are less than 3,000 of them left.
Merchandise from the ‘Modern Nostalgia’ collection can be purchased via the Volkswagen and Tarik Jeans websites, Shopee, Zalora and at all Volkswagen authorized dealerships nationwide. 50% of all proceeds generated from the sales of this campaign will be donated to the Kenaboi Forest Reserve in Negeri Sembilan on World Tapir Day on April 27, 2020.
To locate an authorised Volkswagen dealership in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.
Want to know more about the Volkswagen range in Malaysia? There are 23 authorised dealerships around Malaysia where you can view the various models. Better still, because Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) believes that Volkswagen products are Better Experience than Explained, you should also go for a test-drive.
Until February 23, there’s also a 24th location you can check out Volkswagen models if you’re in the Klang Valley. VPCM is having the first Volkswagen Tour of the year at the 1 Utama Shopping Centre. The display of vehicles is at the Ground Floor of the Centre Court in the old wing, from 10 am to 10 pm.
2020 Volkswagen Passat Elegance
Models that are on display are the iconic Beetle, Vento, Tiguan, Golf R-Line and GTI as well as the new Passat Elegance which was launched just last month. A benchmark within its class, the new Passat has an updated 2.0TSI petrol engine and is the first front-wheel drive Volkswagen model in Malaysia to come with a new 7-speed wet clutch dual-speed gearbox (DSG).
Test-drives are also available at the venue and if you are convinced that you want to buy a Volkswagen, you can place a booking there. Customers who make a booking at the event will receive an additional RM1,000 petrol cash voucher on top of existing rebates.
If you really can’t get to the event or any showroom, you can still find out more about Volkswagen vehicles, services and offers in Malaysia online at www.volkswagen.com.my.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is once again the Official Automotive Partner of the PETRONAS Le Tour de Langkawi (LTDL). It is the third time for Volkswagen’s involvement in the event which is being run for the 25th time.
VPCM has provided 120 units of the Tiguan Highline for use throughout the 10-day event by riders, safety marshals and officials. The model provided has a 1.4-litre turbocharged direct injection TSI petrol engine with a 6-speed wet clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG). Its output of 150 ps/250 Nm means there is adequate power for all situations while also being economical.
Latest Volkswagen Tiguan Highline, priced from RM165,990.
The Tiguan’s SUV bodystyle makes it ideal for its role in the LTDL. It has a spacious cabin and cargo area to transport gear and other items. To date, 5 million units of the Tiguan have been sold globally, the bestselling SUV in Volkswagen’s range.
“We are honoured to be back as part of LTDL this year as the race celebrates its Silver Jubilee, and we are confident that the Tiguan will be a good fit and support to the operations team in terms of safety, endurance, agility and speed. On behalf of Volkswagen, we wish the participants all the very best for this year’s race,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.
Le Tour de Langkawi is a multiple stage bicycle race that has gained many accolades and is now recognised as a highlight in the global competitive cycling calendar, attracting the world’s top road cyclists. 21 teams are taking part in the event which started in East Malaysia and continue across Peninsular Malaysia from Kuala Terengganu. The finale will be at its birthplace in Langkawi on February 14.
Visit www.volkswagen.com.my to know more about the Tiguan and where to test-drive one.
Authorised Volkswagen dealers nationwide are having an Open House this Saturday (February 8) and they have offerings which follow the tradition of ‘wong’, Volkswagen’s Chinese New Year’s theme that focuses on the Chinese character “旺”. This means good luck and prosperity, which Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is giving to new and existing owners through rebates and aftersales offerings. And not forgetting a CNY feast complete with ‘yee sang’ and other exciting activities for the whole family.
The newly launched Passat 2.0TSI Elegance, priced from RM187,990, will be a highlight of the event. Featuring a redesign of the exterior and interior, improved connectivity and updated lighting signatures, it also comes with the first year of insurance coverage paid by VPCM (limited time only).
Another offering which comes with one year of insurance paid by VPCM as well as a year’s supply of petrol is with the Tiguan variant (Highline, JOIN and Sound & Style).
Note: Savings applicable to all model variants. Monthly calculation based on 9-year H-P loan tenure with 10% downpayment and based on 2.5% interest rate. Subject to terms & conditions, while stocks last.
All new Volkswagen models come with 3 years of free scheduled maintenance, 5 years warranty with no mileage limit, and 5 years of complimentary roadside assistance.
Existing owners are not forgotten
Volkswagen owners are also invited to book a slot for complimentary 20-point vehicle inspection while they are at the showroom. They can also enjoy up to 20% discount on batteries and tyres.
Those with free maintenance vouchers who spend a minimum of RM388 will receive a free fluid top-up consisting of coolant, windscreen cleaner and engine oil, while those without a voucher will only need to spend a minimum amount of RM488 to take advantage of the offer.
VCP (Volkswagen Care Plus) customers can enjoy the same with a minimum spend of RM288. This offer is subject to terms and conditions and is valid till February 29, 2020.
With more than 30 million units sold to date, the Volkswagen Passat ranks second to the Golf as one of Volkswagen’s most successful models. More significantly, this model (along with the Golf) has also been among the Top 10 bestselling cars of all time. That’s an achievement which makes it the most successful mid-size sedan worldwide.
Its widespread popularity could be one of the reasons why Volkswagen chose the model to be the first one to be assembled locally in Malaysia. That was in 2011 and since then, it has been a strong seller in the range.
Launch of the first locally-assembled Passat in 2011 at the DRB-HICOM complex in Pekan, Pahang.
It’s still in its eighth generation and in March last year, an updated version was unveiled but the German market launch only began in September. It’s clear now that planning to assemble the new version, which is in the form of the Passat 2.0TSI Elegance, must have begun some time back because just 4 months after going on sale in Germany, it is now launched in Malaysia.
That’s quite a quick development for a model that’s assembled locally as it normally takes 9 months or so (unless there has been advance planning) because of localisation of parts. In this case, Volkswagen must have worked closely with the local suppliers earlier so the model can be launched today.
Targeted enhancements for a proven design
At a glance, the new Passat seems to retain the familiar formal profile that is appropriate for an executive sedan as well as a family car. However, look longer and you will notice the subtle changes that give a sharper and more dynamic appearance. The enhancements have been targeted because the design concept is a sound one which won’t age quickly.
The IQ Light Matrix LED headlights present a new lighting ‘signature’, complemented by front and rear sequential turn signals and a three-wing tail light design. An identifier of the 2020 version is the ‘PASSAT’ lettering that is now stretched across the rear end while at each corner are bold 18-inch ‘Liverpool’ alloy wheels.
New powertrain with 7-speed DSG
Under the bonnet, the new Passat is powered by a new 2.0TSI turbocharged petrol engine with an output of 190 ps/320 Nm. This goes to the front wheel through a new and improved wet clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG) which has quick shifting between 7 ratios. This is the first FWD Volkswagen model in Malaysia to come with a new 7-speed wet clutch DSG. The output may be high but the performance is balanced by efficiency that is reflected in the claimed 15.4 kms/litre fuel consumption, based on real-life driving data as defined by the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure).
Functional but luxurious too
Being a German product, there is the emphasis on functionality but a luxurious and stylish ambience is also created with an assortment of new materials and decorative design elements around the cabin. Updates include newly-designed door trims, a 30-colour (yes – thirty colours!) ambient lighting system, and a new leather multi-function steering wheel with a new ergonomic multifunction button pad for convenience and connectivity.
The Passat is well known for its comfort and with the new one, there’s supple leather upholstery and 12-way adjustment for the driver’s seat. Coolness throughout the cabin on the hottest days is ensured by the 3-zone Climatronic air-conditioning system and if the sunshine is too strong, there’s now a power-operated roll-up rear sunshade.
Better connectivity
‘Connectivity’ is commonly used nowadays and each carmaker tries to provide connectivity that is as advanced as can be. For the new Passat, there’s a new and improved 11.7-inch Digital Cockpit with its high-resolution display colour thin-film transistor (TFT) similar to that of a premium smartphone. Under any lighting condition, there’s absolute clarity for the 2D and 3D graphic display. A 6-view customizable screen offers a new level of personalization with over 30 variations.
The infotainment system has a 9.2-inch touchscreen and management can be by voice or gestures. The 3-view split screen is customisable to suit personal preference on what information is to be shown.
Android Auto is not mentioned by the wireless AppConnect with Apple Car Play is available in the new Passat for the very first time in Malaysia. Other connectivity options for mobile and audio streaming are Bluetooth and 3 illuminated USB ports. The USB ports are the new Type-C version which do not require a specific orientation for insertion of cables.
Enhanced safety
New for 2020 is Side Assist with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, complete with 180-degree detection range of up to 50 metres. This is specially useful when reversing out of a parking bay and the view is blocked by other cars. On the move, the Blind Spot Monitoring System constantly scans the area along both sides of the car up to 70 metres. If another vehicle or motorcyclist is detected but the driver might not be aware, warnings will alert him or her.
Blind Spot Warning System
An added convenience is the new Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, with integrated sensors on all four tyres to monitor individual pressure readings based on user preference. This not only means your hands don’t have to get dirty checking tyre pressures but you also have peace of mind. In the case of a slow leak, you will be aware so you can check before the tyre gets damaged due to under-inflation.
“The new Passat features not only a technical update but a complete redesign of the exterior and interior, improved connectivity and updated lighting signatures. These advanced enhancements are executed, without any compromise on performance. This is what we believe today’s discerning customers are looking for,” said Erik Winter, MD of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia.
Priced from RM187,990, The new Passat Elegance is available in 6 colours and 2 pearl finishes. The metallic colours are Aquamarine Blue, Manganese Grey, Reflex Silver and Tamarind Brown, while pearl-effect colours are Deep Black and a new Oryx White. Pearl-effect colours are available without any additional surcharge.
Visit www.volkswagen.com.my to know more about the new Passat and locate a showroom where you can test one.
After a 2-month search, the Volkswagen “Win the Icon” contest reached its conclusion and it was Muhamad Rizal bin Sadiman, a 28-year-old school teacher from Perak who won a brand-new Volkswagen Beetle 1.2TSI.
The contest, which ran throughout the months of October and November, received over 800 posts and submissions of photos and videos of Malaysians test-driving their favourite Volkswagen models while documenting their experience. They had also to caption their submissions creatively with the hashtag #BetterExperiencedThanExplained.
Encik Rizal submitted a video of himself test-driving the Polo and Tiguan and said: “A Volkswagen is truly better experienced than explained. Safety is a top priority for me as I was involved in an accident two years ago where the brakes failed. In my submission video, I showcased how the Tiguan performs during emergency braking and I am very impressed.”
“The Polo is another favourite as we had one in the family and it is a sturdy pocket rocket. I am so thrilled and excited with this win. I can’t wait to drive my new Beetle around town and to school,” he added.
Cult object and design icon, the Beetle has captured the hearts and minds of the people in its 80 years of production. Sadly, after three generations, Volkswagen has decided to cease production of the iconic model, with the last unit being completed in July this year. This makes Encik Rizal of one the lucky few to own a Beetle before all the new ones are sold off. Of course, the Beetle will continue to remain a legend in the auto industry’s history.
The ‘12-12’ fever starts peaking tonight and Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is joining in the celebration of the ‘double 12’ date that is the theme of a shopping carnival.
VPCM will participate with a first-of-its-kind Instagram-exclusive sale on Instagram for just one day (24 hours). 12 units of the Volkswagen Polo with the JOIN accessories package and 12 units of the Beetle with a free spoiler and VW Tint will be sold on Volkswagen Malaysia’s Instagram shop (@volkswagenmalaysia) at RM12,000 less than the regular retail prices.
To enjoy the exclusive deals, customers need to place a booking fee of RM500 for the Polo or RM1,000 for the Beetle on the payment platform using a credit card. Once processed, customers will receive a call from a Volkswagen representative for arrangements on their preferred dealership and to complete the registration and delivery of the vehicle.
Only 12 units of the Polo and Beetle with the free extras and RM12,000 discount will be available throughout Thursday (12.12). If you miss the opportunity to get one of them, you can still get the Polo with savings of up to RM6,000 and the Beetle with savings of up to RM5,000 but you must place a booking before December 31, 2019.
All Volkswagen models come with 3-years of free scheduled maintenance, a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty and 5-years of complimentary roadside assistance.
“Volkswagen Malaysia were pioneers in this when we partnered with Lazada to sell the special edition Beetle and Polo during their 12.12 sale the past two years. Both editions sold out almost immediately, and this year, we continue our trailblazing streak as the very first automotive brand in the country to sell products on Instagram. We look forward to making history,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.
This is the first time an automotive brand is selling cars on its social media platform in Malaysia and Mr. Winter believes that purchasing a car online is now the new norm with the rise of e-commerce platforms.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia has found that online shopping is popular even for cars and has been working with Lazada on a few occasions to offer special editions of its models. Last year, it offered 11 units of a Polo in a Black & White edition.
Modern engines with more advanced engineering and technology run more efficiently, developing higher power outputs while more advanced manufacturing processes have reduced tolerances, improving efficiency and durability.
However, regardless of all the advancements in technology, the internal combustion process that has been used since the motorcar was invented still creates a by-product that affects operating efficiency. This is the formation of carbon deposits that build up inside the engine, especially the areas where fuel and air come in.
The companies that formulate fuels have tried their best to address this issue with additives that control deposits. Disassembling the engine to do a decarbonizing job is another solution but it is time-consuming. So over time, the deposits accumulate and performance starts to drop with fuel consumption increasing and motoring costs start to go up. As most engines now use fuel injectors, the deposits can also prevent maximum fuel injection and with fuel flow interrupted, idling will be rough.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia offers a solution that can remove those carbon deposits quickly, safely and without weakening the metal parts. It’s called Walnut Granulate Blasting and is a method that is approved by Volkswagen AG.
Effective and environment-friendly
As the name suggests, walnuts are involved – yes, the same walnuts that have health benefits can also help keep your engine in good health. As they are blasted against the metal parts in the fuel intake areas of the engine (eg the valves and ports), the carbon deposits are removed. It’s far more effective than solutions that use fluids which take some time as the chemicals have to dissolve the deposits. Furthermore, since chemicals are not used, the process is environment-friendly and when the walnuts are disposed, they are biodegradeable.
Walnut Granulate Blasting actually began in the 1960s when it was developed for the US Navy to remove old paint without stripping the protective coating underneath. In later years, it was found to have other applications where deposit removal was required but without causing damage to metal parts.
Over time, carbon deposits collect on the valves, affecting their movement and reducing efficient operation. Performance drops and consumption rises. After Walnut Granulate Blasting, they are smooth and clean (right) and the engine can run efficiently again.
Walnuts are a good media because they have a certain abrasive quality but at the same time will not cause damage to the metal parts since they are softer than metal. They remove the deposits like sandpaper would but do not scratch or scrape away any metal as they are organic in nature.
Walnut Granulate Blasting is done with a machine that blasts the walnuts into the intake areas of the engine. The pressure is very high but controlled to ensure that damage is not caused. There is no necessity to change the engine oil or oil filter (unless required at the time) as there is no dust or other residue that is generated during the blasting.
Available from RM515
The Walnut Granulate Blasting service is available at all authorized Volkswagen service centres in Malaysia from RM515 (depending on the engine size and type). It is recommended to be done every 45,000 kms and as it is fully approved by Volkswagen AG, there will be no effect on the factory warranty if it is still in effect.
Additionally, to complement the Walnut Granulate Blasting service, VPCM recommends a dose of Volkswagen Genuine Fuel Additives. These additives enhance the efficiency and quality of fuels used. The VW Fuel Additive also helps clean other areas of the fuel delivery system and provides protection against corrosion and pre-mature wearing. This allows the engine can perform at an optimum level.
For a limited period, Volkswagen dealers are offering a Liquid Power Kit at a special price of RM169. This kit consists of 1 litre of Engine Oil, 200ml of Fuel Additive and a complimentary 1 litre bottle Windscreen Washer Fluid, plus a 2020 Volkswagen Calendar.
Volkswagen Cares
“We are continuously looking for ways to improve our services and offerings to our customers under the Volkswagen Cares brand promise to provide value-added and quality services. Walnut Granulate Blasting is a cost-effective service which we have introduced that we believe will help to maintain the driving pleasure of our Volkswagen vehicles as well as reduce motoring costs,” says Erik Winter, Managing Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia.
To know more about the Walnut Granulate Blasting service, please click here. Information on Volkswagen products and services in Malaysia can also be found at www.volkswagen.com.my.
The GVE Asia Group joins the Volkswagen dealership network in Malaysia as a new business partner of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM). The group has experience in retailing luxury and premium models and operates used car dealerships, sales and aftersales and other automotive related services.
It has acquired the existing Volkswagen Sg. Besi outlet in Kuala Lumpur which was previously operated by Wearnes as its first entry into the Volkswagen network. The outlet is a full-fledged 3S dealership so Volkswagen owners can get everything they need for their vehicles at one location.
With built-up area of over 75,181 sq. ft. on two floors, the showroom can display up to 9 vehicles. The aftersales facilities in accordance with Volkswagen’s global standards and customers can relax in a comfortable waiting lounge complete with cable TV, Wi-Fi and cafe.
“We thank Wearnes for being part of the Volkswagen family. We’ve seen many years of growth, and their service to the brand has been invaluable,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM. “At the same time, it gives me great pleasure to welcome GVE Asia Group into the network. I look forward to a fruitful partnership as we continue to build the Volkswagen brand together and to meet the needs of our customers.”
To know more about Volkswagen products and services or to locate other authorised dealerships in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.
