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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.

VW Passat CKD
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.

2020 VW Passat Elegance

2020 VW Passat Elegance

2020 VW Passat Elegance

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.

2020 VW Passat Elegance

2020 VW Passat Elegance

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.

2020 VW Passat Elegance

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.

2020 VW Passat Elegance

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.

2020 VW Passat Elegance

2020 VW Passat Elegance

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.

2020 VW Passat Elegance
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.

2020 VW Passat Elegance

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.

https://www.piston.my/2020/01/02/pay-less-to-put-a-new-volkswagen-in-your-home-this-chinese-new-year/

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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.

VW
A scene from the winning video on Instagram

Click here to watch Rizal’s winning submission on Instagram.

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.

How to get a brand new Beetle for free

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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.

Volkswagen Polo and Beetle
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.

VW and Lazada
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.

For more details, follow Volkswagen Malaysia on Instagram at @volkswagenmalaysia or visit https://bit.ly/2RDlNzW . To know more about the Polo, Beetle and other models available in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.

Volkswagen owners can get more with VIP

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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.

Walnut Granulate Blasting

Valves
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.

VW Offer
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.

Volkswagen Sg Besi

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.”

Volkswagen Sg Besi

 To know more about Volkswagen products and services or to locate other authorised dealerships in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.

Volkswagen owners can get more with VIP

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ADVERTORIAL

In Malaysia, as in most countries, it is a legal requirement to have a vehicle registered and roadtax paid annually plus there must be insurance coverage, in order to drive on public roads. Those with very old vehicles may opt to save on insurance premiums by buying cheaper third-party coverage, which pays compensation only to other parties in the event of an accident. They will not be able to make claims for damage to their own vehicle.

For those with relatively new vehicles, comprehensive insurance coverage is usually chosen. In fact, if the vehicle is under a H-P loan, it is a must as the bank needs to be assured it will be compensated if the vehicle is stolen or written-off in an accident. This covers not only third-party compensation but also provides for compensation for loss of the vehicle or repair costs to restore it after an accident.

Volkswagen Puchong
The Volkswagen Insurance Plan (VIP) is available from all authorised Volkswagen dealers in Malaysia.

Of course, just like other types of insurance (health, life, house, etc), you buy insurance hoping that you never have to call up the insurance company to make a claim. But, apart from being a mandatory requirement for vehicles, it gives peace of mind that you are ‘covered’. Should you one day have an accident or the vehicle is stolen, you will be so glad that there is compensation for the loss and you don’t have to pay yourself.

Exclusively for Volkswagen owners
Generally, comprehensive insurance policies for motor vehicles offer similar benefits which focus mainly on compensation in the event of loss or damage. However, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) believes that its customers deserve more and working with a group of leading insurance companies, it has formulated the Volkswagen Insurance Plan (VIP) exclusively for Volkswagen owners.

VIP
Owners of older Volkswagen models can also enjoy all the extra benefits of VIP.

VIP is just one of the elements in its Volkswagen Cares commitment to give the best to every customer. Whether you are owning a Volkswagen for the first time or have one which has been a trusted member of the family for years, VIP is available with its enhanced benefits that go beyond just compensation. VIP is available only from authorized Volkswagen dealers in Malaysia and the insurance policy can be purchased at any time.

Should the vehicle be disabled or seriously damaged due to an accident, having VIP ensures that reliable and authorized towing services are used. The assistance to call the towing service will be handled by the VIP 24-hour Roadside Assistance and the vehicle will be transported to the nearest authorized Volkswagen service centre. Such assistance would prove valuable especially if there is an accident and stress levels are high. Just call the toll-free number 1-800-88-2389 and help will be on its way.

Volkswagen Service

Why get VIP?
The value of VIP will also be demonstrated when a claim has to be made. Those who have had to make such claims themselves know that the process can be time-consuming and even frustrating in some cases. Apart from submitting the claim, there is a need to wait for the adjuster to come and assess the damage and decide on the cost the insurance company is willing to cover.

Volkswagen
When you have VIP, claims are prioritised and repairs can start faster.

VIP takes all that away for claims below RM30,000 because the claim will be prioritized the moment the vehicle enters the service centre. The Volkswagen staff, who are familiar with the process, will assist in all aspects and obtain approval to start repairs as fast as possible. In fact, the owner is unlikely to have to personally be involved other than to provide the required documents, sign on the Claim Form and receive updates on the repair work. It’s as good as being a VIP (Very Important Person)!

Paint booth
Refinishing and repainting are done in accordance with Volkswagen AG’s strict standards, restoring the car to its original condition.

Extra benefits
Some insurance companies impose what is known as a ‘betterment charges’. This can run to thousands of ringgit because the insurance industry sees repairs which use brand new parts as improving the condition of the car in relation to its actual age. This means that if a 10-year old car has new headlights installed because the old ones were completely destroyed, the ‘age’ of the car in that area differs. For this, the insurance company will impose the betterment charge which sometimes catches owners by surprise.

Volkswagen owners who have VIP do not have to worry about this charge because it is waived for vehicles up to 10 years old. They will not have to pay anything extra for brand new genuine parts as required for the repairs. Everything related to restoring their vehicle to proper running condition will be done by certified technicians with materials that meet Volkswagen AG’s high standards. It is important to note that because it is an authorized service centre, only Genuine Parts will be used to repair your vehicle.

Volkswagen
Only Volkswagen Genuine Parts are used and all work is done by certified technicians.

The premiums for VIP will be in accordance with prevailing industry levels. At this time, Allianz General Insurance Berhad and Etiqa General Takaful Berhad are the partner panel insurers collaborating with VPCM to offer the Volkswagen Insurance Plan.

Volkswagen Cares

“With VIP, all Volkswagen owners regardless of model, can enjoy quality services and roadside assistance at the best value under a comprehensive plan catered exclusively just for them,” says Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM. “Our owners are at the core of everything we do and providing this added service to them at our dealerships also ensures that the entire process is streamlined and more convenient, making our Volkswagen dealerships a one-stop centre for customer convenience and peace of mind.”

Click here to know more about the Volkswagen Insurance Plan and extra benefits.

 

BHPetrol

Volkswagen has stopped producing the Beetle and whatever stocks remain in Malaysian dealerships as well as dealerships in other countries are all that’s left. Decades from now, these last models may be classic items, the way the original has held its own appeal.

You may want to get one to keep but you already have a car and can’t pay for a new Beetle. However, there is way to get one for FREE – and all that’s needed is a creative spirit. As part of a year-long celebration of the beloved Bug, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia will be giving away a brand-new Beetle in its ‘Win the Icon’ Instagram contest.

Beetle
The last Beetle leaving the assembly line at the VW factory in Mexico in July this year.

The contest runs from today till 4 pm on November 30, 2019 and rides on Volkswagen’s tagline of ‘Better experienced than explained’. Open to all Malaysians (with a valid driver’s license), participation in the contest needs only a test drive of a new Volkswagen model at any authorized dealership in Malaysia. You have to document the experience in a one-minute video clip, caption it creatively and then upload it to Instagram (set to Public viewing).

You can test-drive various models and submit separate videos as well, and these will be accepted as additional entries.

Together with your submission, you need to complete the slogan: “My #BetterExperiencedThanExplained story is…”. Follow and tag @VolkswagenMalaysia in the post. That’s it! And if your submission is the winning one, you will know in December and become the owner of a new Volkswagen Beetle 1.2TSI.

Volkswagen dealership
You can ask for a test-drive at any authorised VW dealership in Malaysia

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

Click here to read other news and articles about the Beetle in PISTON.MY

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BHPetrol

The current premium SUV market here in Malaysia is currently higher than ever with many offerings from different manufacturers. With so many Malaysians looking into upgrading their present lifestyles, SUVs seem to be the popular go-to option and Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has its feet deep within this game thanks to their popular 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4TSI Highline. (more…)

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is going strong with the Merdeka celebrations and to make things even better, they are now offering RM2,000 rebates for the Volkswagen Golf R and GTI, two of the hottest hatchbacks here in good ol’ Malaysia. (more…)

You must have insurance coverage for your motor vehicle if you want to use it on the road. In the past, insurance coverage was just that; you paid the premium annually and if you had a claim for accident damage or the vehicle was stolen, the insurance company paid the appropriate compensation.

Today, things are different and to enhance the ownership experience, the car companies work with their partner panel insurers to give customers more than just insurance coverage. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is among the companies which offers insurance coverage with extra benefits. The insurance programme, launched recently, is known as the Volkswagen Insurance Plan or ‘VIP’.

Volkswagen
When accident repairs are necessary, VIP policyholders are assured that the work will be done by authorised dealers with equipment and processes approved by Volkswagen. Needless to say, only genuine parts will be used.

As a privileged VIP policyholder, benefits include prioritised claim approval, roadside assistance with 24-hour emergency towing and assurance that repair work is conducted at authorised Volkswagen body and paint centres, in accordance to Volkswagen repair standards with only genuine parts used.

Additionally, there are no excess fees, no betterment cost and an agreed value of up to 10 years. This is applicable to all Volkswagen models, regardless of vehicle age.

BHPetrol

Available through all authorised VW dealerships
VIP can be purchased at any Volkswagen authorized dealerships in Malaysia when registering a new vehicle or during roadtax renewal. Allianz General Insurance Berhad and Etiqa General Takaful Berhad are partner panel insurers, with Allianz offering conventional insurance, and Etiqa offering both conventional and takaful insurance.

Volkswagen Cares“With VIP, all Volkswagen owners regardless of model, can enjoy quality services and roadside assistance at the best value under a comprehensive plan catered exclusively just for them,” Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM, explaining that that VIP has been conceptualised under the Volkswagen Cares philosophy.

“Our owners are at the core of everything we do and providing this added service to them at our dealerships also ensures that the entire process is streamlined and more convenient, making our Volkswagen dealerships a one-stop centre for customer convenience and peace of mind,” he said.

For more information on Volkswagen products and services in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my or any authorised dealership.

Click here for other news and articles about Volkswagen in PISTON.MY

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