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VW spruces up popular VivoThe Volkswagen Polo Vivo, South Africa's best-selling passenger car with close on 150,000 sales to its name since introduced four years ago, has had a midlife makeover with some pretty new cosmetic and interior touches. ![]() It is the only locally built car in the competitive AO segment of the market where it competes with Renault Sandero, Toyota Etios and Ford Figo. With the choice between four equipment levels, hatch and sedan, manual and optional extras, including an automatic transmissions (on the more powerful models only), plus sporty GT and rugged Maxx derivatives, the Vivo will no doubt continue to build its popularity and reputation for solid build quality, safety, space, comfort, affordability, low fuel consumption and good resale value. ChoicesThe updated range is offered with two four-cylinder petrol engines, a 1.4 and a 1.6, with outputs from 55kW to 77kW priced between R148,700 and R180,900, Cosmetic changes include a new headlight design and grille with chrome inserts. ![]() Depending on model and equipment specification levels new touches include a height adjustable driver seat, revised instrument cluster with red and white illumination, the option of CD/radio with MP3 capability/Bluetooth/USB with 4-speakers (standard on Trendline but optional on Conceptline and Blueline). Comfortline, GT and Maxx derivatives get two extra speakers. Enhanced safetyActive and passive standard safety features have also been enhanced and ABS, alarm and remote central locking are now standard features across the range. Front fog lights are a standard feature in Comfortline, GT and Maxx derivatives. Boot space across the range remains generous and flexible thanks to folding back seats. Other features which have been retained include a full-size spare wheel, grippy suspension and flexible hydraulic power steering. The hatch and sedan models come standard with a three-year/120,000km warranty and a six- year anti-corrosion warranty. A five- year/ 60,000km Volkswagen Automotion Maintenance Plan as well as a five- year/ 60,000 km Service Plan are available as options.
About Henrie GeyserHenrie Geyser joined the online publishing industry through iafrica.com, where he worked for five years as news editor and editor. He now freelances for a variety of print and online publications, on the subjects of cars, food, and travel, among others; and is a member of the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists. henrieg@iafrica.com View my profile and articles... | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||