Volkswagen’s Vento-based compact sedan spied testing

Volkswagen is planning to have its share in the expanding compact sedan market. They are preparing themselves by developing a sub-four-metre vehicle based on the Vento and Polo. Thanks to our reader Nirmal Neelanthara, two test mules of the same were snapped on test on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway recently.

Both the test mules were heavily camouflaged hiding most of the details of the upcoming model. Nevertheless, reports suggest that this compact sedan will get revised headlamps, restyled grille, revamped bumpers and new tail lamps as well. The styling will be borrowed from the Polo and Vento and most elements might be carried over from the siblings. The changes to the cabin are also expected to be in line with the features and specifications of the German carmaker's vehicles.

There are no particular details available about the powertrains yet, but we can expect the engine line-up to include the 1.2-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel mills. Transmission options might also continue from the current line-up of cars.

This new compact sedan is likely to make its India debut at the 2016 Delhi Auto Expo. It will then be the first time a sub-four-metre sedan will be introduced from Volkswagen. A car under four metres in length gets excise benefits, eventually helping the  manufacturer price the vehicle competitively. Volkswagen doesn't want to waste time in venturing into this expanding segment in the Indian market and plans on launching this new car. This new compact sedan will be slotted below the Vento and will go up against the Maruti Swift DZire, Hyundai Xcent, Honda Amaze, Tata Zest and the upcoming Ford Figo Aspire when it goes on sale in our country.