The Volkswagen Lavida is shown at the Auto China 2008 in Beijing April 20, 2008. The show is open to the public from April 24-28, with press and trade days on April 20-23.[Agencies]

Lavida – design and dimensions

The joint venture Shanghai Volkswagen is also showing the Lavida at Auto China 2008 as a world premiere. The name "Lavida" was derived from the Spanish language and represents a zest for life, hope and passion.

The Lavida – the first model developed entirely by Shanghai Volkswagen and the first outside of Germany – is characterized by a design that is as dynamic as it is elegant. The new sedan is a perfect example for a successful cooperation of Chinese and German designers. It's a fact: Thanks to its length of 4,608 millimeters and width of 1,743 millimeters, the 1,465 millimeter tall Lavida offers impressive space. The wheelbase measures 2,610 millimeters. The Volkswagen's cargo volume is 472 liters.

The design of the Lavida does not follow any familiar pattern. Nonetheless, its design exhibits a logic of forms that is typical of Volkswagen. The front end is marked by a design that – with its horizontal lines – represents the "Volkswagen face" of the future. Powerfully contoured is the engine hood, distinctive is the tornado line that rises toward the rear. As a whole, the side profile expresses a decidedly sporty image. The taillights take on the almond-shaped design of the headlights, the rear end itself on the other hand assumes the same vertical posture as the front end. A trailing edge was integrated in the design of the trunk lid; the spoiler lip contributes to the very good aerodynamic properties of the Lavida.

Intuitive controls are to be found inside every Volkswagen. Naturally, this applies to the Lavida too. The interior is characterized by an extremely ergonomic design, and visually it ref lects a perfection of details that is typical of Volkswagen with its harmonious lines, fine wood applications and high-end surfaces. In general, the interior design and features consistently satisfy the wishes of Chinese car drivers as has been found in numerous surveys. One of these wishes: a USB interface for an MP3 player like the one that has now been implemented in the Lavida.

Lavida – engines

Just like the New Bora, the new Lavida will also have an early introduction to the market during the summer this year. It will also be powered by two four-cylinder engines. A six-speed automatic (Tiptronic) is available on both Lavida Langyi versions as an option. Like the engines on the New Bora, the four-cylinders of the Lavida also satisfy the Euro-4 emissions standard.

Lavida – three equipment lines

The Shanghai Volkswagen plant will offer the Lavida in the equipment lines "Trendline", "Comfortline" and "Highline". The base vehicle already has ample features with ABS, driver and front passenger airbags, climate control, MP3-capable CD-Radio, power windows and anti-theft warning system. The even more luxurious versions "Comfortline" and "Highline" also get 16-inch alloy wheels, a chrome package, sliding sunroof, leather seats, side and head airbags, cruise control, parking sensors, automatic climate control system and CD changer. Besides the listed features, the Highline variant of the Lavida also has a DVD-supported navigation system and telephone preparation.