VW's China JVs unveil New Bora and Lavida for local market

Shanghai, April 24 (Gasgoo.com) FAW VW and Shanghai VW have released the New Bora and Lavida sedans as a dual debut at the ongoing 2008 Beijing Auto Show (April 20 to 28). Both models were tailored to the growing auto demands in the Chinese market today.

The new Bora, a mid-class sedan designed by FAW VW, Volkswagen's joint venture (JV) with FAW, made its debut at the Beijing auto show. And VW's another Chinese JV, Shanghai VW, also introduced its Lavida sedan, the first model developed entirely in China for the local market. Both the Lavida and the New Bora will ideally blend into the urban environments of China.

New Bora

The new Bora measures 4,540mm long, 1,743mm wide, and 1,467mm high, and the dimensions of Lavida are 4,608mm x 1,743mm x 1,465mm. The two all-new and very roomy mid-class models differ conceptually and visually, though their technical parameters are quite similar, such as the six-speed automatic Tiptronic, front-wheel drive, optimal standards for comfort and safety, standard climate control.

The New Bora is intended for Chinese families as a practical, high-end, versatile and dynamic companion for every day. The new Lavida was designed to be more lifestyle-oriented; it is the first Volkswagen sedan developed entirely by its JVs in China. 

The German automaker said the new Bora and Lavida should contribute to "further solidifying Volkswagen's successful position as a market leader in China." The Chinese VW Bora is expected to hit the Chinese market this summer.

Meanwhile, Volkswagen's Audi unit launched its Q5 - its first mid-sized SUV. The new generation Audi A4 Avant was also unveiled in China for the first time.

Last year, Volkswagen sales in mainland China and Hong Kong rose 28% to 910,491 vehicles. The automaker expects its sales in the country to top one million units in 2008.