What used to be known as the Polo Sedan is now dubbed the Vento. Volkswagen Malaysia officially launched this model just a few hours ago and in three different variants: Comfortline, Trendline and Highline.

The first two variants are pretty much similar to the car it replaces, especially with the same 1.6-litre MPI naturally aspirated petrol burner good for 105hp and 153Nm up front and 6-speed auto box. It may be old school, but it is dependable.

The Highline, meanwhile, is powered by a 1.2-litre TSI engine that previously saw action in the 1.2-litre fully imported Polo hatchback. Power is channeled to the front wheels through a 7-speed DSG. Output? Same as the MPI actually, 105hp. But torque gets a major bump to 175Nm. This sort of performance is not difficult to sell, but people may cling to the reliability history of this package.

Overall, there are some notable changes elsewhere namely the tilt and telescopic adjustable multi-function leather steering wheel and a cooled glove box. New tail lamp design, new smoked headlamps, new fog lamp design and manual height adjustable headlamps also come as standard.

As the top-spec variant the Highline is priced at RM93,888 (excluding registration and insurance) and trumps the other two siblings with ESC and 16-inch wheels. This is only the sole variant that scored the full 5-star rating in the ASEAN NCAP test.

Meanwhile, price for the Trendline and Comfortline is RM79,888 and RM86,888 respectively. Other than the lack of ESC in these two cars, its safety measures are still adequate with airbags (two in Trendline, four in Comfortline), Isofix anchorage points and ICRS (Intelligent Crash Response System).

For a limited time, buyers will enjoy a RM2,000 discount for the purchase of the new Volkswagen Vento.

The new Vento is assembled in DRB-HICOM’s plant in Pekan, Pahang.