Volkswagen PH updates lineup with rugged VW Cross Santana, retails for P1.098-M

MANILA: With the recently unveiled Cross Santana, Volkswagen Philippines appears to be increasing its reliance on products sourced from the Chinese market. The 2023 Volkswagen Cross Santana 180 MPI AT is priced at P1.098-million.

A 1.5-liter naturally aspirated multi-point injection engine that powers the Volkswagen Cross Santana — as well as its GTS and Sedan equivalents — produces 111 PS and 135 Nm of torque, and is coupled to a 6-speed automated transmission.

The Cross Santana's exterior is quite similar to that of the GTS; however, body cladding is present here, and the blacked-out wheels on the Philippine-spec model give it a more sporty aspect. Other aesthetic features include a sunroof bordered by two roof rails and a Cross Santana decals on the rear passenger doors.

The Cross Santana's interior features are identical to those of its platform companions. It has a 7-inch infotainment system with six speakers and compatibility for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A sunroof is a standard feature, and the seats are a blend of leather and cloth with red stitching.

The Cross Santana was introduced by SAIC Volkswagen in 2016 for the Chinese market, although this vehicle is not listed on the SAIC VW website. Additionally, according to sources, the Santana lineup was formally discontinued in 2022.

Volkswagen Santana GTS

The Santana GTS is constructed in accordance with the same standards that are applied to all other Volkswagen models at the company's headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany.

It is obvious where the Volkswagen Santana GTS' appearance comes from. It borrows some design elements from other Volkswagen models and has a solid appearance from all sides. Its body mostly consists of straight lines, which are apparent along the hood, sides, and even the rear. It hardly ever uses curves.

The Volkswagen Santana GTS employs a key-in ignition mechanism despite having keyless entry. The cabin's spaciousness greets occupants, with enormous space for legs and elbows.

Even with the dashboard's all-plastic construction, the interior has a monochromatic design that does not at all feel cheap. The style is attractive and appropriate for a German automobile. Additionally, the red line that runs across the dashboard's front expresses the trim level's GTS heritage.

The HVAC system comes equipped with a pollen filter as standard. This will be helpful if occupants have allergies and may lessen their risk of contracting a virus from the air conditioner. It retains dust, smog, and other chemical pollutants in addition to screening pollen and other allergies.

Volkswagen Philippines makes it easier to own a brand-new Volkswagen Santana GTS as it offers a P61,000 discount on its hatchback model until March 31.

Photos from Volkswagen, File

Also read: Volkswagen PH teases launch of new model or updated T-Cross