Differences between Santana Zhijun and Vista?
2 Answers
Vista and Santana Zhijun are the same car, an upgraded version based on the Santana 3000. This model comes in 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0 versions. The upgraded version of Santana launched by Shanghai Volkswagen—Santana Vista Zhijun—not only features significant improvements in the exterior design of the original model but also excellently embodies the traditional advantages of German cars in terms of power, handling, safety, and interior space. Additionally, it retains the traditional strengths of the Santana series—spacious and comfortable interior space.
When I was younger, I drove a Santana Vista, and now I've switched to a Zhijun. The difference is quite noticeable. The Vista was an older model from SAIC Volkswagen, popular around 2005, with a more rounded exterior design, smoother headlights, and a louder engine sound when driving. The fuel consumption was about 9L per 100km, and maintenance parts were easy to find, but the interior had a strong plastic feel, making long drives uncomfortable for the back. The Zhijun is an upgraded model launched after 2008, with a sharper exterior, more angular lines, quicker throttle response, reduced noise, and fuel consumption lowered to around 8.5L. The interior uses softer materials and includes more comfortable features, such as more user-friendly air vent adjustments. For my daily commute, the Zhijun is noticeably more hassle-free, with smoother acceleration, making it more suitable for younger users, while the old Vista is better for those on a tighter budget.