In which year was the Santana launched in China?
2 Answers
The Santana was launched in China in 1987, introduced by Shanghai Volkswagen Automotive Co., Ltd. as a product of the German Volkswagen Group. Below is an introduction to the Santana model: Overview: The Volkswagen Santana (SANTANA) is a sedan, originally produced by Volkswagen in California, USA, and has become ubiquitous across China. Current models include the Santana, Santana 2000, and Santana 3000. Specifications: Wheelbase is 2548mm. Dimensions are 4546mm × 1710mm × 1427mm. Trunk capacity is 442L. Fuel consumption is 8.5L/100km. Engine type is 1.8L 95HP L4. Standard seating capacity is 5. Top speed is 165km/h. Acceleration time is 12.9 seconds. Drive type is front-wheel drive.
I started my career in the automotive industry when I was young, and I still remember the scene when the Santana was launched in China in 1983. It was the early days of reform and opening-up, introduced by Shanghai Volkswagen, and it took the whole society by storm upon its release. Back then, workers like us gathered at the factory gates to catch a glimpse of it. It was hailed as the first joint-venture sedan, breaking the barrier that ordinary people couldn't afford cars. Later, the Santana became the backbone of taxi fleets, and I personally experienced its rugged durability. To this day, I still collect those vintage advertisement posters. I feel that the step taken in '83 was a turning point for China's auto industry—without it, there wouldn't be the rise of domestic brands we see today.
