What are the differences between Volkswagen Santana V and VI?
3 Answers
Differences between Volkswagen Santana V and VI: 1. Different configurations: The V version comes standard with driver and passenger airbags, ABS anti-lock braking, brake force distribution, and engine start-stop; the VI version comes standard with driver and passenger airbags, ABS anti-lock braking, brake force distribution, tire pressure monitoring, brake assist, electronic stability control, and engine start-stop. 2. Different acceleration times: The V version accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 13.5 seconds; the VI version accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 12.6 seconds. The Santana features a clean overall design with no exaggerated lines. The waistline running from front to rear gives the body a dynamic appearance. The chrome trim below the windows is simple yet aligns with Chinese consumers' aesthetic preferences. The multi-spoke wheels complement the body well, while the rear wheels still use large drum brakes.
The biggest changes between the Santana V and VI lie in the platform and powertrain. The V used an older platform, resulting in a softer chassis with noticeable body roll during cornering; the VI switched to the MQB platform, making the body lighter and more rigid. In terms of power, the V mainly featured 1.4L and 1.6L naturally aspirated engines with modest acceleration; the VI upgraded to the EA211 series 1.5L engine and offered an optional 1.4T turbocharged variant, delivering improved power while reducing fuel consumption by over 1L. The transmission evolved from the V's 5MT/6AT to the VI's 6AT and 7-speed dual-clutch, making gear shifts much smoother. The VI also added features like an electronic parking brake and tire pressure monitoring, which were absent in the V, though the V offered slightly more rear legroom. Overall, the VI indeed feels noticeably more agile to drive.
The exterior design differences between the two generations are quite significant. The fifth generation features a conservative front fascia with old-school square headlights and round taillights, while the sixth generation looks much more modern with its horizontal chrome grille, sharp headlights, and angular rear design with a slight fastback profile. The interior differences are even more pronounced. The fifth generation uses hard plastics everywhere, with knobs resembling an old radio, whereas the sixth generation incorporates extensive soft-touch materials, upgrades to an 8-inch infotainment screen, and adds CarPlay connectivity. The sixth gen's seats offer better support, though the shorter seat cushions leave legs unsupported during long drives, causing discomfort. Storage space improves in the sixth generation with door pockets and a center armrest compartment, but the trunk shrinks by 50 liters. The most noticeable upgrade is noise insulation - the sixth gen adds double-pane glass, significantly reducing engine noise, making highway conversations possible without shouting.
