First Volkswagen Ameo Rolls Out of Chakan Plant

Following an investment of around Rs 720 crore in its manufacturing, Volkswagen India rolled out the first 'Made in India' Ameo from its assembly line at Chakan on Wednesday. The event was hosted by Andreas Lauermann - President and Managing Director, Volkswagen India Private Limited. The Ameo made its global debut a day prior to the 2016 Auto Expo held in Delhi. The sub 4-metre compact sedan has been designed by the German manufacturer keeping the Indian consumer in consideration.

On the occasion, Lauermann said, "This day marks an important event in the journey of Volkswagen in India. The Ameo symbolises yet another first as it has ben scpecially created for Indian customers." He also informed that the company has added a third shift to meet the overwhelming demand that the car has recieved from the Indian buyers so far.

The Ameo looks almost identical to the Polo at first glance, with the same grille design, headlights and bumpers. It is only the rear section of the car wherein beyond the C-pillar the car has the extended boot section. Inside, the car gets a black and beige dashboard and door panels. The centre console receives a silver finish that housed the infotainment system and AC vents. The seats have fabric upholstery while the steering wheel is leather-wrapped, giving the premium feel. 

The compact sedan will be offered with two engine options - a 1.2-litre petrol mill and 1.5-litre diesel motor. Both the variants will come mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The petrol is the same motor that does the works in the hatchback while the diesel is used in the Vento and Skoda Rapid. 

Also Read: 2016 Volkswagen Ameo: First Review

Pre-bookings of Volkswagen's latest offering had already started earlier this month at a token amount of Rs 25,000. When launched by the mid of this year, the Ameo will be priced at around Rs 5.5 lakh to Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). Volkswagen's latest offering will be seen competing against the likes of Maruti Suzuki DZire, Hyundai Xcent, Honda Amaze and Ford Aspire in the compact sedan segment.