SAIC-Volkswagen has added yet another sedan to its ever-expanding Chinese portfolio, in the form of the entry-level Lavida XR (Xinrui). The family model is the Chinese version of the VW Virtus that is already available in India and Brazil.
From the outside, the Lavida XR looks nearly identical to the Virtus, apart from some minor details such a different pattern on the grille, a chrome-infused lower bumper intake, market-specific color palette (turquoise, blue, red, white, or black), and Chinese badging. Other features include standard full-LED headlights, dark-tinted taillights, an optional sunroof, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
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Similarly, the interior of the Lavida XR exhibits minimal changes in comparison to the Virtus, with a key focus on the dashboard trim that accentuates its similarity to the Polo hatchback. Noteworthy features include a standard 8-inch digital instrument cluster seamlessly paired with an 8-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system.
Just like the vibrant exterior color options, the Lavida XR offers China-specific upholstery choices that include turquoise, blue, and gray inserts. The boot space of the Lavida XR is listed at 498 liters (17.6 cubic feet), although the slight variation from the Virtus’ 521 liters (18.4 cubic feet) is likely due to variances in measurement protocols followed in China.
Measuring 4,561 mm (179.6 inches) long with a wheelbase of 2,651 mm (104.3 inches), the Lavida XR is positioned below the larger Lavida and Lavida Plus models. Despite sharing a common name, it is important to note that the XR is a distinct model and not directly related to its larger counterparts. Similar to the VW Virtus, the Lavida XR is built on the MQB A0-IN architecture, which is also utilized by the Skoda Slavia.
The four-door sedan is exclusively equipped with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 108 hp (81 kW / 110 PS) and 141 Nm (104 lb-ft) of torque. Power is transmitted to the front axle through a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Production of the VW Lavida XR has already commenced at the SAIC-VW joint venture plant in China. With pricing set to begin below the ¥100,000 ($14,045) threshold, the Lavida XR will directly compete against rivals such as the recently facelifted Nissan Sylphy.
