Review: 2015 Volkswagen SpaceFox (facelift 2015) Latin America 1.6 (103 Hp) Automatic

The 2015 Volkswagen SpaceFox, a facelifted model for the Latin American market, offers a blend of practicality and performance in a compact station wagon (estate) format. With its 1.6-liter engine and automatic transmission, this vehicle is designed to cater to a variety of driving needs, from city commutes to family road trips. In this review, we'll explore the key features of the SpaceFox, its performance capabilities, and how it fits into different lifestyles.

Understanding the Basics: Key Terms Explained

Before diving into the specifics, let's clarify some essential terms that will help you better understand the SpaceFox's features:

Station Wagon (Estate): A car body style that combines the passenger space of a sedan with the cargo capacity of a hatchback, making it ideal for families and those needing extra storage.
Internal Combustion Engine (ICE): An engine that generates power by burning fuel, in this case, petrol or ethanol (E85), to drive the vehicle.
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): A drivetrain layout where the engine powers the front wheels, offering better traction in wet conditions and more efficient use of space.
Torque: A measure of rotational force, indicating how much power the engine can deliver to the wheels.

Main Features and Performance

The 2015 Volkswagen SpaceFox is equipped with a 1.6-liter engine producing 103 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 153 Nm of torque at 2500 rpm. This naturally aspirated engine, meaning it doesn't use a turbocharger, is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth driving experience.

In terms of performance, the SpaceFox accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 11.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 183 km/h (113.71 mph). This makes it a capable vehicle for both city driving and highway cruising. The fuel efficiency is reasonable, with a combined fuel consumption that varies depending on driving conditions and fuel type (petrol or ethanol).

The SpaceFox's dimensions, including a length of 4204 mm and a wheelbase of 2467 mm, offer ample interior space for passengers and cargo. The kerb weight of 1147 kg ensures a stable ride, while the maximum load capacity of 483 kg allows for additional luggage or equipment.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

When considering the SpaceFox for your lifestyle, here are some scenarios to think about:

City Driving: The compact size and front-wheel drive make it easy to maneuver in urban environments, while the electric power steering aids in tight parking situations.
Long-Distance Travel: With a fuel tank capacity of 50 liters, the SpaceFox is suitable for road trips, offering comfort and space for passengers and luggage.
Family Use: The five-door design and spacious interior make it a practical choice for families, providing easy access and plenty of room for child seats and gear.
Single Ownership: For individuals, the SpaceFox offers a balance of performance and practicality, with enough power for daily commutes and weekend adventures.
Adventure Lifestyles: While not an off-road vehicle, the SpaceFox's roof load capacity of 45 kg allows for additional gear, such as bikes or kayaks, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:
- Spacious interior and cargo capacity
- Efficient fuel consumption for its class
- Good balance of power and handling
Weaknesses:
- Limited towing capacity (400 kg with brakes)
- Not suitable for heavy off-road use

Conclusion

The 2015 Volkswagen SpaceFox is a versatile and practical vehicle that caters to a wide range of needs. Whether you're navigating city streets, embarking on a family road trip, or enjoying a solo adventure, the SpaceFox offers a reliable and comfortable ride. Consider what features are most important to you, such as cargo space or fuel efficiency, to determine if this vehicle aligns with your lifestyle.

Technical Specifications

Attribute	Details
Generation	SpaceFox (facelift 2015) Latin America
Modification (Engine)	1.6 (103 Hp) Automatic
Powertrain Architecture	Internal Combustion engine
Body Type	Station wagon (estate), MPV
Seats	5
Doors	5
Combined Fuel Consumption	Varies with fuel type
CO2 Emissions	Not specified
Fuel Type	Petrol / Ethanol - E85
Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	11.9 sec
Maximum Speed	183 km/h (113.71 mph)
Engine Displacement	1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.)
Number of Cylinders	4
Engine Configuration	Inline
Power Output	103 Hp @ 5250 rpm
Torque	153 Nm @ 2500 rpm
Compression Ratio	12.1:1
Fuel Injection System	Multi-port manifold injection
Engine Aspiration	Naturally aspirated
Kerb Weight	1147 kg (2528.7 lbs.)
Max Load	483 kg (1064.83 lbs.)
Fuel Tank Capacity	50 l (13.21 US gal \| 11 UK gal)
Length	4204 mm (165.51 in.)
Width	1660 mm (65.35 in.)
Height	1585 mm (62.4 in.)
Wheelbase	2467 mm (97.13 in.)
Drive Wheel System	Front wheel drive
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)	5 gears, automatic transmission
Front Brakes	Ventilated discs
Rear Brakes	Drum
Assisting Systems	ABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power Steering	Electric Steering
Tire Size	195/65 R15
Wheel Rims Size	15