Volkswagen set to launch SUV model

MANILA, Philippines — Volkswagen Philippines is set to launch three more vehicle models including the T-Cross subcompact sports utility vehicle (SUV) within the year.

In an online briefing, Volkswagen Philippines president Felipe Estrella said the firm would be introducing the T-Cross in the middle of the year following the launch of the new Santana subcompact sedan earlier this year.

The T-Cross is Volkswagen’s first subcompact SUV and is produced in Brazil, China and Germany.

Estrella said the Volkswagen is bringing the T-Cross to the country due to growing SUV segment.

“More and more SUVs are being sold globally, in all markets and so, we felt it was important for us to be able to bring a product to the Philippines, an SUV offering that would be affordable or at least attainable for Filipinos and one which is appealing to potential customers,” he said.

Apart from the T-Cross, he said Volkswagen Philippines is looking to introduce up to two more vehicles this year, with one to be launched in the third quarter and another in the fourth quarter.

Estrella, however, declined to say in what segments the two other vehicle models belong to, but noted these aim to capture trends seen in the local market.

While there are no immediate plans to bring Volkswagen’s electric vehicles in the country, he said the company wants to make these vehicles available in the future.

As part of its push to beef up the brand’s presence in the local market, Estrella said the company would continue to make its offerings more accessible to Filipinos.

Even as Volkswagen Philippines does not expect to open new dealerships this year given the ongoing pandemic, he said the company continues discussions with prospective dealers with plans of setting up in new locations next year.

“While it may not seem the dealership network is expanding, our effort toward reaching more customers continues,” he said.

He said the company is launching an after-sales campaign to better serve customers.

The after-sales campaign includes a once a year visit for vehicle maintenance which would reduce the cost of ownership by 20 percent compared to competitors; having a three-month stock on parts; enhancements in service quality by providing express service; free 24/7 emergency roadside assistance and employing technicians trained by globally certified trainers.

At present, Volkswagen Philippines has nine dealerships located in Bonifacio Global City, Quezon Avenue, Pampanga, Alabang, Santa Rosa, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod and Cagayan de Oro.