by SHAFIQQUL ALIFF / pic courtesy of: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia Sdn Bhd

VOLKSWAGEN Passenger Cars Malaysia Sdn Bhd (VPCM) sees an uncertain outlook on sales and manufacturing this year amid the prolonged Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO).

VPCM MD Erik Winter said 2021 has been a difficult year for the automotive industry as operations are halted especially in the Klang Valley under the movement restrictions rule, exacerbated by the global chip shortages.

“We have to support our dealer network through initiatives such as doing the business online.

“The business continues even in these difficult and challenging times,” Winter said at the virtual launch of Volkswagen Arteon R-Line 4Motion last Friday.

He said the company had a promising start early this year before EMCO has affected the sales and manufacturing.

As it is, he said VPCM is requesting the government to consider allowing the automotive sector to resume operations, especially in the Klang Valley, similar to the demand of the Malaysian Automotive Association recently.

The new Arteon R-Line 4Motion is priced from RM247,671 with the current sales tax exemption, including three years free maintenance, five-year unlimited mileage warranty and five years roadside assistance.

Locally assembled at the Volkswagen plant in Pekan, Pahang, the four-door fastback facelift is equipped with a performance of 280PS with 350Nm of torque 4Motion all-wheel drive system for optimum grip and composure.

The vehicle is powered by a TSI turbo-charged engine with a seven-speed, able to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 5.6 seconds.

Winter is optimistic that the model would be a best seller due to its unique attributes.

“The Arteon is arguably the most beautiful model in our line-up — and matched with impressive performance and interior refinement — it isn’t just all good looks,” he said.

The refreshed Arteon R-Line sports an all-LED (light emitting diode) headlight system, dynamic cornering front headlights while the LED 3D rear tail lights come with sequential turn signals.

Its digital features comprise the high-resolution 11.7-inch digital cockpit display and a 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system.

Standard in the new Arteon are electronic stability control, anti-lock braking system and brake assist and active bonnet for pedestrian protection.

The new Arteon comes with three metallic colour options — Manganese Grey, Lapiz Blue and Pyrite Silver — and two pearl-effect colours namely Deep Black and Oryx White.