The Volkswagen CrossFox (facelift 2015) represents a regionally tailored evolution of the popular Fox model, specifically designed for the Latin American market. Introduced in 2015, this iteration of the CrossFox builds upon the foundation of the earlier CrossFox, itself a more ruggedized variant of the fifth-generation Volkswagen Fox (1HX0/A3 platform). The 1.6-liter, 110 horsepower automatic configuration occupied a key position in the lineup, offering a balance of affordability, practicality, and ease of use for buyers seeking a versatile, compact SUV. It was positioned as a step up from the base models, providing additional features and a more refined driving experience without reaching the price point of higher-trim levels.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fox |
| Generation | CrossFox (facelift 2015) Latin America |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (110 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 95.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 135.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CNXA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1147 kg (2528.7 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1580 kg (3483.3 lbs) |
| Max load | 433 kg (954.6 lbs) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 45 kg (99.21 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 400 kg (881.85 lbs) |
| Length | 4053 mm (159.57 in) |
| Width | 1663 mm (65.47 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 1904 mm (74.96 in) |
| Height | 1631 mm (64.21 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2469 mm (97.2 in) |
| Front track | 1448 mm (57.01 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1420 mm (55.91 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 211 mm (8.31 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CrossFox 1.6 Automatic is the CNXA engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a member of Volkswagen’s EA111 family, known for its relatively simple design and durability. The CNXA utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, operating two valves per cylinder. This configuration prioritizes simplicity and cost-effectiveness over outright performance. The 110 horsepower output is achieved at 5750 rpm, while peak torque of 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) arrives at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine is a five-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and convenient gear changes. This transmission, while not known for its sportiness, was well-suited to the engine’s characteristics and the intended use case of the vehicle.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine and five-speed automatic combination in the CrossFox delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.6 seconds, and top speed is rated at 176 km/h (109 mph). The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth operation, resulting in relatively relaxed gear changes. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. Higher-trim CrossFox models equipped with larger engines, such as the 1.6-liter with increased output or the 2.0-liter options, offered significantly more spirited performance. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for everyday driving, providing sufficient power for city commutes and highway cruising, but lacking the urgency needed for quick overtaking maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CrossFox 1.6 Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with CD player and auxiliary input. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and dual front airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered options such as alloy wheels, fog lights, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and upgraded interior trim. The interior generally featured durable, easy-to-clean plastics and cloth upholstery. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over aesthetic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The CrossFox utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for the often-rough road conditions prevalent in Latin America. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The electric power steering offers light and easy steering, making it maneuverable in urban environments. The increased ride height, a defining characteristic of the CrossFox, provides improved ground clearance for navigating unpaved roads and obstacles.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CrossFox 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received in the Latin American market as a practical and affordable SUV option. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and ease of use. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of power and the automatic transmission’s somewhat sluggish performance. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Fiat Palio Weekend Adventure, the CrossFox offered a more refined interior and a more comfortable ride, but at a slightly higher price point. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with combined cycle figures typically around 8-10 liters per 100 kilometers.
Legacy
The Volkswagen CrossFox 1.6 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the CNXA engine and five-speed automatic transmission generally exhibiting good durability. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing belt replacement (typically every 60,000 miles), and inspection of the cooling system. In the used car market, the CrossFox 1.6 Automatic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and practical SUV. Its simple mechanical design and readily available parts contribute to its relatively low cost of ownership. While not a performance standout, the CrossFox 1.6 Automatic continues to offer a compelling value proposition for those seeking a dependable and versatile vehicle.
