The Volkswagen Fox, specifically the 5-door hatchback variant produced in Latin America and facelifted in 2015, represented a significant entry point into the Volkswagen lineup for budget-conscious buyers. The 1.6-liter (103 horsepower) engine paired with an automatic transmission was a popular configuration, aimed at providing comfortable and convenient transportation. Production of this variant ran from 2015 onwards, fitting into the broader Fox lifecycle which spanned several generations and served as a key model in the South American market. This particular iteration sat as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the base, more spartan trims and the higher-specification versions with more powerful engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fox |
| Generation | Fox 5Door (facelift 2015) Latin America |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (103 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 140.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 103 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 153 Nm @ 2500 rpm (112.85 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CCRA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 12.1:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1092 kg (2407.45 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs) |
| Max load | 428 kg (943.58 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 | 3867-3868 mm (152.24 – 152.28 in) |
| Width | 1660-1663 mm (65.35 – 65.47 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 1901-1904 mm (74.84 – 74.96 in) |
| Height | 1551-1555 mm (61.06 – 61.22 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2467 mm (97.13 in) |
| Front track | 1416-1432 mm (55.75 – 56.38 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1410-1426 mm (55.51 – 56.14 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 156-161 mm (6.14 – 6.34 in) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | 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 this Fox variant is the CCRA engine, a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is designed to run on both gasoline and ethanol (E85) blends, a common feature in Latin American markets. The CCRA utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, providing adequate fuel atomization for efficient combustion. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, keeping the design relatively simple and cost-effective. The 103 horsepower output is achieved at 5250 rpm, while peak torque of 153 Nm (112.85 lb-ft) arrives at 2500 rpm. The automatic transmission is a conventional 5-speed unit, chosen for its ease of use and suitability for urban driving conditions. While not a performance-oriented transmission, it provides smooth shifts and adequate acceleration for everyday use.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine and automatic transmission combination delivers a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes approximately 11.6 seconds, placing it firmly in the economy car category. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth operation, rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. Higher-output versions of the Fox, such as those equipped with larger engines, offered significantly more power and quicker acceleration. However, the 1.6L automatic prioritized ease of driving and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for city commuters and drivers who preferred a less engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6-liter automatic Fox typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and fog lights. The trim level often dictated the availability of these options, with higher trims offering more standard features and a wider range of customization possibilities. Safety features generally included dual front airbags and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Chassis & Braking
The Fox’s chassis is a relatively simple, yet effective, design. It utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The rear brakes are drum brakes, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. Steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, offering a light and easy steering feel. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface reasonably well. Stabilizer bars were typically included to reduce body roll during cornering, though their thickness varied depending on the specific trim level.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volkswagen Fox 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received in the Latin American market as a practical and affordable option. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other trims in the Fox lineup, the 1.6 automatic offered a balance between price, fuel economy, and convenience. The higher-output engines provided more power but came at a higher cost and with reduced fuel efficiency. The manual transmission versions of the 1.6-liter engine offered slightly better performance and fuel economy, but required more driver involvement. Competitors in this segment included the Fiat Palio, Chevrolet Onix, and Renault Sandero, all of which offered similar levels of practicality and affordability.
Legacy
The CCRA engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. The 5-speed automatic transmission also demonstrated reasonable longevity. In the used car market, the Fox 1.6 Automatic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and dependable vehicle. Maintenance costs are generally low, and parts availability is good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for ethanol-related fuel system issues, particularly if the vehicle has been primarily fueled with ethanol blends. Overall, the Volkswagen Fox 1.6 Automatic represents a solid and practical choice for those seeking a budget-friendly hatchback.
