The Volkswagen Fox, specifically the 5-door hatchback produced in Latin America and facelifted in 2015 with a 1.6-liter engine producing 120 horsepower, represents a significant offering in the subcompact car segment for that region. Introduced as a successor to the Gol in certain markets, the Fox aimed to provide a more modern and spacious alternative. This particular variant, powered by the CNXA engine, was positioned as a mid-range option, balancing affordability with a reasonable level of equipment and performance. Production of this facelifted model ran from 2015 onwards, catering to the demands of buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fox |
| Generation | Fox 5Door (facelift 2015) Latin America |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (120 Hp) |
| 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 | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 151 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 4000 rpm (121.7 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 | 1093 kg (2409.65 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs) |
| Max load | 427 kg (941.37 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 | 6 gears, manual 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 CNXA 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 CNXA utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, providing adequate fuel atomization for efficient combustion. The engine boasts a compression ratio of 11.5:1, contributing to its power output. The 120 horsepower peak is achieved at 5750 rpm, while the 165 Nm (121.7 lb-ft) of torque is delivered at 4000 rpm. This engine is known for its relative simplicity and durability, making it a cost-effective choice for Volkswagen. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, offering a balance between fuel economy and driver control. While an automatic transmission was available on other Fox trims, it wasn’t typically offered with this specific 1.6L 120hp configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter, 120 hp Fox delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9.1 seconds, and it reaches a top speed of around 118 mph. Compared to higher-output versions of the Fox, such as those equipped with larger engines, this variant feels less spirited. The 6-speed manual transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but it doesn’t offer the same level of responsiveness as a more powerful engine. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration. The lighter weight of this trim, compared to some of the more heavily equipped models, does help to mitigate the lower horsepower somewhat. The driving experience is generally comfortable and predictable, making it well-suited for urban commuting and highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6-liter Fox typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and fog lights. The trim level sat in the middle of the Fox range, offering more features than the base model but lacking the premium touches found in the higher-spec versions.
Chassis & Braking
The Fox utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums. This configuration was chosen to balance cost and performance. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, offering a light and responsive feel. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride over uneven surfaces. Stabilizer bars are present, helping to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6-liter Fox was generally well-received in the Latin American market as a practical and affordable option. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the power of its competitors. Compared to other trims in the Fox lineup, such as those with larger engines, this variant offered a more economical choice, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy was a key selling point, particularly in regions where gasoline prices are high. Reliability was generally good, with the CNXA engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Fox 1.6 (120 Hp) has established a reputation for reliability and affordability in the used car market. The CNXA engine is known for its longevity, and parts are readily available. While it may not offer the same level of performance as some of its rivals, it remains a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a dependable subcompact hatchback. Its simple design and robust construction contribute to its continued popularity, making it a common sight on the roads of Latin America.
