The Volkswagen Fox, specifically the 5-door hatchback variant produced in Latin America and facelifted in 2015, represented a significant offering in the subcompact car segment. This iteration, powered by a 1.6-liter engine producing 120 horsepower and paired with an automatic transmission, was positioned as a practical and accessible option for families and urban commuters. Production of this model ran from 2015 onwards, building upon the foundation of the earlier Fox generations and incorporating updated styling and technology. It served as a key model for Volkswagen in the Latin American market, competing with vehicles like the Fiat Palio and Chevrolet Onix.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fox |
| Generation | Fox 5Door (facelift 2015) Latin America |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (120 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 | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 109.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 150.1 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 | 1099 kg (2422.88 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs) |
| Max load | 421 kg (928.15 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 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 features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, a relatively simple design that contributes to its reliability and ease of maintenance. The 120 horsepower output is achieved through a combination of optimized engine mapping and a compression ratio of 11.5:1. Paired with this engine is a five-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenience, is not known for particularly sporty performance, prioritizing smooth shifts and fuel efficiency over rapid acceleration. It’s a conventional hydraulic automatic, lacking the more advanced features found in some contemporary transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine with the automatic transmission delivers a comfortable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.2 seconds, which is typical for a subcompact car in this class. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy and everyday drivability, resulting in a noticeable delay during kickdown for overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the Fox 1.6, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. Higher-output versions, such as those with the 1.6 MSI engine, offered significantly more power and a more engaging driving experience. However, the automatic version excels in urban environments, providing a smooth and effortless ride in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2015 facelifted Fox 1.6 Automatic typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included dual front airbags and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, often denoted by names like “Trend” or “Comfort,” added features like alloy wheels, fog lights, a more sophisticated audio system, and sometimes rear parking sensors. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for different color schemes. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over aesthetic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Fox 5Door utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. Stabilizer bars were included on both axles, helping to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volkswagen Fox 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received in the Latin American market as a practical and reliable family car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its relatively modest performance. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered less driver engagement but greater convenience. Against competitors like the Fiat Palio and Chevrolet Onix, the Fox offered a more refined interior and a reputation for build quality, but often came at a slightly higher price point. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 30-35 mpg in mixed driving conditions.
Legacy
The CNXA engine and the associated five-speed automatic transmission have proven to be relatively reliable powertrains. While not without their quirks, they are generally known for their durability and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, the Fox 1.6 Automatic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and dependable subcompact car. Parts availability is generally good, and the relatively simple engine design makes it accessible for independent mechanics. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for wear and tear on the automatic transmission, particularly if the vehicle has been subjected to heavy use or neglected maintenance.
