2019-2022 Volkswagen Lavida III e-Lavida 38.1 kWh (136 Hp)

The Volkswagen Lavida III e-Lavida 38.1 kWh, producing 136 horsepower, represents Volkswagen’s entry into the burgeoning Chinese electric vehicle market. Introduced in August 2019 and produced through 2022, this variant of the Lavida – a compact sedan specifically designed for and sold primarily in China – aimed to provide an affordable and practical all-electric option for urban commuters. It’s positioned as a key model within the Lavida III generation (based on the PQ35 platform), offering a balance between range, performance, and cost within the broader Lavida lineup, which also included gasoline-powered versions. The e-Lavida was a significant step for Volkswagen in adapting to the increasingly stringent emissions regulations and growing consumer demand for electric vehicles in China.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The e-Lavida 38.1 kWh is powered by a single electric motor producing 136 horsepower and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque. This motor is directly coupled to the front wheels via a single-speed automatic transmission – a characteristic of most battery electric vehicles. The heart of the system is the 38.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, providing an all-electric range of approximately 278 kilometers (172.74 miles) under optimal driving conditions. The battery management system (BMS) is crucial for maintaining battery health, optimizing charging cycles, and ensuring safe operation. While specific details regarding the motor’s internal construction are limited in publicly available information, it’s understood to be a permanent magnet synchronous motor, chosen for its efficiency and power density. The vehicle supports both AC and DC fast charging, allowing for relatively quick replenishment of the battery.

Driving Characteristics

The driving experience of the e-Lavida 38.1 kWh is characterized by the instant torque delivery typical of electric vehicles. Acceleration is brisk for city driving, making it well-suited for navigating congested urban environments. The single-speed transmission provides seamless power delivery, eliminating the need for gear changes. While not designed for high-performance driving, the e-Lavida offers adequate power for highway merging and overtaking. Compared to the gasoline-powered Lavida variants, the e-Lavida provides a quieter and smoother ride, thanks to the absence of an internal combustion engine. The relatively low center of gravity, due to the battery pack being mounted under the floor, contributes to improved handling and stability. The regenerative braking system allows for one-pedal driving in certain conditions, enhancing efficiency and driver convenience.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The e-Lavida 38.1 kWh was generally offered with a fairly comprehensive standard equipment list, reflecting its positioning as a modern, technologically advanced vehicle. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and basic safety features like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels added features such as a larger touchscreen display, navigation system, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leatherette in higher trims. The dashboard layout was similar to that of the gasoline-powered Lavida, but with unique electric vehicle-specific displays showing battery status and energy consumption.

Chassis & Braking

The Lavida III utilizes a McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The e-Lavida variant, due to the added weight of the battery pack, may have featured slightly stiffer spring rates and dampers to maintain stability. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The vehicle rides on 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 R16 tires, offering a reasonable compromise between comfort and grip.

Market Reception & Comparison

The e-Lavida 38.1 kWh was generally well-received in the Chinese market, particularly among consumers seeking an affordable and practical electric vehicle. Critics praised its decent range, comfortable ride, and relatively spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that its range was somewhat limited compared to some of its competitors. Compared to the gasoline-powered Lavida variants, the e-Lavida offered significantly lower running costs due to the lower price of electricity compared to gasoline. Its fuel economy, expressed as 13.2 kWh/100km, translated to a respectable 159 MPGe. The e-Lavida competed with other entry-level electric vehicles in China, such as the BYD Qin EV and the Geely Emgrand EV.

Legacy

The Volkswagen Lavida III e-Lavida 38.1 kWh played a crucial role in establishing Volkswagen’s presence in the Chinese electric vehicle market. While production ended in 2022, the model helped pave the way for Volkswagen’s subsequent electric vehicle offerings in China, such as the ID. series. The powertrain, while not groundbreaking, proved to be relatively reliable in real-world use. On the used car market, the e-Lavida remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking an affordable electric vehicle. The longevity of the battery pack is a key consideration for potential buyers, and regular maintenance of the battery management system is essential for maximizing battery life. The e-Lavida represents an important step in Volkswagen’s transition towards a more sustainable automotive future.