The Volkswagen SpaceFox (facelift 2015) is a compact station wagon, or estate, primarily marketed in Latin America. Positioned as a versatile and practical vehicle, it’s based on the Volkswagen Fox platform, offering a blend of hatchback practicality and wagon space. This facelifted version, introduced in 2015, brought updated styling and features to the model, aiming to maintain its appeal in a competitive segment. While not sold in the United States, the SpaceFox represents Volkswagen’s adaptation to the specific needs and preferences of the Latin American automotive market, where compact, affordable, and multi-purpose vehicles are highly sought after.
Volkswagen SpaceFox (Facelift 2015): An Overview
The SpaceFox occupies a niche between a traditional hatchback and a larger family wagon. It’s designed to cater to families and individuals needing a flexible vehicle for both daily commuting and occasional cargo hauling. The 2015 facelift focused on refining the existing design and improving the vehicle’s overall appeal. It’s important to note that the SpaceFox is distinct from the Volkswagen Fox sold in other markets, including Europe, and represents a unique model tailored for the Latin American region.
Engine & Performance
The SpaceFox (facelift 2015) 1.6 is powered by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 120 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 165 Nm (121.7 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. This engine is capable of running on both gasoline and ethanol (E85) fuel, a common feature in Latin American markets. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Performance figures indicate a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.9 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.4 seconds, with a maximum speed of 192 km/h (119.3 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 9.6 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 7 kg/Nm, contributing to a reasonably responsive driving experience. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 11.5:1 for optimized combustion.
Design & Features
The SpaceFox (facelift 2015) features a five-door station wagon body style, offering seating for five passengers. The exterior design incorporates updated front and rear fascias, headlights, and taillights compared to earlier versions. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering a comfortable cabin with ample space for passengers and cargo. Key features include a spacious cargo area, foldable rear seats for increased versatility, and a functional dashboard layout. Safety features, while not as extensive as in modern vehicles, include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The vehicle’s dimensions are 4204 mm (165.51 in) in length, 1660 mm (65.35 in) in width, and 1585 mm (62.4 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2467 mm (97.13 in). The SpaceFox prioritizes functionality and affordability, making it a practical choice for families and individuals in the Latin American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | SpaceFox (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate), MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| 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 | 1148 kg (2530.91 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs) |
| Max load | 482 kg (1062.63 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 | 4204 mm (165.51 in) |
| Width | 1660 mm (65.35 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 1901-1904 mm (74.84 – 74.96 in) |
| Height | 1585 mm (62.4 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2467 mm (97.13 in) |
| Front track | 1416-1426 mm (55.75 – 56.14 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1410-1420 mm (55.51 – 55.91 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 |
The Volkswagen SpaceFox (facelift 2015) 1.6 represents a practical and affordable option for consumers in Latin America seeking a versatile vehicle capable of handling both everyday tasks and occasional longer journeys. Its combination of a fuel-efficient engine, spacious interior, and functional design has contributed to its popularity in the region.
