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 iteration, the 2015 facelift, brought updated styling and features to the model, enhancing its appeal in a competitive segment. While not sold in North America, the SpaceFox filled a niche for families seeking an affordable and adaptable vehicle in South American markets, offering a compelling alternative to traditional sedans and larger SUVs.
Volkswagen SpaceFox (Facelift 2015): An Overview
The SpaceFox, as a derivative of the Fox, was designed to cater to the specific needs of Latin American consumers. The region often favors vehicles that can handle varied road conditions and accommodate larger families. The facelifted 2015 model aimed to modernize the vehicle’s appearance and improve its overall functionality. It’s important to note that the SpaceFox differs significantly from the Volkswagen Fox models sold in Europe, representing a distinct adaptation for the Latin American market. The vehicle is characterized by its five-door configuration and seating for five passengers, making it a practical choice for everyday use.
Engine & Performance
The 2015 Volkswagen SpaceFox 1.6 is powered by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder petrol engine, capable of running on both gasoline and ethanol (E85) blends. This engine produces 120 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 165 Nm (121.7 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 11.5:1. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures indicate a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.9 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 10.4 seconds, with a maximum speed of 192 km/h (119.3 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 9.6 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonable balance between power and weight for its class.
Design & Features
The SpaceFox (facelift 2015) features a station wagon body style, offering a generous cargo area for its size. The five-door layout provides easy access for passengers and cargo. The exterior design incorporates updated front and rear fascias, headlights, and taillights as part of the facelift. Inside, the cabin is designed with practicality in mind, offering comfortable seating for five adults. Key features include an electric power steering system, ventilated front disc brakes, and drum brakes on the rear wheels. Safety features 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, offering a no-frills but reliable transportation solution.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | SpaceFox (facelift 2015) Latin America |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (120 Hp) Automatic |
| 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 | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 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 | 1153 kg (2541.93 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs) |
| Max load | 477 kg (1051.6 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 | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
In conclusion, the 2015 Volkswagen SpaceFox 1.6 Automatic represents a practical and affordable option for families in Latin America. Its combination of station wagon versatility, a fuel-efficient engine, and a reasonable level of features made it a popular choice in its segment. While not available in North America, the SpaceFox demonstrates Volkswagen’s ability to adapt its platforms to meet the specific demands of different regional markets.
