VW Reveals Second-Generation Santana

Volkswagen AG has unveiled a completely redesigned version of the Santana, the Passat-based midsize sedan due in Chinese showrooms later this year.

The Santana has been largely responsible for VW's dominance in that market since the car's debut there 30 years ago. VW also marketed the first-generation Santana in Japan and South America and as the Quantum in the U.S.

The updated model shares it a stretched version of the platform that carries the company's Polo, Audi A1 and Skoda Rapid cars. The new car offers more rear-seat legroom, a larger trunk and far more contemporary styling.

The new Santana also introduces a long list of contemporary comfort and safety features, including air conditioning, leather seats, a power sunroof, parking sensors, stability control and antilock brakes.

The car is powered by VW's new EA 211 series aluminum-block four-cylinder engine. The 1.4- and 1.6-liter gasoline engines produce 89 hp and 109 hp, respectively. Each engine averages about 39 mpg 28% better than the first-generation Santana, according to the company.