Volkswagen Lavida (2nd generation)
China's perennial best-seller, blending German engineering with local market focus.
- Power
- 110 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.7 s
- Top speed
- 108 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$6k
About the Volkswagen Lavida
The second-generation Volkswagen Lavida was a massive commercial success for the SAIC-Volkswagen joint venture, consistently topping Chinese sales charts. Built on the proven PQ34 platform, it offered a more conservative, notchback-style design compared to its predecessor, specifically tailored to Chinese tastes for understated elegance and rear-seat space. The 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine was the volume-selling powertrain, valued for its reliability and ease of maintenance rather than outright performance. While it lacks the sophistication of contemporary European Volkswagens, its robust construction and strong brand equity made it a staple of the Chinese automotive landscape.
Volkswagen Lavida specs
The Volkswagen Lavida produces 110 bhp (82 kW) and 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.7 seconds and has a top speed of 108 mph (174 km/h).
| Make | Volkswagen |
|---|---|
| Model | Lavida |
| Generation | Second Generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 2012–2018 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | China |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 110 bhp (82 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 11.7 s |
| Top speed | 108 mph (174 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,245 kg (2,745 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 88 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Volkswagen Lavida worth?
A typical Volkswagen Lavida is estimated to be worth $3,500 – $6,000 (about £2,600 – £4,500).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Volkswagen Lavida rarity in CarSpot
The Volkswagen Lavida is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volkswagen Lavida fun facts
- The Lavida was the first mass-produced Volkswagen model designed primarily by its Chinese partner, SAIC-Volkswagen.
- Despite being launched in 2012, the second-generation Lavida continued to use the PQ34 platform, which originally debuted with the 1997 Audi A3 and Golf Mk4.
- In 2017 alone, the Lavida range sold over 450,000 units in China, making it one of the most successful nameplates in the world that year.