Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) says that it is an achievement to locally assemble its full range of cars in Malaysia, and the CKD Mk8 Volkswagen Golf project is notable, because it includes the Golf GTI. Before Pekan, the hot hatch was only ever made in Germany and China.
“It is an achievement to locally assemble majority of our models at Pekan, especially the Golf. What makes it even more special is that it is the first time the GTI is assembled outside of Germany and China,” VPCM’s managing director Erik Winter told paultan.org.
VPCM’s current range of models include the just-facelifted Tiguan Allspace (Elegance and R-Line), Passat (Elegance and R-Line), Arteon R-Line and the Mk8 Golf in three flavours – R-Line, GTI and R. All are CKD locally assembled in Pekan, Pahang, except for the Golf R.
These days, Volkswagen is a relatively low volume brand in Malaysia, as its range starts from above RM150k (the Golf R-Line) and it lacks sub-RM100k B-segment models after the previous-generation Polo and Vento retired. This makes it even more remarkable that all of its core models are CKD, as local assembly needs committed volume.
“The planning for CKD production requires detailed planning, lots of coordination, and significant financial investments. So, the fact that most of our products are CKD model indeed shows our statement of intent. We aspire to provide value-added mobility for Malaysians, while creating sustainable growth for the long-term,” Winter added.
VPCM launched the latest Golf GTI in February, and the Sepang event also saw the debut of the Golf R-Line, which was opened for booking. The Golf R was also announced on the same day, where the iconic nameplate was celebrated with previous generations in attendance. The starter R-Line is yet to be officially launched; initial production is for the GTI. Click on the links for full details in our launch reports.
GALLERY: Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8, CKD Malaysia
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If what VCPM said about a statement of intent for Malaysia then they should be bringing the popular Polo back to Malaysia. At its peak, the Polo was seen almost everywhere on the road. I for one am personally interested with the Polo GTI now that its larger and more practical.
AMG rims compatible with GTI
Copy paste: “Volkswagen Malaysia focused on going upmarket with affordable premium models – no more entry-level cars”
Mk7.5 is still better…
VW reputation especially its aftersales have already been well established and documented. Horrible aftersales, dishonest dealers, indefinitely parts shipment etc etc. Good cars with horrible support equals nightmare.
So what does unreliable VW with horrible support equals to?
After the free service and warranty, the labour charges will be based on German rates. Three years free service or 15,000km/year, that is the tricky part. I think, 15K km will finish maximum with in 8 months.
The ability to assembly an IKEA table if not impressive, the ability to design, engineered and manufactured the parts for the table is.
After the free service and warranty, the labour charges will be based on German rates. Three years free service or 15,000km/year, that is the tricky part. I think, 15K km will finish maximum with in 8 months.
no premium car, only premium price
Yeah, and so many corners are cut on this mk8 , especially most of the safety features which are offered on other segment at the lower price point…
Yes, am ready to get the POLO GTI