Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
NO matter how dominating the likes of the crossovers and SUVs segments today, there will always be that special space for the once ever prime choice—the premium sedans. Demand may have since diminished, but the affinity attached to this vehicle platform is still very much alive. At least to those who have experienced the rewarding, premium and all-rounder character it offers.
Despite the shifting vehicle segment preferences, European car manufacturers still offer various sedan lineups in different sizes. In the case of Volkswagen, the German automaker still provides an array of sedan models globally. Other car companies, meantime, still believe that there are still customers out there who are still into sedans and there is no replacement for this ever-universal vehicle platform. Among the five new models, Volkswagen Philippines introduced last year the premium sedan Lamando 280 TSI DSG SEL.
Straightforward elegance
The Volkswagen’s design signature today is an example of how to quickly identify the brand’s absolute identity from its wide range of model lineup. While the cues are almost identical, there is still subtle differentiation for every model’s individuality. Like the stylish fascia bearing the brand’s signature slender halogen headlamps aligned to the grille with chrome accents and pronounced emblem in the middle.
Just like its two other sedan siblings, the exterior frame has that definite three-box configuration only with more sharp profiles. These character lines all over created a sleeker aura to justify its more premium and sportier character.
Similar to the Lavida, every top section of headlights and grille provide emphasis to the bonnet and the beltline. These include the wheel arcs design which complement the contours at the door bottom panels and bumpers. Overall, you get a chiseled body more into sporty rather than purely luxurious and boring.
Still monochromatic but livelier
Having that known monochromatic themed interior from most Volkswagen vehicles, touches of sporty trims and materials brought more life and convenience. It already had us at the straightforward layout yet sporty and sophisticated at the same time.
The D-shaped chunky helm with piano-black inserts and integrated controls are still present. Seats are not only wrapped with leather material but also well-padded with numerous sections. But what we like is the bigger and better touch-operated audio system equipped with phone connectivity and other functions. One of its useful features is its ability to control the surround sound distribution through your fingertip. That, along with the eight-way speaker system, everything inside was like listening to studio version music files.
TSI power and efficiency
Similar to the Lavida, this car is also powered by the same 1.4-liter four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. So, we knew exactly where that fun in driving was coming from. The only difference was the Lamando’s mill is tuned to have a higher output. No wonder that despite the bigger frame, the power delivery was still there, albeit more linear.
What’s impressive about this TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) motors is that it allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds. That’s power and fuel efficiency combined. Another is the outstanding torque delivery starting at a low engine rpm range just like diesel mills. But what aided in the smooth, linear and unrelenting output is the mated seven-speed DSG transmission.
Super comfy, downright nimble and safer to drive
Just like its siblings, the Santana and the Lavida, we can all agree that one of the Lamando’s highpoints is how it behaves on the road. As expected, the noise, vibration and harshness suppression were simply superb. The midsize-like ride was present throughout our test period. From how the damping system reacted to every road imperfection, the fast-cooling dual-zone climatronic air conditioning system, plus the minimal rebounds, everything was like how riding in a premium vehicle should be.
For its size, the car was still downright nimble on curves, even on higher speeds. The steering provided soft handling yet with good response on turns—such a good performer during drives through zigzags.
As for the safety features, it has airbags for driver, front and rear passengers, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ISOFIX for child seats, and immobilizer, among others. Moreover, this version of Lamando is also equipped with electronic parking brake, cruise control, tire pressure monitor, electronic stabilisation program (ESP), and hill hold control functions.
Thumbs Up
- Minimalist yet imposing exterior design
- Responsive engine
- Seamless shifting DSG gearbox
- Excellent handling and control
- Quiet and smooth ride
Thumbs Down
- Similar steering wheel design with lower models
- Single 12-volt socket for gadget charging
Specifications
- Vehicle Volkswagen Lamando 280 TSI DSG SEL
- Type Compact sedan
- Engine 1.4-liter, inline four-cylinder, Turbocharged Stratified Injected with Bluemotion Technology, petrol fed
- Maximum power 148hp at 5,000rpm
- Maximum torque 250N-m at 1,750-3,500rpm
- Transmission Seven-speed DSG transmission
Dimensions
- Length 4,598 mm
- Width 1,826 mm
- Height 1,425 mm
- Wheelbase 2,656 mm
- Tire size 225/50 R17
- Price as tested P1.703 million
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino