Volkswagen Ameo: Things it could have improved

The Ameo is the least expensive Volkswagen on sale today and slots in between the Polo and the Vento.

Slotted in between the Polo hatchback and the C-segment sedan Vento, the Ameo is the most affordable Volkswagen on sale today. It marks Volkswagen’s entry in a segment where there are some very impressive products like the Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire, Honda Amaze, Hyundai Xcent, Tata Zest and the Ford Figo Aspire. While the Ameo surely brings in a lot of segment first features there are a few things that Volkswagen could have improved in this sub-4 metre sedan.

Rear Seat Space

The Ameo shares its wheelbase with the Polo hatchback and not the Vento sedan. The hatchback isn't known for rear-seat space and comfort, and the Ameo is no different. Yes, Volkswagen has tried to liberate some extra knee room by scooping out the back of the front seat, but, overall space is average at best. On a related note, a rear armrest would have been greatly appreciated as well!

What's better - Hyundai Xcent

2. More powerful petrol engine

The three-cylinder petrol motor has been borrowed from its hatchback counterpart as well. The 75PS/110Nm combo is just about enough to lug the compact sedan around. We would have loved to see the 1.2-litre turbo petrol motor from the GT TSi do duty under the Ameo's hood. What's better - Swift Dzire (1.2-litre K-Series 84PS | 114Nm)

3. Petrol automatic

Speaking of the GT TSi, Volkswagen could have (and should have) introduced the 7-speed dual clutch transmission from the hatch in the Ameo as well. We expect the automatic transmission to debut with the diesel engine in August. However, as of now, Volkswagen has no plans of introducing a petrol automatic Ameo.

What's better - Ford Figo Aspire 1.5 DCT

4. Boot Space

The compact sedan features a fairly generous 330-litre boot. It is well-shaped and has a low loading lip that makes stowing luggage an easy affair. However, in terms of sheer volume, almost every other rival fares better.

What's better - Honda Amaze (400-litre boot)

The German automaker's first 'Made for India' vehicle is an earnest attempt at making a car that the market wants. The shortcomings mentioned above aren't big deal-breakers in any manner, but, had these been better, the Ameo would've catapulted straight to the top of the food chain.

Source: CarDekho.com