Volkswagen has finally launched a replacement for the Santana sedan in China. The Santana was the first mass produced passenger car in China with almost four million units sold since domestic production started in 1983.

The first-generation Santana is underpinned by Volkswagen's 'B2 platform', which can be traced back to the 1979 Audi 80.

From the front, the all-new Santana looks like a miniaturized Passat. The car is underpinned by an elongated version of Volkswagen's PQ25 platform, which is used beneath the current-generation Audi A1, Skoda Rapid and Volkswagen Polo. Equipment level is much more extensive than its predecessor. These include front, side and curtain airbags, ESP, climate control, leather upholstery, parking sensors, electric sunroof as well as ABS. The car also offers a much more interior space and a huge boot at 480 liters.

Engine choices for the second-generation Santana include two new naturally-aspirated petrol engines displacing 1.4L and 1.6L. They generate 90 bhp and 110 bhp respectively. The new engines represent a fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions reduction of up to 28% compared with the out-going model.

The new Santana will be built by VW's Chinese joint venture, Shanghai Volkswagen Automotive. The original Santana should find its retirement home in the Shanghai Auto Museum.