2021 Volkswagen Santana drops manual, starts at PHP 755,000

As early as December 2020, Volkswagen Philippines announced that they are bringing in the refreshed Santana. At the time, the automaker did not disclose when the new model will arrive. Instead, the teaser photos only said “coming soon”. Now, just a few months since the announcement, it's finally here, and there changes both big and small.

But first, let's talk about what's new with the vehicle in the styling department. The 2021 Santana looks nearly the same as before. No major changes were made to the vehicle's exterior design. From what we can see, the only styling change would be the new multi-spoke wheels. It's the same story inside the cabin. The interior is a carry-over from the outgoing model too. But, customers can avail the optional 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Rather than changing the design inside and out, Volkswagen focused on safety features. Apart from dual front airbags, ESP, ABS, and ASR are now standard on the entry-level Santana 180 MPI AT S. Meanwhile, the range-topping Santana 180 MPI AT SE gets additional side airbags and rear parking distance control.

As you noticed, the entry-level Santana now comes standard with an automatic transmission. With that, the previous base-model Santana with a 5-speed manual is no longer available and is now replaced by the 180 MPI AT S. The top-spec 180 MPI AT SE is retained. Both variants use the same 1.5-liter engine producing 111 PS and 145 Nm torque and are equipped with BlueMotion technology.

Customers who purchase a 2021 Santana will also enjoy comprehensive 3-year or 100,000 km-warranty coverage (whichever comes first), yearly preventive maintenance service, or every 10,000 kilometers (whichever comes first), and 24/7 Emergency Roadside Assistance.

The prices of the 2021 Volkswagen Santana are as follows:

2021 Santana 180 MPI S AT – PHP 755,000

2021 Santana 180 MPI SE AT – PHP 898,000