Last weekend was an exciting one; just before tackling the Australian rally leg of the World Rally Championship (WRC), Volkswagen’s WRC team, consisting of Jari-Matti Latvala and co-driver Miikka Antilla, made a swift pit-stop in Malaysia.
The rally duo were fresh off the exhilirating 1-2-3 win on Volkswagen’s home turf, stopping by in Kuala Lumpur to meet their fans and for the launch of the limited edition Polo Trophy, released in conjunction with Volkswagen’s success in the WRC arena. At the circuit, the duo – who finished second after team mates Sebastian Ogier and Julien Ingrassia at the German Rally – competes in the Polo R WRC, a vehicle technically enhanced and cosmetically upgraded from the roadworthy Polo.
The duo were received by Volkswagen Group Malaysia (VGM) Managing Director Mr. Armin Keller, who congratulated them on their spectacular achievement before launching the new Polo Trophy which has now been enhanced with side and bonnet stickers, contrast wing mirrors and rear spoiler inspired by the sport. On the inside, the Polo Trophy gains a sat-nav and tinted windows.
Latvala and Anttila, who finished second after team mates Sebastian Ogier and Julien Ingrassia at the German Rally,unveiled the cars in nothing short of magnificent fashion via an explosive, show-stopping ramp jump; a first for a regular production Polo here.
Latvala also gave 60 lucky fans comprising of media folks, customers and Volkswagen Facebook contest winners a memorable ride of their lives. Sitting shotgun, the 30-year-old piloted them through a thrilling, fast lap displaying precise driving action around the course in daily drive Polos.
Of course, the biggest thrill of the day was perhaps the challenge issued by local drift princess, Leona Chin, for a gymkhana time-attack challenge. This challenge saw the two go head-to-head in a gymkhana course in a similarly equipped Polo Trophy car, to determine who had the ultimate precision and skill.
It was perhaps unsurprising that the 14-times rally champ was able to easily best Leona’s time and was crowned victorious. But there clearly were no winners here, as the drift princess had the race of her life, pitting her skills against Latvala.
The event continued over the weekend for customer at the open area at Setia Convention Center. Visitors could go for a ride with two of Malaysia’s top female drifters – Chin and Azrina Jane Abdullah. They could also take a closer look at the newly launched Polo Trophy, only 100 units which are available. It is priced at RM89,888 while stocks last. Fans of the Volkswagen performance range could also enjoy up to RM30,000 in savings for the Golf GTI, Golf R and Scirocco R up till 30 September 2015.
