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Volkswagen Santana I (B2) gallery (1981–2012)

The first-generation Volkswagen Santana (B2) was a mid-size sedan produced from 1981 to 2012, becoming an iconic car in China.

All photos 5 I (B2) 5 1981–2012 II (A05) 0 2012–2022
volkswagen santana pic #100197 2048 x 1536 1984
volkswagen santana pic #100196 2048 x 1536 1984
volkswagen santana pic #100195 2048 x 1536 1 1984
volkswagen santana pic #100189 2048 x 1536 1984
volkswagen santana pic #100188 2048 x 1536 1 1984

The first-generation Volkswagen Santana mid-size sedan with body code B2 (Typ 32B) debuted in Germany in 1981 based on the Passat B2 platform. While European production ended in 1985, the Santana achieved legendary status in China through the SAIC-Volkswagen joint venture, remaining in production from 1985 until 2012. Known for exceptional durability and mechanical simplicity, it became the foundation of Chinese fleet and taxi transport.

Powertrains for the Santana B2 included 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engines mated to four- or five-speed manual gearboxes. Over its extended production run in China, the model received continuous upgrades badged as Santana 2000, Santana 3000, and Santana Vista, introducing power steering, fuel injection, ABS, and air conditioning.