The Golf Plus gets a minor facelift from VW, including new bumpers and lighting. The model will be unveiled this week at the Bologna Motor Show.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Volkswagen Golf Plus Leaks
VOLKSWAGEN’S 2009 JETTA TDI CLEAN DIESEL AWARDED GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR
The 2009 Jetta TDI clean diesel has been awarded the 2009 Green Car of the Year by Green Car Journal. The editors at Green Car Journal nominated five vehicles that represented the year’s best-of-the-best 2009 green vehicles, and today announced that they have chosen Volkswagen’s Jetta TDI clean diesel as the best-of-the-best and awarded it their 2009 Green Car of the Year.
“It is a tremendous honor to have our Jetta TDI awarded Green Car of the Year,” said Stefan Jacoby, CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “We believe our Jetta TDI’s truly offer a no compromise alternative fuel driving experience that provides our customer the best of both worlds—excellent fuel efficiency combined with a dynamic driving experience. With more than 8,000 units already sold since its mid-August market introduction, it’s clear that a Volkswagen clean diesel is what the people want.”
“The Volkswagen Jetta TDI rose to the top as Green Car Journal’s 2009 Green Car of the Year® for some very important reasons,” said Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of Green Car Journal and editor of GreenCar.com. “Hybrids have dominated the discussion of environmentally positive vehicles in recent years. The highly fuel efficient, 50 state emissions certified Jetta TDI shows that advanced clean diesel has arrived and is poised to change this dynamic. With its affordable price point, refined ride and handling, and high fuel economy, the Jetta TDI shows that hybrids now have a strong competitor in the marketplace.”
Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen showcase the best of both worlds, an alternative fuel vehicle with no compromises. Fuel efficiency, performance and convenience come standard with the 50-state compliant Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen models, which meet the most stringent emissions standards in California.
The Environmental Protection Agency estimates the Jetta TDI at an economical 30 mpg City, and 41 mpg Highway. Volkswagen went a step further to evaluate the real world fuel economy of the Jetta TDI. Leading third-party certifier, AMCI, tested the Jetta TDI and found it performed 24 percent better in real world conditions, achieving 38 mpg in the City and 44 mpg on the Highway.*
Earlier this year the Jetta TDI set a new Guinness World Record for Lowest Fuel Consumption as it averaged 58.82 miles per gallon as it traveled through the 48 contiguous states. EPA research has concluded that if diesels were to power one third of all light duty vehicles in the United States, the shift would save approximately 1.4 million barrels of oil a day—equal to the daily shipments from Saudi Arabia to the U.S.
The Jetta TDI models come standard with Volkswagen’s Prevent and Preserve Safety System, consisting of numerous standard safety features. Like all 2009 model year Volkswagens, the Jetta TDIs also come standard with Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) for added safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the Jetta with their highest safety rating, a Top Safety Pick.
Providing even more value to the Jetta TDI sedan and SportWagen, a $1300 Federal Income Tax Credit is available. The Internal Revenue Service issued a certification letter affirming that both vehicles qualify for an Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle Federal Income Tax credit.
Also standard for 2009 is Volkswagen’s Carefree Maintenance Program, with this program there are no charges for the scheduled maintenance detailed in the vehicle’s maintenance booklet for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty—three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
VOLKSWAGEN SHOWCASES VARIETY OF DIESEL TECHNOLOGY AT 2008 L.A. AUTO SHOW
showcased the breadth of their diesel powered technology during a news conference today at the 2008 L.A. Auto Show. Volkswagen debuted its all-new 50-state compliant Touareg V6 TDI clean diesel SUV along with a purpose-built Volkswagen-Red Bull Baja Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck that will run this years Tecate SCORE Baja 1000.
The Touareg V6 TDI clean diesel is powered by a 3.0L, turbocharged six cylinder engine capable of producing 221 horsepower and an impressive 407 lbs-ft. of torque. Utilizing common rail injection and the most advanced catalytic converter system in the world, it meets the most stringent emission requirements of California and will be available in all 50-states.
The Touareg V6 TDI will define a completely new generation of extremely economical and low emissions SUV’s, and reinforces Volkswagen commitment to clean diesel technology as the most sensible alternative fuel vehicle available today.
The Touareg V6 TDI drastically reduces fuel costs with one of the most advanced diesel engines of our times. On the highway it attains an impressive 25 mpg according to EPA ratings, and with a fuel tank capacity of 26.4 gallons it equates to a driving range of more than 600 miles to the tank, all while emitting fewer emissions.
The Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck that will run the 41st Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 desert race in the SCORE Trophy Truck class is powered by a 5.5 liter V-12 clean diesel engine that produces 550 horsepower and 625 lbs.-ft. of torque.
Staying true to the off-road prowess that the Touareg is best known for, the purpose-built Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck takes the Touareg’s off-road tenaciousness to a whole new level. With a double A-Arm front suspension that allows 25 inches of wheel travel, and a 4-link rear suspension that allows 30 inches of wheel travel, combined with Fox Racing Shocks, Eibach Coils and BFGoodrich Baja KRT 37x13.5x17 off-road tires the Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck should have little difficulty maneuvering the highly difficult and technical 634 mile Baja 1000 course.
Chassis design and production was handled by Arciero Miller Racing located in Foothill Ranch, California. The Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck features a wheelbase of 125 inches, overall length of 213 inches, width of 92 inches, an overall height of 78 inches and weighs 5650 pounds. The Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck Body was designed by the Volkswagen Design Center located in Santa Monica, California.
The Volkswagen-Red Bull Baja Race Touareg TDI is sponsored by Volkswagen of America, Inc., Red Bull, BFGoodrich Tires, Dow Automotive, Oakley, KMC Wheels and Fox Shocks.
VOLKSWAGEN CC “GOLD COAST” EDITION
LAS VEGAS – The Volkswagen CC Gold Coast highlights powerful performance, strong lines and luxury touches, combining the emotional and expressive stance of a sports coupé with the convenience of a luxury sedan.
The CC Gold Coast builds upon the luxury sports coupe that debuted at the 2008 North American International Auto Show with luxury and performance extras like tri-coat paint, high-end interior appointments, and ground affects that enhance the sportiness of Volkswagen’s newest sedan.
The unmistakable Volkswagen front-end, with two cross-struts and a centrally placed Volkswagen logo between trapezoidal headlamps is highlighted by the ground effects on the CC Gold Coast. The CC Gold Coast features DuPont’s Pepe Pepper, which compliments the cars design characteristic with a rich mix of gold, brown and silver tones.
The rear end of the coupé is also marked by large-surface dual taillights that produce an unmistakable visual image day and night. A spoiler with additional rear-end ground effects helps further enhance the vehicle’s sporty nature. The CC Gold Coast sits on 19-inch Lugano polished propeller style wheels, which provide a combination of sharp style and improved curb appeal.
Volkswagen’s attention to detail is shown off in the interior of the CC Gold Coast with four ergonomically formed sport seats wrapped in luxurious leather, a combination of Latte Macchiatto, Cornsilk with Bronze Piping on the seats with matching accents on the dash and door trim.
With an eye on performance the CC Gold Coast edition features the 3.6L FSI, rated at 280 horsepower and 265lbs.-ft of torque, with the innovative DSG double-clutch 6-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic®. The front brakes have been upgraded to the R8 Ceramic brakes and the vehicle rides on a KW coil over suspension.
VOLKSWAGEN TO UNVEIL PURPOSE BUILT RACE TOUAREG TDI TROPHY TRUCK AT L.A. AUTO SHOW
Volkswagen of America, Inc. will unveil its purpose-built Volkswagen-Red Bull Baja Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck, powered by a clean diesel TDI engine, during a news conference at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show. The news conference is scheduled for 10:45 to 11:10 a.m., Wednesday, November 19, 2008, at the Volkswagen stand.
The Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck that will run the 41st Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 desert race in the SCORE Trophy Truck class is powered by a 5.5 liter V-12 clean diesel engine that produces 550 horsepower and 625 lbs.-ft. of torque.
Staying true to the off-road prowess that the Touareg is best known for, the purpose-built Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck takes the Touareg’s off-road tenaciousness to a whole new level. With a double A-Arm front suspension that allows 25 inches of wheel travel, and a 4-link rear suspension that allows 30 inches of wheel travel, combined with Fox Racing Shocks, Eibach Coils and BFGoodrich Baja KRT 37x13.5x17 off-road tires the Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck should have little difficulty maneuvering the highly difficult and technical 634 mile Baja 1000 course.
Chassis design and production was handled by Arciero Miller Racing located in Foothill Ranch, California. The Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck features a wheelbase of 125 inches, overall length of 213 inches, width of 92 inches, an overall height of 78 inches and weighs 5650 pounds. The Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck Body was designed by the Volkswagen Design Center located in Santa Monica, California.
The Volkswagen-Red Bull Baja Race Touareg TDI is sponsored by Volkswagen of America, Inc., Red Bull, BFGoodrich Tires, Dow Automotive, Oakley, KMC Wheels and Fox Shocks.
| Volkswagen-Red Bull Baja Race Touareg TDI Specifications | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 5.5 Liter, 90 degree V-12 TDI Twin Turbo Diesel |
| Valve train | 4 valves per cylinder, DOHC |
| Induction | Dual Garrett TR 30 R with dual 43.5mm air-restrictors, 2.94 bar (absolute) pressure |
| Emissions | Dow Automotive Diesel Particle Filters (2) |
| Horsepower | 550 HP (405kW) |
| Torque | 625 ft-lb (850Nm) |
| Layout | Mid-engine, rear wheel drive |
| Transmission | Xtrac 6 Speed Sequential |
| Rear Axle | Custom Built solid 9” Rear Axle |
| Suspension | |
| Front | Double A-Arm Suspension – 25” wheel travel (63 cm) |
| Rear | 4-Link Rear Suspension – 30” wheel travel (76 cm) |
| Front Shocks | Fox Racing Shocks - 3.0 Coil-over with 3.0 Bypass/Multi-adjustable Dampener |
| Rear Shocks | Fox Racing Shocks - 3.0 Coil-over with 3.0 Bypass/Multi-adjustable Dampener |
| Springs | Eibach Coils |
| Wheels | KMC 17” Custom Forged Beadlock |
| Tires | BFGoodrich Baja KRT 37x13.5x17 |
| General | |
| Owner | Volkswagen of America Inc. |
| Chassis Design | Arciero Miller Racing |
| Body Design | Volkswagen Design Center California |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 125 in. (317 cm) |
| Overall Length | 213 in. (541 cm) |
| Track Width | 92 in. (233 cm) |
| Overall Height | 78 in. (198 cm) |
| Weight | 5650 lbs. (2562 kg) |
| Brakes | Brembo 6 Piston Calipers |
| Steering | Lee Manufacturing |
| Interior | |
| GPS | Lowrance 9200 system |
| Seats | Sparco Carbon Fiber Racing seats |
| Fuel Cell | 65 Gallon (240 Liter) Capacity, designed by Harmon Fuel Cells |
| Sponsors | Sponsored by Red Bull, BFGoodrich Tires, Dow Automotive, Oakley, KMC Wheels, Fox Shocks. |
VOLKSWAGEN TO PRODUCE THE NEW SMALL FAMILY IN SLOVAKIA
Europe's largest carmaker, Volkswagen, has set its course for the future. Yesterday, a decision on the production location for the future New Small Family was taken.
Professor Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft: "Our team at Volkswagen in Slovakia is ideally prepared to provide the flexibility required for the production of the New Small Family. Four brands are already produced successfully under one roof at our plant in Bratislava today.
The first vehicles in the new family are already due to roll off the Volkswagen production lines in Slovakia at the beginning of 2011 for delivery to customers throughout the world. 3-door and 5-door models will then be available for the Volkswagen, Seat and Skoda brands.
The production decision will safe about 1,500 jobs at the Bratislava plant.
The first study for these economical city cars made its world debut at the 62nd International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in 2007. The second version with its smart space concept followed only a few weeks later at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. 20 months after the presentation of the first study, Volkswagen has now laid the foundations for the production of the future New Small Family.
VOLKSWAGEN GROUP GENERATES OPERATING PROFIT IN FIRST QUARTER
Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft generated an operating profit and increased its liquidity in the first quarter of fiscal year 2009. The Group’s operating profit amounted to €312 million (€1,311 million). The sale of the Brazilian commercial vehicles business contributed around €600 million to this. Automotive net liquidity rose to €10.7 billion (€8.0 billion) compared with the end of 2008. “The Volkswagen Group, too, is not immune to the dramatic deterioration in the global business environment,” explained the Chairman of the Board of Management, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, on Wednesday. The Group’s unit sales declined by approximately 16 percent in the first three months, production has been cut by around a quarter and inventories reduced significantly as a result, he continued. “The strengths of our multibrand Group prove themselves especially in difficult times: we have increased our global market share thanks to our young and environmentally friendly model range, and are in a sound financial position,” stressed Winterkorn. “Our goal for fiscal year 2009 remains to outperform the market as a whole and to gain additional market share.”
Volkswagen today published its key figures for the first quarter in an ad hoc disclosure.
Interim Report January-March 2009:
- Global financial and economic crisis also significantly impacts Volkswagen’s business
- Volkswagen Group generates operating profit of EUR 312 million (EUR 1,311 million) in the period from January to March 2009
- Sale of Brazilian commercial vehicles business contributes around EUR 600 million to operating profit
- Profit before tax considerably lower at EUR 52 million (EUR 1,366 million)
- Group sales revenue 11.2 percent below the prior-year figure at EUR 24.0 billion (excluding Scania: 17.1 percent below previous year)
- Automotive Division’s ratio of investments in property, plant and equipment (capex) to sales revenue at 5.5 percent (3.9 percent)
- Positive net cash flow in the Automotive Division of EUR 2,553 million (EUR 867 million)
- At EUR 10.7 billion, Automotive Division net liquidity up on year-end 2008 (EUR 8.0 billion)
- New model initiative successfully driven forward under difficult conditions:
- Deliveries to customers worldwide down 10.7 percent year-on-year to 1.4 million vehicles
- Global passenger car market 20.7 percent below the previous year
- Volkswagen Group increases its market share in key regions of the world
- Deliveries in Germany, China, Brazil, Russia and Poland higher than in prior-year quarter
- New Polo impresses both the trade press and customers at its world premiere
- Debut of the Audi A4 allroad quattro, the Audi A5 Cabriolet an the Audi TT RS.
SEAT enters B segment with the new Exeo
- Škoda presents the Yeti – its first SUV
- Volkswagen Group’s product range now comprises more than 130 vehicles that emit less than 140g/km CO2
Volkswagen to price upcoming U.S.-market mid-size sedan "around $20,000"
The Passat has been a relative success for Volkswagen in the U.S., but the company is already hard at work on a New Midsize (or mid-market) Sedan, not-so-cleverly codenamed NMS, to replace it. The final design has already been approved - prototypes were shown to dealers in Wolfsburg this week - and the new U.S.-targeted midize sedan will be bigger than the Passat but priced to start "around $20,000."
The news comes from Stefan Jacoby, CEO of Volkswagen Group of America in an interview with Automotive News. The car is designed with the American audience specifically in mind. "It will be bigger and sleeker, and it has items necessary for Americans - space, seat comfort, cupholders, Bluetooth and other electronics. Very importantly, it remains a VW. It has been totally designed and engineered for the needs of American consumers," said Jacoby.
Expected for a 2010 arrival, the car was previewed in February with an official sketch of the car's basic lines.
With a front end that's decided Scirocco-esque and a more angular and squared-off rear notch and shoulder line than found in the company's current vehicles, the NMS will certainly stand apart as something different. It may even preview the design direction of VW's future vehicles in America. The car will be built at the company's plant in Chattanooga, TN.
According to a VW presentation in Berlin late last year, VW's NMS has high design goals, including a wide range of standard safety and multimedia equipment, sporty performance, and fundamentally useful equipment like ample cupholders and roomy seating. In short, the car will be designed specifically for the tastes of North Americans.
Powertrains will include FSI gasoline units and later possibly TDI diesel engines, mated to a dual-clutch gearbox in at least some trim levels. VW expects about 30% of the cars sold to be diesel-powered, a ratio very similar to the Jetta TDI launched earlier this year and for the upcoming re-badged U.S.-market Golf. Efficiency will also be part of the focus for the NMS, as it would be reckless to disregard such an important market factor, but it is not the headline of the NMS thus far.
"It's not our philosophy to design a car for a market. This is wrong. A good tailor is a good tailor all over the world, so a good car is a good car," said VW Group head of design Walter de' Silva, reports Automotive News. "But the customization, the color, the tuning, the specialties, the accessories, the wheels — it's very, very important."
In 2008, during discussions about VW's new plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, some general details about the upcoming Passat replacement were disclosed, indicating that the NMS would be both larger and less expensive than the current car, the better to compete with its primary rivals, the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, though the NMS will be built on an existing platform - possibly that of the new CC.
Last January the Passat CC, which later came to market as simply the CC, was revealed to the world, and has since been targeted as a particularly North American take on the midsize sedan, with VW expecting 60% of global CC sales to occur in the U.S. alone.
VOLKSWAGEN REPORTS APRIL 2009 SALES
Image via Wikipedia
Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced April 2009 sales of 16,289 units, a 16.1 percent decrease over April 2008 sale of 19,415 units.
Volkswagen’s European tuned minivan, Routan, posted its best sales month ever with 2,606 unit sales. The New Beetle also performed well in April with its best sales month since August of 2008.
“Our new products continue to sell well and are helping us gain important market share.” said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Products like our Tiguan and stylish CC continue to perform well. We are extremely pleased that our seven passenger minivan, Routan, posted its best sales month ever. Volkswagen also has several key new models coming this year, like our all-new clean diesel Touareg TDI, which will be available in dealer showrooms across all 50-states this month. We’re also anxiously awaiting the arrival of the all-new sixth generation Golf and GTI. Our Golf, which was recently named World Car of the Year, will be offered with the highly acclaimed clean diesel engine when it arrives this fall.” added Barnes
Volkswagen Scirocco GT Gains 170PS TDI Engine in the UK
One of the world's diesel-crazy countries is getting a more powerful Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI. Already available is the 2.0-litre TDI making 140PS (103kW) while this latest TDI addition to the Scirocco range delivers 170PS (125kW) at 4,200rpm. More relevant to the diesel lump is the torque figure which goes up to 258 lbs ft (350Nm) at 1,750rpm. 
The Scirocco GT is said to return 53.3 mpg on the combined Euro cycle. C02 emissions are 139g/km for the manual and 147g/km for the DSG. 
Mated to the 2.0-litre common rail TDI is a choice of a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DSG transmission. Performance is stated as 8.1 seconds for the 0 - 62mph and 138mph for the top speed for both cars. The DSG variant manages a top end of 136mph. 
Standard equipment as per GT trim level includes a 6-CD changer, a multifunction computer, and a rain and dusk sensor. Safety items are ABS, ESP and six airbags. Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) which allows the driver to select his/her preferred suspension and steering response settings. To top it off all new 19-inch alloy wheels will be sold as options. 
Prices have been set at £21,755 for the manual and £23,060 for the DSG.
via:World Car Fans
VW returns to the 'Ring with Scirocco GT24-CNG
hase 1: Dominate your class in endurance racing. Phase 2: Continue to dominate your class in endurance racing, only this time do it without gasoline. That seems to be the game plan with the Volkswagen Group's racing programs, so after winning at Le Mans five times with the gasoline-powered Audi R8 racer (punctuated only by the victory of sister-company Bentley's Ingolstadt-supported Speed 8), Audi continued its dominance with the diesel-powered R10 TDI. (It's worth noting that SEAT managed to clinch the 2008 World Touring Car Championship with a diesel-burning Leon TDI, too.) Meanwhile, over at the Nürburgring, Volkswagen itself took a devastating one-two class victory at last year's 24-hour race with the Scirocco GT24. So what's the next step? Compressed Natural Gas. That's what Volkswagen will be pumping into its latest race-prepped Scirocco as the team attempts to prove once again that it can win - even dominate - while burning alternative fuels.
The new Scirocco GT24-CNG uses the same basic architecture as the last year's car, but with the aid of Compressed Natural Gas, delivers 300 horsepower while returning a 25% improvement in emissions. VW will be campaigning a pair of them at the race in late May in the 2-liter turbocharged category, where they'll be facing off against the new Subaru Impreza STI, among others. Will Wolfsburg be able to follow up on last year's victory using alternative fuels? Only time will tell, but the team will also be campaigning three additional gasoline-powered Sciroccos...you know, just in case.
VOLKSWAGEN RETURNS TO THE NÜRBURGRING WITH THE SCIROCCO GT24-CNGAt the 24-Hour Race on the Nürburgring on 23/24 May, Volkswagen will field two Scirocco cars with innovative natural gas engines. Following the historic one-two victory at the Dakar Rally in January, which Volkswagen won as the first automobile manufacturer using diesel technology in the event, the Wolfsburg brand is now taking on another technical challenge - the use of EcoFuel engines in the endurance test twice around the clock on the world's most demanding race track.
The two Scirocco GT24-CNG 2.0-litre turbo engines powered by natural gas deliver nearly 300 hp. In addition, the "factory" team will field three further Scirocco GT24 cars powered by 2.0-litre turbo petrol engines in the classic endurance race at the "Green Hell" in the Eifel region in Western Germany.
Last year, Volkswagen clinched a one-two victory in the 2.0-litre turbo class even before the Scirocco's market launch.
"The 24-Hour Race offers Volkswagen an exciting stage to demonstrate its technical capabilities and expertise," says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "The Scirocco GT24 already proved its strengths as a dynamic sports coupe by clinching class victory in its debut race last year. In 2009, we are taking yet another step forwards by using two different engine concepts. We want to prove that Volkswagen offers different powertrain concepts, all of which excel in terms of high efficiency, dynamics and reliability. The Nordschleife and the 24-Hour Race provide an ideal test bed for this purpose."
Engine technology: innovative and proven systems for the circuit marathon
For this acid test on the challenging Nordschleife, Volkswagen developed a CNG (compressed natural gas) version based on the 2.0-litre petrol engine that was victorious last year. The engineers primarily focused on the fuel induction system of the unit equipped with a turbocharger as well as on the balance between maximum exhaust gas temperature and full usage of the turbocharger's potential in order to optimise both driveability and power output. The result: just under 300 hp and 350 Nm of torque which continue to be transmitted to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG gearbox operated by paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
Natural gas as an efficient and clean source of power
The new generation of natural gas turbo engines takes full advantage of the high anti-knock quality of approx. 130 octane offered by natural gas fuel. This enables natural gas vehicles to achieve a level of driving dynamics unrivalled by any other alternative powertrain system. Furthermore, natural gas as a fuel is particularly eco-friendly as well as very cost-effective.
On average, natural gas vehicles reduce CO2 emissions by 25 per cent compared with conventional spark ignition engines. The combustion process generates almost no particulate matter or fine dust.
"Dakar" aces, "Nürburgring" experts and multi-talents: the drivers of the Scirocco GT24
In addition to these technological innovations, Volkswagen tackles the challenge of the "Green Hell" with interesting driver combinations. The two natural gas-powered Scirocco GT24-CNG cars will be driven by Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg (D), Board Member for Technical Development of the Volkswagen Brand, and journalists Bernd Ostmann (D), Peter Wyss (CH) and John Barker (GB) as well as touring car ace Peter Terting (D), Nordschleife expert Thomas Klenke (D), former DTM driver Vanina Ickx (B) and touring car legend Klaus Niedzwiedz (D), two-time overall winner of the 24 Hours on the Nürburgring.
The squad of one of the three petrol-powered Scirocco GT24 cars reflects the exploit achieved at the Dakar Rally: "Dakar" winner Giniel de Villiers (ZA), two-time World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz (E) as well as Dieter Depping (D) will take turns at the wheel during their excursion from rally to circuit racing.
A true juniors' foursome is formed by last year's winners Jimmy Johansson (S) and Florian Gruber (D) as well as Nicki Thiim (DK) and Martin Karlhofer (A). In addition, the formula racing specialists Congfu Cheng (CN), Carlo van Dam (NL) and Franck Mailleux (F) as well as the two-time 24-H overall winner Altfrid Heger (D) will share another one of the cockpits of the 330 PS Scirocco GT24 cars.
The 2009 24-Hour Race on the Nürburgring will mark the return of the Scirocco GT24 to the scene of its success. Last year, the Scirocco experienced its competition debut even before its production counterpart started selling on the market. Jimmy Johansson (S), Florian Gruber (D), Thomas Mutsch (D) and Hans-Joachim Stuck (D) secured class victory in the ultra-competitive 2.0-litre turbo class (SP3T) in front of an audience of some 200,000 spectators. The one-two victory in the field of 219 touring cars that had started from the grid was completed by Carlos Sainz (E), Giniel de Villiers (ZA), Dieter Depping (D) and Hans-Joachim Stuck (D).
[Source: Volkswagen]
All New 2010 VW Polo GTI
We already knowhow Golf 6 looks like, we’ve seen the GTI or the MK6 version, but did you know that the Germans have been secretly working on an all new Polo GTI as well? What you see in here is an artist rendering of what could be the fastest series Polo ever.
Powered by the same 1.4 liter super- and turbo-charged four-cylinger TSI as the Ibiza Cupra and developing nothing less than 178 hp, it should top at 225kmh and reach 60 mph in less than 7 seconds. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, with red brake calipers, dual exhaust, and signal mirrors, the new Polo GTI is expected to do 40mpg (7 l/100km), and emits 150 grams of CO2/km. Not that bad if you care about the environment.
Prices should be close to £15,500 ($22,500) and we think that if it looks like this, it’s going to be a top seller. At least in Europe. - WCF
New details emerge about 2010 VW BeetleClick above for high-res renderings of a possible New Beetle
New Beetle
When designing a retro-style automobile like the revived MINI, Mustang or VW Beetle, the first generation is the easy one. The second go-round, on the other hand, is a tougher nut to crack, and the easy thing to do is to maintain the status quo. Volkswagen did just that when it revised its New Beetle back in 2006, but the third-generation of today's Bug is expected to ratchet things up a bit design-wise. We're expecting something more mature, perhaps along the lines of the Ragster concept from 2005, which emphasized its low-slung bodywork with a chopped top reminiscent of the Porsche Speedster. Flashier lights and more angular sheetmetal are also distinct possibilities.
Whatever the case, it won't be an easy redesign. VeeDub could stay the course by keeping the cute and charming nature of the current New Beetle intact or it could spice things up with something much more sporty. Could the German automaker do both? That's an option for the future, and current rumors indicate that VW has considered at least two separate Beetle models, one based on the Golf and another using the underpinnings from the yet-to-be-released Up! microcar. The current state of the economy, though, makes a plan like that much less likely to bear fruit.
Autonomous VW says, "Look, Ma - No Hands"
Kick back, relax and let Volkswagen be your captain with the latest technology in driver assistance systems, the autonomous driving project, a forward-looking research concept that lets the car do the driving for you.
This past week, a Volkswagen Passat equipped with the autonomous driving project and code named "Junior" was featured at the 15th World Congress on Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). Engineers from all over the world gathered at the Javits Convention Center in New York City to see Junior do his thing, and Wired.com got to ride shotgun.
During the demonstration, an engineer working on the project monitored from inside the car a computer screen that showed an infrared map of a sectioned off 11th Avenue. This infrared map with a little help from google maps was formulated using information gathered by laser range finders and radar sensors via software created by the Stanford University Racing Team. The lasers and radars on the top and sides of the car (hints the Ghostbusters look) had the ability to perceive the car's environment and the road ahead. Traffic signals and stop signs were adhered to while oncoming traffic, three-way intersections and sudden stops by the demonstration cars in front of the Passat were recognized. Another engineer sat in the driver seat for safety precautions, but his hands never touched the wheel or foot pedals.
It was like the Passat had become possessed!
Rest assured though, there was nothing to fear. Nobody got hurt and nobody threw up on a priest. Moreover, Big Brother is not trying to take over your car.
The autonomous driving project is being designed by VW as an optional feature. In other words, the driver at all times is in total control and has the chose of doing the driving or letting the car do the driving for them. In case of an emergency there is a big red button located on the center consul of the car. Push this button while the car is on autopilot, and the controls quickly revert to being manually powered.
As nifty as all this sounds, Junior still needs some fine-tuning before he can be fully functional; he is too precautious of a driver. Despite reaching speeds of up to 50mph, the car would suddenly brake whenever its sensors could not identify an object or detected the slightest movement on the road. Better safe than sorry, but as a result, the ride was not the smoothest.
Nevertheless, the engineers at VW are confident that in the future they will be able to reach the company's goal of making autonomous vehicles safer and more fun. Last year, Junior managed to finish in second place at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Urban Challenge. The car was one of only six vehicles to complete the 60-mile urban course full of traffic circles, busy intersections and parallel parking procedures.
FYI, watching a car parallel-park all on its own is a mind-blowing experience.
VW Delays Roadster Concept Launch
Say it ain't so! Apparently even Volkswagen is feeling the pinch in the auto market at present, despite its worldwide sales increase of 15 percent for the third quarter. As such it has decided not to release the mid-engined Roadster concept at the LA Auto Show next week, according to the U.K.'s AutoCar. The earliest we might see the Roadster would be in January at Detroit's NAIAS.
Volkswagen sources claim the delay is simply because they feel the Roadster will resonate better with showgoers in Detroit. But speculation says it's the economy.
The Roadster is expected to use a fuel-efficient four-cylinder along the lines of VW/Audi's 2.0-liter TFSI engine found in products like the GTI, Tiguan, A3, and A4. We'd love to see VW's excellent 1.4-liter twincharger (turbo- and super-charged) engine make its way into this little Roadster, especially as sources claim the Roadster will be very lightweight and feature an aluminum-intensive suspension and body. VW's EcoRoadster concept used a turbodiesel for torquey performance and stellar economy, another concept we really like. Either the twincharger or a turbodiesel in a light chassis would easily yield real world economy of 30+ mpg combined (probably 40+ for the diesel). Who said the spirit of the MR2 was dead?--Colin Mathews
2008 Volkswagen Scirocco
2008 Volkswagen Scirocco Concept
Sporty and innovative – The Scirocco with adaptive chassis control and 7-speed DSG
Volkswagen is putting on a spectacular parade of new models in Geneva with a host of international product debuts. Taking centre stage will be the highlight of the show, the new Scirocco – a completely re-engineered all-round sports car. Another vehicle being showcased at Lake Geneva is the Golf TDI Hybrid. This concept car runs on just 3.4 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres. The 150-PS Passat Estate TSI EcoFuel, also debuting in Geneva, represents a technology leap for automobiles run on natural gas. Other Volkswagen world premieres will be the extremely fuel-efficient Sharan BlueMotion (6.0 litres per 100 km) and the four-wheel-drive Golf Estate 4Motion. The Passat CC will also be on display for the first time ever in Europe.
It's back: 34 years after the first Scirocco was unveiled to a waiting world at the Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen is presenting a new Scirocco for a new era at the same venue. Now as then, the coupé is inspired by the fascinating idea of creating a sports car for every day of the year at truly affordable prices. And that is the essence of the Scirocco: the successful marriage top technology and low running costs, dynamic performance and high comfort, a surprisingly spacious interior and an uncompromising sporty design.
As the Volkswagen Group's Chairman of the Board of Management, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, commented: 'What we have done with the Scirocco is to put the kind of sports car in our showrooms that people have dreamed of owning. A dream that a good deal of motorists – in spite of all the high-end engineering we have integrated – can actually afford.' The Scirocco will be launched Europe-wide in late summer with prices in Germany starting at 21,750 euros; other countries will follow over the course of the next year.
With its Golf TDI Hybrid, Volkswagen demonstrates the potential inherent in the combination of a high-tech diesel engine, an electric motor and 7-speed DSG technology. On show for the first time in the world at the Geneva Motor Show, the concept car consumes no more than 3.4 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres. The powerful full-hybrid Golf TDI Hybrid can be run either in internal-combustion mode only or in mixed operation – the powerful yet thrifty combination of TDI and electric motor. The car is also designed to run on emissions-free electric power only. Power transmission to the front axle is managed by a 7-speed DSG gearbox. In city traffic, the automatic stop-start system will even switch off the turbo-diesel when the vehicle is stationary.
The Passat Estate TSI EcoFuel being premiered in Geneva marks the beginning of a new era for natural-gas-fuelled automobiles. Until now, passenger cars powered by eco-friendly, low-consumption natural gas have tended to be 'mild mannered'. The Passat changes that once and for all with its 110-kW / 150-PS TSI engine. And yet the direct-injection turbo engine in the Passat, specifically designed to run on natural gas, consumes no more than 5.2 kilograms of gas per 100 kilometres. The Passat and the Passat Estate TSI EcoFuel are due to be launched on the market around year-end.
Volkswagen is continuing its BlueMotion campaign in 2008. The latest model in the series is the Sharan BlueMotion on display for the first time at the Geneva show. With an extremely low average fuel consumption of 6.0 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, the Sharan BlueMotion uses 0.7 of a litre less than the 'conventional' model. By the same token, CO2 emissions are reduced from 177 g/km to 159 g/km. These are first-rate values for a seven-seater van with up to 2,610 litres of cargo volume and a permissible gross vehicle weight of 2,510 kilograms. This Volkswagen is driven by a 103-kW / 140-PS TDI engine complete with a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The BlueMotion option is available in combination with the Trendline and Comfortline equipment packages. Deliveries of the vehicle are scheduled to commence this summer.
As of now, Volkswagen is offering the Golf Estate in a version with permanent four-wheel drive. This automobile is designed to enable as much as 100 percent of the engine torque to be transmitted to the rear wheels should extreme circumstances require. This gives the Golf Estate TDI 4Motion the best possible grip even in the most adverse conditions. The 4Motion system is coupled with a fuel-efficient, high-torque TDI engine that delivers 77 KW / 105 PS. The Golf Estate TDI 4Motion accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.9 seconds, has a top speed of 185 km/h and consumes just 6.0 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres. An attractive advantage for drivers with towing requirements is that the Golf Estate TDI 4Motion is permitted to tow as much as 1,500 kilograms on gradients of up to twelve per cent – that's 100 kilograms more than its front-wheel-drive counterpart.
Source - Volkswagen
VW offers zero percent financing on ‘08 models
With the bottom falling out of the U.S. new car market, most automakers are scrambling to find ways to move excess inventory. General Motors has already announced that it will be extending its employee pricing event through September – which will now include most 2009 models – and now Volkswagen has announced that its 2008 models will be available with zero percent financing.
VW’s announcement comes as a bit of a surprise at the German automaker actually didn’t fair too badly during the month of August. However, the ’09 models are currently on their way to VW dealerships throughout the country, so it’s probably more of a ploy on VW’s part to clear out the 2008 models rather than to prop up sales.
The duration of the zero percent financing varies from vehicle to vehicle, but some models will be available with up to 60 month financing.
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