Driving VW’s stillborn Elise

If VW’s senior management is waiting for an impressed buying public to glow about its latest concept car, the BlueSport roadster, before it commits to making it, can I be the first to say ‘yes please?’

I have a strong suspicion that this new two-seater VW would be very good indeed, not just because it looks so good, but because I was fortunate enough to drive the one they didn’t make earlier.

Remember the EcoRacer concept? This was the last lightweight two-seater VW made, an 850kg part carbonfibre creation powered by a 134bhp 1.5-litre diesel engine. It was bright orange and not very pretty. But that didn’t matter because, despite the fact that it was capable of 80mpg, it felt every bit as agile and fun to throw around as the best mid-engined sportsters.

Truth be told, VW quoted even better performance stats for the EcoRacer than it has for the Concept BlueSport.

I spent a very happy few moments at VW’s German test facility, Ehra Lessien, threading this one-off concept between cones, marvelling at the willingness of its little diesel engine and the sophistication of its DSG transmission.

Largely because Lotus’ Elise occupies that unique position in the market, you assume there must be something innately difficult about building small mid-engined cars that really handle; that attempts by the likes of VW must therefore be decidedly second rate.

Toyota’s second-generation MR2 was, after all, eyebrow-raisingly willing to spin. But the EcoRacer certainly wasn’t. It was an utterly benign, thoroughly charming and genuinely peppy little car.

Driving it left me wondering what good reason VW could possibly find not to put the car, or one like it, straight into production. Evidently they found one. But now that VW’s having another crack at the mid-engined market, I sincerely hope they can make the business case add up.

One of these VW roadsters powered by a twincharger 1.4 could be light enough to feel like an Elise, but also torquey and more driveable than the Lotus; more reminiscent of a Vauxhall VX220, perhaps. If it handles like the EcoRacer it could push the Lotus pretty hard in terms of grip and outright dynamic brilliance too.

The stage is set then; over to you, Wolfsburg.

VW Scirocco Studie R Celebrates Historic German/Italian Alliances

Realizing the Italian flag looks better on cars than the German flag, Volkswagen chose the Bologna Motor Show to launch the VW Scirocco Studie R. Essentially a hopped-up version of the standard car, it features a 270 HP version of the 2.0-liter TSI turbo-four sending its power through a 6-speed DSG gearbox. All the other additions are largely cosmetic, but are executed to an unusually classy standard. Aggressive air intakes and a carbon front splitter fill out the front of the Scirocco, while inside there’s a nice set of Recaro buckets finished up with Tricolore stitching. Expect a less Italiangasmic version of this car to arrive in showrooms next year as the 2010 VW Scirocco R, no, we won’t get that one either. The release follows the jump.

Scirocco Studie R

* Volkswagen’s latest design study, the Scirocco Studie R, premieres at Bologna and is inspired by the Scirocco GT24 which raced to success in its class at the Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race earlier this year. Finished in white, the Studie R has contrasting high-gloss black detailing and styling accents in red and green to the wing mirrors and on the ‘Bologna ‘08’ badging, paying homage to the Show’s host nation.

Three large air intakes at the front aid cooling to the uprated 2.0-litre 270 PS engine, while a front splitter is designed to minimise lift. The rear is dominated by a large rear wing and a distinctive revised rear bumper which incorporates a diffuser and twin oval exhausts. The Studie R is fitted with racing-derived sports suspension and four-piston brake callipers sit behind specially developed bespoke polished five arm, triple spoke 19-inch alloy wheels.

Inside the cabin, the Scirocco Studie R is upholstered with black and white nappa leather and complemented with low- and high-gloss carbonfibre trim. The Italian-inspired red and green design accents continue on the seams of the Recaro seats, steering wheel, armrest, gearknob and floor mats.

2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Announced As 2009 Green Car Of The Year

For all of you sitting on the edges of your seat waiting for the announcement of the 2009 Green Car of the Year awarded by Green Car Journal at the LA Auto Show, you'll be happy to know it went to the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI. The Jetta TDI is a fuel economy monster registering 50 MPG returns while avoiding environmentally dubious battery packs and high gravity snobbishness. The other contestants (the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, the BMW 335d, Saturn Vue 2-Mode Hybrid, and Smart Fortwo)

Volkswagen Touareg V12 TDI Baja Racer

VW launched into another class of Baja today as it released it's Touareg Baja Racer at the LA Auto Show. Racing along the same 630 miles of desert peninsula as the ever popular Baja Bug class, this Trophy Truck packs a 542 HP 5.5 liter V12 turbodiesel powerhouse motivating only the rear wheels to kick up some thick, dusty awesome. A tubular chassis only retains the visual dimensions of a Touareg - It's actually 10% larger than the production model. Full press release below the jump.

Check out more on the Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 TDI from CarandDriver.com

The answer: the Volkswagen Baja Race Touareg with a V12 TDI engine

The surprising success achieved with the "Dakar" Touareg sparked an ambitious programme by Volkswagen of America specifically geared to the Baja rallies. In close collaboration with the team of Mark Miller and Ryan Arciero an innovative prototype for the Trophy Truck class was created. For the first time, an automobile manufacturer dares to tackle this class with diesel technology. The rear-wheel driven Baja Touareg TDI’s power of more than 550 PS is supplied by a 5.5-litre V12 diesel engine from the Volkswagen Group. The efficient and fuel-saving TDI engine, together with a gearbox operated by steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, promises to develop its power in a clearly better, and thus tyre-saving, way than spark-injection engines do. Whereas the fuel tank capacity of the petrol-powered vehicles is unlimited and typically designed to handle 120 to 130 gallons, the diesel vehicles must settle for 65 U.S. gallons (246 litres).

The chassis, with a tubular frame and a rigid rear axle with an enormous suspension travel of 75 centimetres, follows the typical principles of Trophy Trucks. The Baja Touareg TDI is prepared and fielded by Arciero-Miller-Racing in the USA; the engine is prepared in Germany. Visually, the Baja Touareg TDI will resemble the production vehicle. However, in all of its proportions the prototype is slightly ten per cent bigger than its production role model; it is practically an XL-sized Touareg.

Mark Miller and Ryan Arciero are two proven experts in the cockpit. Both have won several Baja 1000 and Baja 500 competitions as well as off-road titles in the USA. 46-year-old Mark Miller from Phoenix / Arizona is navigated by 34-year-old Willie Valdez jr. from Los Angeles. Ryan Arciero hails from Los Angeles and is 35 years old. He comes from a family that has been active in racing for over 50 years and for whose teams the likes of Dan Gurney, Phil Hill, Michael Andretti and other well-known names have driven. Arciero’s co-driver is 32-year-old Benny Metcalf jr. from San Clemente/California. The decision about the time and place for the driver change will be taken after the track inspection and strategy planning.

Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen and Clark Campbell, Motorsport Manager of Volkswagen of America, agree about the objective," At the Volkswagen Touareg TDI’s maiden race we want to master the route of the Baja 1000 and reach the finish. At such a tough and unusual event this would be a first success and a promising starting base for the first full off-road season in 2009."

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan S, Part Two

Exterior Design: ****
The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan puts its best face forward, literally. The front fascia borrows more from the attractive Touareg and CC than its platform-mate, the bland Rabbit. The proportions look muscular enough to tackle harsh roads (it actually isn't), sporty enough to best the competition on the track (it won't) and roomy enough to stow your gear (it can't). Even from the back, the Tiguan is still attractive despite being a touch bland.
Interior Design: **
The interior is the familiar Volkswagen design, borrowing a radio from the SportWagen, the transmission position of the Golf and the steering wheel from the generic VW parts bin. What sets the cockpit apart from the rest of the VW lineup is higher positioning of the control surface on the dash. The seats fold forward all the way, including the front passenger seat, stretching the usability of the interior. All in all, it's nothing to write home about.

Acceleration: ***
The turbo four, the standard engine for every version of the Tiguan, propels the Tiguan to 60 mph in just under eight seconds. It's enough power to quickly accelerate past traffic at highway speeds when the six-speed tiptronic transmission is in "sport" mode. In "regular" mode the transmission takes its time, almost as if it needs to call VW headquarters to make sure it's cleared to speed up before acceleration commences.

Braking: ****
As competent as the Tiguan's brakes are, and they're perfect for a vehicle this size, the parking brake is perhaps the neatest feature. Unlike the typical lever-activated handbrake or the modern push-button job, the VW has a paddle-actuated electronic parking brake with Auto Hold, which allows the driver to set the car to automatically engage the brake if on a hill. This serves almost no purpose on this tiptronic-equipped car but would have been awesome if we'd had been given a manual model to test.

Ride: ***
Even with the same three-spoke steering wheel as the Rabbit, you'll not be easily confused about what VW you're cruising in. The Tiguan offers an enjoyably soft ride ideal for the kind of customer it's going to attract. Crossing long stretches of highway there's little excess vibration and not a hint of harshness.

Handling: **
Though the steering response is quick and the crossover has a tight steering angle, the Tiguan's height and excess weight conspire against it when it comes to piloting around turns. Perhaps it's because they've played up the sportiness of the Tiguan so much, but I felt it didn't meet expectations. Too much lean. Too much chirp in the corners. Nothing about the handling helps the Tiguan differentiate itself from the competition.

Gearbox: ***
Not surprisingly, we'd recommend the six-speed manual over the tiptronic six-speed automanual. In normal driving, the transmission suffers from a high-school-Senior-early-accepted-to-Notre-Dame level of torpor. Choosing to select your own gears doesn't help much, either. The "sport" mode, however, selects slightly more aggressive shift points and speeds up the process.

Audio: **
Though the sound coming out of the 8-speaker system isn't bad, the basic in-dash CD system is too simple. The buttons are too large and the display too small, as if it were a Fisher Price My First Car Radio. Even more annoying, all models come with an auxiliary iPod port but this radio is unable to interface with it. It just sits there and basically mocks you. Booooo.

Toys: *
In S trim, the basest of base levels, the Tiguan doesn't offer much more than the auto hold feature as an added extra. If you want to expand the definition of toy, the rear seat features a fold-flat section with built-in cupholders. Yeah! Cupholders.

Value: ***
The Tiguan is well positioned as a vehicle slightly nicer than the cheaper-feeling and lower-priced Escape, with a better look than the Vue and performance not that far off from the significantly more expensive Acura RDX. Assuming good reliability, and this is a large assumption, the added cost may be worth it to someone who is not moved by the domestic or Japanese offerings but can't swing a Lexus.

Overall: ***
Based on the rest of the segment, Volkswagen has accomplished no small feat with the Tiguan. They've built a CUV with sporty looks and the quickness necessary to appeal to buyers who think it's what they want, but cushy and comfortable enough to meet their actual needs. If I needed the space and wanted a VW I'd be more inclined towards the more nimble SportWagen. But, the Tiguan's a vehicle something I'd let my girlfriend get without much protest.

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan S, Part One

As legend has it, Abraham Lincoln walked three miles through the snow to return a book because it was the honorable thing to do. That's nothing. I drove 164 miles through Texas in a 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan S to return a book because I've got a bad history of losing my best friend's books. I once loaned one to someone who took it to Spain and then loaned it to someone else who took it to San Francisco. I systematically destroyed another one with notes, dog-earing and misuse. Another one just disappeared altogether. I was on the verge of forever losing borrowing privileges from my few remaining friends. What else could I do? I headed towards Austin.

The book in question, Nixonland by Rick Perlstein, was rather appropriate for the trip I was making. It discusses how Richard Nixon managed to take us from a country that overwhelmingly elected Lyndon Johnson and his Great Society to one that overwhelmingly elected Nixon and his secretive society.

I say appropriate because Austin, my destination, is full of the kind of liberal McGovernites that Nixon used to divide the country to his advantage. Volkswagen has always been the brand of liberals [well, post Hitler – Ed.]. From the Volkswagen Beetles of the free love generation to the Passat station wagons of the yuppie crowd, if you see that VeeDub logo on the front you're more likely to see a "visualize world peace" sticker than a "Newt in 2012" one.

But the genius of Nixon wasn't that he divided the world into liberals and conservatives or Republicans and Democrats, it was that he split society into the elites and everyone else. Perlstein focuses on an undergraduate election at the Whittier College, where Nixon won the election for president of the student body by taking on the campus elite, represented by an organization called The Franklins. Nixon formed his own group, The Orthogonian Society, made up of everyone else. He won by a large margin.

Driving from Houston to Austin I had plenty of time to consider whether the Tiguan, in a compact crossover segment that's becoming increasingly crowded, is an Orthigonian everyman like the Ford Escape or in the more elite company of the Infiniti EX35. Who would drive the Tiguan? Richard Nixon or John Lindsey?

On the open road the torquey turbo four, shared with just about every other VW product, has a distinctly European feel to it. The quick response and ample torque across the rev range suggests good breeding and a life spent at boarding schools. Think Phillips Exeter Academy or Georgetown Prep. I hoped, while passing through Bastrop County, a notoriously Orthogonian area, that no one would notice the Franklinesque nature of the powertrain.

Pulling into Austin I predictably hit traffic and decide to carve my way through some hilly backstreets on the way to my friend's house. Here's where the Tiguan finds a more common attitude. It's a familiar ride to anyone who has driven a car in this segment. Not overly soft or abrasive. Not exciting but not disappointing. Though it shares a platform with the Golf/Rabbit/GTI family you'd be forgiven for not realizing it around turns as this crossover is a victim of its size and (car) class. It's height adding lean and vagueness, but its size retaining enough of the Golf's nimbleness to ensure it never feels totally out of its element around bends. Orthogonions would approve.

When I finally caught up with Dan he inspected the book and was satisfied to see that it was in almost perfect condition. It was time to repair to dinner so, along with his girlfriend, we hopped into the Tiguan. Dan, like many Austinites, drives a Volkswagen Golf when not using public transportation and is therefore familiar with the automaker's appointments. He liked it. Even in the basest of trims the Volkswagen stands above its non-luxury competitors — the Ford Escape and Saturn Vue — in terms of design, material and feel. The Tiguan's interior is light, airy, uncluttered and made from high quality materials; no cheap plastics or undamped switchgear in here. It's big too, the body's added height adding a roominess the Golf it's based on is totally lacking. A point for the Franklins.

I point out the folding seats and rather simple radio as a way of racking up more points for the common set, hoping to get the kind of even balance that makes these kinds of comparisons more relevant, but it doesn’t quite work. Driving around in a German CUV, even one that isn't particularly luxurious, is still driving around in a European car. An impoverished Duke is still a Duke.

In the end, the Tiguan ends up being not common enough to be an Orthogonian though not quite luxurious and well bred enough to be a true Franklin. We'll call it a Franklin anyways. As Nixon became more paranoid just about everyone who wasn't completely in support of his presidency became lumped in with the Franklins and, were he to know that we were on our way to a place that served gourmet cafeteria food, he'd probably consider us Franklins too

2009 GTI

Like the original “hot hatch” icon that first appeared on U.S. shores in 1983, the 2009 GTI serves as Volkswagen’s shining example of what affordable, sporty performance looks like — and acts like.
With a starting price of $22,990, the latest GTI offers all the refinement and technology found on vehicles that cost thousands more. More than anything else, the GTI delivers an exhilarating driving experience — enhanced via a lowered “sport stance” suspension — that strikes directly at the hearts and souls of those with an affinity for the brand and authentic European engineering.

Highlights

• Optional Autobahn package
• Standard equipped ESP
• 2.0-liter FSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine
• Upgraded 4 wheel disc brakes

Engine and Transmission
The heart of the GTI’s performance capability comes in the form of its 2.0-liter FSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a 16-valve DOHC gasoline powerplant with a high compression ratio of 10.6:1 and maintenance-free hydraulic lifters for smooth, worry-free operation.
The advanced, compact powerplant — a pocket rocket in its own right -- incorporates a fully electronic engine management system and includes drive-by-wire throttle control and FSI direct injection for optimal fuel delivery, which increases power and improves efficiency while reducing emissions.
Engineered to the GTI promise, the 2.0T engine produces 200 horsepower at 5100 rpm and 207 lbs.-ft. of torque between 1800 and 5000 rpm. When combined with a standard six-speed manual transmission, it takes the GTI from 0-60 miles per hour in 7.2 seconds and to an electronically governed top speed of 130 mph. Yet -- with redline at just 6,500 rpm -- power delivery is smooth and relaxed, evident by the 7.5-second acceleration from 37 to 62 mph in fifth gear.
With the six-speed manual transmission, the 2009 GTI delivers a very efficient EPA-estimated 31 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg in the city.
When equipped with an optional, advanced automatic DSG® transmission, the GTI travels from 0-60 mph in a mere 6.9 seconds without sacrificing efficiency. The EPAestimated fuel economy of the GTI with DSG is 29 mpg in highway driving and 22 mpg in city driving conditions.
Like the 2.0T FSI engine, the dual-clutch DSG transmission is one of the GTI’s technical highlights. It utilizes direct shifting that automatically engages and disengages gears without the need for a clutch pedal. A computer engages one clutch on the next gear that’s needed, just as it releases the other clutch from the previous gear. The shifts are seamless and happen without the power loss associated with a traditional clutched shift.
Launch Control, combined with the DSG transmission, helps get the GTI off the line a little faster and with a little more “show.” The Launch Control program allows the engine to rev before the first clutch is engaged. The result is a controlled wheel-spin at launch.
The DSG transmission gives drivers a choice of fully-automatic operation, with no further driver involvement necessary beyond selecting “D.” The advanced transmission also offers automated manual shifting for drivers who prefer to be more involved in the gear-change process. The DSG with Volkswagen Tiptronic® lets drivers shift gears up and down with a tap of the gearshift selector or finger-operated shiftpaddles mounted to the steering wheel.
Chassis and Suspension
Beneath the 2009 GTI is a fully independent, sports-tuned suspension, a refinement that enhances overall vehicle dynamics and the hot hatch’s cornering agility. The front suspension incorporates a proven McPherson strut configuration with lower wishbones; aluminum subframe for reduced unsprung mass; tubular stabilizer bar; and track stabilization steering roll radius that helps create a more direct steering ratio and reduces body roll tendencies in tight turns.
The sophisticated four-link independent rear suspension carries a separate spring/shock absorber arrangement; subframe; and tubular stabilizer bar — the result is an optimal marriage of sporty performance with enhanced rear seat ride comfort. The configuration also enables a larger rear hatch opening for more cargo.
Large disc brakes (312- x 25-mm front/286- x 12-mm rear) are nestled behind 17- inch alloy wheels and are showcased via red-painted calipers. The GTI continues its mission as a driver’s car with handling precision enabled via its electromechanical power rack-and-pinion steering system with a 15.6:1 steering ratio.
The system is tuned to ensure extremely good on-center feel, confident straight-line, and exceptional responsiveness to inputs that results in a connected-to-the-road feel. At the same time, it provides the added capability of active-return steering and straight-ahead driving correction assistance.

Volkswagen may build Polo at Mexico plant

Volkswagen will be bringing its next-generation Polo to the 2009 Geneva Motor Show in March. While the German automaker will be building a sedan at its new Chattanooga, Tenn., plant, it will add the new Polo to its Mexico plant making it more cost effective to sell in the U.S.

The next-generation Volkswagen Polo should arrive in U.S. dealers sometimes in 2011. Of course by that time there may be a minor facelift here or there.

What is yet to be confirmed is whether or not V-Dub will offer a high-performance 178-hp GTI version of the Polo.

Source: AutoWeek

Production Volkswagen BlueSport coming in 2012

According to one of Volkswagen’s key engineers, the mid-engined Volkswagen BlueSport roadster concept that was unveiled in Detroit earlier this week is at least three years away from production. What’s the reason for the three year wait?  The BlueSport is produced from production parts from a new transverse front-engined MQB platform that isn’t going to be produced until 2012 so since the roadster can’t borrow from the Volkswagen pars bin it will have to wait until then.

However, the production model shouldn’t be much of a change from what we saw in Detroit. According to advanced design chief Thomas Inglenath, the BlueSport was designed to be production ready.

Volkswagen says that the BlueSport will take on the likes of the Mazda MX-5, Honda S2000 and the Lotus Elise.

Volkswagen BlueSport Concept in Action

The Volkswagen BlueSport Concept was originally supposed to make its debut at the 2008 LA Auto Show. However, hoping to save some cost (we have no idea how), Volkswagen decided to delay the launch of the roadster concept for Detroit.

Power for the Volkswagen BlueSport Concept comes from a 2.0 TDI common-rail injection that makes a total of 180-hp. It runs from 0 to 62 in 6.6 seconds with a top speed of 140 mph.

When will it be put into production? According to a Volkswagen’s engineers you won’t see the production BlueSport Concept hit the roads until 2012 (click here to learn more if you’re interested).

Volkswagen planning a US-market Polo

Speaking at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, Volkswagen development chief Ulrich Hackenberg said that the German automaker is planning to sell its subcompact Polo model in the U.S. to take advantage of the increasing ehtusiasm for smaller and more fuel-efficient cars shown by American buyers.

“The small-car segment is the fastest growing segment in the U.S.,” said Hackenberg in an interview with Automotive News. “Oil prices will rise again and that will drive small car sales up further.”

He said that production of the U.S. Polos could take place at Volkswagen’s Puebla, Mexico plant; however, he didn’t mention when the Polo will officially go on sale in the U.S.

The next-generation Volkswagen Polo will make its world debut at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show in March. A high-performance Polo GTI is expected to debut later this year.

VW adds 4MOTION AWD to Mark VI Golf

The Mark VI Volkswagen Golf is now available with the Wolfburg company's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, which has been added to the lineup as an option on the 2.0L TDI model. While usually the 4MOTION system is found in performance oriented models such as the Golf R32 and Golf GTI, adding the AWD system to the turbodiesel hatch makes the car more suitable for those customers who require more grip in adverse conditions, such as ice, rain or snow, as well as economical motoring. Unfortunately, the 4MOTION model won't be offered with other engine combinations in the Golf range for now (except for the aforementioned performance variants), as the demand doesn't justify the expenditure that VW would have to make in this regard. The 4MOTION system will once again be using VW's Haldex transmission unit, which is able to split the engine power between the front and rear axles depending on where it is needed to keep the car stable.
VW Golf Mark VI official photos

Used Car Classic: VW Beetle

Unlike the New Beetle, an impractical fashion statement of a car, the (Real) Beetle eschewed style for utility. The ads of my youth played that up relentlessly, amusingly, logically. The Beetle was cheap. It was a cinch to fix. Fender-bender? Just undo several bolts, pop the old one off, put a new one on. The car was so tightly constructed that you had to open a window to close the door. Heck, the Beetle was so tight it could float. “If Senator Kennedy had been driving a VW, he’d be President today,” the National Lampoon opined.

2011 VW Beetle Details Surface

For a long time, Volkswagen has enjoyed cult-like fervor for anything Beetle related. Hopefully, they will not disappoint their fans with a new, less womanly version of the iconic car.

Vintage VW Bug Gets Turbocharged V8, Probably One Of The Four Horsemen

We're not sure what makes this vintage Volkswagen more terrifying, the turbocharged V8 engine or the unconventional (for a Bug) engine placement. Either way, this car fulfills a few dreams and, likely, a few nightmares.

"Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds," was the phrase uttered by J. Robert Oppenheimer shortly after developing the atomic bomb. We can only hope he builder of this certain-death machine felt a similar emotion the first time he planted the progress pedal and rocketed himself into hot rodding lore.

Details are scarce, but we do know this street weapon is powered by a turbocharged 5.3 liter LSx-based engine. Taking the extra indie step forward, the fuel is managed by the beautifully homebrewed Megasquirt system. Die hard vintage VW fanatics will throw a rod when they notice very little original Bug remains, as it sits on a fully boxed one-off chassis with matching integral cage. Enough with the chatter — we'll let the pictures and video below do the talking.

Dreams VolksWagen Type 2 Keylight

The classic VolksWagen Wagen Bus is back from Dreams, Japan. Featuring 5 different body paints, each has a keychain attached at the back. The button at the bottom of the wagen activates the bright light. The light displays the VW sign for VW fans. Available only from Dreams.

Dreams VolksWagen Type 2 Radio

The classic VolksWagen Wagen Bus is back from Dreams, Japan. Featuring a multi-function gadget that becomes a portable speaker, AM/FM radio, digital clock, and a toy car. 2 outputs at the bottom of the car, one for AUDIO IN and the other for radio antenna. Built-in with a small screen at the rear end of the car for time and radio display. The control buttons allows the user to easily navigate radio stations and change the volume. Available in 2 different colors

VW Scirocco SC240 by Sportec

Sportec usually works on Porsches, but this time it set its sights on a product from the Stuttgart company's latest purchase, the Volkswagen Scirocco. Dubbed the SC240, this Scirocco comes with a 240 hp engine. The upgrade happens from an ECU remapping and a new sport exhaust system. This is impressive considering the 2.0-liter model makes 197 hp from the factory. Sportec has given us just another reason to lust after this VW we can't get our hands on here. (...)

VW Concept Blue Sports - mittmotor-roadster and green!

When Volkswagen premiere show its roadster concept in Detroit has united the best from two directions. Mittmotor, lightweight chassis and 180 hp turbodiesel that do not go more than 4.3 l/100 km. It provides a C02 emissions of just 113 g / km - making VW Concept Blue Sports for both sports car and green!

According to project manager Thomas Ingenlath, this was to create an appearance of the Concept Blue Sports similar to a powerful athlete. Strong, smooth and quick - but without any need to see aggressive out to demonstrate their strength. Design of course, is always a matter of taste, but probably have VW managed to achieve its goal? CLICK FOR LARGER
Okay, you want a green but still have serious fun behind the wheel. Right few alternatives on the market, right? But Volkswagen's latest concept car shows that there is light in the tunnel. How about mittmotor, roadster body, lightweight chassis, 180 hp turbomotor, 0-100 km / h in 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 226 km / h? All this in a car that does not draw more than 4.3 l/100 km and emits low 113 g / km of carbon dioxide under the ECE norm - that is an environment class car!
Körupplevelsen should be something special with the four-meter-long car that weighs no more than 1.200 kilograms and has a wheel in each corner. VW has been the way, did not put on a few easily rolled bicylce but fitted the car with 235/35ZR19-däck front and 245/35ZR19 rear.
With low weight, the 2.0 liter TDI engine sized seen as powerful, with 180 hp at 4200 rpm and above all, maximum torque of 350 Nm available at 1750 rpm. Volkswagen points out carefully in its press release that the size of engine power would led to a much larger gasoline engine of about 300 hp, with all that implies in terms of weight and thirsty consumption.

With its length of 3.99 meters is the Concept Blue Sport long as Polo, but a broader decimetres with a width of 1.74 meters. Height is only 126 centimeters and axis distance of 243 centimeters makes the car may be a wheel in each corner. CLICK FOR LARGER
The transmission on the Concept, is, of course, VW's now proven DSG box with dual access. The six gears can operate in automatic mode or manually selected via paddles on the steering wheel. DSG-automation also helps the driver to achieve very good consumption figures. The fuel tank holds 50 liters and run against ECE standard enough fuel 115 mil between the tank top. Speaking of the practical benefits of Concept Blue Sport two luggage space, the rear can hold 70 liters and the larger the volume is 112 liters.
The body is made of steel with high shares of high-strength steel to increase the strength of the open car. Weight has been saved with gaps in the aluminum and a top design that only weighs 27 kilograms. In addition to low weight, reduced fuel consumption with automatic stop-start technology at standstill (engine starts at 0.2 seconds) and the generator is used to regenerate the charger to the battery during braking.

While the interior is characterized by a moderate style. The touch screen at the center console manages all information and entertainment. " The number buttons are relatively few and lit up the knobs control lighting and climate control. Even instruments paintings are "clean" and simple - a little Porsche-style, right? CLICK FOR LARGER
Concept Blue Sports was developed by a team led by Klaus Bischoff, design director for Volkswagen, and Thomas Ingenlath, the head of VW's design studio in Potsdam. The clean, almost minimalist look is of course no coincidence, and connect to what we first saw the Concept Up:
"The design on the Concept Blue Sports will represent the carefully balanced mix of technology and aesthetics," says Klaus Bischoff. "The shape is very clean and is reduced to the minimum essential to obtain and simple lines. Powerful unit will be mainly at the wheel arches and the selected intake vent at the rear wheels is clearly signaling that it is a middle trainsets."
The front has the new, horizontal form language that we first saw the Scirocco and the last of the new Golf VI. This "design DNA" design by Walter de Silva (design head of VW Group), Flavio Manzoni (Head of Creative Design Volkswagen AG ") and Klaus Bischoff. The front has also bi-xenon lights up and taillights with LEDs. The design in terms of increasingly important daytime running lights are C-shaped and built into the main headlamps.
On location in the car you will see only the big screen in the middle, which is pressure sensitive, a "touchscreen" which is becoming more common for most to handle modern mobile phones which operated in the same way. All information and "entertainment" is controlled via the touchscreen and the multifunction steering wheel that sits on my console.
Above the screen are three knobs, which deal with air and when you want it cooler is light blue, and more heat gives a redder lighting. Easy to understand. Equally simple is the top operation, carried out manually and cabbar down in seconds, according to VW, which, in passing, wonder why it will complicate it with a lot of hydraulics and electric motors. Well, why? The easier, the better!
Source: automotorsport

Driving VW’s stillborn Elise

If VW’s senior management is waiting for an impressed buying public to glow about its latest concept car, the BlueSport roadster, before it commits to making it, can I be the first to say ‘yes please?’

I have a strong suspicion that this new two-seater VW would be very good indeed, not just because it looks so good, but because I was fortunate enough to drive the one they didn’t make earlier.

Remember the EcoRacer concept? This was the last lightweight two-seater VW made, an 850kg part carbonfibre creation powered by a 134bhp 1.5-litre diesel engine. It was bright orange and not very pretty. But that didn’t matter because, despite the fact that it was capable of 80mpg, it felt every bit as agile and fun to throw around as the best mid-engined sportsters.

Truth be told, VW quoted even better performance stats for the EcoRacer than it has for the Concept BlueSport.

I spent a very happy few moments at VW’s German test facility, Ehra Lessien, threading this one-off concept between cones, marvelling at the willingness of its little diesel engine and the sophistication of its DSG transmission.

Largely because Lotus’ Elise occupies that unique position in the market, you assume there must be something innately difficult about building small mid-engined cars that really handle; that attempts by the likes of VW must therefore be decidedly second rate.

Toyota’s second-generation MR2 was, after all, eyebrow-raisingly willing to spin. But the EcoRacer certainly wasn’t. It was an utterly benign, thoroughly charming and genuinely peppy little car.

Driving it left me wondering what good reason VW could possibly find not to put the car, or one like it, straight into production. Evidently they found one. But now that VW’s having another crack at the mid-engined market, I sincerely hope they can make the business case add up.

One of these VW roadsters powered by a twincharger 1.4 could be light enough to feel like an Elise, but also torquey and more driveable than the Lotus; more reminiscent of a Vauxhall VX220, perhaps. If it handles like the EcoRacer it could push the Lotus pretty hard in terms of grip and outright dynamic brilliance too.

The stage is set then; over to you, Wolfsburg.

VW BlueSport, 57 MPG Roadster

At this year’s Detroit Auto Show, VW showed this stunning little roadster, dubbed the BlueSport. It’s got all the stuff to make a gearhead’s heart flutter: 180HP engine, 6.6 seconds zero to 100 km/h, mid-engine/rear drive top speed is around 140, drop top, a 6-speed DSG dual clutch transmission, the usual. But here’s the kicker: the BlueSport gets 57 miles to the gallon, because it’s got a diesel engine.

That’s right, the BlueSport is an oil burner.

Not only will this help VW with increases in the CAFE, but there’s some serious enviro cred right there.

Now, anyone will tell you that running Bio-diesel in a new car is probably a bad idea, and most definitely is bad for your warranty … but you know, new cars become old cars, and if you wanted to have fun off the grid, six and a half second to sixty + nearly 60MPG fun, the BlueSport looks like a real good option.

Of course, VW is saying this is only a show car … no immediate plans for production … yadda-yadda-yadda - but c’mon! They’d be dumber than a bag of hammers not to bring this out. It’s production ready as any show car I’ve seen and apart from having a soft top, (rather than a now industry standard retractable hardtop) looks like a winner.

Build it VW, build it!

VW’s press release after the jump.

Source: AutoBlogGreen

PRESS RELEASE:
Detroit 2009: World Premiere of the Concept BlueSport

Volkswagen celebrates comeback of the compact roadster

Wolfsburg/ Detroit, 11 January 2009 - Maximum driving fun with minimal fuel consumption: This is the standard by which Volkswagen is starting the new car year 2009 and is presenting the roadster Concept BlueSport at the North American International Auto Show. “The BlueSport proves to be a compact and passionate car with a clear Volkswagen signature. The car offers pure dynamics with a powerful 180 PS Clean Diesel engine that is combined with the characteristic Volkswagen philosophy of efficiency,” confirmed Volkswagen’s Chairman of the Board, Prof. Martin Winterkorn in Detroit.

The Concept BlueSport is making its appearance at the car show in Detroit with a Flex Silver exterior and orange fabric convertible top. “It is the symbiosis of outstanding technology and timeless Volkswagen design that makes this car an exceptional sports car. Its styling is clear and is reduced to the essentials; the car body itself has a lean and linear structure”, explains Volkswagen chief designer Walter de Silva. The interior shows finesse in details and conveys a high level of technological fascination. Immediately visible to the eye is the intuitive and easy to operate touchscreen. Perfectly adapted to the interior are the leather upholstered seats in lightweight construction with their single-piece seatbacks.

Behind the two sport seats of the 3.99 meter long Concept BlueSport, a 132 kW / 180 PS strong Clean Diesel (TDI) with common rail injection and downstream NOx storage catalytic converter delivers dynamic performance. A 6-speed DSG dual clutch transmission – the most economical and agile transmission system in the world – transfers power to the rear wheels. In just 6.6 seconds the sports car is moving at 100 km/h; its top speed is 226 km/h. Also having a positive impact on the car’s low fuel consumption of just 4.3 l/100 km and reduced emissions are two technologies that are part of the so-called Eco mode: an automatic start-stop system and energy regeneration. Together they propel the Concept BlueSport to an additional fuel savings of up to 0.2 liter per 100 kilometers in city driving.

Volkswagen BlueSport roadtser concept with video

The new Volkswagen BlueSport concept will make its debut at this week’s Detroit Auto Show, and show the world the latest iteration of VW’s new hard-edge design language, which was first showcased on the Scirocco coupe and then on the Mark VI Golf.

"The design on the Concept BlueSport will represent the carefully balanced mix of technology and aesthetics," says Klaus Bischoff. "The shape is very clean and is reduced to the minimum essential to obtain and simple lines. Powerful unit will be mainly at the wheel arches and the selected intake vent at the rear wheels is clearly signaling that it is a middle trainsets."

The body of the Volkswagen BlueSport concept is made of steel with high shares of high-strength steel to increase the strength of the open car. Weight has been saved with gaps in the aluminum and a top design that only weighs 27 kilograms. In addition to low weight, reduced fuel consumption with automatic stop-start technology at standstill (engine starts at 0.2 seconds) and the generator is used to regenerate the charger to the battery during braking.

The interior of the Volkswagen BlueSport concept is characterized by a moderate style. The touch screen at the center console manages all information and entertainment. " The number buttons are relatively few and lit up the knobs control lighting and climate control. Even instruments paintings are "clean" and simple - a little Porsche-style.

Preview: 2010 Volkswagen Polo MPV

In 1996 Volkswagen introduced the Typ 9K Caddy light van based on the existing Polo small car platform. The van was designed by VW’s Seat subsidiary, manufactured in Spain, and built right up until 2005 when it was replaced by the Golf-based Typ 2K Caddy. VW is expected to release a new version of the Caddy aimed at private buyers based on the new-generation Polo later this year. The new car will be targeted at the MPV segment and will feature the same powertrain lineup as the regular hatchback models.
Volkswagen Polo Van rendering

Production Version of the VW BlueSport Will be Released in 2012

VW unveiled the BlueSport Roadster Concept at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this week and according to VW engineers there will be a production version in three years.

The BlueSport concept was intentionally designed to be a production ready vehicle, but the reason we have to wait three years is because the concept is constructed of a mix of bespoke and production parts. The production parts are borrowed from VW’s new transverse, front-engined MQB platform, which isnt due in production until 2012. So since those parts wont be available until 2012, the BlueSport has to wait.

When the car is released it's going to go head to head with the Mazda MX-5 and Lotus Elise.

VW Accuses Lamborghini Of Orange County Of Stealing $12 Million

Fargo, the Coen brother's 1996 cult-film, was an outrageous tale of an embezzling car salesman and his plot to kidnap his wife. The owners of Lamborghini of Orange County have the embezzling part down.

VW has filed suit against Lamborghini Orange County and it's sister-dealership, Lamborghini Calabasas, in Orange County Superior Court claiming that owner Vik Keuylian and his sisters Asdghig, Nora and Sossi Keuylian sold 54 cars in 8 days without repaying VW Credit - the true owner of the cars.

Lamborghini O.C. was the largest Lamborghini dealership in the world before it unexpectedly closed without explanation in November of 2008. Court documents are slowly starting to tell the story of why they closed up shop so quickly and silently. In the lawsuit filed by VW it says that VW Credit financed the cost of Lamborghini O.C.'s inventory in advance of sale, but they're not sure where the proceeds ended up because they certainly didn't receive the money.

The Keuylian's attorney, Jeffrey Gubernick, declined to comment on VW's allegations because the case is still under litigation and has yet to respond to the allegations of the suit, but a hearing is scheduled for January 22nd.

While this is certainly a big blow for the Keuylians, it's not the only lawsuit they are facing. A separate suit was filed in Orange County Superior Court by East-West Bank. They claim that the Lamborghini O.C. defaulted on a $3 million loan by failing to make payments in November and December of 2008. Another lawsuit was filed in Las Vegas is seeking $340,000 for failing to pay for a 2008 Lamborghini Murcielago, formerly owned by the owner of Diamond Resorts, Stephen Cloobeck.

We'll be watching out for updates on this sensational story as they become available, but we have one major question about this suit; How in the hell do you sell 54 Lamborghinis in 8 days? That's 8% of Lamborghini's total U.S. sales for 2008. All we have to say is watch yourself Keuylians and don't trip and fall into any tree shredders.

[via OC Register]

CONFIRMED: VW Polo coming to the U.S.

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Volkwagen Polo

According to Automotive News, Volkswagen has determined that Americans might like a Polo, so it's bringing the 80-hp subcompact Stateside in the not-too-distant future. Until now, the importation of the Polo was all conjecture, but now we have confirmation, straight from the horse's mouth. No specifics were given about the diminutive hatchback's U.S. debut, but Volkswagen Group of America CEO Stefan Jacoby confirmed they think the time is right. The automaker feels that Americans are more open to smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles following the summer of high gas prices and the struggling economy.
The car, which would slot in between the Toyota Yaris and the larger Honda Fit in size, could be built at the company's plant in Puebla, Mexico. Although they've never sold anything smaller than the Rabbit/Golf in the States, VW thinks the Polo could help them reach their goal of tripling U.S. sales over the next ten years. The latest genereation of the Polo is set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, but it's unclear if we will be getting that model or its predecessor. We just hope the Polo GTI version is in the cards.

Gallery: Volkswagen Polo

VW Confirms that the VW Polo is Headed to the US

Volkswagen Group of America CEO Stefan Jacoby has confirmed that VW is going to sell the small Polo in the US.

VW feels that following last summer's record gas prices, US consumers are more open to smaller more fuel efficient vehicles. Eventually gas prices are going to rise again, which would increase demand for a vehicle like the Polo.

The Polo fits in between the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit in terms of size.

Volkswagen development chief Ulrich Hackenberg recently told the Automotive News that "The small-car segment is the fastest growing segment in the U.S. and that Oil prices will rise again and that will drive small car sales up further.”

It's not known when the Polo will go on sale in the US, but production could take place at Volkswagen’s Puebla, Mexico plant.

First Look: Volkswagen Concept BlueSport

Volkswagen first toyed with the idea of reviving a small, mid-engine roadster with its cleanly styled ConceptR for the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show. While the car garnered mostly positive reaction, it ultimately failed to make the production line. Two years later at the Tokyo Motor Show, another roadster concept, called the EcoRacer, was shown by Wolfsburg, once again stirring hopes that VW would eventually build a fuel efficient and agile sports car for the masses.
Now comes the Volkswagen BlueSport, and enthusiasts everywhere are hoping the third time will finally be the production charm. Volkswagen has combined what it's learned with the previous show cars. Priority No. 1 with this prototype: provide maximum driving fun with minimal fuel consumption. Of course, that's easier said than done.

To accomplish its mission of building an affordable, economical and agile two-seat roadster, designers first began with the chassis and utilized aluminum for the frame and body panels to reduce weight. They then placed behind the two passengers a version of Volkswagen's 2.0L TDI turbocharged four-cylinder diesel producing an impressive 178-hp @ 4200 rpm and 258 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm - more than enough power and torque to scoot the 2640-lb BlueSport to 60 mph in a claimed 6.2 sec before hitting its 140 mph top speed.
Mated to the oil burning engine is VW's paddle-controlled six-speed DSG that bumps up fuel efficiency and quickly delegates power to the rear wheels. Together with common rail injection and a downstream NOx storage catalytic converter, the BlueSport attains a claimed combined fuel rating of 42 mpg (50 mpg highway/35 mpg city). Playing a large part in the car's economy is also an 'Eco mode' function with auto start-stop technology and regenerative braking. For those unfamiliar with start-stop technology, in essence, the engine automatically shuts off when coming to a stop and almost instantly starts up again once the accelerator is depressed. Regenerative braking, on the other hand, uses the car's slowing inertia to create additional energy for its on-board systems.
With an efficient engine in place mid-ship, engineers focused their efforts on putting the sports car's power to the tarmac as best they could. After all, power is nothing without control, as the tagline for a certain tire company goes. Helping out in the twisties are the concept's pocket-sized dimensions: 157.1-in. length; 68.9-in. width; 49.6-in. height; 95.7-in. wheelbase. In comparison, the BlueSport is shorter and 'flatter' than the newly released Scirocco, but longer and wider than the ultra-compact Polo. Aiding as well with handling are large (for this car) 10-spoke 19-in wheels, which also serve as major styling queues from all points of view.
Under the watchful eye of Volkswagen Group head of design Walter de Silva, the BlueSport wears several contemporary VW styling elements. Designed by VW brand lead designer Klaus Bischoff and team, the compact car is low and wide; a characteristic accentuated greatly by each corner's flared fenders located above the circular wheel housings.
Up front, a narrow radiator grille is completed by the distinct horizontal cross beams with central VW logo. On either side of the grille rest newly designed bi-xenon headlamps with Audi-like integrated C-shaped LED daytime running lights. The use of LEDs continues below the grille with highly visible turn signals imbedded into the large air intakes. In true mid-engine fashion, bold lateral air intakes flank the Flex silver colored car and direct cool air to the turbocharged powerplant.
Out back, exhaust is expelled through a dual tailpipe setup positioned widely on the outer edges of the bumper. Interestingly, the rear tail lamps have been shaped in the same style as their counterparts up front and also incorporate bright C-shaped LEDs. A rear diffuser generating better airflow culminates the rear styling. The complete exterior package, according to designer Flavio Manzoni, achieves "aesthetic clarity without compromise."
Open either door and the productivity and ingenuity continue. Key to the interior is the central touchscreen system that's modeled after the Up! concept's console. The screen controls all entertainment and information functions and can be additionally accessed via steering wheel buttons. Climate control duties are delegated by three prominent dials above the screen and change color depending on the desired temperature. Say for instance a passenger wants hot air blasting while cruising with the folding soft top down, the dial will turn red. For streams of cold air, they'll turn blue. Leather trimmed buckets keep passengers comfortably in place whenever the spirited driving begins.
Although simply another concept to add to the books, Volkswagen's BlueSport certainly seems to be the most producible of the three small sports cars it's rolled out in the past six years. So much so that it makes us wonder if sister brands Audi and Porsche will drum up their own small sports cars sometime in the near future -- say, in the form of a baby R4 or revived 914, respectively.
If in fact the BlueSport is given the greenlight, expect it to hit showrooms no earlier than 2011. For the time being, though, the concept car will have to quench all affordable mid-engine sports car desires.
[source:MotorTrend]

Nein, danke: VW not interested in buying Chrysler minivan business

Click above to view high-resolution images from our first drive of the Volkswagen Routan

With Chrysler's fortunes swirling around the drain, it's widely expected that the only way it will survive is as individual parts swallowed by other automakers. But while the costly Viper operation may find a new home, the most likely buyer for its minivan operation, the product that put the company back on the map over two decades ago, isn't interested.
Chrysler has been rebadging its Town & Country minivans as Routans for Volkswagen in a deal struck by Wolfgang Bernhard, a former top exec at both automakers. But while Chrysler sold 232,000 of its Town & Country and Dodge Caravan minivans last year, Volkswagen sold a paltry 3387 Routans, which may go a long way towards explaining why Stefan Jacoby, president and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, says they're not interested. The weak sales come despite a costly ad campaign featuring Brooke Shields: If they spent $1 million on the commercials - including Brooke's big fat paycheck (the only time "fat" and "Brooke Shields" ever belong in the same sentence) - that means the advertising cost $294 per Routan sold. Which is more than what we'd pay for a badge-engineered minivan being passed off as German engineering.
Still, for your viewing enjoyment, we've included a video of Brooke's Routan mocumentary/commercial after the jump, because we'll take any excuse to watch Brooke Shields talk about making babies. Just be prepared to yell "but it's not German engineering!" at your computer screen repeatedly.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Volkswagen Routan

Will VW join Honda as an IRL engine supplier?

For the past few years, the IRL has kept things simple, using just one engine supplier. Toyota, Chevrolet and Nissan (under the Infiniti moniker) bowed out of the engine game to give Honda its exclusivity in 2006. The single powerplant was supposed to make the series more of a driver's competition, and one could argue that the engine limitations did even playing field somewhat. At the same time, however, they also made the series significantly more boring.
Now with the defection of Champ Car and stubborn leadership in F1, IRL is looking to increase its relevance in open wheel racing. IRL's contract with Honda ends after 2010, and rumors indicate that the party most interested in getting a foot in the door for 2011 is the Volkswagen Group. The draw for them is the rumored return to the use of turbochargers, as well as heads-up competition between a variety of cylinder configurations. The Volkswagen group is looking to use the series to market high performance low-displacement forced induction engines that are currently under development. Since Audi gets its racing due at LeMans, perhaps any deal with the IRL will look towards increasing VW's performance stock.
[Source: Epoch Times]

Googly-Eyed Drunken VW Beetle Pushes Anti-Drunk Driving Message

According to Copyranter, this VW Beetle is part of a German goverment agency initiative to reduce drunk driving around the many booze-fueled events in Deutschland. Why is the message in English? No clue.

What we do know is the campaign puts cleverly designed blood-shot googly eye hubcaps on the fleet of VW Beetles piloted around large events, reminding imbibers to stay away from the steering wheel. But since the language on the side is English, it must be the Englsh speakers at German events causing all the trouble. Darn those Anglophiles! [Copyranter]

VW Scirocco R20T in Racing Guise at Nurburgring

Spy photographers of the Motortrend just caught Volkswagen's latest hot iteration of the Scirocco roaming the streets surrounding the Nurburgring. We take the sponsor decals to mean that VW is prepping the hot hatch for its reported launch at the ADAC Zurich 24 Hour Race next week.
Note that this VW Scirocco R20T lacks a roll cage, likely relegating its track duties to the parade type. Otherwise, the R20T visual treatment features a more aggressive front end with larger intakes, a new rear spoiler, and an exhaust tip protruding from each end of the rear bumper. The Audi S3-derived, turbo 2.0L under hood should generate somewhere between 270 hp and 300 hp.
Along with this Scirocco, we also expect VW to unveil the Golf R20 at the 24 hour race. Stay tuned, the festivities begin May 21.
© Source: wot.motortrend