The most significant change over the previous model is the installation of a 2.0-litre petrol engine which develops 270 PS, channelled through the front wheels via a six-speed Volkswagen Racing quick shift gearbox. In addition to this, the rear axle has been uprated to the multi-link system found in the road-going Golf.

The new Caddy Racer will join the highly competitive FUCHS Lubricants-backed championship with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles director Simon Elliott once again behind the wheel. The 2011 Volkswagen Caddy Race car will compete in the 2011 Volkswagen Racing Cup which will take place at Oulton Park track on 25 April.

The Volkswagen Racing Cup starts on Easter Monday at Oulton Park, and will visit some of the most famous circuits around the UK, including Snetterton, Brands Hatch, and Donington Park, plus it incorporates a trip to Zandvoort in the Netherlands, before the season finale at Silverstone in October.

The new Volkswagen Beetle is 1,808 mm wide (84 mm wider), 1,486 mm tall (12 mm lower) and 4,278 mm long (152 mm longer). This has resulted in entirely new proportions. The gain in length meant that the roof could be extended further, the front windscreen could be shifted back, and the rear section could follow the contour of the original Beetle. The new focal point is the C-pillar. In parallel, the development team increased the car’s track widths and wheelbase. All of this gives the VW Beetle a powerful appearance with muscular tension.

In the USA, the VW Beetle will be offered as a turbodiesel for the first time. The Beetle 2.0 TDI (103 kW / 140 PS) meets all USA emission limits and attains 40 mpg fuel economy in the Highway cycle, 29 mpg in City driving, and 33 mpg combined. Incidentally, the Volkswagen not only has excellent fuel economy values in the version with a 6-speed manual gearbox, but also – and this is a technical debut in the Beetle as well – with the optional 6-speed dual clutch transmission.

Fuel economy values were also improved in the 2.5-litre five cylinder petrol engine, which was already a success in the previous model. The manually shifted VW Beetle attains 22 mpg (City), 31 mpg (Highway) and 25 mpg (combined). Its counterpart with a 6-speed automatic comes in at 22 mpg (City), 29 mpg (Highway) and 25 mpg (combined) – this represents an increase of up to 10 percent in fuel economy.

In markets such as Asia, Australia, Europe and New Zealand, the new Volkswagen Beetle will be offered exclusively with charged engines. All engine versions – all of them with four cylinders – are being used for the first time in this model series. The car exhibits significantly reduced fuel consumption and emission values compared to the previous model thanks to the switch to turbo-petrol (TSI) and common rail turbodiesel direct injection engines (TDI). The three charged petrol engines of the Beetle output 77 kW / 105 PS, 118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS. The two diesel engines develop 77 kW / 105 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS (TDI engines are not offered in China). All five engines may be combined with a dual clutch transmission as an option.

The new Volkswagen will be available worldwide in the three equipment lines “Beetle”, “Design” and “Sport”. Each of these versions has a very unique character.

Originally from the 2009, Scirocco III was equipped with a turbocharged engine with an in-house body kit consisting of a single-frame front grille, side skirts and a rear apron from the O-Line-Design, the upper and lower rear wings, “bad-look” headlight trims and a stainless steel rear silencer with suitable outlets.

The CSR Automotive Volkswagen Scirocco also comes with Schmidt Revolution Cirrus rims with carbon-look parts (wheel assembly costs 3400 euro) in the dimensions of 8.5×20″ with 235/30 ZR20 tires from Toyo at the front or 10.5×20″ with 285/25 ZR20 – at the rear axles, Schmidt comes near to the ideal of “perfect footwear” for the Scirocco.

Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced the 2010 New Beetle and New Beetle convertible Final Editions, which will mark the last of Volkswagen’s current generation of the iconic models. Available in U.S. dealer showrooms beginning in the Spring of 2010, the Final Editions will be limited to only 1,500 units each. The Final Editions will receive a host of unique upgrades and touches that will truly set them apart from others cruising across the country.

“Since its launch in 1998, the New Beetle – and the New Beetle convertible that later followed – have connected generations of fans that love the cars’ totally unique styling and characteristics that are simply unmatched,” said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “The Final Editions combine all of the elements that best represent what people love the most about the New Beetle, and that have created the car’s legacy, which will live on in generations to come.”

On the outside, the Final Editions come dressed in special Aquarius Blue paint with a painted black roof on the coupe, and a two-tone Aquarius Blue and Campanella White paint scheme with a white top on the convertible. Final Edition exterior badges help these models stand out from the crowd wherever they go. The coupe also adds individually numbered badges outside, and fog lights that are integrated into the front bumper. Both the coupe and the convertible have a full sport suspension and special 17-inch alloy wheels that provide a more fun-to-drive stance, and make getting from point A to point B even more exciting.

Inside, drivers are welcomed with an individually numbered, Final Edition steering wheel. The convertible entices with a sumptuous white interior that matches the top, and the special exterior paint scheme. Under the hood of both models is Volkswagen’s 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder gasoline engine, with its ready-to-go 150 horsepower, and 170 lbs.-ft. of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic® puts the power to the pavement, and can change gears on its own, or let the driver select each gear by tapping the selector up or down. With the automatic transmission, the New Beetle can achieve an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city, and 29 mpg on the highway.

Like all 2010 Volkswagen models, the New Beetle and New Beetle convertible Final Editions come standard-equipped with the Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), for safe driving in most any conditions, as well as Volkswagen’s Carefree Maintenance Program. With this program, there are no charges for the scheduled maintenance described in the vehicle’s maintenance booklet over the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty – three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

The 2010 New Beetle Coupe and New Beetle Convertible Final Editions will be available for $20,240 and $27,170 respectively.

Volkswagen is offering the new New Beetle Black Orange special editions, available for both hatch and convertible. Customers in Germany can already start ordering this new edition with prices starting from €22,550 (around $33,800 at the current exchange rates).
This new edition can be ordered in either a black exterior finish contrasting white stripes on the sides or an orange finish with black stripes. There are also 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, called “Sarasota”.

On the inerior Volkswagen placed a three-spoke leather steering wheel and sports seats, fabric floor mats and gear lever gaiter with contrasting stitching in Burt marked orange and aluminum pedals.

Standard options include: air conditioning, radio “gamma CD,” center armrest and electric windows.

Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced the Jetta TDI Cup “Street” Edition will be available in dealer showrooms January 2010. The concept debuted in Las Vegas during the 2008 SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show. Following the SEMA show the concept was displayed at TDI Cup races throughout the country, where it was well received by enthusiasts and consumers alike.

“Since our inaugural TDI Cup series in 2008 we have received numerous inquiries as to whether or not we would offer a TDI Cup replica vehicle,” said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “We’re thrilled to announce that a special edition Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition will be available in dealer showrooms early next year. What makes this special edition so unique is that it features the optional, race inspired, TDI Cup body kit package combined with our clean diesel engine. The Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition is one exceptional special model that is as fun-to-drive as it is to look at,” added Barnes.

The similarities between the TDI Cup race car and the “Street” Edition equipped with the optional TDI Cup Edition Kit are apparent at first glance — the TDI Cup “Street” Edition Kit features the front bumper, side skirts and rear valance that are found on the TDI Cup race cars. The enhancements to the TDI Cup “Street” Edition go well beyond cosmetics. All “Street” Edition Jetta TDI’s feature larger brakes with red calipers, sway bars and European sport tuned suspension from the performance oriented GLI.

The TDI Cup “Street” Edition is powered by the award winning 2.0-liter clean diesel engine that produces 140 horsepower and an impressive 236 lbs.-ft. of torque. The engine makes use of an advanced electronically controlled turbocharger and common rail direct injection technology, and can be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or the highly acclaimed DSG® transmission.

Other standard upgrades on the Jetta TDI Cup “Street” Edition include sport seats with Interlagos cloth, and a leather-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel that features paddle shifters when equipped with the DSG transmission. Completing this dynamic special edition is a set of 18 inch Charleston wheels with performance all-season tires. This special edition starts around $25,000—staying true to the brands mantra of offering affordable German engineering that is a whole lot of fun to drive.

The Jetta TDI Cup “Street” Edition, like the Jetta TDI, Jetta SportWagen TDI, Golf TDI and Touareg TDI qualifies for an Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle Federal Income Tax Credit. The tax credit on the “Street” Edition is $1,300.

Like all 2010 models, the Jetta TDI Cup “Street” Edition also comes standard with Volkswagen’s Carefree Maintenance Program, with this program there are no charges for the scheduled maintenance described in the vehicle’s maintenance booklet for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty — three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Following the successful debut of the compressed natural gas-powered Scirocco GT24-CNG at the Nürburgring 24-hour race, Volkswagen is launching a one-make Bio-CNG-powered race series in 2010. With a CO2 reduction of 80 per cent being achieved in combination with Bio-CNG, the Scirocco Cup will demonstrate that major innovative strides are still being made in motorsport and make it the most eco-friendly one-make championship in the world.
The Cup version of the Scirocco is designed to enable eco-friendly motorsport. Based on the TSI unit fitted in the Scirocco, the Bio-CNG-racing version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine develops 203 lbs ft of torque and up to 223 PS.
A push-to-pass system provides a short burst of increased power of 30 PS to create additional overtaking opportunities and action throughout the race. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifts operate a six-speed DSG gearbox and, as with the road-going Scirocco R, power is channelled through the front wheels.

Fitted with a fuel tank with a capacity of 22-litres, the Volkswagen Scirocco Cup uses so-called Bio-CNG which is produced from renewable resources such as grass or a special type of maize as well as from refined biological waste. The fuel tank itself is made from a composite material and is located behind the driver’s seat, protected by the vehicle’s roll cage.

The stainless steel pipes and special valves required for CNG operation within the Scirocco Cup use tried and tested components from Volkswagen production models with CNG engines, and the system pressures of 200 Bar are identical to those of the production vehicles.

Commenting on the new Scirocco Cup, Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen explained: ‘By clinching class victory at the Nürburgring we proved that CNG-powered vehicles not only deliver high fuel economy but also allow very sporty driving. That’s why we’re particularly proud about launching the world’s first one-make cup with CNG-powered vehicles.’

Next year, promotion of young talent will again be a top priority and the aspiring racers youngsters will be able to compete with five motorsport legends at each of the races. These legends will come from Formula 1, DTM, rally racing and Le Mans as well as TV and show business.

Volkswagen first raced the Scirocco back in 1976 in the VW Junior Cup and the first winner, Manfred Winkelhock, went on to achieve major exploits in motorsport with Volkswagen. Since then, drivers including Niki Lauda, Nelson Piquet, Keke Rosberg, Bernd Schneider, Tom Kristensen and Michael Schumacher have all won the title “powered by Volkswagen”.

The Scirocco Cup will replace the successful Polo Cup after six years and will become the DTM partner series in 2010.

Volkswagen will begin accepting advance orders for the new Golf Estate this Friday. In the sixth generation of the world bestseller, after the 2-door and 4-door Golfs and the latest Golf Plus, this is the fourth body version to be launched. The estate is one of the most successful models on the market, particularly in the company car market. The extensive redesign of this Estate should ensure that the all-around talent further extends its position as a business estate car and as a first car for families as well. The base price of the new Golf Estate in Germany, including ESP, six airbags, daytime running lights, roof railing, power windows all around, upshift indicator, power and heated outside mirrors, 1/3 to 2/3 split folding rear bench seat and seatback, central locking with RF remote control, climate control and 1,495 litres of cargo capacity is € 18,500.

The front end of the Golf Estate was completely redesigned. Its visual appearance follows today’s Volkswagen “Design DNA”. From now its appearance is defined by clear horizontal lines and bold headlight styling. The car’s engine lineup was adopted directly from the Golf 2-door and 4-door models. In the interior, the high-end instruments of the current Golf set the tone. In Europe, first units of the new Golf will be delivered in September.

Features and engines

At its market launch – in parallel to advance sales that are now starting – the successful Estate (more than 95,000 new vehicle registrations in 2008) will be offered in the three equipment versions Trendline, Comfortline and Highline. The latter replaces the previous Sportline version as the top equipment line. Engines available for selection when advance sales begin are a TSI (boosted gasoline direct-injection engine) with 90 kW / 122 PS and two very quiet common rail turbo-diesels (77 kW / 105 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS). Other engines will follow in stages: two Multipoint engines (59 kW / 80 PS and 75 kW / 102 PS) and another TSI gasoline engine (118 kW / 160 PS). All six engines fulfil the new Euro-5 emissions standard.

Exterior details of the new Golf Estate

In front, the new Golf Estate can be recognized by its new bumper, radiator grille and engine hood styling and its modified fenders and headlights, which were all adapted 1:1 from the estate’s 2-door and 4-door counterparts. In contrast to the previous model, the front-end design is no longer defined by a chrome radiator grille, rather by a black, horizontally layout of the grille and front bumper painted in car colour. In the lower area, the Estate has an additional large air inlet too. Starting with the mid-level equipment version (Comfortline), chrome inserts are integrated in the radiator grille and the lower air inlet. In the top Highline version, this also applies to the frames for the front fog lights with new static turning light function that are a standard feature here.

At the rear, the independent design of the previous model has been upgraded in the new generation by modified, more elegant taillights and bumpers fully painted in car colour in the lower area. From now on, TDI and TSI versions can also be recognized by their tailpipes, which are no longer covered by the bumper. In addition, Volkswagen developed a new wheel lineup for the new Golf Estate.

Interior details of the new Golf Estate

At the time of its presentation last fall, the sixth generation Golf received excellent marks, especially for its high-end quality. In the interior, it was especially in the styling of the gauges that the Golf crossed boundaries to the next higher class and still does. The same gauges and instruments, including a standard multifunctional display and upshift indicator, are now being used in the new Golf Estate too. Also adopted from the Golf was the new generation of three-spoke steering wheels, which celebrated their debut in the Passat CC in 2008.

In this context, controls for the new Golf climate control system were integrated in the Golf Estate as well. Volkswagen also adapted its line of different seat covers (Trendline: “Roxy”; Comfortline: “Scout”; Highline: Alcantara/fabric “Merlin”) to the entire model series. The same applies to features ranging from the radio and navigation systems up to the interfaces for MP3 players and Bluetooth mobile telephones. Two driver assistance systems are also available as options for the first time in the Golf Estate: “ParkAssist” (automatic parking assistant) and “Rear Assist” (rearview camera). Another feature being offered is the panorama sunroof that is popular among many Golf Estate buyers.

Euro-5 engines of the new Golf Estate in detail

Volkswagen is launching the new Golf Estate on the market with four gasoline and two diesel engine options; they all meet the limits of the new Euro-5 standard. The entry level continues to be marked by an 80-PS gasoline engine, followed by a 102-PS version. The two most powerful gasoline engines (TSI with 122 PS and 160 PS) and the two turbo-diesels (TDI with 105 PS and 140 PS) may be ordered with an optional automatic DSG dual clutch transmission.

Entirely new to the Golf Estate’s engine lineup is the 105 PS common rail TDI. Like the larger 2.0-liter TDI, the 1.6-liter four cylinder is also characterized by noticeably comfortable noise levels, low emissions (119 g/km CO2) and an extremely low average fuel consumption (4.5 litres per hundred kilometres). Compared to the previous model of the same power, fuel consumption was reduced by 0.7 litre.

The 2.0 TDI was adopted from the previous generation of the Golf Estate; it also has a highly advanced common rail direct injection system. The 140 PS strong and 210 km/h fast Golf Estate 2.0 TDI consumes 5.0 litre (132 g/km CO2), which is impressively low considering its power. The TDI engines may be ordered together with any of the three equipment versions.

As already noted, the gasoline engines of the Golf Estate have power levels of 80 PS (MPI), 102 PS (MPI), 122 PS (TSI) and 160 PS (TSI). The base engine with 80 PS is available with the Trendline equipment line; the 102-PS version may be ordered as a Golf Estate Trendline or Golf Estate Comfortline. The TSI engines can each be ordered together with the Comfortline or Highline equipment versions.

Just how efficiently the current gasoline engines from Volkswagen perform is well-illustrated by the TSI. Its 6.3 litre (122 PS) and 6.4 litre (160 PS) fuel consumption values place their average fuel consumption on par with the already economical base engine with 80 PS. When shifted by a DSG transmission, fuel consumption is even reduced to 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres (139 g/km CO2) on the 122-PS TSI and 6.1 litres (143 g/km CO2) on the 160-PS version. With this engine lineup, the new Golf Estate is one of the most economical and cleanest estate cars in Europe.

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Body

The front end of the 4.53 meter long and 1.78 meter wide Golf Estate was completely redesigned. Visually, it now follows the styling of the current Volkswagen “design DNA”. Clear horizontal lines and bold styling of the headlights will now define its appearance. And so the bumper, radiator grille, engine bonnet and fenders and highlights were all transferred from the three- and five-door versions of the new Golf classic.

In contrast to the previous Golf Estate, the design is no longer characterised by a chrome radiator grille, rather by a black, horizontally styled grille and body-coloured bumpers. In its lower front section, the Estate also has an additional large air intake. Starting with the mid equipment version (Comfortline) chrome inserts are integrated in the radiator grille and lower air intake. In the case of the top Highline version, this also applies to the surrounds of the standard front fog lights with new static turning lights.

At the rear, the previous model’s independent design has been upgraded in the new generation by modified taillights and bumpers whose lower area is also fully painted in body colour. From now on, TDI and TSI versions can also be recognised by their tailpipes, which are no longer covered by the bumper. In addition, Volkswagen developed a new range of wheels for the Golf Estate.

Perfection in details

The new Golf Estate also preserves the car body’s excellent layout and high level of everyday utility. The development team focused on perfection in the details. Attaining the best possible acoustic properties on the new Golf was a top priority for Volkswagen. In this context, the body was equipped with new detailed solutions in a variety of areas. Highly effective acoustic damping is implemented in the front windscreen, which eliminates nearly all high-frequency noise in the three kHz range that is very typical in vehicles with diesel engines.

In addition, many secondary noises have been eliminated or reduced right at their source. In particular, this was achieved in all belt drives, the turbocharger and charge air distribution channels as well as in the heating and cooling blower. Quiet rolling tires and new engine bearings round out the noise reduction program. Independent of body-related modifications, noise comfort has been further improved by a new generation of turbo-diesels with common rail injection, as well as integration of TSI petrol engines that are known for their quiet operation.

PASSIVE SAFETY – HIGHEST LEVEL OF PROTECTION

The new Golf Estate is being offered with a seamless package of safety features as standard equipment. On the passive side, there is a further perfected safety body (including optimised pedestrian protection), six airbags and a patented head restraint system for driver and front passenger.

Front, side and head airbags

The driver and front passenger airbags (known as front airbags) and safety belt system together form a precisely coordinated front restraint system on the new Golf Estate. As before, the side airbags are still integrated in the backrests of the front seats. They protect the chest, abdomen and pelvis and have been optimally tuned to the car’s more rigid side structure. Integrating the side airbags in the backrests assures optimal airbag positioning in relation to the driver and front passenger. Furthermore, Volkswagen is introducing standard head airbags that help to prevent high biomechanical loads to the head. Specifically, these airbags cover an area along the side windows extending from the A pillar to the C pillar and from the roofliner to the door sill. This results in maximum protection at all seating positions regardless of body size. That is because protection over a large area prevents the head and extremities from swinging out and prevents objects from penetrating into the car’s interior. Since the head airbags remain inflated for a long time, they even retain much of their effectiveness in secondary collisions such as in the case of a rollover accident.

WOKS – head restraints help protect against whiplash

Accident-related hyperextensions of the cervical spine are known internationally as “whiplash syndrome”. Volkswagen counteracts these types of injuries by coordinating movements of the head and upper body into the seat backrests and head restraints as synchronously as possible in the event of a crash. This is called the “Whiplash Optimised Head Restraint System”, or WOKS for short. The latest generation of WOKS is now being implemented as standard equipment on the Golf.

In an effort to reduce injury risk, excellent protection is realised by defined deceleration of the upper body in the seat backrest, coordinated deceleration of the head in the head restraint, and balanced movements of the head and upper body. Crucial parameters here are the special contours of the head restraints and backrests as well as the hardness of the foam material that is used. The contoured shape of the head restraints is being patented by Volkswagen. In related studies, WOKS has demonstrated excellent protective potential with biomechanical values that are substantially better than those of many other active systems.

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Interior

In the transition from the third to fourth generation of the Golf Estate, another tremendous leap has been made in quality. The high quality of the materials that are used is especially evident in the interior. This high level of value is a common thread running through the redesigned interior, especially when it comes to the car’s instruments. The look and feel of the materials, details such as brushed chrome accents and the round instruments and steering wheels taken directly from the Passat CC all leave the impression that one is actually sitting in a vehicle of the next higher market segment. And this is not just experienced in the two upgraded Golf equipment versions “Comfortline” and “Highline” but in the “Trendline” base version as well.

The interior ergonomics also reflect advanced development. All of the car’s functional components are even easier to operate. These include controls for the climate control system (Climatronic) initially introduced on the Passat CC. Sometimes it is the smallest of details that make the greatest impression. Consider the leather seats: a new more robust leather is being used in the new Golf Estate. Its improved surface properties make dye transfer, such as from jeans, passé even with very light-coloured leather. Or consider the redesigned steering column length and height adjuster; the lever was relocated from the centre of the steering column to the left side, making it ergonomically easier to reach.

Cockpit

The instrument panel of the Golf Estate was completely redesigned. This has resulted in a clear, well-organised geometry offering uncompromising ease of operation and a high level of timeless elegance. On initial contact, one is immediately impressed by the luxurious soft materials of the upper cockpit area and door trim that complement the design of the instruments.

The instruments of the Golf Estate now match instrument styling in the classic Golf three- and five-door models. Prominently displayed are the two round instruments with brushed chrome bezels, which are standard in the base vehicle; the tachometer is on the left, and the speedometer on the right. Also designed as a round instrument is the engine temperature gauge; it is integrated in the lower part of the tachometer. Its counterpart is the fuel gauge integrated in the speedometer. Gauge scale markings are backlit in white (regardless of whether the headlights are on or off); while turn signal indicators are in red. Also designed in white now are the graphics of the multifunction display (MFD) – located between the tachometer and speedometer – which is always standard equipment. An upshift indicator was integrated in the MFD, which depends on the engine option.

Another redesigned component is the light switch. On the “Comfortline” and “Highline” equipment versions, the switch’s handhold is in metal. Like the main instruments, air vents near the instrument cluster also have brushed chrome bezels. There is one vent at each end of the instrument panel for driver and passenger, and two in the centre console. In addition, a vent for the side windows is integrated in each of the A-pillar trim panels. Complementing the chrome bezels, the upper and lower sections of instruments are separated by dark silver accents (“Titan”) on the “Trendline” base version. In the middle “Comfortline” equipment version the accents are glossy black (“Black Pyramid”), and in the top “Highline” version they are light “Brushed Chrome”.

Centre console

All of the controls arranged on the centre console are readily and equally accessible to driver and front passenger. Right at the top is the hazard flasher switch, optimally located between the air vents. On the level below this, there is the audio or radio-navigation system. The third level of controls contains interfaces to the heating and ventilation or climate control system. Another set of switches is located directly in front of the gearshift lever for activating or deactivating systems such as ESP and “Park Assist”.

If the Golf Estate is ordered with an automatic climate control system (Climatronic), a new set of controls is provided. There are two control knobs, one on the left and one on the right, for selecting temperatures in 1 degree increments separately for driver and passenger sides. They are also used to activate seat heating.

Naturally, the temperature for the two sides can be controlled jointly too. The set temperature is displayed outside of the control knob, in its bezel, and if a RCD 310, RCD 510, RNS 310 or RNS 510 radio or radio-navigation system is installed, the temperature is also shown in that unit’s display. The main operating modes of the Climatronic (“Auto”, completely “Off”, “Dual”, “AC”) and blower levels are set in the area between the two control knobs. Located in the upper area are controls for ventilation modes, rear window heating and recirculation functions.

Further down the centre console, at the height of the handbrake lever, are the familiar storage compartment and an AUX-IN port (standard with RCD 310 and higher) that can be used to connect devices such as an MP3 player. The optional MEDIA-IN port can also be integrated in the storage compartment of the equipment line dependent centre armrest. This USB port is used to interface to a wide variety of memory sources for the audio system. For example, an iPod – including its special control functions – can also be integrated in the system as a music source with a suitable cable.

For nearly three decades, the Volkswagen GTI has represented a potent combination of sports car-like finesse and tuned driving excitement in a versatile hatchback design. The all-new 2010 GTI ushers in the sixth generation of Volkswagen’s “hot hatch” lineage, and continues the evolution of an award-winning formula that has impressed driving
enthusiasts across the globe.

With its fully redesigned exterior, including a more aggressive front end, cleaner side profile, and sleeker hatch area, the GTI upholds its sporty nature. New interior enhancements help set the GTI apart not only from the competition, but also previous generations, and allow both the driver and passengers to enjoy total control and comfort. Starting at $23,290, the 2010 GTI stays true to its heritage by providing a dynamic driving experience at an affordable price, and is ready to reward its owners with every start of the ignition.

Exterior

As an icon heading into the next decade, the 2010 GTI two and four-door models take a number of styling cues from the original Mk I, as well as the more recent past, and revitalizes them. In true GTI style, the more aggressive front end starts with the hallmark black honeycomb grille with the GTI badge on the passenger side, and the distinct red stripe outline, which flows into the new angled teardrop headlight housings (High Intensity Gas-discharged Xenon headlamps with AFS are optional). Sitting between two halogen fog lamps, the lower front fascia’s cooling duct is blacked out.

A more streamlined profile continues heading toward the rear, with a more subtle pair of black side skirts that only run partially along the GTI’s lower edge, and the absence of any side moldings. In the rear, newly-shaped taillights integrated into the quarter panels and hatch include smoked red brake lenses that are underlined by clear reverse and turn signal lenses. Blended into the updated rear bumper are red running lamp lenses, along with a blacked out diffuser with special cutouts for the chrome-tipped, split dual-exhaust.

Low-profile all-season performance tires are standard. Summer performance tires are an available option. Atop the rear hatch is a body color duckbill spoiler, which houses the third brake light.

The GTI comes standard with 17 x 7-inch alloy wheels wrapped in allseason performance tires, and can be upgraded to larger 18 x 7.5-inch versions with either all-season or summer performance tires to match. A full-power tinted glass sunroof is also available as an option.

Engine and Transmission

Under the hood, the latest version of the GTI utilizes the acclaimed 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder gasoline engine, with FSI direct fuel injection and maintenance-free hydraulic lifters. Bred for smooth, top-notch performance, the engine features an advanced, fully-electronic management system that combines drive-by-wire throttle control and FSI direct fuel injection to cut back on emissions while increasing overall fuel efficiency and power.

Producing 200 horsepower at 5,100 rpm, and 207 lbs.-ft. of torque from 1,800 all the way up to 5,000 rpm, the GTI’s 2.0-liter engine is prepared to take to the road with force. With the standard six-speed manual transmission, the GTI can go from a zero to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, and on to an electronically limited 130 mph top speed. Power delivery remains smooth and direct across the rpm range, allowing for a swift, 7.5 second run from 37 to 62 mph in fifth gear, and finishes with a redline of 6,500 rpm. In terms of fuel economy, the 2.0T engine and six-speed manual transmission deliver an EPA-estimated 31 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg in city driving. For drivers who want the performance of a traditional manual transmission with the precision and ease of use of an automatic gearbox, the GTI is available with an optional automatic Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG®) transmission.

This technologically advanced six-speed transmission incorporates an automatic dualclutch system that instantly engages and disengages gears without the need for a clutch pedal. With a special computer controlling the process, one clutch is engaged on the next gear needed while the clutch from the previous gear is released. The results are crisp, quick shifts without the loss of power that is experienced with a traditional manual gearbox, and the ability for the GTI to reach 60 mph in 6.7 seconds from a standstill. The 2010 GTI’s fuel economy is improved when equipped with the DSG transmission, which attains an EPAestimated 32 mpg in highway driving, and 24 mpg in city driving.

Those owners who opt for the DSG transmission can switch between full automatic operation, which requires no additional action beyond moving the gear shift lever to the “D” position, and automated manual operation, which enables the driver to control every gear change. Volkswagen Tiptronic® lets the driver shift up and down as he prefers, using either the finger-operated paddles mounted to the GTI’s steering wheel, or by tapping the gearshift selector up or down. As an added performance bonus with the DSG transmission, a Launch Control program can be enabled, which, when the car is stopped, allows the engine to build revs before the first clutch is engaged, and creates a more perfect launch with controlled wheel-spin.

Chassis and Suspension

To ensure all of the GTI’s power makes its way to the road, a fully independent, European-tuned suspension is employed at all four corners to provide drivers with the confidence they demand on even the most challenging roads and conditions. At the front, McPherson struts with lower control arms are complemented by a tubular anti-roll bar to keep the front tires planted, especially in the corners, and connect to an all-aluminum sub-frame to reduce unsprung mass. The track-stabilization steering roll radius cuts back on body roll in tight turning situations, and has a more direct steering ratio for improved driver feedback.

Keeping the car settled at the rear without sacrificing passenger comfort, a four-link independent setup with the springs and shock absorbers positioned apart from each other are matched with a separate sub-frame and another tubular anti-roll bar. The sport-tuned arrangement comes with an added benefit – increased cargo space – by allowing for a larger rear hatch opening. Helping the GTI to head into the corners with ease is an electro-mechanical power rack-and-pinion steering system. With good on-center feel, confidenceinspiring responsiveness to driver input at all positions, active-return steering, and straight-ahead driving correction assistance, the system seamlessly unites the GTI and its driver.

Bringing the GTI to a halt are vented 312mm x 25mm disc brakes at the front, and solid 286mm x 12mm disc brakes at the rear, all with red-painted calipers that can be seen through the new 17 x 7-inch alloy wheels.

Active and Passive Safety

The 2010 GTI comes with standard with a collection of safety features and enhancements, including a three channel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Anti-slip Regulation (ASR), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), Engine Braking Assist (EBA), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP®). Like all 2009 model year Volkswagens ESP comes standard on all 2010 model year vehicles, ahead of the U.S. government’s mandate that by 2012, all vehicles produced will need to have some form of Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

New for the sixth generation GTI is a standard Electronic Limited Slip system that Volkswagen has named XDS. The system electronically monitors input from various wheel sensors and, in the event of slippage, transfers extra torque to the wheel or wheels with the most traction.

Like all Volkswagens, the GTI also includes the Prevent and Preserve Safety System, consisting of 40 standard safety features. As standard equipment, the GTI includes, but is not limited to: Six airbags (dual front, dual front side thorax, and side curtains), optimized head restraints, front seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters, and three-point safety belts in all five seating positions (two front and three rear). In the four-door GTI, rear side airbags are available as an option, as are rear outboard safety belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Interior

The 2010 GTI continues its performance showcase inside the cabin, with accommodations that will delight both driver and passengers. Heavily bolstered front seats are wrapped in patterned sport fabric with red and white doublestitching throughout, come standard with eight-way manual adjustment, adjustable lumbar support and head restraints, and are heated. On two-door models, both front seats incorporate the Easy Entry System for improved access to the rear seating area. The three-spoke flat bottom steering wheel has been upgraded with an embossed center section, aluminum trim on the spokes, red stitching, and perforated leather along the top and bottom sections for better grip.

The instrument panel has also been redesigned, with chrome trim surrounding the large tachometer on the left, which incorporates a smaller, integrated engine temperature gauge as well as the matching speedometer on the right, which features an integrated fuel gauge. Standing between the black analog gauges is a multi-function onboard computer display that provides the driver with key information regarding the fuel mileage, odometer, and more. Metallic highlights continue throughout the interior, gracing the gearshift knob, the trim inserts and the pedal cluster, and brushed-metal accents add a sense of sophistication to the HVAC controls and stereo unit.

The GTI comes standard with an 8-speaker sound system with an AM/FM/Sirius™ satellite radio, touch-screen in-dash six-disc CD changer with MP3 format readability, theft deterrence, auxiliary input jack along with an iPod® adapter, and Bluetooth™ connectivity for hands-free calling with a paired mobile phone.. For increased audio fidelity and enjoyment, the 300W Dynaudio Lite premium sound system can be ordered.

The GTI’s Autobahn options package for both the two and four-door models adds top sport front seats, leather seating surfaces front and rear, and a power sunroof. Owners can also order their 2010 GTI with a touch-screen navigation system that includes a 6.5” high resolution display, integrated 30GB hard drive (10GB for navigation, 20GB for audio), WMA / MP3 audio CD playback, DVD playback, an SD memory card slot, a 3.5mm auxiliary input jack in the center console. The system provides both visual and audible commands through the center console display, as well as the digital display located in the instrument
cluster.

At the IAA, Volkswagen Individual is launching its new “Volkswagen Exclusive” product brand. In the future, it will market especially exclusive models and comprehensive special option packages for a wide variety of model series under this label. The first model to be offered in an Exclusive version, available this autumn, will be the new Golf Estate, which will cross over from an everyday-oriented all-purpose vehicle to a lifestyle estate car. Elegant Highline features for the basis for the Golf Estate Exclusive.

And here are the Exclusive ingredients: The exterior will launch with such features as a sport chassis (15 millimetre lower ride height), 17-inch alloy wheels (“Siena” in “Titan Silver”) and new Volkswagen Exclusive logos. Contact to the road will be provided by sporty, wide profile 225/45 tyres. Providing a transition to the interior are door tread plates that are also upgraded with the new logo.

The interior impresses with an extremely extensive set of special options. Along with Highline features such as automatic climate control (“Climatronic”), a panoramic sunroof and the “RCD 210” radio-CD system, they also include the following additional features from the new Exclusive program: electric lumbar support, storage drawers under the front seats, leather steering wheel, leather gearshift knob and handbrake lever, carpet floor mats in front and rear with coloured piping and door trim in leather look. The sport seats in the leather combination “Nappa / Vienna” (heated seats in front), which are also standard, may be ordered in either of the colour combinations “Sioux /Titan Black” or “Cinnamon / Titan Black.” All leather interfaces are also provided with decorative colour seams. Never before has a Golf Estate made such an elegant appearance in the showroom.

The new Golf R – like the current Passat R36 and Touareg R50 – was developed by Volkswagen Individual, the specialist when it comes to sporty and exclusive high-end models. Volkswagen Individual developed the “R-Line” equipment packages for all those customers who want the especially dynamic styling of body and interior in the spirit of the power-enhanced R models, yet prefer a conventional powertrain. The company is simultaneously presenting three models of an entirely new generation of R-Line vehicles at the IAA: the Golf R-Line, Scirocco R-Line and Passat CC R-Line. They will all be launched on the market this autumn. Together with versions already introduced on the Touran, Tiguan, Passat, Passat Estate and Touareg, a total of eight models with R-Line features will be ready at the start.

Volkswagen Individual has also repositioned its “Individual” product brand; in the future it will market products under the “Exclusive” label and bundle a range of especially high-end models and equipment features. A dual premiere: The first Exclusive model to be offered will be the brand new Golf Estate; it is crossing over from an all-purpose vehicle to a lifestyle estate car. Other models will follow in succession.

The new Golf R-Line

The R-Line version of the world’s bestseller was emphatically given a sporty flair. In configuring their new car, buyers can choose between an interior and an exterior package. The two R-Line packages may alsobe ordered together.

Exterior package: Its body appearance has been customised with 17-inch alloy wheels in a new design (“Mallory” type, 18-inch optional), sport chassis, body coloured side skirts and bumpers that have been modified compared to the normal Golf and Golf R. The exterior is completed by decorative door tread plates with R-Line logo, a roof edge spoiler (“GTI”), high-gloss black ventilation grille (radiator and lower air intake) as well as a diffuser also in glossy black. The lens covers of the taillights are also smoked. On its sides, the Golf is identified by R-Line logos (front fender at height of A-pillar).

The interior package of the R-Line program impresses with a leather multifunction steering wheel (three spokes, R-Line logo in lower spoke, multifunction keys in the two cross spokes), stainless steel pedal caps and foot support, R-Line door tread plates, sport seats (“R-Look” fabric design) with R-Line logo integrated in the head restraints and a R-Line specific interior decor. All seams are in “Art Grey”, a light tone of grey. A full leather interior (“Vienna”) will be available as an option.

The new Scirocco R-Line

The interior and exterior packages of the new Scirocco R-Line, also available together or separately, follow the configuration described for the Golf R-Line exactly. However, there are a number of differences: For example, the Scirocco is naturally driven with customised body components.

The new Passat CC R-Line

Customers ordering the Passat R-Line automatically get a specially modified exterior and interior. Outside, the R-Line’s 17-inch “Mallory” alloy wheels appear with 235/40 tyres (18-inch is optional), which cast the Passat CC in an even sportier light. Also newly designed are the front spoiler and side skirts; both are painted in body colour. Painted in glossy black, on the other hand, is the exterior radiator grille with its two chrome-plated louvres. The taillights are smoked.

In the Passat CC R-Line interior, standard features include details such as four special door tread plates (front plates have R-Line logo) and a leather three-spoke steering wheel with multifunction keys and R-Line logo. Considering that even the base version of the Passat CC already includes convenience features such as sport seats and a climate control system, the Passat R-Line is unlikely to leave any wishes unfulfilled.

Volkswagen is presenting a pioneering fleet of new sustainable automobiles at the 63rd International Motor Show (IAA) – an update on the future. The range of IAA premieres extends from the world’s most fuel-efficient production passenger car (BlueMotion) to hybrid technology and an electric car developed from the ground up – the E-Up! that is being presented in a world premiere in Frankfurt.

Plain text – E-Motor plus TDI and TSI shape the future

Altogether, these Volkswagens are revising milestones on the timeline between present and future. “One of the basic milestones on this timeline,” says Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Group, “is the mass produced electric car. Yet, to be a genuine success such an electric car must be affordable to a broad customer base and must be uncompromisingly practical in every day driving. Only then, in high volumes, and ideally on all continents, can one truly speak of the beginning of the electric age in automobiles and a perceptible reduction of their environ mental impact.” The Group chief continues: “Nonetheless, until the production numbers of a purely electric car approach the success curve of a Polo, its schedule will indicate the year 2020 at the earliest. That is why our highly efficient TDI and TSI engines are the most important waypoints of the present. They will continue to be a dominant force for decades.

And they are what allow us to make the step-by-step transition to the future. Cars with pure petrol and diesel engines – which in the fore – see able future will continue be unbeatable for mid- to long-range distances – will be supplemented by cars like the E-Up! in upcoming years, especially in the city. And that will happen starting in 2013.

The concept car now being presented in Frankfurt very realistically shows how we envision such a Volkswagen with pure electric drive – technically, visually and with regard to a practical size.” The zero-emissions concept car designed under the leadership of Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management, Volkswagen Brand, and Head of the Development business area, is based on modules of the New Small Family anticipated in the year 2011, but at a length of 3.19 meters it is even more compact. It also offers an innovative 3+1 seating concept. In its styling, the powerful and clearly drawn lines of the E-Up! body follow the new Volkswagen “design DNA” par excellence and show cult potential. That is because never before has an ultra-compact vehicle – which does not aim to be retro but forges new paths instead – brought such appealing, timeless, class-inde pendent and dynamic qualities to light. Inside, the smallest Volkswagen ever also astonishes with its impressive space utilisation.

Drive unit – battery and integral drive

The 135 km/h fast 3+1 seater is driven by an electric motor with a peak power output of 60 kW (continuous power: 40 kW). The motor of the front-wheel drive car, which is mounted in front, develops a maximum torque of 210 Newton-meters right from rest. The driver activates forward or reverse gear via a rotary knob in the centre console. The fact that the E-Up! will also quite clearly offer driving enjoyment is demonstrated by a look at the car’s classic 0 to 100-km/h sprint time: 11.3 seconds. The E-Up! develops even greater responsiveness in the intermediate sprint from 0 to 50 km/h in city driving: 3.5 seconds. This dynamic performance is based first on the electric motor’s excellent torque characteristic and second on the low kerb weight of the E-Up!, which is just 1,085 kilograms.

Lithium-ion battery: The car’s low weight is quite astounding, given the fact that 240 kilograms are taken up by the lithium-ion battery. The implemented battery’s energy capacity of 18 kilowatt-hours (kWh) enables driving distances of up to 130 kilometres, depending on driving style – enough for the city and the drives of most commuters. The E-Up! will be “refueled” in the garage at home, in a parking structure or on the road at one of the future municipal recharging stations that will be enabled by chip card. Depending on the available charging infrastructure and the battery’s momentary charge state, the storage battery could be charged to up to 80 percent of its total capacity within an hour.

If the batteries are recharged in a home garage, for example, by plugging it into a 230-Volt household outlet, this would take a maximum of five hours. Generally, off-peak night-time electric rates are very in expensive. So refueled at night the E-Up! could be driven 100 kilometres for just two Euros in electricity costs (about 14 Euro cents / kWh). The batteries themselves are housed in the underbody of the E-Up! To optimally distribute the weight of the battery system, it is housed in a special, crash-protected tray in the underbody frame. Air cooling ensures a constant heat balance within the batteries. The fans and heat exchangers needed for this are housed in the front section of the underbody.

Integral drive: The teams of Concept Development (headed by Ralf- Gerhard Willner) and Engine Development (headed by Dr. Jens Hadler) integrated all important drive assemblies and auxiliary assemblies in the engine compartment at the front end. The design of an integrated form of the electric drive made a key contribution toward reducing weight and space requirements for the drive unit. Background: All com ponents important to the powertrain are unified in compact form in the so-called integral drive. In this unit, the electric motor, together with the transmission and differential, form the centrepiece of this drive.

Energy is supplied via a high-power pulse-control inverter, which is combined with the 12-Volt electrical system DC/DC converter and the charger to form the compact integral drive. At 140 kilograms, the integral drive is also very lightweight. To summarise its advantages: low space requirement, ideal acoustic comfort, high torque and power development and strong driving performance in the city. So the system fulfils the requirements of an innovative electric drive in a nearly ideal way.

Styling – the Beetle of the 21st Century

The E-Up! emphatically demonstrates that emission-free Volkswagens will be anything but lacking in emotion. Responsible for this, once again, is the team led by Group Chief Designer Walter de Silva. Together with Klaus Bischoff (Chief Designer, Volkswagen Brand) and Flavio Manzoni (Head of Creative Design, Volkswagen Group), he developed a
layout for the E-Up! that reflects the visual bandwidth of the future New Small Family. The E-Up! bears a resemblance to previously presented concept vehicles of this new model series – the Up! (city specialist), Space-Up! (microvan) and Space-Up Blue! (fuel cell powered van) – it represents a design stage that reflects the future production car
even more closely.

“The E-Up!”, says Klaus Bischoff, “is characterised by a reduced, very clear and yet highly emotional design.” And that is certainly no coincidence. The car’s lines consistently follow Volkswagen’s new era “design DNA” that was developed by de Silva, Bischoff and Manzoni. Its key stylistic traits: Simplicity, purity, durability and perfection of its technologies and quality. Bischoff: “The new concept is therefore very much in harmony with its stylistic ‘siblings’ of the New Small Family, the Roadster BlueSport and the new Polo.” Dimensions of the E-Up! are 3.19 meters (length) x 1.64 meters (width) x 1.47 meters (height). Its wheelbase is 2.19 meters.

Front end: Although E-Up! styling was developed from the Up!, the electric car differs from conventionally powered models in the new model series. Consider the front end: It fits in perfectly with the brand’s new family face, yet at the same time it refers back to one of the greatest icons in automotive history in the area of the engine bonnet: the Beetle. Nonetheless, the E-Up! does not reveal the slightest hint of retro styling; instead, designers created new and unmistakable styling tools that would carry the small Volkswagen far into the future.

Fitting in with this image are the headlights with their facet-like lenses – cut like diamonds – that extend over the entire width of the lens cover. Another interesting detail: the fog lights. At first glance they can hardly be recognised as such. The designers have configured them as C-shaped, chrome-trimmed elements in the headlight housings. Also style-defining is the black line running in a circular pattern in the bumper – a typical characteristic of the New Small Family. “In the interplay of all elements, the bumper, headlights and engine bonnet,” explains Klaus Bischoff, “the E-Up! really appears to smile. And that is how it should be.” Conspicuous: There are hardly any openings at the front end, since there is no need for separate cooling of the drive unit.

The VW logo on the V-shaped engine bonnet of the E-Up! is more than just an homage to the Beetle. Hidden behind the folding logo is the integrated port for charging the batteries. The advantage of positioning the plug port here is that it makes it easier to recharge the E-Up! from stations on either the left or right sides of the street or directly in front of the car.

Side profile: “In keeping with Volkswagen’s “design DNA” the side sections also exhibit a high level of stylistic purity, following the Bauhaus principle created in the 1920s in Germany that ‘less is more’,” says Flavio Manzoni. This car’s visual identity is very intentionally created by just a few graphic elements that blend together to form a new unit in the classic Bauhaus approach to creative art and innovative technology. These defining elements of the E-Up! side profile include its side glass and shoulder styling line above the door handles known as the tornado line. The side profile styling is further defined by the car’s short body overhangs, the confident outward shaping of the wheel housings and unique C-pillar. Flavio Manzoni explains the special presence of the C-pillar: “Visually, the vertically aligned C-pillar is positioned above the rear wheel, which conveys a feeling of balance and solidity. These properties are indispensable for a Volkswagen. Last but not least, the prominent and powerful wheel styling gives the car a
perfect ‘demeanour’”.

Rear end: The basic graphic forms of the tailgate and rear bumper follow those of the very first Up! However, the once again completely glazed tailgate now exhibits significantly larger taillights in dark smoked glass look. Running through the taillights is a line trimmed in chrome that extends across the tailgate. The circular chrome line unites the two taillights in a vertical direction. These accents are also reflected in the matching graphic element of the front and rear bumpers.

Solar roof: The roof of the E-Up! is equipped with solar cells over an area measuring 1.4 square meters. This area – between the rear part of the roof edge spoiler and the front windscreen – can be enlarged to 1.7 square meters in total by folding down the sun visors that are also equipped with solar cells. The solar cells continuously supply energy to the car’s electrical system, and while the vehicle is parked they help to cool the interior by supplying energy to the car’s ventilation system.

Interior I – Instruments and controls

Flavio Manzoni: “The interior was designed in complete harmony with the car’s exterior styling, and it exhibits a similar aesthetic with a technical- purist influence.” To improve the electric car’s energy economy by avoiding unnecessary loads, actuators such as mirror adjustment and window lifts were designed to be manually operated. Nonetheless, the highly innovative E-Up! makes its appearance with an impressive array of future generation high-tech displays and controls. They are all quite self-explanatory, and the car’s controls are intuitive, making driving and life with this Volkswagen as simple and stress-free as possible.

HMI: The concept car has a touch-screen based HMI (Human Machine Interface) with intelligent E-Up! specific indicators and assistance functions. During navigation, the system continually monitors the momentary load state of the batteries, for example, as well as activated energy consumers such as lights and air conditioner, momentary traffic data, elevation profiles of potential routes and the locations of available charging stations. The driver can display these “filling stations” at any time; available charging stations may be reserved within a defined reservation time period.

The charging process can also be precisely planned to the minute via the HMI. This lets users charge the E-Up! during a specific time period in which electricity is available at special low rates. The charging process can be activated at any time via an intuitively operated application installed on an iPhone or similar mobile device, even from outside of the vehicle. Even more: From the application users can query the momentary charge status and vehicle location (the latter via map display) or simply check whether the car is locked. Moreover, to preserve vehicle battery power the program lets users pre-condition the E-Up! interior. This involves cooling or heating the car’s interior as long as the car is still connected to the charging station and is drawing its electrical power from the electrical grid.

Interior II – 3 + 1 seating concept

The generous space implemented over a total vehicle area of just 5.1 square meters is absolutely astounding. Several factors are responsible for this clever packaging. First, there is the reduced size of the instrument panel, which was shifted further forward than usual toward the engine compartment. This was enabled, among other things, by optimising the components within the instrument panel.

Second, the small Volkswagen is a 3+1 seater. This means that the front passenger seat is located 50 millimetres forward, thanks to the instruments being shifted further forward. This layout increases leg room in the rear behind the front passenger tremendously. As a result, two adults can sit comfortably on the passenger’s side. Stepping into the vehicle is also simplified by an Easy-Entry feature, which allows the front passenger’s seat to be pushed up to 270 millimetres away from the rear bench. There is less leg room behind the “normally” positioned driver’s seat; the space here was designed as a spare seat.

Additional freedom of movement is provided to rear passengers by lowering the centre tunnel in front of the rear bench seat; it serves as an additional footrest. This enables use of an electric handbrake in the style of the Passat, so that no lever mechanism obstructs the footwell.

Cargo area: The clever packaging solutions do not end there: To opti mise comfort in the rear, the rear seat backrest is split 40/60. When the backrest on the driver’s seat is folded down (40 percent section), stowage capacity is increased from 85 to 180 litres (with loading to the upper edge of the front seat backrest). This stowage space can be enclosed by a load barrier that folds down out from the folded backrest. When the entire rear seating backrest is folded down, a stowage capacity of 320 litres is created. It is even 520 litres when loaded to the roofliner. To transport long objects, the front passenger’s backrest can also be folded to a pass-through position. In this configuration, the E-Up! can handle objects up to two metres in length.

This high degree of variability will also certainly characterise the affordable production version of an Up! powered by an electric motor. That is because electric cars, as Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn insists and therefore wrote into the specification for this future Volkswagen, must be truly affordable and offer uncompromising everyday practicality.

Micro-mobility in the city – made by Volkswagen

Volkswagen is comprehensively addressing implementation of this everyday practicality. These efforts not only encompass the vehicle itself, but the entire environment around the car driver. In the city, for example, this includes the realisation that after parking the E-Up! people will want to cover shorter distances without a car – from the job to lunch, to the fitness studio, another meeting, whatever is on the day’s schedule. For these shorter trips, the Volkswagen “Micro-mobility in the city” concept team has invented clever zero-emission microvehicles.

The Kickstep, for example, which is an ultra-compact folding scooter. And the electrically powered Microbully, a scooter that also fits easily in the E-Up! load space. There is also the ped-tric, a folding bike with electric motors built into the wheel hubs that could also make the trip to the city aboard the E-Up! And even the VW_1M, a large electric moped – the size of a carry-on case when not in use – that could be stowed in the E-Up! without even needing to fold down the rear bench seat. Such micro-mobility solutions were created at the Volkswagen Design Center in Potsdam. So the E-Up! will be putting many things into motion. In 2013 this will become a reality for the first time.

Technological breakthrough for the 1-litre fuel consumption car: International Motor Show (IAA), Volkswagen is presenting the concept of the future L1 in a world premiere that points the way toward the production version. The full hybrid vehicle weighs just 380 kilograms thanks to its carbon-fibre reinforced body (CFRB). With a combined fuel consumption figure of 1.38 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, this extremely aerodynamic (Cd 0.195!) Volkswagen suitable for everyday use is intended to become the most fuel-efficient automobile in the world. CO2 emissions of the 160 km/h L1 are similarly low at 36 g/km.

Retrospective: Seven years ago, Dr. Ferdinand Piëch, at that time Chairman of the Board of Management and today Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Volkswagen Group, drove a prototype from Wolfsburg to Hamburg that was unlike any other car before it: the Volkswagen 1-Litre car – the world’s first car with fuel consumption of one litre fuel per 100 kilometres. The man and machine wrote automotive history. In April 2002, however, it was also clear that the time for a production version of the 1-Litre car lay far in the future. Production of the body itself – from carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) – was not realistic due to cost considerations. Yet, in 2002 Dr. Ferdinand Piëch already prophesised that the time would soon come for the 1-Litre car and CFRP as a material for industrial applications. By 2009 the time had come: Volkswagen is making a clear statement at the IAA in Frankfurt (September 17 to 27) with the second generation of this ingenious car: The L1 represents a step forward into the future with completely new technology and a new design; revolutionary yet close to production readiness.

“It is an enormous challenge to control costs in producing the monocoque out of CFRP,” says Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, member of the Board of Management for the Volkswagen Brand with responsibility for development. Both technically and visually, the CFRP body is already considered a significant achievement in car design. Unique on this car are the proportions of its dimensions. While the length of the L1 at 3,813 millimetres is still similar to that of a Volkswagen Fox, and its height of 1,143 millimetres nearly matches that of a Lamborghini Murciélago, the car’s aerodynamically optimised width (1,200 millimetres) has no comparisons in the world of today’s production cars.

L1 philosophy – defining a new type of automobile In developing both prototype generations of the L1, Volkswagen simply questioned everything that typically characterised an automobile. The key starting point was body construction, and a core question was raised here: How would a car have to look and be built to consume as little energy as possible? The logical answer: extremely aerodynamic and lightweight. Yet these objectives had to be achieved under a nonnegotiable precondition: a maximum of safety. The approach taken: a narrow two-seater with a CFRP body!

The seat layout fitting this design goal was dictated by the uncompromising aerodynamic form of a glider: One seat behind the other. Entry to the concept car is also similar to that of a glider; through a roof cover hinged at the side. On this second generation of the L1, the concept has been further honed; each component has been redesigned, a special chassis with aluminium components was developed, and above all the crucial CFRP technology from Formula-1 racing and airplane construction was transferred to automotive manufacturing. This has been combined with a unique form of hybrid drive to create a near-production vehicle. 2013 is the target year for this future dream to become a reality.

L1 Drive

The TDI, E-motor and 7-speed DSG are located at the rear, and they combine to create the most fuel efficient road-legal car hybrid drive in the world. Proof of this are its 1.38 litre per 100 kilometres fuel consumption and 36 g/km CO2 emissions. Serving as the primary drive source is a completely re developed two-cylinder turbo-diesel with common rail direct injection (TDI). It is operated in two different modes depending on the load conditions. In the standard “ECO” mode, the 800 cm3 TDI develops a power of 20 kW/ 27 PS (at 4,000 rpm); in “Sport” mode – used to reach top speed, for example – the car’s power rises to 29 kW/ 39 PS (at 4,000 rpm). The TDI’s maximum torque is 100 Newton-meter (at 1,900 rpm). Naturally, the L1 also has a Stop-Start system that automatically shuts down the engine when vehicle has stopped and restarts when the accelerator or E-pedal is pressed.

The hybrid module has been integrated into the housing of the 7-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox). It is located between the TDI engine and the DSG gearbox and consists of a 10 kW / 14 PS electric motor and a clutch. The E-motor is supplied with energy from a lithium-ion battery located at the front of the car. An electronic power control module, operating at around. 130 Volts manages the flow of high voltage energy the battery and to the E-motor. In parallel, the vehicle’s low voltage electrical system is supplied with the necessary 12 Volts through a DC/DC converter.

Electric motor – details of the E-motor

In normal operation the electric motor can support the TDI engine in conditions such as by electronic load point shifting and in acceleration.

If necessary – generally during acceleration – the E-motor can supply 40 percent additional torque over the entire speed engine speed range. Moreover, the E-motor can propel the L1 over short distances by itself. In this case, an auxiliary clutch decouples the TDI from the drivetrain. Restarting the TDI is a very easy process. In so-called “pulse starting” of the TDI, the electric motor is sped up and is then coupled to the TDI unit to provide almost instant starting. The entire process takes place automatically and without jolts, so the driver hardly notices the re starting of the TDI engine.

In braking phases, the E-motor operates as a generator to charge the lithium-ion battery by recovering braking energy. The gears of the auto mati cally shifting DSG are always selected with the aim of achieving the best possible fuel economy. The engine controller regulates all energy flow and drive management tasks taking into account the moment by moment demands for power made by the driver. Some of the parameters used to calculate the optimum propulsion mode for the given conditions are: accelerator pedal position, engine load, momentary fuel demand, energy supply and the mix of kinetic and electrical energy at any given time.

Diesel engine – details of the 0.8 TDI

The TDI engine in the L1 is a new development. Yet, even here Volkswagen has been able to exploit synergies to design an engine that is both innovative and cost-effective. Hence, this 0.8 litre TDI unit has been derived from the 1.6 TDI just introduced a few months ago. The 1.6 TDI is making its debut at the IAA in cars such as the new version
of the Golf BlueMotion (3.8 l/100 km) and the Passat BlueMotion (4.4 l/100 km) – which are currently the world’s most fuel-efficient production cars in their respective classes.

Based on their common origins, the 0.8 TDI and 1.6 TDI have identical cylinder spacing (88 millimetres), bore (79.5 millimetres) and stroke (80.5 millimetres). These high-tech TDI engines also share key internal engine features for reducing emissions. They include special piston crowns, multi-injection and individual orientations of the specific injection jets. On both drivetrains there is exhaust gas recirculation, an oxidation catalytic converter and a diesel particulate filter. Equipped this way, the TDIs in each Volkswagen fulfil the limits of the Euro-5 emissions standard with ease.

The 1.6 TDI, thanks to its common rail injection, is also an exceptionally quiet and low-vibration diesel engine. These positive properties have been successfully transferred to the two-cylinder unit. The TDI’s aluminium crankcase was also constructed with high precision to achieve very low friction losses. The oil pump, designed to operate at a maximum oil pressure of 4.0 bar, also contributes to engine efficiency.

Another example of how the entire drive system is configured for high efficiency is the L1’s cooling system. Its external water pump is controlled by engine management so that cooling is only activated while engine operating conditions require it. This thermal management also contributes to reduced fuel consumption. A second electric water pump, also activated only when needed, provides cooling required for the starter generator and the power electronics in a separate water circulation loop operating at a lower temperature level.

Automatic transmission – details of the 7-speed DSG

Gear shifting work aboard the L1 is handled by the 7-speed DSG, which is one of the most innovative automatic transmissions in production. Compared to the version equipping the new Polo, for example, the design of the Direct Shift Gearbox has been developed to include clutch control for the hybrid module. Furthermore, individual gear ratios have
been optimised to attain responsive driving performance despite the car’s extremely low fuel consumption. The hybrid module is integrated into the DSG housing as previously mentioned. It is located where the flywheel is usually to be found.

Driving performance – economical and yet responsive

The L1, equipped with ABS and ESP, has a top speed of up to 160 km/h – this is remarkable considering its fuel efficiency. With maximum acceleration from a standstill, the two-seater reaches 100 km/h after just 14.3 seconds. The fuel tank holds just ten litres yet, this is sufficient for a theoretical driving range of about 670 kilometres, given the car’s 1.38 litre average fuel consumption.

L1 Interior

Talking about car driving as ‘piloting’ might sound out of place, but in the case of the L1 it is wholly appropriate. The driver (in the CFRP tube frame seat) and passenger (in the fixed CFRP seat that is part of the monocoque) sit one behind the other. At both locations, the seat position is ergonomical and very comfortable. All instruments and controls are arranged over a 180 degree radius for the driver, which places them perfectly within view and reach. The instrument panel itself has been integrated into the monocoque and is made of CFRP. The interior applications are produced from glass fibre reinforced plastic (GFRP).

To start the L1, the driver pushes a button on the right side of the steering wheel. When it is rotated, the round start button simul taneously serves as a gear selector switch and is used to activate the electronic handbrake (Drive, Neutral, Reverse and Park). The entry canopy and rear hatch are opened electrically by touch controls to the left and right of the driver. Also designed as touch sensors are controls for the entire air conditioning control system. Via multifunctional keys in the steering wheel, the driver controls the on-board computer, navigation and entertainment systems.

The classic door mirror and rear-view mirror have been completely eliminated on the L1. In their place, cameras display images on OLEDactive (OLED = organic light emitting diode) displays located on the left and right sides of the instrument panel. A Park Distance Control (PDC) system makes parking easier as well.

In case of a crash, not only are the driver and passenger protected by the monocoque, which is designed as a highly rigid CFRP safety cell, as well as aluminium crash elements in the front of the car, but also by a steering wheel airbag and head/side curtain airbags to the left and right inside the entry canopy.

L1 Body

Both technically and visually, the CFRP body is already a significant achievement in car design. Unique on this car: the proportions of its dimensions. While the length of the L1 at 3,813 millimetres is still similar to that of a Volkswagen Fox, and its height of 1,143 millimetres nearly matches that of a Lamborghini Murciélago, the car’s aerodynamically optimised width (1,200 millimetres) has no comparisons in the world of today’s production cars.

CFRP body – Monocoque and exterior skin

The two-seat monocoque, including the tubular frame driver’s seat and passenger seat as well as the exterior body skin, all consist of CFRP. There are no doors. Instead, the driver and passenger climb into the L1 from the top. An electrically actuated entry canopy above the seats is opened and closed for this purpose. Headlights and taillights all utilize LED technology, which consume a lot less energy. The rear wheels are completely covered; their wheel covers can be removed to change the Michelin low resistance tires (“Energy Saver”: front 95/60 R16, rear 115/70 R16). The underbody is also completely enclosed. The 0.8 TDI is cooled via adaptive air channels integrated in the sides of the car body. These automatically open and close based on the hybrid unit’s operating state and vehicle speed. The tailgate is opened in the usual, manual way. It too consists of CFRP. Inside is a stowage space of 50 litres.

CFRP advantages – composition and weight

Carbon fibre reinforced plastic, as the name implies, consists of multiple layers of high-strength carbon fibres, which are integrated in a very tough matrix. This mix results in an extremely strong and lightweight composite material. Until now, producing a body like that of the L1 from CFRP, while conforming to industrial standards, was an insurmountable task. Up to now CFRP was only practical for very small production runs, as in aircraft manufacturing or motorsport. Now Volkswagen has succeeded in finding a production-viable and costeffective way to produce CFRP parts in suitable volumes.

The reason that CFRP is the ideal material for the L1 body is demonstrated by considering its weight and strength. The L1 weighs just 380 kilograms, which is equivalent to the weight of a very high-end, fully equipped touring motorcycle of the 1200-cc class. The L1, on the other hand, is an automobile through and through. Of the 380 kilograms curb weight, 122 kilograms are taken by the drivetrain, 79 kilograms by the chassis, 35 kilograms by interior furnishings and 20 kilograms by the electrical system. 124 kilograms remain, and this is precisely the weight of the body.

These 124 kilograms can be further broken down: 64 kilograms are accounted for by the CFRP monocoque including integrated passenger seat, 28 kilograms is the weight of the entire CFRP exterior skin, 19 kilograms for the CFRP entry canopy, 9 kilograms for the CFRP driver’s seat and 4 kilograms for the LED lights. By way of comparison: The body of the legendary Lupo 3L – until today the smallest Volkswagen production car ever built – weighed 306 kilograms, and the entire car weighed a lightweight 813 kilograms. That is 433 kilograms more than the L1.

And there are other advantages: the material’s extremely high stress limits and its ideal forming properties for even the most challenging of design features.

Design – anything but typical, yet a typical Volkswagen

The design and styling of the L1 – function and form – combine to form one uncompromising unit. Walter de Silva, Head of Design for the Volkswagen Group has this to say: “The design of the L1 redefines classic and aesthetic vehicle traits. Especially significant, of course, is how the nearly rocket-shaped lines catch one’s attention. All of its moving parts are integrated so accurately that the body resembles a rocket or jet. It is a body that cuts through the air with minimal aerodynamic resistance.” A top Cd value of 0.195 and 1.02 m2 frontal area (Cd x A = 0.199 m2) is a statement that is sculpted into the CFRP.

And this is how it looks, the most aerodynamic front end in the world: “The typical layout of conventional headlights with a radiator grille in the middle would be entirely inappropriate here,” says de Silva. “That is why we chose a more minimalistic layout and integrated the headlights into a neutral horizontal stripe that conveys a far-sighted and contemporary feeling.” The Head of Group Design continues: “In a sense, we applied the same principle to the front end of the Scirocco, where the headlights are joined by a glossy black stripe, and the brand logo is also placed on the engine bonnet. This underscores the dynamic character of this automobile.”

The extremely aerodynamic design also shapes the rear with its diffuser and wheels that are completely enclosed. The most distinctive feature of the overall appearance in the rear are the LED taillights that were worked into the TDI’s air outlet ports. De Silva: “The same stylistic features as in front are repeated in the rear, in the taillights – which we have integrated in the grilles of the two air outlet ports; they have an even more aerodynamic appearance. Another identifying feature is the air outlet directly behind the cockpit – a nearly abstract, graphic element that underscores the purposeful aesthetics of this vehicle.” Due to the driver’s low seating position, there is an additional window in the roof that is ideal, for example, to view traffic lights

A BlueMotion version of the Touareg is now available to order, offering improved fuel efficiency and emissions of 219 g/km, well below the tax threshold of less than 225 g/km. Prices for the most efficient version of Volkswagen’s luxury off-road vehicle start at £34,150 on the road RRP for the entry level model and rise to £37,545 for the SE.

The Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion is fitted with a more efficient version of the standard car’s 3.0-litre V6 TDI common rail diesel engine which develops 225 PS and 550 Nm of torque, and drives through a six-speed automatic tiptronic gearbox. As with all models in the Volkswagen range wearing the BlueMotion badge, a number of modifications have been made to improve efficiency. Changes include revised aerodynamics, an optimised engine including a more efficient alternator, low rolling resistance tires and a ride height lowered by 25 mm to reduce drag.

Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion also features a regenerative braking system which is used to charge the battery while the vehicle is in motion, reducing the workload of the engine and cutting fuel consumption further. All of these revisions help the Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion to achieve 34.0 mpg on the combined cycle (down from 30.4 mpg), and CO2 emissions are cut to just 219 g/km, down from 244 g/km, making it one of the only non-hybrid vehicles in its class to drop below the 225 g/km barrier.

The reduced emissions of the Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion mean that it qualifies for band K road tax at £215 a year, saving £190 over the standard Touareg 3.0-litre V6 TDI 240 PS. With the addition of improved fuel economy, making savings of two pence per mile, or £10.99 per tank, the Touareg BlueMotion can save the average driver around £400 a year.

Despite these modifications and significant gains in efficiency, the performance figures for the Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion are only slightly affected with a 0 to 62 mph time of 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 126 mph.

Equipment levels on both trim levels, BlueMotion and BlueMotion SE, remain high with cruise control, a leather multifunction steering wheel and newly designed 17-inch ‘Makalu’ alloy wheels fitted as standard on BlueMotion models. BlueMotion SE offers increased levels of comfort and equipment with the addition of 2Zone electronic climate control, touchscreen satellite navigation, heated front seats, ‘Cricket’ leather upholstery, Walnut wood interior trim and 18-inch ‘Valley’ alloys.

As with all models in the Touareg range, the advanced 4XMOTION all-wheel-drive system linked to an Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), hill start and descent assist, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) and six airbags are all fitted as standard.

Exterior impression:

Volkswagen decided not to expose their alternatively fueled Jetta with large stickers or gaudy emblems, instead our TDI appears to be the same as any other MKV platform Volkswagen with room for five and a trunk, there is no difference between our Reflex Silver Metallic Jetta TDI and the other compact four door sedan from VW. Aside from the attractive 16 inch rims, the only thing that gives this green car away is the TDI badge on the trunk. We especially like the blue “I”, a hint at the German automaker’s cleaner future with cars like the Blue Sport Roadster.

The headlights are round and friendly, the car is proportionately sized, the large chrome treatment in the grill is nice but it’s a shame that Volkswagen has decided not to differentiate the front ends of the Golf and Jetta like they used to, that always made for some pretty cool looking GTIs with square headlights. Not that there is anything wrong with the exterior of the TDI. The magic of the TDI comes under the hood and at the pump, although it would be nice for VW to play up the color blue a little bit more, perhaps on the lips of the rims or on the grille, just something subtle to differentiate the car from the rest of the VW lineup. One thing is for certain, if you like the looks of the Jetta, you would have no problem, with the TDI.

Interior impression:

The inside of the Jetta TDI is just what you would expect from the German automotive giant, the interior was comfortable, with a well laid out instrument cluster and center stack that not only looked good, but was very user friendly as well. The seats were nice, wrapped in black V-Tex leatherette, a durable, attractive and a very good leather substitute. The material is more breathable than leather, but not as much as a cloth covered seat would, and isn’t as cushy or grippy as the woven material. However a few important pieces like the multi-function steering wheel and hand brake lever are covered in the real thing.

The radio was top notch, it stored up to 6 CDs that can also play MP3 burned discs as well as through the auxiliary input jack. The tuner can pick up AM/FM and Sirius satellite radio signals, which were all easily found thanks to the intuitive, well placed dials and user friendly layout. The only problem we found with our Jetta TDI is that Volkswagen continues to use the same vinyl coating for items like the window switches that are found to have peeled back exposing the plastic underneath in many used cars. There was also a plastic screen in the middle of the dash that had already started to lift at the corners, possibly a byproduct of the car’s tight suspension.

The drive:

Surprisingly the suspension on our Jetta was stiff, and made he car feel more like a sports car than something you should be getting a tax credit for driving. This is only a likely side effect of having TDI emblems stuck to the side of the Volkswagen Group’s Le Mans winning endurance race cars. VW must see diesel differently than the rest of the world, where we here in the U.S. see dirty pollutants, in Germany the turbo diesel trend is the next best thing in the high performance market.

Our car cam equipped with a DSG intelligent gearbox, however when paired with the 140 HP 2.0 Liter TDI power plant, the combination takes some getting used to, especially when attempting to pass on the highway. When you pull out and mash the gas, the TDI falls flat on its face before finding a lower gear and pushing through its limited RPM range. We found ourselves having to apply a substantial amount of pressure to the accelerator in order to get the Jetta to move with decent vigor. However while driving on city streets the power train combination tells a different story, we found ourselves feathering the throttle, because if we were not delicate our heads would unexpectedly be thrown back into the headrest from the diesel’s outstanding 236 lb-ft of torque when attempting to inch forward in traffic.

From the driver’s seat, the Jetta TDI carries none of the traits of traditional oil burners. The only time you will know that you are behind the wheel of a diesel is the split second that you creep away from a stop, this is the only time that the insulation underneath the engine cover doesn’t muffle the clacking of the compression ignited alternatively fueled power plant that gets a hybrid-like EPA estimated 29 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway.

Why to buy?

If you are a father, looking for a safe reliable ride for your daughter and have the foresight to think ahead about maintenance and fuel costs, the Jetta TDI is for you. The diesel power plant has less moving parts, which means less to go wrong and fewer potential problem areas. Despite the exorbitant cost of diesel fuel in the U.S. it is still a more economical option over gasoline based on the alternative fuel’s increased range characteristics.

If you want to fly under the green car radar in a green car, and still feel like you can have fun in the twisties, take the TDI over a mountain pass, you’ll fall in love.

This is also the car to buy if you want to compete in the Jetta TDI Cup, a one make green racing series for the diesel powered Volkswagen.

Why not to buy?

If you are still hesitant about diesel power, whether it is due to the selective supply, inflated price or just because it is different; but still want to save some money at the pump and show off how green you are to your friends, you should look at a hybrid. The Toyota Prius is a great option and will instantaneously earn you street credit as a hyper miler or you can look at the more affordable Insight from Honda; although neither of these options offer the same traditional styling as our Jetta TDI.

If you want a Jetta because you are looking for the traditionally affordable four door VW think again, this one will probably be a little too uncomfortable. The suspension is set up more like the hot hatch GTI, stiffly sprung and slightly harsh, good for carrying speed through turns but not so great for going over speed bumps in the mall parking lot.

Top Speed Final Verdict:

The Jetta TDI experience is surprisingly different than what you would expect from looking at the car from the outside. This four door VW has been infused with the spirit of a GTI and the soul of a green vehicle. Our Jetta TDI took a little getting used to, but once we figured it out, we liked what we were driving, especially when it came time for a fill up, something that never happened. We enjoy the sporty ride, but question whether this is what American new car buyers are looking for from the familiar four door Jetta.

Our TDI was able to throw you back in the seat with it’s 236 lb-ft of torque, which can be easily boosted with some computer software. This Jetta has more speed under the hood than you would ever expect from your sister’s car. One of the interesting things about our Jetta TDI was the needle on the tachometer; it moves around more like a tire pressure gauge than something connected to a traditional internal combustion engine, we aren’t sure whether this is attributable to the diesel engine or the double clutch transmission.

Either way it didn’t bother us too much, our only recommendation would be to test drive a manual version as well to see what you prefer. By the way, the Jetta’s 2.0 Liter turbocharged engine is the only diesel on the road today that meets the strict European CO2 emissions regulations without the help of a urea additive, like AddBLUE. Now that’s green.

The new Volkswagen pickup is called Amarok. In Autumn 2009, the first pickup by a European volume manufacturer in South America is to be unveiled. The South American launch is set for Spring 2010, with the Amarok coming to Europe in the summer. With the Amarok, Volkswagen is seeking to enter global pickup markets dominated for the most part by Japanese manufacturers. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles already presented an impressive concept truck at last year’s IAA Commercial Vehicles, providing a taste of the brand’s new fourth model. The Amarok will be produced in Argentina at Volkswagen’s “Pacheco” plant near Buenos Aires.

The name Amarok comes from the language of the Inuit, who live in northern Canada and Greenland, and means wolf. The Inuit, one of the Eskimo peoples, regard the wolf as the king of the wilderness, an impressive figure due its strength, robustness, endurance and superiority.

This name also means “he loves stones” in the Romance languages, which are spoken in the major markets in Brazil and Argentina. In these markets, pickups are highly in demand as recreational and commercial vehicles due to their versatility. The Amarok’s reliability and suitability for off-road driving will make it a very attractive proposition.

“This name fits to a tee the characteristics of our pickup, which will set new standards in its class. We took great care selecting this name, which can be used globally. The Amarok is meant to invoke positive associations in all relevant international markets and make a more convincing argument than its established competitors right from the start,” says Stephan Schaller, CEO of the brand Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

The Amarok is the first pickup of this kind from a European manufacturer and will face competition in the one-tonne class mostly from Asia. The sixth model from the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand, which follows the Caddy, Transporter (or Multivan) and Crafter as well as the Saveiro and T2, both of which are available exclusively in South America, is a significant component in the Volkswagen Group’s growth strategy and opens a new segment for Volkswagen. Schaller comments, “The Amarok lifts our brand into a new, even more international dimension. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is proud to develop, build and sell this vehicle, which is extremely important for the growth of the entire Group and constitutes a logical strategic addition to the global range.”

Developed from scratch, the Amarok will be launched as a double-cab pickup with four-wheel drive. The single-cab version will be available at a later date. The pickup features not only state-of-the-art, robust engineering but also efficient engines and current Volkswagen styling. The concept car shown at the IAA gives a first impression. State-of-the-art, powerful yet efficient common rail turbo diesel injection (TDI) of the next generation will be used in the powertrain. The fuel consumption and emissions for the Amarok will achieve the new best values for the pickup segment.

The Amarok is set be launched first in South America and Central America in Spring 2010, followed by Russia and Europe as well as Africa and Australia.

The new performance diesel variant of the Scirocco GT equipped with a 2.0-litre TDI 170PS engine is now available to order. Combining effortless acceleration, made possible by 258 lbs ft of torque delivered from 1,750 rpm, and the ability to return 53.3 mpg on the combined cycle, the new model mixes style, economy and sharp dynamics.

The refined and powerful 2.0-litre common rail TDI engine develops 170 PS at 4,200 rpm and is available linked to either a six-speed manual or six-speed DSG gearbox. Both gearboxes accelerate the Scirocco to 62 mph from a standstill in 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 138 mph (DSG: 136), while emitting just 139 g/km (DSG: 147) of CO2.

The latest addition to the Scirocco range is available linked exclusively to the GT trim level and offers a comprehensive list of standard equipment including a six-CD autochanger, rain and dusk sensor, multifunction computer and 2 Zone air conditioning. In terms of safety, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Program) and six airbags are all standard.

For the first time new 19-inch ‘Lugano’ alloy wheels are available as an option.

As with all models in the Scirocco range, the new GT 2.0-litre TDI 170PS is fitted with Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) operating through pneumatic valves in the damper units. The system allows the driver to select from normal, comfort or sport modes to define the desired suspension and steering response settings for the conditions.

The people’s car maker, Volkswagen, has just unveiled the Golf GTI Street Study at the Worthersee GTI meet. The concept is the result of a collaboration between the German automaker and a group of youthful German Volkswagen enthusiasts: Stefan Becker, 22, Mehmet Cosgun, 20, Saskia Müller, 20 and Michael Riefenberg, 19.
The GTI Street is a two-tone black and white Golf with a pair of white rally stripes running the length of the vehicle, the exterior has been modified with a new front bumper and rear spoiler. The Street Study is powered by a 2.0 Liter TFSI engine that makes an impressive 301 HP. The tuned VW comes equipped with a coilover suspension that features a hydraulic lift. The exhaust has been swapped out for a sport version terminating in two oval shaped tips. Finishing off the street edition is a set of blacked out 19 inch wheels wrapped in the lowest profile tires that I have ever seen.
If Volkswagen is trying to win the hearts of hot hatch fans everywhere with the GTI Street Study, they are off to an excellent start.

Exterior Impression:

When viewed from the exterior, the new four door coupe is easily distinguishable from the “classic” version. The comfort coupe looks like a VW Phaeton that got shrunk in the wash, and then someone from Volkswagen peeled off the body and stretched it over a sharper, more aggressive endoskeleton. Everything from the headlights to the tail lights look like they have been pulled to fit over the new jig. Due to the fact that VW decided to go down the four door coupe route, the CC’s silhouette is strikingly similar to that of the larger Mercedes Benz CLS. The rounded roof line creates an attractive curve that starts at the nose with a sloping hood, continues with the heavily raked front windshield, passes by the blacked out B pillar end and then tapers back down, ending just before the stubby trunk overhang.

Even when viewed from head on, the car’s bubble like exterior is easily recognizable, the wide stance and sharp edges set it apart from more conservatively styled automobiles. One of the more striking features of the new CC is the panoramic sunroof. The oversized pane of tinted glass stretches almost from door to door, and breaks the large Reflex Silver Metallic body.

Our CC rode on a set of aggressive 17 inch ten spoke rims wrapped in low profile 235/45 sized rubber. The wheel and tire combination only added to the CC’s aggressive style. Thanks to the rounded arc of the roof line and flat bottom, the comfort coupe gives the impression of being slammed to the ground, despite having a healthy amount of fender gap and pretty standard ground clearance.

Interior Impression:

Sitting in the driver’s seat, you get the feeling that you are behind the wheel of a much more expensive machine, like all Volkswagens, the interior is terrific. The sport buckets are heavily bolstered, giving the driver an added sense of support. The gauges are simple and straightforward, consisting of two large dials and a multifunction display in the middle. The entire cluster is framed by a very elegant brushed aluminum panel. The metal theme continues onto the center stack. Starting at the top is a pair of cup holders hidden inside the dash; directly underneath them is a large LCD screen that serves as the vehicle’s multimedia interface. Below the radio and navigation display are controls for the dual-zone CLIMATRONIC air conditioning system, and unlike the vehicle’s four ringed cousins, these controls are simple and straightforward.

Look up and you will see nothing but sky, the oversized panoramic sunroof lets in so much light that it makes the interior feel extremely spacious. However; the rear is a different story. Living space for the passengers traveling in the back seat is a little cramped, headroom is limited due to the slope of the rear glass, and because of the rounded roof line the C pillar passes a little too close for comfort to the rear passenger’s craniums.

The rear bench is exemplary of the CC’s intended attitude (putting form at the top of the list), instead of fitting 3 across, there is a large covered storage compartment in the middle which creates a pair of heavily bolstered seats on either side. They are closer to a pair of individual buckets than the large leather wrapped cushion that it really is.

The Drive:

The CC Luxury loaned to us by Volkswagen is representative of the model that the German automaker intends to sell the most of. It was a 2.0 Liter TFSI powered version cranking out 200 HP and 207 lb-ft of torque sending power to the front wheels. This engine/drive train package is more than enough to make the CC capable around town and on the highway. Volkswagen is speculating that most American new car buyers would rather sacrifice the additional power of a VR6 and instead spend their hard earned dough on creature comforts like plush leather seating and premium audio systems. The interior is comfortable and spacious, the well laid out gauges and instruments mean that the Comfort Coupe lives up to its name.

The Volkswagen engineers intended for the CC to be a performer, and the driver will feel it, the suspension is stiff enough for the vehicle to handle well, and as an added result there is a little more NVH than one would expect from a luxury vehicle. The four door sedan already feels a little heavy when going in to a turn, and although the 4Motion weighs more due to the added drive train, the added grip due to the extra drive wheels should make the addition weight negligable.

Why to buy?

The CC is the perfect vehicle for any car buyer looking to add a little more style to their personal collection, without having to take out another mortgage on their house, or if you are simply a nut for four door coupes, this vehicle is for you. The vehicle’s freshly styled good looks, excellent ergonomics and affordable price make the CC an excellent option that you will never get tired of looking at sitting in your driveway.

Why not to buy?

Although the restyled Volkswagen sedan looks like it, the CC won’t replace that sports car parked in front of your house. If you are the type of person who thinks that only a luxury brand can produce a luxury car, then you will probably never understand the CC. So if you want to pay around $60,000 for an eye-catching, stylish, full sized sedan, then just drive past the VW dealership and ask for the keys to an Audi.

If you are the type of consumer who must have the most expensive of everything, then VW has something you might consider. The CC VR6 4Motion adds all of the features from the lesser priced models but has upgraded 18 inch rims, xenon headlamps and all wheel drive. That model starts at $39,800; so after adding a few more options you shouldn’t be embarrassed to show all your friends at the country club how much you paid for your new ride.

Top Speed Final Verdict:

The Volkswagen CC is an attractive machine that will turn heads and continue to look good for as long as you own it. The CC delivers style and comfort that comes standard on vehicles that cost about twice as much.

We here at Top Speed always want more so if we had our way we would opt for the VR6 4Motion for the extra power and better handling, but those start at around $40,000. So, for the added cost, we are not sure that it’s necessary. Besides, it’s harder to notice all the people that will be stopped dead in their tracks admiring your new car when flying past them at 100 MPH. The CC is a vehicle best enjoyed at a relaxed pace.

The options on our CC were a little expensive. We would have paid almost $2000 for navigation, now that is a little pricey, especially when other automakers are offering similar systems for only half that. The Dynaudio premium sound system was easy on our ears, but at $1000 it’s a little hard on the wallet. Combining those two options with the $750 delivery fee brought the price of our 2009 CC Luxury to just over $36,000; a reasonable price to pay for so much style.

It is fire-red and a real eyecatcher. Inside and out, the Golf GTI “Wörthersee 09” combines charming and unique visual looks with an even higher level of performance – it embodies precisely those elements that have always excited genuine GTI fans. Consider the exterior paint, for example. It shimmers in the special glowing red color “Firespark

Metallic”, which is repeated as a fine trim line on the high-gloss black 19-inch alloy spoke wheels and in the classic GTI stripes of the radiator grille screen. Other very distinctive body details: an entirely new smoked LED taillight design; its unmistakable graphic design from the rear adds to the Golf GTI concept car’s independent character.

Full of style, the interior of the two-door GTI is inviting too. Initial eyecatchers: high-end aluminum tread plates with “GTI Wörthersee 09” signa ture. The next special feature: trim in brushed aluminum and glossy black painted frames around the air vents. The floor mats have red borders as well. All of this makes an exceptionally refined im pression and calls attention to the sporty talent of the legendary “GTI” even more.

The newly designed sport comfort seats with their integrated head restraints are an absolute interior highlight. They excite with innovative cover materials and a fresh color composition. This includes black nappa for the outer surfaces and flash red nappa for the seat side supports, bordered by light “Berry White” leather piping. The seat center panels are made of Hexagon; one feature of this high-tech material, which is so pleasant to the touch: its exceptional breathing proper ties.

GTI drivers in particular know that form follows function. The “Wörthersee 09” Edition not only pleases with its tasteful style, it was also intensified technically in the direction of performance. The lowered sport chassis enables maximum curve speeds. And the acoustics is not short-changed either: the new sport exhaust system provides for an extra measure of dynamic sound. This will be music to the ears of genuine GTI fans.

When it comes to the turbo engine, the GTI “Wörthersee 09” relies on the new 2.0-liter TSI with 155 kW / 210 PS. This gives the concept car a top speed of 238 km/h and 6.9 second acceleration to 100 km/h.

Volkswagen is revising its Passat saloon and Estate ranges, adding a new R Line model to give customers more equipment and value for money.
The familiar Passat range line-up of S, Highline, Sport and SEL is replaced with a new streamlined selection of S, R Line and Highline. BlueMotion remains the choice for efficiency while R36 continues as the range-topping performance model.
The R Line trim is based on the entry-level S model and is available with the same engine choices. It carries a premium of £600 over the S (prices for the R Line start at £17,040 RRP on the road), but comes with an additional £2,470 worth of equipment. This is equivalent to an enhancement in customer value of over 300 per cent.

The key exterior changes are the addition of 17-inch ‘Monte Carlo’ alloy wheels and an ’R’styling pack designed by Volkswagen subsidiary Individual. The styling pack adds striking front, side and rear skirts as well as chrome louvres and grille surround to give a more purposeful and sporty look to the vehicle. The Passat R Line is available in a choice of eight exterior paint colors.

Inside the cabin, the R Line gains cruise control, height adjustment and lumbar support on both front seats, a front center armrest and leather multifunction steering wheel for extra comfort and luxury, as well as an electronic tire pressure monitoring system.

These items of equipment come on top of the standard Passat’s already generous standard specification which includes ABS with ESP, front, side and curtain airbags, Climatic air conditioning, remote central locking with alarm and advanced radio/CD player with MP3 compatibility and AUX-in socket for connection to an external multimedia source.

Like the S model, the R Line is available with a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines. These are a 1.4-litre TSI 122 PS and 1.8-litre TSI 160 PS; plus two 2.0-litre common rail TDI units producing 110 or 140 PS.
The higher powered diesel is offered with the option of a six-speed DSG automatic gearbox. All other engines come with a standard six-speed manual gearbox.

No other car in this class has such a mature and high-end image as the new Volkswagen Polo. Comfort, quality and safety have all taken a considerable leap forward. One example: the Volkswagen Polo was specifically designed to attain the recently established, stricter and more comprehensive, 5-star EuroNCAP rating. The higher structural rigidity of the Volkswagen Polo’s bodyshell contributes to these results. In the footwell area alone, intrusion – related to the car body’s deformation strength in a frontal crash – was lowered by 50 percent! In the case of a side impact, the intrusion value was reduced by 20 percent.

Despite significant improvements in all aspects of the car, it was possible to reduce the Volkswagen Polo’s body weight by 7.5 percent. The introduction of new TDI and TSI engines, as well as the 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG), has resulted in considerably reduced fuel consumption and emissions over a wide range of engine power outputs. An excellent example here is the new 1.2 TSI. This turbo-charged four-cylinder direct injection gasoline engine produces 77 kW / 105 PS, yet it consumes just 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (129 g/km CO2); this is 19 percent less than on the equivalent model of the previous generation!

In total, seven different engines will be offered on the new Volkswagen Polo in its first year – four gasoline and three diesel – spanning a power range from 44 kW / 60 PS to 77 kW / 105 PS. Five of these engines are entirely new or are being used for the first time in the Volkswagen Polo.

The new engines include all three TDIs (turbo-diesel direct-injection); thanks to the implementation for the first time of common rail technology in the Volkswagen Polo, these engines are both efficient and refined. The potential in the new TDI engines is clearly evident in the example of the Volkswagen Polo 1.6 TDI with 66 kW / 90 PS: when combined with a “BlueMotion package”, its average fuel consumption of 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers and 96 g/km CO2 makes it the most fuel efficient and lowest emitting five-seater diesel in the world. The “BlueMotion package” may be combined with any of the three equipment lines developed for the Volkswagen Polo. Available for selection here are the base version “Trendline”, the mid-level “Comfortline” and the top of the line “Highline”.

Start of production of the five-door Volkswagen Polo is scheduled for the end of March 2009. This will be followed, starting in the last week in June, by the market launch of the visually and technically advanced new edition of the million unit bestseller in Germany. Just two weeks later, thanks to an ambitious logistics plan, Volkswagen will begin selling the car across mainland Europe, and soon Volkswagen Polo engines will be revving up across all continents.

Volkswagen has revealed a special edition Eos. Called GT Sport the new version features standard 18 inches wheels, a lowered sport chassis and a black painted roof.
The 18 inches alloy wheels are painted in silver with chrome grille slats, the LED taillights are painted in cherry red, the headlights are darkened and the black painted roof with darkened rear windows gives the car a very elegant appearance.
Other sporty equipment includes: 15 mm lower sports suspension, pedals in aluminum look, heated front seats in Alcantara leather and new three-spoke leather steering wheel with gray decorative stitching. The interior equipments include: Climatronic air conditioning, adio system RCD 510 with an internal CD changer for six CDs.

The Eos Sport GT is powered by a choice of four petrol engines with output between 122 hp and 260 hp and a a diesel engine 140 hp.

Prices for the new Eos GT Sport starts from 33,075 Euro.

Today, the completely new and very quiet common rail TDIs already satisfy the Euro-5 standard that does not go into effect until 2009. Upon request, the Tiguan can be parked nearly automatically in the urban jungle by the Park Assist feature. Off-road, on the other hand, the latest radio-navigation system (RNS 510) navigates its occupants back to civilization using its off-road function. Meanwhile, with up to 1,510 liters of cargo space, the Tiguan exhibits van qualities. 2,500 kilograms of trailer load also define the absolute best value in the Tiguan segment.

Very intentionally, Tiguan – offered in the equipment versions Trend&Fun, Sport&Style and Track&Field – is being offered in two body variants: The Trend&Fun and Sport&Style versions were specifically designed for primarily on-road use. Their agile, safe and highly comfortable driving behaviors are equal to those of a car. At the same time, these Tiguans do not shy away from either off-road drives or trailer loads. They leave the really rock-tough off-road routes to the Tiguan Track&Field.

The Tiguan Track&Field was specially designed for life off of the asphalted trails. Different than the Trend&Fun and Sport&Style versions, this especially adventure-friendly Tiguan exhibits a more extreme entry angle (28 instead of 18 degrees; maximum angle without the vehicle impacting the trail in front). As standard equipment the Tiguan Track&Field also
has a newly developed off-road mode that awakens an entire armada of assistance systems to make drives off-road especially safe.

First SUV in the world exclusively with charged engines

As already outlines, the Tiguan is the first SUV in the world to be offered exclusively with charged engines. The advantage of engine charging: More power, less fuel consumption and lower emissions. Take the example of the gasoline engines: There will be three new TSIs – direct injection engines with turbocharging or turbocharging plus supercharging. The four cylinders deliver 110 kW / 150 PS, 125 kW / 170 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS. Take the example of the diesel: A completely redeveloped generation of noticeably quieter common rail four cylinder engines is being employed here. The two TDIs output 103 kW / 140 PS and 125 kW / 170 PS and smash the Euro-5 emissions standard.

Full-time 4MOTION all-wheel drive and two six-speed gearboxes

Full-time all-wheel drive is absolutely essential off-road. On paved streets an intelligent all-wheel drive also improves active safety. In the Tiguan the latest generation of 4MOTION all-wheel drive is used. It is shifted by manual, or optionally automatic, six-speed transmissions. Both transmissions satisfy special off-road requirements. The manual transmission can be driven at an engine speed of 1,000 rpm or vehicle speed of just 6.69 km/h, for example; this practically equals the crawler gear of a reduction gearbox. The automatic transmission has gear level preselect; in off-road use it prevents shifting to the next higher gear.

A SUV interior with the variability of a van

The Tiguan is an all-round talent. This characterization not only describes its powertrain properties, but also the multivariable and very spacious interior. The rear bench seat is split with a 60:40 ratio, it can be adjusted 16 centimeters in the longitudinal direction, and the rear seatback has multiple tilt adjustment settings. This provides either more legroom in the rear or additional space in the cargo area. Available as an option is a double cargo f loor including cargo management system. Also standard on the Tiguan Track&Field and Sport&Style is a folding front passenger seat so that very long objects can be stowed. With regard to the seat position, the passengers travel exceptionally comfortably, not only in front but also in the rear. The reason: Similar to the case in a movie theater, rear passenger seating is a bit higher and therefore more relaxed.

The Tiguan parks independently and finds the way back from the desert all by itself

On board an SUV for the first time is the Park Assist feature, with which the Tiguan turns into a parking space nearly automatically and impressively. The off-road mode already mentioned is a technology show; no other SUV in the world can call upon such a network of safety systems off-road at the press of a button. The Tiguan also exhibits its mastery when it comes to trailer load: It may range up to 2,500 kilograms, which is handled by the new, swiveling trailer hitch. In a class by themselves are the touchscreen radio and navigation systems; the top model (RNS 510) offers a standard 30 gigabyte hard disk memory, an off-road navigation mode and rearview camera. Any of the passengers can also look through a panorama sunroof at the sky of the savannah or the city.

At 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.

A model of success returns: the Scirocco GT24 on the Nordschleife

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).

Tests and races to prepare for the 24-hour Nürburgring

In addition to tests, Volkswagen’s preparation for the 24-hour Nürburgring includes three races in the BFGoodrich Endurance Championship Nürburgring. The Scirocco GT24-CNG will make its debut on 18 April at the Four-Hour Race on the “ring”.

Usually we’re jealous of cars that are available only in Europe, but now our envy is traveling to Asia for a Singapore-only Volkswagen. The Golf V GTI is going out with a bang in the Orient with a model called the V50. The 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine goes from 197 hp engine and is upgraded to 250 hp (40 more than the new Golf VI GTI), and the 0 to 60 mph time drops from 7.2 seconds to 5.6. This Audi S3-like power and performance is courtesy of a Stage 1 ECU tuning.

The package also includes Pirelli “P Zero” 18-inch alloy wheels and tires, and an upgrade to the brakes and brake discs and calipers from the Golf R32. While we don’t have any pricing info on the package, it does come with a three-year warranty from VW.

The Volkswagen Golf GTI Worthersee 09 is powered by the new 2.0-liter TSI with 155 kW / 210 PS. This gives the Volkswagen Golf GTI Worthersee 09 a top speed of 238 km/h and 6.9 second acceleration to 100 km/h. The Volkswagen Golf GTI Worthersee 09 comes in a special glowing red color “Firespark Metallic” and features 19-inch alloy wheels and smoked LED taillights.

The interior of the Volkswagen Golf GTI Worthersee 09 comes with high-end aluminum tread plates with “GTI Worthersee 09″ signature. The next special feature: trim in brushed aluminum and glossy black painted frames around the air vents. The floor mats have red borders as well.

Volkswagen of America, Inc. helped Mattel celebrate Barbie® doll’s 50th Birthday by transforming a New Beetle convertible into the ultimate Barbie® dream car. The life-size pink Malibu Barbie™ New Beetle convertible made its debut at Barbie® doll’s Malibu Dream House® exclusive birthday celebration. Customization artists ABD Racing Werks, Katzkin Leather and Interiors and FoamMolders fully transformed the iconic New Beetle convertible into the perfect Barbie® ride.
“We are extremely proud to partner with Mattel and create a customized New Beetle convertible to celebrate Barbie’s landmark birthday,” said Laura Soave, General Manager of Marketing, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Like the New Beetle, Barbie has made a remarkable impact on pop culture history, and still remains a cultural icon today.”

From top to bottom and interior to exterior, Barbie® doll’s New Beetle convertible has left no detail unfinished. From the white custom leather interior and convertible top to the hand stitched floor mats and pink quilted leather lined door pockets and arm rests, even the dipstick is painted to resemble her favorite lipstick. The New Beetle convertible is equipped with a motorized vanity in the trunk and plenty of rhinestone accents and vanity mirrors. Over five shades of paint were mixed together to create the perfect pink color for Barbie® doll’s car.

The customized pink New Beetle convertible was prominently on display as the pink carpet was rolled out for the Barbie® celebration at her real-life Malibu Dream House®. Barbie® doll’s house is a 3,500-square-foot home in Malibu, CA, decorated by famed “Happy Chic” interior designer Jonathan Adler. The Barbie® birthday festivities were complete with 1,800 pairs of Barbie® sunglasses, 3,500 pairs of tiny shoes, 3,500 mini handbags and numerous Hollywood celebrity guests.

Last year, Volkswagen celebrated the 10th anniversary of the introduction of the New Beetle convertible. With its distinct shape, the iconic New Beetle convertible is one of the most recognized models in the world.

It is still a concept – the most fuel efficient five-seater in the world. Its name: Polo BlueMotion. Fuel consumption: 3.3 liters CO2 emissions: just 87 g/km! Likelihood of going into production: extremely high! However, before a potential production launch, development must be completed on the brand new 1.2 liter TDI with common rail injection.
And that is precisely what the team led by Development Chief Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg is working on with great emphasis. “I anticipate,” says Dr. Hackenberg, “that we will be able to go into production in February 2010. Meeting this schedule will be extremely demanding. Yet the engine and other systems of the Polo BlueMotion are already operating with such promising
performance that we are on course to meet our goal.”

The “other systems” to which he refers include an automatic startstop system and regenerative braking. These two technologies alone reduce fuel consumption of the 55 kW / 75 PS three-cylinder direct-injection diesel by up to 0.2 liters per 100 kilometers. But that is not all that is being done. On the Polo BlueMotion concept car, which weighs in at just 1,080 kilograms, Volkswagen is calling upon an entire array of efficiency measures, including an aerodynamic package for the body that is lowered by 10 millimeters (including modified front end), an aerodynamically optimized underbody and low rolling resistance tires on 15-inch alloy wheels. Altogether, these modifications yield fuel savings totaling 0.8 liters. This has lowered CO2 emissions by about 20 percent.

Other features being presented on the Polo BlueMotion concept car at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show include a custom interior with “Power On” trim, and a display for indicating upshifting and tire pressure. The design study is painted in the new exterior color “Emotion blue”.

Start-stop system in detail

Especially worthwhile is a look at the fully intuitive operation of the start-stop system. As the driver approaches a red stop light in the Polo BlueMotion concept car, he or she applies the brakes to bring the vehicle to a stop, shifts into neutral (which should be standard practice with a conventional car) and takes his or her foot off the clutch. This shuts off the engine momentarily. A “Start Stop” message now appears in the multifunctional display. As soon as the traffic light turns green again, the driver fully depresses the clutch, the engine starts, the “Start Stop” message disappears, and the driver puts the car back in gear and resumes driving.

Regenerative braking in detail

Regenerative braking helps to recover energy that would otherwise be lost in driving in as efficient a way as possible. During deceleration and braking phases of the Polo BlueMotion concept car – i.e. whenever the driver simply releases the accelerator pedal or intentionally brakes – the alternator’s charging voltage is elevated, which converts the car’s kinetic energy into electrical energy to charge the battery.

Thanks to alternator control – which regulates the alternator as a function of engine efficiency for optimal battery charging – it is possible to lower alternator voltage at other times, e.g. during acceleration or driving at a constant speed. It is even possible to switch off the alternator entirely. This reduces engine load and improves fuel economy. Special software for energy management and modified engine controller software are needed to utilize regeneration.

The new umbrella brand BlueMotionTechnologies

Volkswagen is presenting the Polo concept car in Geneva under the new umbrella brand “BlueMotionTechnologies”. This label covers all production-mature or near-production technologies and products that significantly reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. These are developments such as the new start-stop system and regenerative braking implemented on the Polo BlueMotion concept, as well as the highly innovative SCR catalytic converter on the Passat CC BlueTDI that is also appearing for the first time in Geneva.

However, they also include the NOx storage catalytic converter that has already been successfully introduced in the USA, electric and hybrid drive systems, and innovative engine systems like those in the Touran TSI EcoFuel which are debuting at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. A launching point for these extremely fuel efficient and low-emission products was the Polo BlueMotion, which in 2006 was the first five-seater to bring fuel consumption down to 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers. The Polo BlueMotion concept car now surpasses this record value by 0.5 liters.

The range of BlueMotion models already available today includes the Golf series, Jetta, Caddy, Touran, Sharan, and the Passat and Passat Wagon. A recent survey by the organization “Deutsche Automobil Treuhand DAT”, the renowned and world’s oldest institution for automotive market research, demonstrates just how successful the BlueMotion label has become today. In a
representative survey, the highly regarded DAT found that 85 percent of German car drivers are familiar with the BlueMotion label. The next best competitor only attained a recognition level of 36 percent. This makes BlueMotion the number 1 among automotive environmental labels.

Volkswagen of America, Inc. has long been known for offering special edition models with unique characteristics that create excitement in showrooms and individuality among owners. Volkswagen’s latest special edition, the New Beetle convertible “Blush”, builds on the already great features of the standard version with added elements and design cues that are exclusive to this limited edition.

The special edition 2009 New Beetle convertible “Blush” features an exclusive exterior and interior color not offered on the standard version. An elegant metallic White Gold paint on the exterior nicely compliments the rich red leather interior, and red convertible top that gives this limited edition its namesake. The “Blush” edition is the only current New Beetle convertible available with genuine leather seating surfaces. Other unique features include a red boot for when the convertible top is down, and unique17-inch alloy wheels.

Like the New Beetle and New Beetle convertible the “Blush” edition features a 2.5L engine that produces 150 horsepower, and 170 lbs.ft. of torque. The “Blush” edition comes with a six-speed automatic transmission, and like all 2009 Volkswagen’s Electronic Stabilization Program comes standard. The New Beetle convertible “Blush” edition is value priced at $26,990 and only a limited number will be produced.

In parallel to pure gasoline and diesel versions, Volkswagen will be bringing the next version of the Touareg to market as a hybrid version too. Average fuel consumption: less than 9.0 liters fuel per 100 kilometers. CO2 emissions: less than 210 g/km. For the first time, there is now a near-production prototype that offers initial glimpses of the full hybrid technology that will be implemented on the future Touareg. This experimental platform has its conceptual basis in the current generation of the SUV. The car’s powertrain already embodies many aspects of the future Touareg Hybrid. It will be powered by a new V6 TSI – a highly advanced gasoline direct injection engine boosted by a mechanically-driven supercharger – in tandem with an electric motor. It will have a newly developed 8-speed automatic transmission.

Volkswagen will be implementing a parallel hybrid drive on the future Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid. This version of the SUV will have a high-performance, full-time all-wheel drive too. V6 TSI stands for maximum power with minimum consumption The V6 TSI on the Touareg prototype is fun to drive and delivers 245 kW/ 333 PS at 5,500 rpm. From its 2,995 cm3 displacement, it generates a maximum torque of 440 Newton-meters starting from 3,000 rpm. These characteristics match those of the Touareg with an eight cylinder engine, yet with the V6 TSI it is significantly more fuel efficient.

This represents the principle of intelligent downsizing (less displacement plus gasoline direct injection plus inlet boosting) already established by Volkswagen on the globally successful TSI four cylinder engines, and it is now being applied to six-cylinder engines. The results are convincing. The substantial torque delivery that came from using a supercharger becomes even more fascinating with the addition of the E-motor, especially at low speeds. If required, an exceptional amount of torque is available from a standstill – a bonus that comes from a system that is designed for efficiency. To increase further this efficiency, the V6 TSI makes use of a switchable engine water pump. This remains off during the warm-up phase, ensuring rapid achievement of fuel efficient operation. The pump is integrated into the vehicle’s overall heat management system.

V6 TSI plus E-motor drives fuel consumption below 9.0 liters The E-motor integrated between the V6 TSI and the 8-speed automatic transmission adds power of 38 kW / 52 PS and up to 300 Newton-meters torque. In so-called boosting – where requests for maximum power and torque (by kickdown or gearshift selector in “S” position) are supported by the engagement of both V6 TSI and electric drive systems – the powertrain briefly supplies a power of 275 kW / 374 PS and the maximum available torque increases to 550 Newton-meters. In this case, the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid prototype accelerates to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds.

The hybrid system of the Touareg was not designed to deliver sports car performance. Its purpose is to deliver very low emissions and fuel consumption values. It may therefore come as a surprise to learn that this exceptional performance is accompanied by an average fuel consumption of less than 9.0 liters per 100 kilometers. CO2 emissions are less than 210 g/km. The Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid will attain the limits of the Euro-5 and American ULEV2 emissions standards.

More than 25 percent better fuel economy

Compared to a conventional SUV of the same size, the hybrid concept yields fuel savings of more than 25 percent in city driving. Development engineers calculate an average savings of 17 percent in combined city, highway and freeway driving. Essentially, there are four parameters with which the Volkswagen prototype achieves this improved fuel economy.

Start-stop system: an integrated start-stop system significantly reduces fuel consumption, especially in urban driving.

Regenerative braking: during braking, the E-motor operates as a generator and recovers energy, which is then stored in the high voltage battery (NiMH batteries). This means that the E-motor recovers a proportion of the energy that would otherwise be rejected in the form of heat through the braking system. It comes into effect progressively during the initial travel of the brake pedal.

The E-motor: The vehicle can operate on the electric motor alone at speeds of up to 50 km/h, which reduces fuel consumption in city driving. In this case the V6 TSI is turned off, and it is disconnected from the transmission by a disengagement clutch. In this condition the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid operates with zero emissions. Electric current flows from the battery to the E-motor via the power electronics which incorporates a pulse controlled inverter. On the later production version, there are also plans for a special E-switch that the driver can activate for pure electric driving.

Coasting: as soon as the driver removes his or her foot from the gas pedal, a clutch disengages the V6 TSI from the transmission. This is even possible at higher speeds – in the later production version up to about 160 km/h – and therefore in freeway driving as well. This eliminates mechanical drag losses, which in turn makes the Touareg coast significantly better. The driver can convert this directly into improved fuel economy by adopting an anticipatory driving style.

Intelligent energy mix

With regard to powertrain types – and their associated energy flows – besides electric driving and coasting there are two other operating modes: classic driving with internal combustion engine and the boosting that is typical of hybrid vehicles.

When driving with just the internal combustion engine, there are two possible modes of operation. In the first case, the Touareg is driven like a conventional vehicle with the E-motor performing the function of a conventional 12 V alternator, which it replaces, to supply sufficient energy for the vehicle’s electrical system and maintain battery charge (in this case a high voltage battery). In the second case, the engine supplies the energy needed to propel the vehicle plus the energy needed to charge the high voltage battery via the E-motor, but at a higher rate, replacing energy taken from battery when in conditions when the E-motor has been operating as an electric motor. This so-called load point shifting makes it possible to operate the engine at a more favorable level of efficiency in the engine load/speed map. The job of hybrid control is now to regulate this alternation of electric driving phases and active charge phases to achieve minimal fuel consumption.

Boosting: when the driver consciously activates a request for maximum power (kickdown or gearshift lever in “S” position), the E-motor supports the V6 TSI beyond the engine’s full-load curve. The powers and torques of these two motors are then transferred to the front and rear axles by the 8-speed automatic transmission. As previously mentioned, this briefly makes available a total combined power of up to 275 kW /374 PS and a maximum torque of 550 Newton-meters.

In addition, since it can be controlled extremely quickly the E-motor is also used – in the framework of so-called transient compensation – to make positive and negative torque interventions. For example, when the driver makes a positive load request the E-motor briefly boosts the V6 TSI until it has reached its steady-state target value. This allows the Touareg Hybrid to keep accelerating. Negative torque interventions largely replace classic interventions via the internal combustion engine that are not optimal for efficiency, but are needed for occupant comfort during gear shifting or sudden charge changes.

The specific mode that is activated is shown by an energy flow indicator in the display of the RNS 510 radio-navigation system installed in the prototype vehicle.

Basic technical layout of the hybrid drive

Volkswagen has chosen a parallel hybrid drive for use in the Touareg. In contrast to other possible hybrid systems, both off-road properties and unlimited continuous climbing capabilities are assured. With a maximum trailer load of up to 3.5 metric tons, the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid can also be recommended as an ideal towing vehicle. Furthermore, the parallel hybrid approach offers a higher level of efficiency than alterne hybrid concepts in cross-country and freeway driving. The powertrain itself primarily consists of the V6 TSI, the 8-speed automatic transmission that is also ideally suited for hybrid and tow vehicle use and the hybrid module integrated between the internal combustion engine and the automatic transmission. The latter weighs 55 kilograms. The compact module houses – in one unit – the disengagement clutch located after the V6 engine and the E-motor.

The interplay of components is “directed” by a hybrid manager.

This multi-functional unit is integrated in the engine controller and communicates via the CAN bus lines with units such as the automatic transmission, high voltage battery and so-called power electronics that controls the electric motor. The latter also manages the energy flow between the electric motor and battery. Using the DC/DC converter, the power electronics also ensures that the car’s 12V electrical system is supplied via the E-motor or the high voltage battery. Depending on the charge state of the battery (capacity: 6 Ah), vehicle speed and other vehicle-specific parameters, the hybrid manager automatically selects the ideal operating mode based on lightning fast analysis of all signals.

Nickel metal hydride battery in detail

The nickel metal-hydride battery used in the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid reflects what is currently the best and most practical electric storage system for automobiles. Functional safety, robustness and cost are all factors that favor the high-performance NiMH battery.

The battery is located in a space saving area. On the prototype the cargo floor has been raised by 50 millimeters. The battery weighs 67 kilograms, consists of a total of 240 individual cells and therefore generates a voltage of 288 Volt. An additional duct integrated in the Touareg’s interior ventilation system and two separate fans are used to keep the battery within an optimal temperature range. A battery manager continually monitors battery charge by coordinating data with the hybrid manager integrated in the engine controller.

Special power cables connect the battery to the power electronics – located to the left of the engine in the front of the vehicle – to supply the E-motor with energy or – in the reverse case – to charge the battery by E-motor while it acts as a generator when braking (regenerative braking) or by the V6 TSI (via load point shift). In the event of a crash, the high voltage battery is protected by what is known as a “Protect Box”. The battery system, which includes the Protect Box, battery and ventilation components, weighs 79 kilograms.

Partial compensation for added weight of hybrid system

To compensate for a portion of the weight of the hybrid components (about 175 kilograms), the prototype exhibits numerous modifications compared to the production vehicle. One example is the full-time 4XMotion all-wheel drive. In today’s Touareg, the drive is transferred to the front and rear axles via a transfer box which contains a lockable central differential and a two-speed range gearbox. On the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid this is replaced by a lighter Torsen differential similar to the one Audi uses on the Q7. All the traditional capabilities of the Touareg are fully preserved, such as its optimal properties as a towing vehicle.

Other changes compared to the production Touareg

Various components have been redeveloped to retain all the traditional convenience and safety-related functions of the standard Touareg in the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid. For example, the prototype has electro hydraulic power steering, which does not have to rely on a servo pump driven by the internal combustion engine. In addition, a high voltage air conditioning compressor guarantees comfortable interior temperatures on the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid, even when the V6 engine is switched off. Instead of an alternator, the DC/DC converter integrated in the power electronics ensures a constant supply of power to the vehicle electrical system.

The 8-speed automatic transmission was also specifically tuned for hybrid use. Among other things, it received a special torque converter with larger lock-up system, an auxiliary electric oil pump (to maintain a supply of oil when the V6 TSI is switched off), a transmission heater to reach optimal operating temperature faster, and a modified transmission controller.

Car is started by electric motor

The E-motor now takes over the role of engine starter motor. This job is especially challenging, since restarting of the V6 TSI must be executed with a high degree of smoothness and precision to maintain comfortable transitions between the various modes of propulsion. As soon as the engine is to be restarted, the transmission’s lock-up torque converter is put in the “Slip” position and the E-motor’s speed is increased to a setpoint value prescribed by the transmission controller. Only then does the engine controller receive an enable to actuate the disengagement clutch.

The E-motor “drags up” the V6 TSI by subsequent engagement of the clutch and, as soon as the cylinders fill, the engine is started by enabling of injection and ignition. The E-motor’s torque is increased by the amount of the momentary torque transferred by the disengagement clutch during the drag operation and – after the internal combustion engine has started – it is reduced again in response to the increase in engine torque. When positive engagement occurs at the disengagement clutch, the lock-up torque converter is engaged again. All of this sounds complicated, and it is complicated, but the system operates in such a way that the driver and occupants are completely unaware of its contribution to smooth progress. And that is just how things should be.

Volkswagen is unveiling its most important automotive secret of the year: the new Golf. The car – Europe’s most successful with more than 26 million sold – was improved in all areas. “This sixth generation of Golf cars will completely redefine the quality and comfort level of its class over broad categories, offering more customer value than ever before”, says Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board at Volkswagen AG. The European market launch of the new Golf will begin in October; following in succession will be Africa, Asia, Australia and North America. The entry price for the German market is around 16,500 Euros.

Innovative power – the Golf democratizes progress

The clear and powerful design of the new Golf is showing the entire brand the way to the future. Its acoustic properties and the overall comfort of the Volkswagen tear down class distinctions. Innovative engines and transmission technologies lower fuel consumption by up to 28 percent. All gasoline and diesel engines satisfy limits of the future EU-5 standard.

Assistance systems such as “automatic distance control” (ACC), “adaptive chassis control” (DCC) and the “park steering assistant” bring additional top technologies on board the Golf. A new ESP system, with finer response over its control range, further optimized crash properties, seven airbags including knee airbag, the special head restraints (WOKS) that counteract whiplash trauma, a “seatbelt detection” feature debuting in the rear seating area of the Golf and daytime running lights – that are standard equipment – provide for a maximum level of safety.

Exterior design – Precision in a new form

The high value of the new Golf is reflected par excellence in its stylish design; all key body elements were redesigned: “We have cast the Golf’s core components in a precise, new mold”, explains Walter de Silva. And the Italian design chief of the German corporation emphasizes this: “The Golf is the global icon car making. So the architecture and graphic form of new model are also absolutely clear and unique.” At the same time, the sixth Golf has a sportier and more distinctive appearance than any previous generation of the model series. De Silva: “It is more accentuated, more three-dimensional than its predecessor; with precisely defined lines and edges, and with finely proportioned flared surfaces and recesses.” And Klaus Bischoff, Chief Designer for the Volkswagen brand, adds: “Every detail is uncompromisingly aimed at improving value.”

Especially in a direct comparison of generations five and six, it becomes clear just how much the new Golf has changed. The team headed up by de Silva and Bischoff sought to crystallize out the “essential DNA” of the model series and send it on a trip to the future. These stylistic characteristics include the clear front end of the first generation and the C-pillar that was perfected in the fourth generation.

The roof section now rests – similar to the new Scirocco – on a dominant filled out shoulder section. Responsible for this is a prominent curving line that – like a muscle trained down to the last fiber – extends from the headlights back to the taillights. In its side profile, this line – which Volkswagen Design calls the “character line” – also gives the new Golf a fuller, lower stance on the road from a side perspective.

All body surfaces are generally more relaxed, more athletic. In front the new car takes up the horizontally aligned radiator grille trim strip between the headlights of the first Golf generation; the grille itself is high-gloss black. The lines of the bumper match those of the radiator grille. Beneath this is an adjacent section with another air scoop. Also arranged on a black background are the chrome light housings of the dynamically styled headlamps.

In the rear too is characterized by a dominance of horizontal lines. The taillights – very wide now – are identified among other things by an unmistakably unique night design. Stylistically – with their crystal-clear lines for the turn signal and backup lamps – they bear a resemblance to the taillights of the Touareg. Overall, the image of the new Golf – in the interplay of all of its design characteristics – is one of a significantly wider, flatter and even more high-end car.

Interior – imploding class distinctions

The car’s exceptional value also applies to the newly designed interior, whose refined surfaces and features completely transform class distinctions, both to the touch and visually, especially in the cockpit area. The appearance and layout of materials and details such as brushed chrome accents and round instruments derived directly from those of the Passat CC leave the impression that one is actually sitting in a car of the next higher segment. Ergonomic properties of the car’s interior were also further developed. For example, all operating controls are even easier to use. They include the control of the automatic climate control system (Climatronic) – presented for the first time on the Passat CC – and the power window controls that are now located further forward in the door trim, making them easier to access.

There is a common thread here: Volkswagen’s typical attention to perfection of every detail in the car. Take the example of “seatbelt detection” in the rear: if the Golf is ordered with rear side airbags, the user can recognize on the multifunctional display in the cockpit whether the occupants have their seatbelts fastened in the rear – separately for each seat. Or take the example of leather seats: a new, more robust leather surface is being used. Or the example of the cargo area: four practical hooks ensure that after shopping, the contents of shopping bags are not strewn across the cargo area. Or the example of the outside mirrors: thanks to an aerodynamically optimized shape they get significantly less dirty. They are easier to adjust from the interior, since the power mirror adjustment control is now located further up and more forward in the door trim.

Noise reduction – the quietest Golf since the first model

The new Golf is characterized by first-class acoustic properties. A special damping film in the windshield also reduces driving noises, as does the newly developed seal concept for the doors and side window guides. The new shape of the outside mirrors also significantly reduces wind noise. Furthermore, special modifications were made to acoustically isolate the engine and passenger compartments from one another better. Very quiet rolling tires and new engine bearings round out the noise reduction package.

Diesel engines – migration to common rail injection

Making a significant contribution to the pioneering acoustic properties are the exceptionally quiet TDI common rail engines being used in the Golf for the first time. Two balancer shafts also put an end to undesirable vibrations. Plans call for a TDI power range extending from 66 kW / 90 PS to 125 kW / 170 PS. Right at the market launch, Volkswagen will be offering the Golf with two 2.0 liter TDI engines; they output 81 kW / 110 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS. Always there as production equipment: a diesel particulate filter (DPF).

The new TDIs are exceptionally fuel efficient. The 110 PS strong entry-level diesel is satisfied with 4.5 liters of fuel (119 g/km CO2) per 100 kilometers – that represents a 0.6 liter reduction! Even the 140 PS version only requires 4.9 liters of diesel (129 g/km CO2), which is 0.6 liters less.

Gasoline engines – more economical than ever before

Four variants will define the range of gasoline engines in the launch phase: 59 kW / 80 PS, 75 kW / 102 PS, 90 kW / 122 PS and 118 kW / 160 PS. Starting at 90 kW / 122 PS, the TSI engines come with supercharger and/or turbocharger. The fact is that the gasoline engines too are pioneering when it comes to fuel economy. The optimized 80 PS entry-level engine consumes just 6.4 liters of Super per hundred kilometers (149 g/km CO2) – that is 0.5 liters less than the previous model. The other TSI engines are also taking the stage as prime examples of efficiency: at 122 PS the new Golf 1.4 TSI consumes just 6.2 liters of Super (144 g/km CO2); this yields a fuel consumption advantage of 0.1 liters. Even the new 160 PS top version of the 1.4 TSI attains an excellent value at 6.3 liters. Compared to the retired 150 PS FSI, the 160 PS TSI’s fuel consumption was even lowered by 1.6 liters.

DSG – replaces conventional automatic

With the exception of the entry-level versions, all gasoline and diesel engines can be paired with Volkswagen’s dual clutch transmission (DSG). Depending on the engine torque, either a 6-s0eed or 7-speed DSG is used. On the Golf, the extremely efficient and agile DSG has thereby replaced the classic torque converter automatic. Just how efficient the alliance of TSI plus DSG can be is demonstrated by the average fuel consumption of the 1.4 TSI with 160 PS and 7-speed DSG: 6.0 liters (139 g/km CO2). This high-tech duo replaces the 2.0 FSI with 150 PS and 6-speed automatic. Average fuel consumption there: 8.3 liters. Savings: 2.3 liters per hundred kilometers or 28 percent – progress in its best form.

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.

In just a few weeks, Volkswagen of America will be introducing one of the most economical and cleanest SUVs to the US market: the new Touareg V6 TDI with a powerful 165 kW / 225 PS Clean Diesel. In parallel to the debut of the pioneeringly efficient Touareg, Volkswagen is now presenting in Detroit an outstandingly exclusive special model of its high-end SUV: the Touareg “Lux Limited”. It will launch with the new V6 TDI and two highly advanced gasoline engines: a V6 FSI (206 kW / 280 PS) and a V8 FSI (257 kW/ 350 PS). All versions of the Touareg START share an exclusive interior that is only available on this edition that will be limited to 1,940 units.

Exterior of the “Lux Limited” edition

On its exterior, the Touareg “Lux Limited” makes its appearance with high-end 20-inch alloy wheels (“Ayers Rock” type) and size 275 all-season tires, a styling package with special side skirts and customized front and rear aprons and a color lineup customized for the limited edition. The Touareg “Lux Limited” may be ordered in the exterior colors “Biscay blue”, “Black magic pearl effect”, “Campanella white” and “Galapagos gray” – the “Biscay blue” color new to the product lineup.

Interior of the “Lux Limited” edition

The Volkswagen Touareg is offered with a very long list of standard features across the board – i.e. in every version. After all, the German SUV is one of the highest end vehicles of its type in the world. The “Lux Limited” – developed by Volkswagen Individual – now goes even one step further. That is because it always includes a two-tone leather interior combined with special interior accents based on the particular color variant. Version 1: Cricket leather in the color combination “Latte Macchiato / St. Tropez white”; where the center seat panels are kept in white. In this case, the interior accents are in “Poplar grain” decor. Version 2: Cricket leather in “Anthracite / St. Tropez white”. An “Engine spin dark” decor with a metallic look and feel is used here. In both variants the door panel inserts are trimmed in “St. Tropez white”. In addition, the driver and front passenger of the Touareg “Lux Limited” get standard 12-way power seats.

When the Passat CC was launched in early 2008, it was the first four-door coupé from Volkswagen to go into production. The concept and design of this Volkswagen are defining fresh new accents beyond the mainstream. In a motor show premiere, Volkswagen is now presenting a new exclusive version: the Passat CC Individual. After the Eos, Passat and Touareg, this is the fourth model under the “Individual” label to go into production. Exterior characteristics: new wheel designs and color worlds. Inner strengths: the finest materials and color tones are coordinated with the exterior paint. And on the new Passat CC Individual it looks like this:

Individualized exterior

The four-door coupé leaves the factory on newly designed 18-inch “Chicago black” type alloy wheels as standard equipment. After its market launch, another 19-inch variant will also be available as an option. As an exclusive in this car class, the Passat CC Individual will be available in the pearl effect car color “Moonlight Blue”. Another identifying exterior feature: the modest Individual logos on the front fenders.

Individualized interior

Inside, the new Passat CC Individual features standard two-tone leather covers for the 6-way power comfort seats (with memory
function). The seat surfaces are designed in a high-end soft leather called “cool leather” (“Nougat” color) with climate seat perforations; this material reflects sun rays very well and so it stays pleasantly cool.

A visually complementary black nappa leather is used for the outer seat surfaces, joined by Nougat color seams. The front center armrest and the primary areas of the door inserts are treated in leather look with “Nougat” color. These colors are also found on the leather steering wheel and gearshift lever: here the black leather elements are sewn with Nougat colored seams. The black fabric floor mats are upgraded with Nougat colored piping as well. Accents in the CC instruments and doors are treated with high-gloss black piano paint.

Also standard on the Passat CC Individual: ambiance lighting in the door and footwell areas as well as an extended chrome package. This package includes special chrome bezels on the inside door handles, chrome caps on window lift and central locking switches, as well as chrome around the mirror adjuster. The door tread plates also sport the “Volkswagen Individual” signature, front and rear; the front signatures are elegantly illuminated in white light. The Passat CC Individual can be ordered starting in early 2009 – the countdown has begun.

It was a triumphant drive: in May 2008, three Scirocco GT24 cars lined up at the start of the 24- hour endurance race on the Nürburgring track. At the wheel: driving legends the likes of Hans-Joachim Stuck and Carlos Sainz. The teams drove two 238 kW / 325 PS strong race cars to a dual victory at the finish line, first and second in their class. Now Volkswagen is presenting a street version of the race car at the Bologna Motor Show: the Scirocco Studie R. A genuine Grand Tourismo with a 198 kW / 270 PS engine that delivers aggressive propulsive power. This power is distributed by a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Adapted directly from car racing are the coilovers, the four-piston brake calipers and a sound-optimized exhaust system with its oval, polished tailpipes.

Visually, in many respects the concept emulates the race car version. Take the front end, for example: here the design adheres to the motto “Form follows function”; it features three large air inlet openings that guarantee optimal cooling of the brakes and engine. The front splitter that was added minimizes aerodynamic lift of the front axle. Also adopted from the racing version is the engine hood with its auxiliary air vents.

The rear end is dominated by an integrated rear wing and distinctive diffuser in the lower section of the bumper. These two components reduce lift at the rear axle substantially. Despite the aerodynamic design derived from car racing, a clear stylistic resemblance to the production Scirocco was preserved. Identifying characteristics of its side profile are the new side skirts and polished 19-inch alloy wheels with five sets of triple spokes. The wheels were specially developed for the Scirocco Studie R.

The radiator screen, diffuser and underside of the rear spoiler are treated in high-gloss black, and this provides a strong contrast to the white exterior paint. Supplemented by a “Bologna 08” badge, red and green stylistic elements on a white background create an Italian tricolor. The outside mirrors are also coordinated with this color scheme.

Interior

Italy’s national colors are also represented in the interior. White and black create the basic theme, similar to the exterior car color. The seams of the Recaro racing shell seats, steering wheel, front armrest, gearshift lever trim and floor mat edging are designed in the colors of the tricolor. Inside, nappa leather in “Deep black” and “Berry white” is applied to the uncompromisingly designed racing shell seat. The shell seats are upholstered with a deep black leather in carbon look. An eye-catching feature here is the conspicuous yet refined contrast of low and high-gloss elements of the carbon structure. Interior accents also consist of genuine carbon composites. The footwell features aluminum pedals specially designed for this
vehicle.

Within just three and a half years, the Golf Plus has made a name for itself as an established product in the Golf lineup. Its brand identity: clever like a van, compact like a Golf. Over this time period, more than 500,000 car drivers across Europe chose a plus in interior and seat heights, a plus in variability, and finally a plus in comfort. This is now being followed up by a Golf Plus that has been improved in many aspects.

Volkswagen is presenting it as a world premiere at the Bologna Motor Show (December 03 to 14). European-wide market launch of the new generation Golf Plus will already take place in March 2009. Visually, the new “Plus” forges a link to the classic body style of the just introduced sixth Golf generation. This is especially apparent at the front end. Also redesigned are the rear bumper and the roof rails. New steel and alloy wheels in a variety of sizes round out the exterior package of visual modifications. Inside, the further improved Golf Plus sports details like new upholstery materials and details also implemented in the Golf such as its instruments, steering wheel options and user interface for the automatic climate control system (Climatronic).

Technically, the Golf Plus also implements details that the new Golf introduced for the first time in this Volkswagen segment. They include the new, fuel-efficient and very quiet common rail turbodiesel engines (66 kW / 90 PS to 103 kW / 140 PS). The common rail TDIs reduce average fuel consumption by up to 0.8 liter per 100 kilometers.

As on the classic Golf, the conventional automatic transmission was also eliminated on the Golf Plus and replaced by 6-speed and 7- speed dual clutch transmissions (DSG) that are as fuel efficient as they are agile. Also new aboard the Golf Plus are the optional “Adaptive Cruise Control” (ACC), “Park Assist” parking assistant and rearview camera. Last but not least, the equipment lines were restructured too (Trendline, Comfortline and Highline as top version).

Visual appearance in style of the new “Volkswagen design DNA” The Golf has always exhibited an unmistakable and linear design. And this not only applies to the original form of the classic car; it is also true of the “specialists” on the Golf team – successful Volkswagens like the “GTI”, “Variant” and certainly the “Plus” as well. With the recent launch of the sixth generation of Golfs, this model series is experiencing a new level of maturity in its timeless and confident styling and design. This is based on the newly developed “Volkswagen design DNA”. A key aspect here is the car’s extremely high level of value. Key elements of the design language developed by the team led by Walter de Silva are now characteristics of the new Golf Plus too. And indeed in the car’s front area:

New front end

Dominant here is the horizontally aligned band of the radiator grille between the new headlight design (with standard daytime running lights); it consists of two high-gloss black cross-bars in which the VW logo is integrated. On the Highline version, each of these bars has a narrow strip of chrome at its upper end. The lines of the new bumper match those of the radiator grille. In the space below the bumper, designed in black, there is another air inlet and the fog lights that are worked into the outer areas as well as a chrome surround around the inlet screen. The fog lights also assume the new function of static turning lights being introduced on this model. This much is certain: the new front end design and distinctive headlights give the Golf Plus a significantly more dynamic and high-end appearance.

Modified rear end

In the rear, designers have restyled the bumper. The results: a plus in dynamics and precision. The bumper is now completely painted in car color. The only exception is the lower area, where there is a high-gloss black segment in the center giving the visual effect of a diffuser. High-visibility reflectors were also integrated in the lower section of the bumper. The taillights with their LED technology were styled in a new dark red (“Cherry red”).

Side profile with new roof rails

The side profile of the Golf Plus has remained largely unchanged. However, new roof rails were integrated more harmoniously into the car’s overall line. Compared to its predecessor, this car is lower in profile, more refined, and it is painted silver starting with the Highline (Trendline and Comfortline: black). In its side profile, the new wheel designs are also conspicuous. Even the base version gets new full wheel covers. In the upscale direction, the lineup of wheeltire combinations is rounded out by the new 18-inch “Bilbao” alloy wheel design from Volkswagen Individual.

Interior

The Golf Plus, always offered as a four-door with a large hatch is one of the most variable and practical vehicles of its class. Some ways in which these qualities are realized: the slightly elevated and very upright seating position, rear bench seat (split 40:60 and folding, seatback split 40:20:40) with 160 millimeters of longitudinal adjustment, optional folding front passenger seat, variable cargo floor, a storage concept that has been thought through to the last detail and ample space for passengers and their luggage.

New instruments and automatic climate control

The instruments now have the same look as those in the new Golf, Passat and Passat CC. Dominant here are the two round instruments in brushed chrome surrounds that are even supplied in the base equipment version. Instrument scaling is backlit in white (regardless of whether the headlights are on or off); pointer gauges are designed in red. Also configured in white are the graphics of the multifunctional display (MFA) located between the tachometer and speedometer – standard in all equipment versions effective immediately. Analogous to the Golf and Passat, a new generation of steering wheel is making its way onto the Golf Plus, perfected in touch and appearance.

If the Volkswagen is ordered with automatic climate control (Climatronic), a new user interface developed for control of temperature and ventilation is included.

New technologies I – innovative engines

The new Golf Plus will be offered with five gasoline engines (59 kW / 80 PS to 118 kW / 160 PS) and four new turbo-diesel engines (66 kW / 90 PS to 103 kW / 140 PS). All engines are four-cylinder, all engines are charged starting at 90 PS, all engines fulfill the Euro-5 emissions standard. And with the exception of the base variants, any of the gasoline and diesel engines may be paired with a 6-speed or 7- speed dual clutch transmission (DSG) – this signifies the retirement of the classic automatic with torque-converter lockup clutch in the Golf Plus and its replacement by DSG technology.

For a better understanding of just how efficiently the DSGs work, consider the 90 kW / 122 PS strong Golf Plus TSI (1.4 liter displacement) with 7-speed DSG: This 200 km/h fast Volkswagen is satisfied with just 6.3 liters fuel per 100 kilometers (146 g/km CO2).

New Common Rail TDI

After the Golf, in early 2009 Volkswagen will also fully convert the Golf Plus over to common rail engines with four valves per cylinder. The TDIs output 66 kW / 90 PS, 77 kW / 105 PS, 81 kW / 110 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS. Right at the car’s market launch, TDIs will be available with 110 PS and 140 PS. Always on board with all diesels: a diesel particulate filter (DPF). Besides being fuel efficient and dynamic, the new TDI engines are also characterized by noticeably good low-noise properties.

Also pioneering are the car’s low fuel consumption values: the 189 km/h fast Golf Plus TDI with 110 PS consumes just 5.1 liters fuel per 100 kilometers on average. CO2 emissions of the 2.0 liter TDI are just 134 g/km.

Running at an equally excellent level underway is the Golf Plus TDI with 140 PS. In this 2.0 liter version, exactly 5.1 liters of diesel flow to the common rail injection per 100 kilometers on average: that is 0.8 liter less than on the TDI with pump-nozzle technology, which was already very efficient. In parallel, Volkswagen has reduced CO2 emissions on the 204 km/h fast Golf Plus TDI from 153 to 135 g/km!

New technologies II – Park Assist

For the first time on the Golf Plus, the updated model generation offers the parking assistant “Park Assist”. The system enables nearly automatic reverse parking parallel to the roadway. The driver only needs to actuate the gas pedal, brake and clutch. Meanwhile, the Golf Plus steers into the premeasured parking space, controlled by sensors.

New technologies III – Rearview camera

Also new aboard the Golf Plus is the optional rearview camera – “Rear Assist”. The camera is located in the VW emblem in the hatch. As soon as reverse gear is engaged, the VW logo swivels upward, together with the camera, to scan the space behind the Golf Plus from this position. The system may be ordered in combination with the RCD 510 and RNS 510 touchscreen radio and radio-navigation systems. Camera images are transferred directly to the touchscreen.

New technologies IV – Visual Parking Assistant

If the Golf Plus is ordered with “ParkPilot” or “Park Assist” – together with one of the radio or radio-navigation systems RCD 310, RNS 310, RCD 510 or RNS 510 – a new visual display may be accessed as an alternative to the rearview camera. The “Visual Parking Assistant” shows a bird’s eye view of the vehicle in the display and symbolically represents potential obstacles in the front and rear areas, precisely where they are actually located.

New technologies V – Adaptive Cruise Control ACC

Another new assistance system on the Golf Plus is “Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)”. When “ACC” is activated, the Golf Plus automatically brakes and accelerates based on laser measurements. The driver preselects a speed between 30 and 210 km/h. Important: “Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)” not only maintains the preselected speed, but also the preselected distance to the next vehicle in traffic.

Golf Plus Trendline

Volkswagen will offer this high-roof version of the Golf in the three equipment lines “Trendline”, “Comfortline” and “Highline”. “Highline” replaces the previous top version “Sportline”. The entry-level “Trendline” is anything but a spartan version. Standard equipment includes safety features such as six airbags, crash-active head restraints, and ESP on board. Comfort is perfected by such details as a climate control system (Climatic), power windows, height-adjustable driver’s seat, new and appealing fabric seat covers (“Flow”), longitudinal adjustment of the rear bench seat, multifunctional display (MFA), a rear window antenna, chrome bezels on the air vents, power steering with speed-dependent control, green tinted glass and central locking. The outside mirrors, door handles and bumpers are also painted in car color. The standard roof rails are kept in black.

Golf Plus Comfortline

The Golf Plus Comfortline is equipped with even more features. Standard equipment supplemental to the Trendline version includes 16-inch wheels with size 205 tires, side guard strips also in car color, chrome accents on the radiator grille, a storage compartment in the roofliner, folding tables and pockets on the seatbacks of the front seats, special seat covers (“Porch Studio F”), comfort seats and height adjustable front passenger’s seat, bag hooks in the cargo area, center armrest in front, cruise control (GRA), ParkPilot in front and rear, leather steering wheel, gearshift knob and parking brake lever,
dual cargo floor and the new RCD 210 radio-CD system.

Golf Plus Highline

“Highline” – the top version of a model series – is an equipment designation with a great tradition at Volkswagen. Similar to the Golf, it was adopted again for this model series, to retire the previous “Sportline” versions in parallel with a restructuring of equipment lines. The Golf Plus Highline furnishes additional details such as sport seats (center panels in Alcantara), fog lights with static turn lighting, center armrest in front, Multifunctional Display Plus, automatic climate control (Climatronic), silver painted roof rails, winter package (including heated seats, headlight cleaning system), RCD 210 radio-CD system, multifunctional steering wheel and 17- inch alloy wheels (“Porto” type).

Also available as options on all versions are details such as bi-xenon headlights with curve lighting, multifunctional steering wheels, eight different types of alloy wheels (15 to 18 inch), a sport package (including sport chassis, tire pressure monitoring and tinted side windows), nine metallic and pearl effect colors, three radio-CD and two radio-navigation systems, several hands-free systems, a sound system, Mobile Device Interface (MDI) as an interface for audio devices with USB connector and a digital receiver module (DAB) for the radio systems. So this all-around car not only offers a plus in space, but also a plus when it comes to individualization.

Golf Plus Collectors Edition

On a concept car based on the new Golf Plus, Volkswagen Individual is providing a demonstration of just how limitless the hidden possibilities of individualization are: the Collectors Edition. This concept car is outfitted with the exclusive “White pearl effect” body color. Providing the necessary contact to the road are size 225/40 tires on new 18-inch “Bilbao” alloy wheels. Inside and out, the Golf Plus Collectors Edition exudes a kind of lounge ambiance. And not only because of the espresso machine integrated in the center console. The interior is trimmed in high-end nappa leather in “Titanium black” and “St. Tropez” (cream white) – this creates a very contemporary and urbane ambiance. Perfection right down to the last detail is evident in the decorative “Viaggio” seams between the individual sections of nappa leather trim.

Furthermore, it is the contrasts between low and high gloss surfaces that define the interior. All accents, for example, are in high-gloss black piano paint, which encounters the silky matte of the nappa leather in the instrument panel area.

Germany’s biggest tuning show its opening its gates today and Volkswagen will be there with two special editions, painted in shiny white and featuring the most exclusive equipments and best technologies.
First of them is the Eos “White Night”, a study that surprises with the elegant contrast between black and white. The body is painted in “Candy White” and the roof, the grille and mirror caps in “Deep Black Perle Effect”.
Same contrast in the interior: black Nappa leather, whit “Campanella white” ornaments. The study is powered by a 3,2 liter V6 engine that delivers 250 Hp.
Second one is the special edition Scirocco “Collectors Edition.” This will go on sale at the beginning of 2009 and will be limited to only 100 units.
“Collectors Edition” is painted in “Oryx White”, and on the interior the leather is “Berry White”. The new Scirocco will feature xenon headlights, 19″ wheels, an electronic panoramic sunroof, RNS 510 navigation-system.
It will be powered by a 2,9 litri TSI engine that delivers 200 hp.

Volkswagen revealed the first details on the Golf VI TwinDrive, a concept that features the latest generation plug-in hybrid drive system. According to the company testing will begin in Berlin next year.

The TwinDrive technology was first used on the Golf V, but how this is history it was converted on the new generation. The hybrid solution features an electric engine and a internal-combustion one; the difference is that, compared to the Golf V, in the Golf VI, the internal combustion one helps the electric engine.

Golf TwinDrive produces 176 hp and it can run 50 km on electrical power.

The official debut will be made in 2010.