by VW in the News on January 31, 2011
Volkswagen’s innovative TDI clean-diesel technology helped pave the way for two more notable honors recently, with the VW Jetta TDI and Jetta Sportwagen TDI each earning kudos from well-respected industry experts.
For the Sportwagen, it was the result of a Consumer Reports test of “fuel-efficient cars” that featured the VW, Ford Fiesta, MAZDA2 and Honda CR-Z. As you might expect, the subcompacts from Ford and Mazda did fairly well in terms of fuel economy, although they still trailed Honda’s hybrid. But it was the bigger and more versatile Jetta Sportwagen that put up the top mark, scoring 36 mpg in the CR’s own testing, including a “superb 49 mpg on the highway.” [click to continue…]
by VW in the News on January 17, 2011
Sunny Los Angeles was the perfect place for the introduction of the new 2012 VW Eos, as Volkwagen’s stylish convertible coupe was recently introduced there during November’s LA Auto Show. Featuring a retractable hardtop—the only one in the industry with a built-in sunroof—the 2012 Eos has been refreshed both inside and out to deliver top-down driving thrills during nice weather and a dynamic, no-compromises ownership experience the whole year round.
The Eos now boasts cleaner lines with fresh, horizontally designed body contours, along with a sophisticated new front-headlight design, a black grille with subtle chrome accents, two-part LED rear lights featuring fiber optics, and a redesigned, more aerodynamic rear bumper/diffuser. The interior of the Eos has been refined as well, with a standard keyless entry/start system, “matte chrome” detailing, chrome-framed window buttons and light switches, and new trim for the car’s ergonomic instrument panel. Up-level models add genuine walnut wood accents for their instrument and door panels, along with new “Vienna” leather seating surfaces. In addition, Eos sound systems can now receive HD Radio programming. [click to continue…]
by VW in the News on November 4, 2010
And that headline is no mere play on words: When the all-new 2011 VW Touareg comes to U.S. dealerships in the near future, it will offer a unique supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine mated to Volkswagen’s first production hybrid-electric powertrain. The result? VW’s highly capable SUV will pack 380 hp and 428 lb.-ft. of torque, yet still deliver an impressive 25 mpg highway in EPA testing—and that’s with the automaker’s standard 4MOTION all-wheel-drive setup.
It’s a unique combination of power, efficiency and capability that takes full advantage of Volkswagen’s commitment to engineering excellence. That V6 engine, for example, is not only supercharged but it also boasts advanced features like direct injection, and the Touareg’s electric motor relies on a proven 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack that can push the vehicle to a top speed of 30 mph using all-electric, emissions-free power. [click to continue…]
by VW in the News on October 26, 2010
Rumors of Volkswagen’s entrance into F1 racing continue to surface, but according to the latest reports, VW may make a decision by the end of the year.
If Volkswagen does decide to enter the Formula One World Championship, it will do so in the 2013 season. What also is unknown is what brand would ultimately be the primary label of VW’s racing team. Since Audi has already had tremendous success with its Le Mans team, many reports indicate that Porsche could wear that label. [click to continue…]
by VW in the News on October 22, 2010
Volkswagen calls the 2012 Eos significantly enhanced, but it certainly isn’t significantly different looking from the current version. Sure, the headlights, grille and front fascia are redesigned, as are the taillights and the lower rear fascia sports a diffuser. But overall, the car looks very much the same as before. That’s not a bad thing; the Eos is an attractive but not at all flashy hardtop convertible with nothing daring about its design.
It is cool that the front lamps now feature the string-of-LEDs running lights found on Audis. Elimination of the large, round reverse lamps improves the look of the taillights, which the automaker says use fiber optic technology, although they’re not specific about the how and why. The back bumper certainly looks quite different because of the diffuser, but on the whole it’s not a big change. [click to continue…]
by VW in the News on October 19, 2010
Volkswagen has once again improved on its iconic pocket rocket, providing key upgrades to the 2011 GTI that will make it an even better choice for today’s driving enthusiasts.
After getting a comprehensive exterior redesign for the previous model year, VW has fine-tuned the appearance of the 2011 GTI with standard 18-inch Detroit alloy wheels, while also adding voice-activated Bluetooth technology to an already well-contented interior on all models. The GTI’s premium option packages have been enhanced as well. Now in the mix with all packages are VW’s RNS 315 touch-screen navigation system, Xenon headlamps with adaptive front lighting, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and a premium eight-speaker, 300-watt Dynaudio sound system. [click to continue…]
by VW in the News on October 13, 2010
Police departments rarely utilize diesel-powered vehicles for patrol cars, and even fewer use Volkswagens – at least here in the U.S. But thanks to a new donation from VW, the City of Chattanooga and Hamilton County may consider the value of a diesel-powered VW yet.
According to Hickory Volkswagen Dealers, Volkswagen is building a plant in Tennessee to build the upcoming replacement for the Passat, code named New Midsize Sedan (NMS). In an effort forge strong ties with its new neighbors, Volkswagen donated two Jetta SportWagen TDIs each to the Chattanooga police and the Hamilton County police. [click to continue…]
by VW in the News on October 11, 2010
After last year’s redesign, which earned it “2010 World Car of the Year” honors, the 2011 Volkswagen Golf is aiming to garner even more kudos—and more customers—thanks to its internationally acclaimed combination of dynamic performance, incredible fuel efficiency and up-level Euro-style amenities.
The Golf boasts a strong road presence, from VW’s signature double-bar grille to its hatch-mounted rear spoiler, and that’s reinforced by wide proportions and an athletic stance. But the car has more than just a sporty appearance—it also backs those looks up with true sporting performance. The Golf’s well-tuned chassis and buttoned-down suspension—with standard front anti-roll bar—keeps the car planted and ready to run at all times, while a choice of two powerplants offer two ways to wring the most out of VW’s cool compact. [click to continue…]
by VW in the News on October 5, 2010
A fuel efficient vehicle may give you the range of 400 miles, maybe 500 miles, or perhaps even 600 miles with a diesel. Those are impressive distances, but to show off what their latest BlueMotion technology can do, Volkswagen just set the single-tank distance record by traveling a staggering 1,527 miles.
Starting from Kent, England with a full tank of diesel fuel, the 1.6-liter TDI-equipped VW Passat BlueMotion accomplished a feat that few hybrids can match. The Passat was a production model and and featured Stop/Start technology and low rolling resistance tires, which both aid fuel efficiency. [click to continue…]
by VW in the News on September 30, 2010
Unable to wait just one more day before its unveiling at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, Volkswagen took the covers off of the 2011 Passat. This redesign comes on the heels of the 2011 Jetta’s unveiling, and solidifies VW’s new corporate design language.
While the new Passat is still rather conservative in its styling, both inside and out, the design is still fresh and attractive. And, considering that VW is specifically aiming for an older demographic with the Passat, it’s probably safe to say that its styling will hit the mark. [click to continue…]
