New Beetle Campaign Adds Momentum With New, Interactive Website

Text from Volkswagen of America.
Web site enhances New Beetle’s mission to spread joy and happines

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – In the latest installment of the nationwide New Beetle ‘Force of Good’ campaign, Volkswagen has launched a mini-website to further spread fun and good cheer. The Web site, www.forceofgood.com, allows users to do battle with everyday foes, meet interesting, fellow New Beetle owners, and learn more about the recent tour that showered unsuspecting people with goodwill from coast-to-coast.

The Force of Good campaign is based on the notion that the New Beetle embodies the spirit of fun and goodness. Volkswagen has embraced the New Beetle as its mascot in bringing joy to everyone in its reach.

The new Web site chronicles the Force of Good tour, in which ambassadors drove New Beetles cross-country, spreading joy in New York City, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Seattle, San Francisco and Miami. The ambassadors battled everyday evils wherever they went -- surprising drivers by paying parking meters and tolls, quenching thirsts with IZZE® all-natural sparkling juice on hot, dry days, delivering free coffee to motorists during rush hour and participating in a range of local volunteer initiatives.

With help from the Web site, the New Beetle continues to spread cheer by battling common annoyances, such as melting ice cream cones, burnt toast and alarm clocks. Visit the Web site to get to know New Beetle owners who help their communities in very special ways, and use a New Beetle convertible to catch “friends” (a gift, cat, ice cream cone and toilet paper) and deflect “foes” (Brussels sprouts, burnt toast, port-a-potty and a monster).

“The New Beetle makes people smile,” explains Tesa Aragones, eBusiness leader at Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Our new Force of Good Web site helps spread the feeling of goodness and happiness that is shared by the community of New Beetle owners. It’s a fun Web site that reminds us to enjoy life and do good things for others.”

As part of the Force of Good campaign, Volkswagen is donating one dollar to worthy organizations for every New Beetle or New Beetle Convertible built online at www.vw.com. Customers can build their car and select one of three organizations: Young Audiences, America's Second Harvest or ComedyCures. Volkswagen will donate one dollar to the organization in the customer’s name.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.

Volkswagen Presents Passat Lingyu for Chinese Market

Text from Xinhua. Photos from Volkswagen AG.
BEIJING, Nov. 25 -- Shanghai Volkswagen Automotive Corp released its new line of Passats yesterday in Beijing in a bid to revive the popularity of one of its mainstay models.

The locally based firm also said it plans to launch two additional new models next year as it attempts to regain the dominant position in the Chinese auto market.

The new Passats — three years in the making — will be sold in six versions ranging in engine size from 1.8 liters to a 2.8 liters. They will be priced from 214,800 yuan (US$26,485) to 318,000 yuan.

The lowest-price model will sell for about same as the previous Passat but will feature improved interior decor and gearboxes.

"The Passat will be our flagship model as we renew our market position against fierce competition,"said Chen Zhixin, general manager of SVW, a 50-50 joint venture between Germany's Volkswagen AG and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp.

Though the first cars are only now available, the company has received more than 4,000 purchase orders since sales began on November 10 and expects to sell 10,000 units by the end of the year.

The sales goal for next year is 80,000 to 90,000 units, according to Dieter Seemann, the company's deputy managing director and commercial executive director.

Until now, Shanghai Volkswagen hasn't introduced any new cars this year while its biggest rival, Shanghai GM, has brought out more than 30 models under three brands. As a result, Shanghai VW is poised to lose its No. 1 position in the Chinese car market to Shanghai GM in terms of annual sales.

Volkswagen Minivans to be Built in St. Louis by Chrysler

text from Auto Channel.
Washington DC November 29, 2005; The AIADA newsletter reported that Bloomberg said that Chrysler will build minivans for Volkswagen AG at its South plant in St. Louis. The VW minivans would be sold in the U.S. and exported abroad, though it is not known when production would start. A spokesman for Chrysler would not comment on the report. DaimlerChrysler has a South and North plant in St. Louis that face each other across a highway. The South plant built 201,000 minivans in 2004.

Volkswagen dominates "Auto Trophy"

Text from Volkswagen AG.
Award ceremony in Berlin: Volkswagen AG wins 23 prizes

Berlin / Wolfsburg, 28 November 2005 - This year's "Auto Trophy" produced some remarkable results: Volkswagen Group products were voted onto the podium 23 times by the readers of "Auto" magazine.

The "Auto Trophy 2005" awards were presented at a grand gala yesterday evening. Hostess Barbara Schöneberger and over 300 invited guests saw only one winner: Volkswagen AG. The Group dominated the ceremony with 23 awards for products of the Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Lamborghini, Bentley and Bugatti brands.

It was the 18th time that "Auto" magazine had asked its readers to vote for their personal favourites. The response was enormous: over 90,000 votes were received. The Volkswagen brand alone picked up three first and six second places. The Fox won the category "Best-value-for-money car". The Golf and the Touran both won their respective categories.

The Audi A6 and A8 won the categories "Upper class" and "Luxury class". The new Q7 achieved first place in the category "Off-road vehicles". Audi also won the award for the best advertising.

Besides the overall categories, prizes were also awarded for the most popular imported vehicles. Here, the Skoda Octavia and the Seat Altea won the "Compact car" and "Minvan" classes.

This dominance demonstrates the success of Volkswagen AG's latest product offensive. Moreover, it also reflects current Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) statistics, which put the Group in first place in seven of the ten categories.

Volkswagen Sets Its Sights on Mercedes CLS

Text from MotorTorque. Photo is artist's rendering.
VW look set to try to attract Mercedes customers with a coupe style Passat, codenamed the CC, which will rival the Mercedes CLS. The unnamed four door coupe will be manufactured at the VW factory at Emden in Northern Germany and is set for a 2008 launch.

Rumours have been rife for a while now that VW would add a coupe to their line-up, and these rumours were confirmed in a VW media press release for the Speciality Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. In the media release VW USA admitted that a ?2+2 sports coupe? was in the pipeline following the release of the EOS Coupe Cabriolet and the development of new technology for the VW Range.

Although no details of the vehicle itself have been released it is expected that the Coupe will have features of the new model VW Passat and the new Eos Coupe Cabriolet, and will have the underpinnings for the 2006 Jetta. It is also expected that three engines will be available in the coupe with the 3.2 litre V6 engine of the Golf R32 and the top end of the model line-up. The VW coupe is also set to be significantly cheaper than the CLS whilst offering all the technology and great performance you would expect from a Volkswagen.

Volkswagen, Opel Postpones Coupé-Cabriolet Launch

Text from CARtoday.com.
German arch-rivals Volkswagen and Opel have had to postpone the introduction of their planned four-seater coupe-cabriolets, and in both cases problems with the cars' mechanical roof structures have been cited as the reason.

The Volkswagen Eos and the Opel Astra Twin Top were unveiled at the recent Frankfurt Motor Show and both impressed showgoers with their elegant designs and innovative roof structures.

However, first Volkswagen and now Opel have announced that their respective models will be delayed by at least two months. According to Autocar, engineering problems with the hard top convertibles' complex folding roofs have been quoted as the reasons for the delay.

The Golf-based Eos uses an electrically operated five-section metal roof system. It offers three roofing configurations - hard-top coupe, hard-top with a sliding glass sunroof and convertible.

The Eos will be manufactured at the Volkswagen Autoeuropa-Automóveis Lda factory in Portugal. At the time of its European unveiling, Volkswagen South Africa media liaison, Songezo Zibi said the local subsidiary hoped to introduce the model in South Africa by the end of 2006.

The Astra Twin Top uses a more conventional three-part retractable roof system similar to the one currently used on the Corsa-based Tigra coupe-cabriolet.

Production of the Astra Twin Top was due to start at the beginning of next year at General Motors' ntwerp plant in Belgium, where it will share the line with the five-door Astra and the upcoming three-door GTC model.

The 2005 Essen Motor Show

Text and photos from Volkswagen AG.
World premiere of the CrossPolo on the Ruhr

CrossPolo Successor of the Polo Fun debuts at the Essen Motor Show

Other Novelties: Polo GTI, Eos, Golf speed, Golf GT und Golf R32

Wolfsburg / Essen, 24 November 2005 - In a world premiere at the 38th Essen Motor Show Volkswagen presents the CrossPolo. The distinctive four-door with large hatchback, in the style of a small SUV, recommends itself as a practical and lifestyle oriented all-round talent with can-do qualities. The CrossPolo, developed under the direction of Volkswagen Individual, will follow the successful Polo Fund in February 2006. Parallel to the CrossPolo, Volkswagen will present the European premiere of the new Polo GTI with 110 kW Turbo motor in Essen. Other sporty highlights on the Ruhr: The Convertible Coupe Eos, the new Golf speed, the innovative Golf GT and, of course, the Golf R32. Furthermore the largest automobile manufacturer in Europe will also present, among others, the Fox, the Passat Limousine (as a version of Volkswagen Individual), the Passat Variant, the Touareg W12 Executive as well as the competition vehicles Polo Cup and Race Touareg 2 (Polo Cup and Race Touareg 2 see separate Press kit from Volkswagen Motorsport).


CrossPolo: ­Thanks to its 15 millimeters higher chassis the front wheel drive CrossPolo accomplishes even the toughest road conditions. ­Optically the avantgardistic Volkswagen stands out in the crowd of compacts with its 17” alloy wheels, robust and color coordinated chassis attachment parts and newly designed fenders in the off road style. ­The interior has special fabric seat covers and chrome trimmings, which shapes the unique character of the versatile CrossPolo. ­The motor spectrum includes three gasoline engines (47 kW / 64 hp, 55 kW / 75 hp, 74 kW / 100 hp) and two turbo-diesel direct-fuel-injections (51 kW / 70 hp and 74 kW / 100 hp).

Thanks to its higher chassis and a practical roof railing, which comes standard, the CrossPolo has significantly gained in height. The carriage and tires alone bring an additional 32 millimeters; measured up to the roof railing the CrossPolo is even 70 millimeters (total: 1,537 millimeters) higher than the classical versions of the series. ­The outdoor mirrors in brilliant chrome paint correspond optically with the roof railing. The modified front spoiler also picks up this metal theme as a design element. The central middle air intake received a matte aluminum look trimming that takes on a suggested shape of an underride protection. The fog lights located on the sides next to it come standard. Next to the exterior the interior also exhibits numerous modifications. For example: color coordinated sport seats that correspond with the body paint.


Polo GTI: In a European premiere Volkswagen presents the new Polo GTI at the Essen Motor Show. With 110 kW / 150 hp it is the strongest model since the introduction of the series thirty years ago. Starting in Spring 2006 the Polo GTI will be available in select markets. Further key data: ­1.8-Liter-Turbo motor with intercooler, 216 km/h maximum speed, from 0-to-100-km/h-sprint in 8.2 seconds, 220 Nm maximum moment of torque (at 1,950 rpm) and 7.8 Liter average fuel consumption. From the front, the “small-scale” GTI pays tribute to the typical radiator grille design, traditional territory of the “large-scale” GTI - black, v-shaped, upper air grilles with honeycombed protective grating. Likewise, the double headlights and standard fog lamps in the outer air grilles are both stylishly edged in black. ­The rear section is characterized by a chrome double end exhaust pipe and a roof-edge spoiler. Additionally the Polo GTI comes standard with 16” alloy wheels and 205 tires, black sillboards, a 15 millimeters lower sport chassis and ESP. The noble interior includes sport seats in the front with the typical checkered pattern “Interlagos” and many other GTI details (such as red seams in the steering wheels interior, red rims of the otherwise black seat belts or aluminum pedal).


Cabriolet-Coupé Eos: The new Eos from Volkswagen is the first four-door car in the world with a five piece CSC roof; the foldable hardtop combines the features of a Coupé-, Sun-, and Convertible roof in one. When closed the CSC roof spans a tail-like arch between the rear section and windshield. This creates a Coupe roof par excellence, elegant and sportive. The roofline is stretched, the rear section muscular, the impression high class. When open the 4.41 meter long and 1.79 meter wide Eos shows that it was designed as a Convertible-Coupé and its chassis concept was not derived from an existing model. The CSC roof made it possible to keep the windshield frame short and the rear section compact. Result: sharp proportions in the style of a classic convertible.

Complete opening and closing happens rather quickly: From the first “clack” to the last “click” it takes approx. 25 seconds. Just as in the New Beetle Convertible, a roll-over bar security system, which extends in maximum 0.25 seconds, optimizes critical driving situations. On the engine side the Eos offers four gas fuel motors with the performance range 85 kW / 115 hp, 110 kW / 150 hp, 147 kW / 200 hp and 184 kW / 250 hp as well as a 103 kW / 140 hp strong TDI with standard diesel particle filter. The four cylinder direct fuel injection can make use of up to 147 kW, the 184 kW models draws its strength from six cylinders. The new 3.3 V6 is shifted via the double clutch transmission DSG, the 110 kW and 147 kW strong FSI engines can optionally be combined with DSG.


Golf Speed: The Golf Speed study with its Lamborghini finish colors and many accessories has been causing a stir for months. It was conceived by young Volkswagen apprentices. The response from drivers that have seen the “orange speed” and “yellow speed” colored Golf-studies at trade shows, in the Car city and at Potsdamer Platz in Berlin was so overwhelming that a miniseries of one hundred Golf yellow speed and Golf orange speed each have been ordered. Multicolor plays a main role: Four color coats, applied by hand, ensure a one of a kind multi-faceted brilliance which is particularly emphasized in the sunlight and from different view points.

Just like the Golf R32, the Golf Speed has an exhaust system with a double end pipe in the middle. In the front the shining chrome grille and chrome outside mirrors also stand out. The dynamic overall impression is underlined even more through the rear spoiler and the broadened body colored sillboards as well as the 18” alloy wheels. ­­Numerous other modifications such as tinted windows, cherry red rear lights in the style of the R32, a sport seat system adapted from the Golf GTI but in this case upholstered with leather and alcantara (decorative seams plus interior applications in body color), sport chassis, 18” alloy wheels as well as the production number engraved in the interior underline the exclusivity of this special series. The Golf speed is powered by 2.0 FSI with 110 kW / 150 hp or the 2.0 TDI with 103 kW / 140 hp. The TDI can be ordered optional with the sporty double clutch system DSG.


Golf GT: Following the Golf R32 and Golf GTI, Volkswagen is bringing the third dynamic version of the most successful European car on the market. Golf GT. And that as a double feature. Because, as a world premiere, the new Golf GT comes with a double charged FSI motor (Twincharger – exhaust turbocharger plus compressor) and the up to now strongest VW four cylinder turbo diesel. Both motors develop 125 kW/ 170 hp. Special characteristic: more output, less consumption. Example Golf GT with 1.4-liter-125-kW-twincharger-motor: ­Its four cylinders are the strongest aggregate of a completely newly developed motor family. With this motor after only 7.9 seconds the Golf GT is 100 km/h fast. Maximum speed: 220 km/h ­Average fuel consumption: 7.2 liters. Example Golf GT 2.0 TDI: ­­Equipped with highly modern piezo-pump-spray-direct-injection and four valve technology, it provides a 0-100-km/h rate of 8.2 seconds and a maximum speed of 220 km/h. ­­Average consumption: 5.9 liter. Golf GT models will be available with their own look and equipment.


Golf R32: With the new Golf R32, the second generation of the strongest Golf of all times will be available in the coming days. Once again, with the permanent all wheel drive 4Motion but with even more power. 184 kW / 250 hp. Just like its predecessor the new leading Golf – like the CrossPolo conceptualized by Volkswagen Individual – has its own look and equipment. The Golf R32 is up to 250 km/h fast and alternately to the manual transmission can be shifted via the double clutch transmission DSG. In this case the “R32” accelerates even faster: 6.2 instead of 6.5 seconds. As with its predecessor the lead Golf features a special look and equipment. From the front the current R32 generation can be distinguished among other things by its logo grille in the aluminum look. Distinguishing the rear section: two round end pipe out of polished stainless steel. Looking at the silhouette of the Golf R32 one notices the 18” alloy wheels (type “Zolder”) with 225 tires. The consequent sporty concept of the Golf R32 is like a red thread throughout the car. Example interior: the sportive character of the lead Golf is underlined by the stand alone instruments, sport seats, stainless steel pedals and special applications. The sport steering wheel with perforation leather in the grip area and the R32 gear shift knob are solid.


Note:
All data and equipment information in the press kit is for the model program offered in Germany. It can vary in other countries. Subject to change.
The names FSI, TDI, DSG, CSC and SunFuel are registered trademarks of the Volkswagen AG or other entities of the Volkswagen Group in Germany.

World Premiere of the CrossPolo at the Essen Motor Show

Text and photos from Volkswagen AG.
All-round talent to be launched in February 2006 at a starting price of 15,150 euros

Wolfsburg, 20 November 2005 - World premiere of the Volkswagen CrossPolo at the 38th Essen Motor Show. The striking design of the four-door vehicle with a large tailgate makes it a practical and robust lifestyle statement. This attractive and progressive Volkswagen has running gear raised by 15 millimetres, new 17-inch alloy wheels, robust bolt-on parts in a contrasting colour and re-designed bumpers in off-road style. The interior of the versatile CrossPolo is characterised by special upholstery fabrics, sport seats and chrome trims.

The CrossPolo will be introduced to the German market in February 2006. It is the successor of the extremely successful Polo Fun which exceeded initial sales forecasts threefold. The starting price for the 1.2-litre petrol engine (47 kW / 64 PS) is 15,150 euros, placing it well below the price of 16,225 euros its predecessor cost. The engine line-up comprises three petrol engines (47 kW / 64 PS, 55 kW / 75 PS, 74 kW / 100 PS) and two TDI engines (51 kW / 70 PS und 74 kW / 100 PS).

For skiing, mountain biking and rock-climbing in beautiful scenery or simply for shopping trips to the city: unconventional vehicles such as the CrossPolo developed by Volkswagen Individual are immensely popular. Unusual concepts and designs in this type of leisure vehicle provide great versatility and make a clear lifestyle statement. The message is driving fun, excellent product quality and good value for money. This is the profile of the new CrossPolo.

Its raised running gear and practical roof railing fitted as standard have increased the height of the CrossPolo considerably: the running gear and tyres contribute to an added height of 32 millimetres; its height to the top of the aluminium roof railing is 70 millimetres above other vehicles in the range. The CrossPolo has a total height of 1,537 millimetres.

The exterior mirror housings in shiny chrome paintwork continue the metal theme started by the roof railings. The modified front skirt also picks up on this design element: the central air-intake is framed in matte aluminium look, and is extended to suggest an under-run bumper. The fog lights on either side are standard equipment.

The silhouette of the CrossPolo clearly makes it a model in its own right. The 215/40 tyres on 17-inch rims comfortably fill the wheel housings which are framed by robust wheel arch flares. The wheel arch flares form a unit with the sill panels which are extended into the doors. These panels and the bottom elements of the front and rear bumpers are made of robust plastic in a dark matte finish. In contrast, the body is available in six fresh colours: magma orange, lime, flash red, black magic, Ravenna blue and reflex silver. The handles and upper protective side strips in body colour are standard.

The colour of the paintwork determines the details of the vehicle interior – which is fitted with sport comfort seats. A range of details give the CrossPolo an individual character. The four-spoke steering wheel is enhanced by painted trim plates and coloured seams. The gearstick gaiter and leather handbrake also have coloured seams. The gear knob is enhanced by a CrossPolo logo. The combi-instrument has a chrome ring design. The CrossPolo has aluminium pedal caps.

Further features of the high-specification standard package include: electric windows in front and rear, remote control central locking, pockets on the rear of the front seats, height-adjustable driver seat with drawer and two reading lights for rear-seat passengers. Optional extras include heated front seats, an asymmetric (1:2) folding rear seat and backrest, sliding/tilting roof and almost all extras generally available for the Polo provided they do not conflict with seat upholstery and seat assembly.

New Top-of-the-Range Engine for the Passat

Text from Volkswagen AG.
3.2-litre six-cylinder FSI engine with 184 kW/250 hp – DSG and 4MOTION available as standard

Wolfsburg, 17 November 2005 - After recently winning the "Goldenes Lenkrad 2005" award, the Passat is now racing ahead with a top-of-the-range engine: six cylinders promise agility and sportiness coupled with smoothness for long-distance motoring. The most powerful engine in the line-up has a power output of 184 kW/250 hp and develops its maximum torque of 320 Nm at an engine speed of 3,200 rpm.

The six-cylinder direct injection petrol engine with DSG direct shift gearbox and 4MOTION permanent four wheel drive has an average fuel consumption of just 9.8 litres per 100 km for the saloon and 10.0 litres for the estate. Its acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds (estate: 7.2 seconds) puts it on a par with the Golf GTI, which has the same acceleration values in combination with the DSG.

The saloon has a top speed of 246 km/h; the estate peaks at 243 km/h. The Passat V6 FSI complies with EU4 emission standards and can be ordered with Comfortline, Sportline and Highline specification packages. The saloon has a starting price of 34,860 euros; the estate starts at 36,135 euros.


The Passat with 4MOTION four-wheel drive:
The new Passat generation is available with a choice of three different engines, with 4MOTION permanent four-wheel drive and an electronically controlled Haldex coupling. In the two-litre class, the Passat saloon and Passat estate can be ordered with the 103 kW/140 hp TDI engine with 4MOTION or the 110 kW/150 hp FSI engine with 4MOTION. The diesel engine is also available with a diesel particulate filter. The proven Haldex coupling together with the 4MOTION four-wheel drive transmits engine torque to all four-wheels individually depending on road conditions.

Volkswagen Delays Eos Launch... Again

Text from Reuters.
FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Volkswagen AG, the world's fourth-largest carmaker, has delayed the launch of its Eos coupe-cabriolet model again, to July 2006, a company spokesman said on Saturday.

Dealers had now been given the first weekend in July as the target date for the Eos market launch, the spokesman said, citing a range of problems. "The roof is one issue," he said.

A coupe-cabriolet is a model with a coupe silhouette that sports a retractable hardtop, allowing it to change to a cabriolet. Fewer and fewer cabrios entering the market these days come with a traditional soft material top. Volkswagen said on Tuesday the launch would be delayed until May 2006. It was originally planned for March.

Trade newspaper Automobilwoche, in a preview of its Monday edition, said production problems in Portugal were also a reason for the delay.

Industry sources estimate VW will build 50,000 Eos cars per year.

Editor's note: There is no word on the North American launch. It may be realistic to expect a launch sometime in the Fall or Winter of 2006. Sources in Germany says that the first delay was ordered by Wolfgang Bernhard himself because of an issue with the mechanical roof making a noise while opening and closing. It appears the roof problem still hasn't been resolved and other problems have cropped up, promting a second delay.

See related:
Eos Launch to Be Delayed By 2 Months

Eos Launch to Be Delayed By 2 Months

Text from Reuters.
HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) - Volkswagen, the world's fourth-largest carmaker, has delayed the launch of its Eos coupe-cabriolet model by two months to May 2006 due to quality issues, the company said on Tuesday.

A spokesman said that VW Brand Group chief Wolfgang Bernhard made the decision since some bugs in the system still had to be worked out.

Industry sources estimate VW will build 50,000 Eos cars per year.

Bernhard aims to cut warranty costs by up to 500 million euros (338 million pounds) by 2008 as part of the carmaker's "ForMotion Plus" restructuring programme that is designed to boost group pretax profit by 4 billion euros to 5.1 billion in 2008.

Warranty claims for cars up to a year old should drop by half by 2008 as well, despite his plans to launch 5-10 new models during the period while keeping annual investment at the brand flat at roughly 2.5 billion euros.

Bernhard, who has tied executive bonuses to quality performance, aims to cut the time during which problems are found in VW cars already on the road, and when they are solved in the production process, to 18 weeks from around 48 weeks.

He also plans to improve the brand's ranking in quality tests such as J.D. Power's much-followed dependability survey among U.S. drivers, in which VW recently placed 34 out of 37 badges.

"We must be able to compete in the top third in three years," he said in an interview with the German media in July.

A coupe-cabriolet is a model with a coupe silhouette that sports a retractable hardtop, allowing it to change to a cabriolet. Fewer and fewer cabrios entering the market these days come with a traditional soft material top.

New Passat Clinches Prestigious Award

Text from Volkswagen AG.
A tradition of success: Passats have without exception always received Germany’s coveted “Goldenes Lenkrad” award. And the new model is no exception.

Wolfsburg, 10 November 2005 - Upholding the successful tradition of all its predecessor generations, the new Passat again takes the honours as winner of the Bild am Sonntag newspaper’s “Goldenes Lenkrad” (golden steering wheel) award.

Highly regarded internationally, the prestigious prize this year celebrates its 30th anniversary. A jury comprising 25 experts, celebrities and sporting figures from the world of motor sports reviewed the attributes of a total of 25 automobiles in the five categories “Small Vehicles”, “Compact and Mid-Size Vehicles”, “Premium-Class Vehicles”, “Off-Road Vehicles” and “Super Sports Cars”. The jury found the Passat’s qualities so compelling that it chose this vehicle above a field of renowned contenders for the prize in the category.

On the occasion of the award ceremony in Berlin on Wednesday evening, Dr Wolfgang Bernhard, CEO for the Volkswagen brand, said, “The new Passat impressively shows that it has the stuff of a winner. I am particularly happy that this sixth-generation Passat, like its predecessors, should once more receive the award, proving, not least, the success of our strategy to series-fit the Passat with comfort and safety features otherwise only found in the premium class.”

The awarding of “Goldenes Lenkrad 2005” to Passat reflects the recognition which this model currently enjoys on the German market. Indeed, the latest figures released by the Federal Office for Motor Traffic for the month of September 2005 reveal 7,903 new registrations for the Passat and a market share of 16.6 percent, making it the top seller in the segment for mid-class automobiles.

Volkswagen models have traditionally always been successful when it came to the “Goldenes Lenkrad” award. Previous winners of this coveted prize have also included the Polo, Golf, Touran and Touareg. The Passat first received the award in 1977.


The new Passat – equipped to win:
The new Passat has been available as a saloon since March of this year and as a variant since August 19. The Passat comes with a choice of four fittings packages: Trendline, Comfortline, Sportline and Highline. Even the basic package, Trendline, includes series features such as the electric stabilisation program, the Climatic system, six airbags, an electronic parking brake, electromechanical power steering, the “Press&Drive” ignition system, LED indicator lights and tail light plus automatic emergency-brake blinkers, and an asymmetrically separable and fold-down rear bench. An extensive array of extras is also available, among them climate control with an indirect-ventilation function (Climatronic), a DVD-navigation system, the “Kessy” system (keyless entry start and exit), bi-xenon headlamps with around-the-curve and cornering functions, a tyre-inflation-pressure system, newly integrated child seats with side panels and extra headrest mountings, automatic distance control, a sun roof, a 250-Watt Volkswagen sound system or a 600-Watt 10-channel Dynaudio sound system, and a 230-volt Euro-socket.

Volkswagen to Pull the Phaeton from the US Market in 2006

Text from AutoWeek.
Volkswagen AG is admitting defeat with the Phaeton. VW plans to pull the slow-selling luxury car from the U.S. market next summer.

The Phaeton is losing money in the United States. "It is not a viable business case anymore," says Hans-Gerd Bode, a VW spokesman at the company's global headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany.
The decision to pull the plug was made by Wolfgang Bernhard, head of the VW brand worldwide, and Adrian Hallmark, the new executive vice president of Volkswagen of America Inc.

The executives decided Volkswagen will focus on being a volume player in the U.S. market instead of trying to move up-market, Bode says.

"Bernhard and Hallmark said, 'We are a volume producer, and let's go in this direction, beginning with the U.S. market, where we are losing a lot of money,' " Bode says.

Slumping sales

The Phaeton's U.S. sales tumbled to 686 in the first 10 months of 2005 from 1,433 in the year-ago period. That's a 52.1 percent drop.

VW prices the Phaeton at $68,655 for a V-8 model, including a $1,300 gas-guzzler charge. The 12-cylinder version starts at $100,255, including a $3,000 gas guzzler charge.

By contrast, the most expensive four-door VW Passat sedan starts at $32,515 for a 3.6-liter VR6 model.

VW plans to announce the Phaeton decision to dealers today, Nov. 14. Wolfsburg expects Phaeton sales to end in the U.S. market next July or August.

The company will not send the 2007 Phaeton here.

VW will continue to provide customer support to Phaeton owners, Bode says.

VW's U.S. market will focus on core vehicles, including the Passat, Jetta, Golf and Touareg, Bode says, along with new models such as the Eos convertible that is due early next year.

The company's U.S. dealers will get a car above the Passat as part of a product offensive that Bernhard has promised for 2008 and beyond.

Since VW launched the Phaeton in the U.S. market in 2003, the car has not approached its initial sales target of 5,000 a year. This year, the Phaeton does not appear to be on track to hit its lowered U.S. sales target of 1,000.

VWoA offered $10,000 in dealer cash last year on 2004 models.

Bode says it was probably a mistake for VW to launch the Touareg and the Phaeton together. Marketing wasn't sufficient to position both vehicles strategically, he says.

VWoA's marketing also has been inconsistent, Bode says: "In the last year, we didn't have a good marketing effort in the U.S. Today we do this, and tomorrow we do that."

Bode says VWoA's continued losses also affected the decision to yank the Phaeton. VW expected to turn around its fortunes in the United States this year with redesigned versions of the Jetta and Passat and a freshened New Beetle.

This month, though, Wolfsburg announced this year's losses at VWoA are expected to top last year's loss of $1.07 billion.

Chris Curran, a Volkswagen dealer in Stratford, Conn., says "it's no surprise" VW is dropping the Phaeton.

"As the volumes got smaller," says Curran, "they decided they didn't have enough funds to support stronger incentive programs."

Curran says the Phaeton represented too big a jump for traditional VW buyers to make. At the same time, he says, luxury buyers did not gravitate to the car.

Says Curran: "People in that high-price range are buying prestige and image, and want the logo to represent that."

2006 Volkswagen GTI

Text and photos from Volkswagen of America.

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — The launch of the all-new GTI promises Volkswagen’s return to the purity of its ground-breaking sports car concept hatchback, and offers enthusiasts a modern and dynamic extension of the automaker’s original hot-hatch approach that essentially spurred a new car class.

More than 30 years ago in Europe, Volkswagen launched the GTI and in 1983 this model arrived in the U.S. as the first affordable, German engineered, “pocket rocket,” a term of endearment from enthusiasts of affordable German performance and one that best describes the unique character of the original car that combined a nimble and spirited Teutonic driving experience with a strong value for the money and perhaps just as importantly the everyday practicality of a hatchback.

Volkswagen purists have anticipated this fifth generation GTI since its critically acclaimed European launch in mid-year 2005 and are prepared to test this model’s sports credentials that include the high-tech, 200 horsepower 2.0T four-cylinder engine, a new fully independent, sports-tuned suspension—a first for the GTI—a standard six-speed manual transmission, and an understated but dynamically aggressive style outside and a practical interior that equally mixes functionality, flair and a preoccupation with a driver-first focus and layout.

The new GTI is a solid and aggressive sports model with a unique automatic manual DSGTM transmission that utilizes direct shifting which essentially automatically depresses clutch-shift points more efficiently and quicker than even a professional driver can. But the GTI today is all purity, and for those who want the unique control of a clutch, the all-new GTI comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission. Top speed is electronically governed at 130 miles per hour in the U.S.

As always, the GTI is based wholly on one of the world’s most popular and enduring models—the Volkswagen Golf. This fifth-generation Golf platform is renowned for its solidity and sophistication that make it one of the best selling models in the world. Built in Wolfsburg, Germany, the home of Volkswagen, the GTI benefits from Volkswagen’s high-tech production process that includes industry-leading robotics in its assembly technology and sequences.

Based on its already solid predecessor, the new GTI records double-digit improvements in its dynamic and tensional rigidity—15 percent and 35 percent, respectively, to be exact. This is partially achieved through the use of more high-strength body panels, Volkswagen world-class design and engineering, and during production, advanced laser-welding systems that require a new-generation of robotics and elaborate laser-driven measuring check points. The result is a dramatic increase in precise laser-welded seams, normally reserved for cars in much higher segments of the market. The net benefit of the Gate’s laser bonding process is a class-leading fit and finish, heightened body strength, crash protection, dialed-in driving dynamics, and reduced interior noise—all key components that set the GTI apart from its hatchback competitors.

The heart of the 2006 GTI is Volkswagen’s new and highly regarded 2.0T turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 200 hp at 5,100 to 6,000 revolutions per minute and 207 ft.-lbs. of torque from 1,800 to 5.000 rpm.

This transverse, front-mounted engine incorporates dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and maintenance-free hydraulic lifters for smooth, worry-free operation. A fully electronic engine management system includes drive-by-wire throttle control and FSI direct injection for optimal fuel delivery, which increases power, improves efficiency, and reduces emissions.

As alluded to earlier, the new six-speed DSG automatic manual transmission with Tiptronic® is a tempting option for drivers, as well as those simply seeking the convenience of an automated transmission. The DSG transmission permits fully automatic or manual gear changes using a twin-clutch, wet-plate design that eliminates the power interruption associated with traditionally clutched gear changes. The result is sports performance and unexpected fuel efficiency.

Known for being a “wolf in sheep’s clothing,” the 2006 GTI shows a bit more fang with its distinctly, pleasantly aggressive, sports-car styling. More than ever, it is distinguished from its rock solid sibling, the new generation Golf, including the most striking front end ever. The new GTI’s front offers no confusion with the upcoming Golf, employing a black honeycomb design with a decisive red frame strip outlining the radiator portion. This same honeycomb design carries to the lower grille sections, which hosts standard halogen fog lights, and resemble extra air intakes that flow powerfully to the integrated front spoiler. The driving intensity of the front is accentuated by the eyes of the car, the headlight housings, which use a very clear, tech-looking case to show off high-intensity gas-discharged headlamps (Xenon). This system includes a well-disguised headlight washer system that cleanses the chip-resistant polycarbonate lenses. Completing the look is the GTI’s famous badge that sits proudly at the front of the car on the passenger’s side.

The GTI plays devilishly with the famous silhouette of the new Golf. At profile, one immediately notes the GTI’s striking roof spoiler, lower profile and use of aggressive black valences and side window moldings. Standard on the new GTI are low profile summer performance tires (all-season available) that wrap large 17-inch alloy wheels, with an option to fill the wheel area even further with a new dynamic 18-inch alloy. Distinct red brake calipers nestle tastefully behind each wheel choice.

At the rear, the GTI badge, aligning to the driver’s side, is attached to the hatch door; dual chrome tail pipes add more evidence to the car’s performance intentions along with the aggressive swath of the rear spoiler with an integrated, highly visible rear brake light, bumper valence and sophisticated, jewel-like round rear tail lamps.

GTI enthusiasts should feel at home behind the wheel of the new GTI, which again advances the purity of the GTI concept but in a modern and sophisticated execution. GTI-exclusive interior treatments include special alloy treatments throughout, from the interior door sills, to the door handles to the distinct treatments for the pedals (including dead pedal with the DSG transmission), to mention a few. Sporty brushed-metal accents also surround the A/C controls, stereo unit, and the instrument panel gauges are aluminum and black with a chrome surround.

The GTI’s driving environment begins with its unique three-spoke, leather wrapped multi-function sport steering wheel with audio and telephone controls that, as found in all Volkswagens, is adjustable and telescoping for optimal driving positioning. This sporty driver’s tool adds paddle shifters on both sides of the wheel when the optional DSG transmission is added.

Seats, as one expects in a model with this pedigree, are sports designed with ample bolsters for the demands of more spirited driving, with adjustable lumbar support in both front seats. Eight-way, manual sport fabric seats are standard with adjustable head restraints for all seating positions. Also standard is Volkswagen’s “Easy Entry System,” which allows rear occupants more entry space when the front seats are recessed in this practical two-door.

The standard stereo system in the new GTI befits its road manners with a premium 10-speaker AM/FM radio sound system with in-dash single CD/DVD player, MP3 format readable, satellite radio compatible for either XM® or SIRIUSä and theft deterrence.

Two basic GTI option packages are available. The first adds a power sunroof, and satellite radio for a choice of XM or SIRIUS service. The second option package includes Climatronicä dual-zone automatic climate control, top-level front sport seats with leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, and heated windshield washer nozzles.

While employing the basic tried-and-true independent McPherson strut architecture, the new GTI handling is enhanced by a number of revisions that include a new strut-type axle that helps create a more direct steering ratio; higher transversal axle rigidity and a lowered tendency to exhibit body roll on tight turns. This new architecture also uses separate mountings of springs and dampers and allows for improved lower wishbones mounting points, and the use of twin-sleeve shock absorbers.

At the rear, for the first time, the GTI comes equipped with an advanced multi-link independent rear suspension. This groundbreaking feature promises not only to improve the GTI’s sporty performance but also helps improve the balance of offering sporty driving dynamics and ride sophistication. This fully independent four-link suspension, with coil springs, telescopic shocks and stabilizer bar, also allowed the designers and engineers to create more space and practicality to the GTI, including a large opening into the luggage compartment.

Handling performance is honed to perfection by the GTI’s new electro-mechanical power rack-and-pinion steering system, which offers an extremely good "center feel" and contributes significantly to the new car’s confident straight-line stability. This gives the new GTI driver a desirable connected-to-the-road feel but also provides the added capability of active-return steering and straight-ahead driving correction assistance.

Additionally the list of technologically advanced standard equipment on the GTI includes: next-generation Electronic Stabilization Program; and a multi-function trip computer with compass and instant calculations for elapsed time and distance and fuel usage, to mention a few.

In addition to its active safety features, the GTI comes standard with a host of passive safety equipment: driver and front passenger front airbags, driver and front passenger side thorax airbags, Side Curtain Protection® supplemental restraint systems; crash active front headrests; and Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

For added assurance, all new Volkswagen automobiles come with 24-hour Roadside Assistance for four years with unlimited mileage, and new vehicle warranties including:

Five-year/60,000 mile (whichever occurs first) Powertrain Limited Warranty

Four-year/50,000 mile (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty with wear and tear items and adjustments excluded after the initial 12 months/12,000 miles

12 year unlimited distance Limited Warranty against corrosion perforation

2006 North American Volkswagen GTI Press Release

Text © 2005 The VW Gazette.
The press release along with the first official photos of the GTI have been released by Volkswagen of America. The GTI is expected to arrive February 2006 (June 2006 for Canada) with a price around US$22,350.

One notable difference between the North American GTI and European GTI is the obvious increase in ride height. Whether or not this was done by Volkswagen in accordance with DOT regulations or not, this has been a point of contention among prospective GTI buyers. Another point of contention is the North American GTI's lack of those large bolstered seats offered in the European GTI. Again, this change may or may not be a result of DOT regulations about testing the side airbags in certain seat materials. It is important to note, however, that the large bolstered European GTI seats will be available in leather but not in the nostalgic Interlagos upholstery.

Regardless, many Volkswagen enthusiasts across North America (myself included) are excited to finally have the new GTI offered in Volkswagen's lineup. Volkswagen proclaims that the GTI has returned to its roots; returned to the original Mk. I GTI that launched the hot hatch segement. Others have tried to duplicate the GTI, both the car and its success without avail. This new generation GTI has just made it harder to do that.

Read the press release.

Volkswagen Ads to Appear on PSP

Text from Gameplanet.
Volkswagen of America is the first automotive advertiser to integrate TV spots for its new Passat launch into unique video for direct download and playback on a Sony PlayStation Portable.

The 29Guide is the largest provider of direct to PSP video downloads via a wireless connection. With WiFi and PSP Web browser, a PSP owner can directly browse 29Guide's library of specially encoded video for direct download to their PSP and playback at www.29hdnetwork.com/pspdirect/ or www.29guide.com if browsing from a PC for PSP videos or as a direct video feed in Sony's official PSP Media Manager. 29Guide's content focuses on the areas of unique film, music and lifestyle oriented video.

29guide is a broadband portal and guide and delivers an audience much sought after by advertisers: the 25-35, educated, affluent metro, suburban broadband connected. This difficult to reach audience is spending less time watching traditional television and significantly more time with alternative forms of media such as the Internet and portable entertainment.

Being on the cutting edge of electronic communications isn't new for Volkswagen of America. Six years ago, Volkswagen launched the exclusive New Beetle online buying programme with two special edition vehicles that were only available through online ordering. Since then Volkswagen has been committed to programmes like the "VW Drive-in", "Radio VW" and the "Pods Unite" campaign (buy a New Beetle, get an iPod), that have allowed Volkswagen customers to experience the brand's personality through unique channels. Todd Riley, New Media and Interactive Marketing Manager for Volkswagen of America says, "Our customers are technologically smart, and we want to be there with them as they experience what's next. We love the rapid pace of new challenges and opportunities and have invested a lot to get our customers' attention in this space, we don't plan to let them down any time soon", Riley adds.

Ninan Kurien of 29HD Network said, "PSP owners are primarily using their handheld as a video playback device. The PSP user's appetite for video is huge. They are hungry, actively searching for unique, smart, intriguing content for playback on their PSP. 29Guide is satisfying that need."
Beyond Interactive, Volkswagen's Interactive agency of record, is a prime driver in helping VW reach its core targeted audiences. Beyond Interactive's VP, Media Director, Rory O'Connor said, "Engaging tech-savvy audiences via new devices and platforms is one of Beyond's greatest competencies, and working within the PSP environment on Volkswagen's behalf is a great opportunity for all parties involved. In this case, we're advertising the Passat's advanced features to an audience that can appreciate attention to technological detail."

Production Anniversary at Volkswagen

Text and photo from Volkswagen AG.
24 millionth Golf produced

WOLFSBURG, Germany - The world’s 24 millionth Golf was produced today at Volkswagen in Wolfsburg. The anniversary model is a 2.0 litre TDI, 103 kW Golf Comfortline in tornado red.

“The Golf is top of the new registrations list in Western Europe and the highest-selling vehicle in the Volkswagen Group”, commented Production Board member Reinhard Jung at the celebrations on Tuesday.

The Golf is now built at seven Volkswagen factories: Wolfsburg, Mosel, Brussels, Sarajevo/Bosnia and Herzegovina, Uitenhage/South Africa, Changchun/China and Curitiba/Brazil.

The model’s success story began in 1974. In 2002, Golf production figures surpassed Beetle production, thus setting a new record at Volkswagen. Production of the fifth-generation Golf commenced in October 2003. The latest generation also includes the R32, the most powerful Golf of all time, where production started in August.

In total, Europe’s leading automaker delivered some 719,000 Golf to customers worldwide last year. Major markets in Europe include Germany, the UK, France and Italy. Key sales markets for the Golf outside Europe are the USA, Japan and South Korea.

New Shift Model in Wolfsburg to Bring Substantial Savings

Text from Volkswagen AG.
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Management and Works Council at the Wolfsburg plant reached agreement today on a new shift model for the Wolfsburg factory.

The new working time rules will bring annual savings of 50 million Euro. As a result of the agreement, the Volkswagen brand Board of Management has decided to build over 390,000 vehicles at the main plant in Wolfsburg next year.

Dietmar Korzekwa, Wolfsburg Plant Manager, commented: “Together with the Works Council, we have achieved annual savings of some 50 million Euro, thus safeguarding both plant and jobs.”

Without this agreement, some 90,000 fewer vehicles would have been built.

Savings will come from measures such as constant shift teams, i.e. early and late shift alternation followed by an all-night shift. As a result, the 20-minute breaks in the early and late shifts have been dropped. Furthermore, productivity has been enhanced by “uncoupling” shifts. This means that there is a pause between two shifts, e.g. for maintenance work or getting material ready. The changes in working time rules also mean there will be no night shift bonuses. The new shift model will significantly strengthen the competitiveness of the Wolfsburg plant.

Volkswagen Receives "Best Innovator 2005" Award

Text from Volkswagen AG.
Jury: "Fast identification and implementation of new technologies in product creation"

WOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen has received an award for sustainable innovation management in the "Best Innovator 2005" competition from consultants A.T. Kearney and the magazine WirtschaftsWoche.

In the combined category "Processes and supporting factors" Volkswagen received recognition for consistent use of virtual technologies in the product development process.

Volkswagen saw the potential of virtual technologies at an early stage and already began using them effectively in its product creation process in the mid-nineties. In addition, since September 2004 a new 3D technology has been revolutionising vehicle development at Volkswagen. Real-time ray tracing" is used to visualise objects in space and give a photorealistic rendering of shadows, light refraction, and reflections. The objects can also be moved and altered directly and interactively without any time delay. This is done using powerful computer equipment, which makes it possible to process large and complex quantities of data. This technology developed by computer graphics specialists at the University of Saarbrücken is being used industrially for the first time at Volkswagen.

Two unique visualisation centres costing 20 million euros were set up within Volkswagen Technical Development in 2004. They are used by developers, designers, and engineers in cross-disciplinary development work. This makes vehicle development processes more efficient with major reductions in times and costs. Right from an early stage in a vehicle's development the engineers create a real and detailed impression of the planned vehicle on large projection screens.

Matthias Rabe, Head of Group Research at Volkswagen comments: "We are very pleased with the award from A.T. Kearney and WirtschaftsWoche. It shows that we were right to call our decision to implement new technologies in product creation a "Virtual revolution at Volkswagen". We have managed to optimise and considerably accelerate the product development process."

The Jury includes Dietrich Neumann, Central Europe Head of A.T. Kearney, Stefan Baron, Editor of WirtschaftsWoche, Georg Wilhelm Adamowitsch, Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of the Economy and Labour, Prof. Dr. Hans-Jörg Bullinger, President of the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft and Hans-Werner Reich, Spokesman of the Board of Management of the Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau.

The award ceremony is on Monday, 7 November 2005 in Berlin.

New Volkswagen Touareg W12 Sport Edition

Text from Volkswagen AG.
Twelve cylinder 450 PS Touareg in sports kit

WOLFSBURG, Germany - A sporting look and dynamic performance with outstanding comfort. The Touareg W12 Sport Edition with an extensive package of equipment is available now.

As in its predecessor, the heart of the special edition Touareg is the powerful twelve-cylinder engine. From six litres capacity it produces 450 PS / 331 kW and 600 newton metres torque. It enables the Touareg to accelerate to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and reach an electronically limited maximum speed of 250 km/h. The power transmission occurs via a six-speed automatic gearbox with Tiptronic-function.

The sporting look of the new special edition Touareg does full justice to its name: the roof spoiler and widened wheel arches and sills combined with "Casablanca" 20-inch alloy wheels clearly emphasise the Touareg W12 Sport Edition's muscular character.

The silver coloured roof rack, darkened rear and side windows, and colour-coded bumpers round off its supremely confident sporting look. The twin tailpipes with sound tuned exhaust bring home the message of power visually and acoustically.

The themes of sport and luxury consistently characterise the Touareg's interior. The refined Individual sports seats in nappa leather and the aluminium "Micropoint" trim exemplify the sophisticated feel of the interior. Also a 2-zone air conditioning system, the radio-DVD-navigation system with multi-function colour display plus sound system and CD changer, and fittings for a mobile phone are standard.

In addition bi-xenon headlights with cornering and bend lights are included in the package along with tiptronic levers for manual control of the automatic gearbox.

Like its predecessor, the Touareg W12 Sport, the new Touareg W12 Sport Edition has been developed by Volkswagen Individual GmbH. Volkswagen Individual also offers the six-litre W12 engine in the Touareg W12 Executive, the subtly elegant alternative to the new "Sport Edition".

The new Touareg W12 Sport Edition can be ordered now and costs 96.300 euros.

Eos, GTI, Passat Wagon Makes North American Debuts in 2006

© 2005 The VW Gazette.
The new Eos and GTI models are now slated for a North American debut in LA. This announcement comes from The LA Auto Show website, which lists the Eos and GTI as part of their debut list. The LA Auto Show runs from January 6-15, 2006 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

The Passat Wagon has also been slated for a North American debut in Detroit during the North American International Auto Show in January 14-22, 2006 at the COBO Conference/Exhibition Center.

LA Auto Show
North American International Auto Show

Volkswagen of America's SEMA Press Release Hints at Scirocco

Text and photo rendering from Wheels24.
Volkswagen has given the first official hint that it is to build a 2+2 coupe which will revive the Scirocco nameplate.

In a media release about the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, VW USA included the following paragraph:

"VW's current technical strengths and enriched model lines are simply one wave of a torrent of new models, including a new Passat with a larger, more powerful V6, the next GTI, the Eos hardtop convertible, and, further down the line, a 2+2 sport coupe that hearkens to the heyday of the Scirocco. Look for more exciting Volkswagens at next year's SEMA Show."

Although there have been a lot of rumours for sometime that VW is to ad a coupe model to its line-up, this is the first confirmation that the carmaker has such plans.

We expect that VW will launch the new Scirocco in 2008 (expect VW to give us a first peek sometime near the end of 2006 or in 2007).

It will take its styling cues from VW's 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show stunner, the Concept R.

In production guise this 2+2 seater will also share its design with that of the new Eos coupe cabriolet and Passat.

The new coupe will share its underpinnings with that of the Jetta and it VW will offer it with three engine choices.

The entry-level model will get the company's new 1.4-litre Twincharger FSI unit and it will also be available with the GTI's 147kW 2-litre turbocharged engine.

Under the bonnet of the range-topping model will the new 3.2-litre V6 engine of the Golf R32.

Related:
New Scirocco in 2008?

The New Eye-catching Sharan Freestyle

Text from Volkswagen AG.
Chrome design adds sporty character – optional “Fun & Action” package for leisure

November, 03 November 2005 - The new special Sharan Freestyle model shines in all respects: Elegant chrome, aluminium décor and silver trim inserts give the MPV a sporty look. The optional “Fun & Action” package with bicycle rack, cooler box and sports bag is an ideal extra for all sports and leisure fans.

All details have been coordinated in the Sharan Freestyle: The bumpers and side skirting have chrome strips and the rear trim is chrome-look. There are also matching chrome roof rails and chrome inserts on the door handles. The interior trim inserts are matt aluminium. The standard RCD 200 radio system in the Sharan Freestyle with integrated CD player and MP3 playback is also framed in aluminium. The insert in the combi instrument is painted silver and underlines the overall high-quality feel of the cockpit.

The front sports seats (up to five single seats also available for the rear) as well as the door and side panels are coordinated with the chrome and aluminium look in Flannel Grey. The seat surface and backrest panels are in a contrasting light grey (“Epsilon” covers). The colour scheme continues throughout the car, for example, in the leather steering wheel stitching, the gearstick gaiter, the hand ­brake and the edging of the carpet mats.

The Sharan Freestyle can be ordered with the special “Slate Grey” paintwork and in all other standard colours. The 17-inch “Estoril” alloy wheels (or 16-inch “Valencia” alloy wheels for the 2.8 l V6 4MOTION) are really eye-catching. The Sharan Freestyle is available from €28,750. The additional equipment features in this special model give customers a price advantage of €662.

Volkswagen Bank has a range of attractive finance packages on offer for the Sharan Freestyle. For example, the monthly rate in the “AutoCredit” three-way financing is €319 with effective annual interest of 1.9 percent. In this case, the advance payment is 20 percent, the financing period 36 months.

You can save even more if you order the optional “Fun & Action” pack. For €1,725 (or €1,600 for the Sharan 4MOTION), it not only includes the winter pack (heated front seats, front windscreen and windscreen washer jets), but also a high-quality bicycle rack, a sports chassis, a sports bag matching the interior styling as well as a combined cooler and thermal box. ParkPilot, a mobile phone preparation and the technology pack (remote control for central locking, anti-theft alarm, multifunction display) are included. The price advantage with the “Fun & Action” pack is €1,204.

Sharan:

Over 500,000 Sharans have been produced since production started in May 1995. The design and equipment of the successful MPV were enhanced in 2004. The bonnet and taillights were re-designed, the side skirting broadened and the side turn signals integrated in the door mirrors. The Sharan has a chrome radiator grille, ESP with brake assist; front, side and head airbags; a double air-conditioning system (with separate temperature and ventilation control for the rear) as well as 16-inch wheels with wide tyres.

Passat Named "Double Best Pick" in Side and Front Crash Tests by the IIHS

Text from Volkswagen of America.
Results follow on the heels of Jetta’s strong side and frontal performance

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The 2006 Volkswagen Passat has earned a “Double Best Pick” designation for outstanding performance in front and side tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Passat earned the top rating in every individual measurement category (head protection, injuries and structural design) for both the side impact and frontal tests.

Earlier this year, the all-new 2005 Jetta was named a “Best Pick” for side crash protection and earned good ratings for frontal crash protection by the IIHS. At the time it was the first vehicle ever to earn the top rating in every individual measurement category in side impact tests.

Together, the Jetta and Passat account for 67% of Volkswagen’s American sales.

“At Volkswagen our vehicles are designed for Autobahn safety from the inside out,” said Adrian Hallmark, executive vice president, Volkswagen of America. “These findings are the result of years and years of testing, real world study of accidents, and German Safety engineering and development.”

The 2006 Passat is available from $22,950, and the lineup includes an all-new 2.0-liter, 200 horsepower engine starting at $23,900 or a powerful 280-horsepower V6 engine starting at $29,950.

The Jetta has a new, powerful 2.5-liter, five-cylinder base engine with a starting price of $17,900.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.

Volkswagen at SEMA

Text from Volksagen of America.
First Stand-Alone European Exhibitor at Aftermarket Show

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 1, 2005 – Volkswagen of America Inc. today hosted its first display in the 42-year history of the Specialty Equipment Market Association’s (SEMA) annual exhibition of automotive parts and accessories, presenting a trio of ultra-high-performance dream vehicles, two new accessorized sport sedans, plus a glimpse into the future with a race-winning robotic SUV.

Volkswagen has been a familiar marque at the SEMA Show since the first Beetle was transformed into a dune buggy, but never before has Volkswagen of America exhibited at the automotive aftermarket’s most important gathering. In addition to the three project vehicles built in cooperation with HPA Motorsports, the display features two of Volkswagen’s newest production cars, the Jetta 2.0T and Passat 2.0T, each adorned with a comprehensive array of Genuine Volkswagen Accessories, from body kits to sport suspension springs to uniquely styled interior accoutrements.
Volkswagen also brought along “Stanley,” an electronically sophisticated Touareg developed with Stanford University. The driverless SUV made history by winning a 130-mile race for robotic vehicles across the Nevada desert in October. Bristling with advanced electronics, some of which may soon make their way into Volkswagen production cars, Stanley has been hailed as a genuine breakthrough in remote guidance vehicle technology.

Evidence of this passion was plainly visible in the three R GT project vehicles, inspired by the success of the high-performance R32. Mixing and melding some of Volkswagen’s most advanced production car technology – a responsive narrow-angle V6 engine, handling-enhancing 4MOTION all-wheel drive and the innovative and acclaimed dual-clutch auto-manual transmission DSG – with the aesthetic visions of Volkswagen’s California-based design studio, the Jetta R GT, Passat R GT and Touareg R GT represent just a few of the many ways that Volkswagen’s core strengths can be enhanced to deliver performance based on solid German engineering.

Performance tuners are drawn to platforms that capably support increased engine power and that also accept complementary upgrades to such other elements as brakes and suspension. Volkswagens platforms have fulfilled those needs for generations, but never have the worlds of the showroom stock vehicle and the highly modified aftermarket special been as close as they are now. Personalizing a Volkswagen begins as early as the first visit to the dealer, as demonstrated by the 2006 Jetta 2.0T and 2006 Passat 2.0T on display. Each was modified inside and out using Genuine Volkswagen Accessories and shows how the enthusiast, at the time of purchase, can order an even more appealing platform for subsequent upgrades.

Volkswagen always has had a presence at SEMA – reflected by the hundreds of VW vehicles shown over the years, and by the many exhibitors who specialize in parts and accessories aimed at the Volkswagen enthusiast. This year’s exhibit, however, isn’t a look back at a rich history but instead is an expression of a vital component of Volkswagen’s philosophy: fun-to-drive performance.

VW’s current technical strengths and enriched model lines are simply one wave of a torrent of new models, including a new Passat with a larger, more powerful V6, the next GTI, the Eos hardtop convertible, and, further down the line, a 2+2 sport coupe that hearkens to the heyday of the Scirocco. Look for more exciting Volkswagens at next year’s SEMA Show.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.

"Volkswagen" and "4MOTION" are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. "DSG" is a trademark of Volkswagen AG. All other trademarks used in this document are the property of their respective owners.

Volkswagen Narrow-Angle V6

Text from Volkswagen of America.
LAS VEGAS, Nov. 1, 2005 – To Vee or not to Vee. That was the question Volkswagen powertain designers asked themselves when they sat down to design the next-generation engine in the late 1980s. Throwing out preconceived notions and traditional thinking, these innovative German engineers focused on the “best” solution, not necessarily the most conventional solution.

What was the problem? VW needed an engine, larger and more powerful than the current range of inline 4- and 5-cylinders, to install in future Volkswagen models. A 6-cylinder was the logical choice, but which type? An inline six has the advantages of a single cylinder head, narrow width and excellent balance. But the length made it impractical for transverse installation in front-wheel-drive vehicles unless VW was considering something as wide as a semi-truck.

Why not a V6 to take advantage of this engine’s short overall length and compactness? Conventional V6s typically have an angle between the cylinder heads of 60 or 90 degrees. Sixty degrees is preferred because it results in optimal balance. We all know that optimal balance is achieved in a V8 when the banks are 90 degrees apart. But lop off two cylinders for a 90-degrree V6, and you create a vibration problem that requires balance shafts to remedy.

For VW, neither of these conventional V6 designs was an option. The width of a V6 would have required lengthening the vehicles for which it was intended to provide enough crumple zones between the front of the vehicle and the engine and between the engine and the passenger cell, allowing VW to meet current and future front-end crash standards.

This is when conventional logic gave way to out-of-the-box thinking. The result: an engine with all the advantages of both a V6 and an inline 6-cylinder with none of the disadvantages. Voilá, the VR6 design, which literally comes from the combination of Vee and the German word Reihenmotor. The combination of the two can be roughly translated as “inline vee.”

VW designers created a 15-degree V6 that is narrow, short and compact with excellent balance and requiring only one cylinder head. All of these attributes make it ideal for tuning. And the new-generation V6 introduced in 2005 takes the concept one step further with an even more compact 10.5-degree angle between the banks.

And like its predecessor, this latest VW masterpiece of engine engineering has the right stuff to spin the crank to high revs for increased output. Major components are a cast-iron crankcase, an aluminum crossflow cylinder head for better breathing and a drop-forged crankshaft that runs in seven main bearings. There are two overhead camshafts, one for each bank of cylinders. And the camshafts are operated by a rugged two-stage chain-driven assembly, not by a rubber belt. How durable are these chains? They are also used with the diesel version of this V6!

Designers placed a lot of emphasis on proper engine cooling. The water pump housing is cast integral with the engine crankcase, not bolted on. In addition to the belt-driven water pump, the V6 engines use an auxiliary electric pump to circulate water while the engine is running and during the cooling fan after-run cycle. Circulating the coolant during this time helps cool the engine block and prevent the possibility of air pockets forming in the cylinder head. In addition, V6 engines also use an oil-to-water heat exchanger to aid engine warming from cold start-up and to maintain proper oil temperature during driving.

The crossflow cylinder head has allowed the use of a single exhaust manifold rather than a manifold for each bank. This helps control under-hood engine temperatures by placing a hot exhaust manifold on only one side of the engine compartment.

The V6 not only helps satisfy strict safety requirements by fitting transversely in VW’s front-drive vehicles, the narrow-angle architecture delivers the smooth revs of an inline six and a torque-rich powerband. These are just two of the reasons why the V6 is a favorite with some of the world’s top aftermarket tuners, such as Marcel Horn of HPA.

An acknowledged expert on VW models, Horn said, “The VR6 design is the best kept secret in the VW arsenal. It is simply a bullet-proof motor, brilliantly simple in its design, which delivers the best torque-to-horsepower ratio across product lines.”

“Some call this a very stout, durable, well-designed powerplant,” Horn continued. “Every VW with this configuration will be competitive in power for comparable vehicles.”

The V6 should be especially interesting to the SEMA community, as this engine is an outstanding basis for drag racing and road racing when fitted with either turbocharging or supercharging.

Except for a select few, much of the speed industry has neglected to give Volkswagen’s narrow-angle V6 its proper due. Now with a new, more powerful 3.6-liter V6 that has arrived in the 2006 Passat, it’s time that Volkswagen opens the throttle and roars the news about an engine that deserves more than quiet respect.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.

"Volkswagen" and "4MOTION" are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. "DSG" is a trademark of Volkswagen AG. All other trademarks used in this document are the property of their respective owners.

Driverless Touareg is World's First Ever Winner of Race for Autonomous Vehicles

Text from Volkswagen of America.
Volkswagen Touareg, aka “Stanley,” Conquers Rigorous Desert Course for $2 Million Prize

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 1, 2005 — Last month a driverless Volkswagen Touareg made history in Primm, Nevada, a desert town on the border of California, by winning a race among other sophisticated robotic vehicles across the Mojave Desert. With the technological support of the Volkswagen Electronics Research Laboratory (ERL), Stanford University’s robotic Volkswagen Touareg, known as Stanley, won $2 million in the 2005 DARPA Grand Challenge, and changed history.

Last year the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency (DARPA), a division of the U.S. Department of Defense, sponsored The Grand Challenge, a race across the desert, with the goal to advance autonomous vehicle technology. No robotic vehicle got further than eight miles and the $1 million prize went unclaimed.

This year DARPA increased the prize to $2 million and the best teams from 2004 returned with highly improved robots for eight days of qualifying at the California Speedway in Fontana, Calif. It was immediately apparent there would be a winner in 2005.

Stanford’s Stanley was a brand new entry and it surprised the more established teams by setting the second-fastest time while making the only totally error-free runs and without hitting any obstacles on the Speedway’s course. In all, 23 autonomous vehicles qualified out of the 43 hopeful entrants that had been selected from the 195 teams which initially entered the competition.

It was an exciting race. The 23 robots had to find their way, without any human assistance, over 130 miles of tough desert terrain, mountain trails, dry lake beds and tunnels near Primm, Nevada, using only onboard sensors and navigation.

Stanley passed the pole sitter round the 100-mile mark and was the first to cross the finish line to capture the $2 million prize for Stanford University. The Touareg’s elapsed time of 6 hours, 53 minutes, 8 seconds was 11 minutes, 42 seconds faster than the second-place robot.

“We had a good day,” said Sebastian Thrun, director, Stanford Artificial Intelligence Laboratory. “It has been quite rewarding to partner with Volkswagen on an event that contributes to such significant advancements in vehicle technology. Our win today is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team.”

Project sponsors included Mohr, Davidow Ventures, Red Bull and Android. Dr. Carlo Rummel, executive director, Volkswagen of America, Inc.’s Electronics Research Laboratory, said, “It has been exciting and challenging to prepare the Touareg for this day. The lessons we have learned in building this highly complex vehicle will ultimately benefit consumers as we apply this knowledge to make our vehicles safer, smarter and more exciting to drive."

Stanley is built from a stock, diesel-powered Volkswagen Touareg R5 modified with full-body skid plates and a reinforced front bumper. It is actuated by a drive-by-wire system developed by the ERL. All processing takes place on six Pentium M computers. Measurements are incorporated from GPS, an inertial measurement unit, wheel speed sensors, lasers, a camera and a radar system.

Stanley is now the world’s most famous robot – a hero in the world of robotics – and will be on display from November 1-4 at the 2005 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Look for Stanley at the top of the escalators on the Skybridge between the Center and South Halls. After SEMA, Stanley will be on tour at select Auto Shows across the U.S. and Canada.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.

"Volkswagen" and "4MOTION" are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. "DSG" is a trademark of Volkswagen AG. All other trademarks used in this document are the property of their respective owners.

Project R GT

Text from Volkswagen of America.
An Uncompromised Synthesis of Power and Style

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 1, 2005 -- The dream of every high-performance tuner is access to the best, most durable, precise components; intelligent and adaptable control systems; and progressive, appealing styling.

It’s the dream of every high-performance tuner to transform that excellence into the extraordinary, to create exhilarating answers to the question, “What if…?”

Volkswagen shares this drive to push the dynamic and aesthetic boundaries of its vehicles. The vast network of engineers and designers within VW’s worldwide reach never need to be urged to challenge conventional wisdom, and this philosophy is reflected not only in the unique character of VW’s production vehicles, it’s also fully displayed in a trio of stunning ultra-high-performance projects built for SEMA 2005 in combination with HPA Motorsports.

When VW began to develop plans for its first official appearance at the SEMA Show, it asked its California-based design studio and HPA to work on a number of questions:

What if Volkswagen’s R concept of high performance, so persuasively presented in the athletic R32, could be magnified into "supercar" proportions?

What if Volkswagen’s rich crop of technology could be distilled into a more potent mixture?

What if its narrow-angle V6 powerplant, 4MOTION all-wheel drive and DSG dual-clutch transmission were to be blended to blow away the world’s most discerning performance enthusiasts?

What if Volkswagen’s designers had no other goal except to turn their visions into sculptures of composites and metal?

And what if an R GT series of vehicles were to be built, to act as dream-makers, as forerunners, perhaps, to a line of factory-bred ultra-high-performance specials?

The answers to those questions might very well be found among an intriguing trio of project vehicles built specially for the SEMA Show. The Jetta R GT, Passat R GT and Touareg R GT are not just flights of fancy branding. The badging on each of these one-offs tells a story of advanced platforms enriched with strategic applications of factory and aftermarket expertise.

The Jetta R GT began its transformation as a base 2005 model with a 150-horsepower, 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. After the combined efforts of Volkswagen Design and HPA, however, it now sports fresh-as-tomorrow bodywork and a powerful, exquisitely massaged drivetrain that’s as comfortable cruising Pacific Coast Highway as it is smoking the competition at weekend time trials.

HPA replaced the base 2.5-liter engine with a twin-turbocharged, twin-intercooled, 550-horsepower variant of VW’s 3.2-liter, 240-horsepower six-cylinder V6 that powers the R32. To ensure that every bit of the torque gets to the ground in the most entertaining way possible, HPA fit VW’s highly acclaimed DSG twin-clutch transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive, both systems suitably modified by HPA to complement the engine’s bravura performance. A KW FIA GT 3-way coil-over race suspension and WRC-spec Brembo brake system were also installed to help harness the forces unleashed by the twin-turbo V6.

Cloaked with a special smoke gray paint treatment in the best Q-ship tradition, the revised coachwork includes new front and rear bumper fascias, side rocker panels and bespoke rear spoiler, offset by contrasting graphics and smoked glass treatment. The Jetta R GT’s willingness to run is revealed by the huge Michelin ultra-high-performance tires mounted to the 9.5 x 19-inch custom-built, forged-aluminum, modular Avus® alloy wheels. Should the Jetta R GT hit the track, changing to a set of 9.5 x 18-inch mono-block, forged-aluminum DTM-spec Avus wheels is quick and easy with their DTM-style center locks and the AP Racing air jacks incorporated within the Jetta’s framework.

The Jetta R GT’s cockpit is inspired by the needs and desires of the weekend racer. An integrated roll cage, Recaro race buckets, Schroth® harnesses and a fuel cell provide the required safety elements for competition, while an F1-style Stack electronic gauge cluster relays operating parameters to the driver quickly and clearly. Black leather, black Alcantara and matt-black carbon fiber styling elements complete the interior’s unashamedly competitive character.

Similar technology and design was applied to create the Passat R GT, born from a European-spec 2006 Passat 3.2 V6 FSI with DSG transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive. A rewarding runner in its own right, the European Passat 3.2’s powerful engine, world-beating transmission and all-wheel grip provide an excellent basis for a SEMA special. The mechanical transformation by HPA resulted in dynamics that launch the Passat R GT into supercar dimensions, and its sleek, entirely modern bodywork was given the muscular look of a highly toned European high-performance sedan by Volkswagen designers.

Modifications begin with a twin-turbo conversion package that features dual exhaust manifolds, each carrying a Garrett GT25R ball-bearing turbocharger. Charge cooling is optimized by twin intercoolers, and the exhaust gases pass through a quad bypass emissions system that retains the stock catalytic converters. It boasts an extraordinary output of 575 horsepower and massive torque to match.

The Passat R GT's track-prepped chassis is suspended by a KW Variant 3-way coil-over racing setup, and the required upgraded braking is supplied by the Brembo-supplied system available on the Phaeton. The Passat R GT rides on the same high-performance Michelin radials as fitted to the Jetta R GT, as well as the forged-aluminum Avus® alloy wheels. HPA also modified the DSG gearbox for more revs between each upshift to match the engine’s increased output.

Volkswagen’s California design studio chose gleaming candy white paint to clothe the modified bodywork, consisting of new front and rear bumper fascias and side rocker panels. Contrasting black leather cloaks the interior, offset by touches of white piano lacquer trim, a white Apple iPod® module up front and a white Sony PSP® in the rear. Of course, befitting a car that can cross Europe in hours, it features VW’s highest-quality sound system and full navigation.

The Touareg R GT is nothing less than the pure essence of a high-performance luxury SUV. What was formerly a 2005 model with a V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission is now a 500-horsepower road-carver that doubles as a luxurious limousine. Like the other R GT models on display at SEMA, the Touareg has an HPA-built twin-turbocharged V6 under the hood, special chassis enhancements, a KW Variant 3-way coilover suspension, and a high-performance braking system supplied by Brembo.

The Touareg’s revised lines give it the look of a well-bred urban cruiser. A Volkswagen Individual body kit, gleaming silver paint, and 10 x 22-inch custom-built, forged-aluminum, mono-block Avus® wheels mounted with Michelin ultra-high-performance Diamaris tires lend it a commanding visual presence that matches the powertrain’s dominating performance.

Front sport bucket seats, an integrated single roll hoop, and the safety systems required for a weekend at the track are complemented by the luxury of black leather upholstery with gray suede centers, a Bugatti spun-aluminum trim kit by Volkswagen Individual, a black Apple iPod module, and rear PSP system.

Street and track performance has not yet been measured, but with its 500 horsepower and massive torque, the Touareg R GT will certainly be an extreme expression of "Fun to Drive.". More conventional measures of its superior dynamics will soon appear in the enthusiast press.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.

"Volkswagen" and "4MOTION" are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. "DSG" is a trademark of Volkswagen AG. All other trademarks used in this document are the property of their respective owners.

Volkswagen Enthusiasm in America

Text from Volkswagen of America.
A Rich History of Home-bred Know-how Embracing European Engineering

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Volkswagen might be the first European manufacturer to have an official “stand alone” display of its cars and technology at the annual SEMA Show, but it’s certainly not the first time Volkswagen has been a big part of the year’s most important showcase of aftermarket parts and accessories.

In fact, historians will quickly point out that tuners of VW vehicles have been an essential element in the growth of the enormous automotive enthusiast aftermarket since the earliest days of SEMA.

The VW enthusiast market really started a year before the first SEMA show, in 1966, when the Meyers Manx beach buggy, based on a VW Beetle platform, “became an overnight sensation,” according to Hot Rod Industry News, which regarded it as the true predecessor to today’s off-road vehicles, many of which continue to use VW engines and components.

Later, when the kit car market exploded, most of the faux sports cars were built around VW Beetle floorpans. A visitor to the SEMA Show in the 1970s would have found plenty of tuner companies selling parts to modify VW engines and suspension systems for a wide range of vehicles, from weekend offroader to high-performance street machine to blindingly fast drag racer. In fact, the market for VW components became so large that many hot rod companies, traditional suppliers of parts for V-8 powered cars and trucks, started making parts for the VW tuning community.

When Volkswagen switched to front-engine, front-drive cars in the mid 1970s, the new wasserpumpers immediately became favorites not only with tuners in Europe but with a small, hardcore group of enthusiasts in America. In 1976, VW itself got into the “hot-rod” business with the introduction of the Golf GTI in Europe, and though the U.S would have to wait until 1983 for its first GTI, the VW flame was kept burning brightly in small tuning shops across the country. Originally only 5,000 GTI models were going to be built in order to meet homologation requirements for racing, but it proved to be such a hit that over one million were made during the next 15 years. The GTI became the definitive hot hatch and owned the segment for years before other manufacturers copied the GTI’s winning formula.

Today the GTI badge has come to represent VW’s best qualities, and it’s still often used as the basis for a racing sedan or rally car. Volkswagen worldwide has, of course, been very active in motorsports for decades. Instead of spending millions of dollars on an exotic F1 car or a World Rally Championship program, though, it concentrated on supporting the competitors in grassroots motorsports and in series which prepared drivers for the big leagues of racing.

The best known of these series was the Robert Bosch/Volkswagen Super Vee Championship. Spanning 20 years from 1971 until 1990, its success was supported by the longest-running commercial sponsorship in U.S. racing history until it was eclipsed by NASCAR’s Winston sponsorship that ran from 1972 until 2003.

From 1978 on, the Super Vee single-seater race cars were powered by slightly modified 1.6-liter four-cylinder engines – the same ones that powered production Rabbits, Golfs and Sciroccos of the day. The series proved to be a great training ground for numerous professional drivers, including Michael Andretti, Al Unser Jr., Geoff Brabham and Arie Lyundyk.

During the same period, the Rabbit/Bilstein Cup series for stock VW Rabbits became another crowd pleaser at race tracks across the country. It was closely fought racing, especially when the Rabbits ran on oval tracks, and spectators often compared the intensity of Rabbit/Bilstein racing to stock car battles.

Volkswagen’s first official appearance at the SEMA Show demonstrates the company’s efforts to strengthen this rich, long history of performance enthusiasm.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.

"Volkswagen" and "4MOTION" are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. "DSG" is a trademark of Volkswagen AG. All other trademarks used in this document are the property of their respective owners.