Rumor Mill 2005

© 2005 The VW Gazette.
Many things on the Internet need to be taken with a grain of salt (just because a girl you met online said they look like Angelina Jolie, it doesn't mean you get Angelina Jolie). The same can be said with any news relating to Volkswagen. Everyday, news about Volkswagen are filled with speculation about new models. 2005 has been a year filled with speculation about supposed upcoming new models. As we enter 2006, we will try and dispell any rumors from the past year and, let me reiterate, some of these are merely rumors. Heed my advice and take them with a large grain of salt.

Rumor 1: New Scirocco




The Internet has been flooded with rumors about a new Scirocco, with photos to boot. In some renderings, it depicts a sort of orange 2-door fastback, in other, it depicts a hardtop version of the now dead Concept R. But perhaps there is more to this rumor. In Volkswagen's press release for the SEMA Show, the last part made a reference to a "2+2 sport coupe that hearkens to the heyday of the Scirocco". Not exactly an official announcement but no doubt a new Scirocco is in the cards for Volkswagen, which we can expect probably in 2008 with a first peek near the end of 2006 or in 2007. This new Scirocco may be marketed as the Rivo.
Probability of happening: 55%

Rumor 2: Passat Coupé





Last August, Volkswagen told US dealers during the annual dealer meeting in Dallas that Volkswagen plans to enter new product segments with four new vehicles (One of the four is the Eos, which has already been introduced and launched). One of those vehicles are aimed at competing with the Mercedes-Benz CLS. Those in the know says that Volkswagen is planning to release their own 4-door coupé a la CLS. This new model will be built on the Passat platform and will probably be available beginning 2008. The Passat Coupé will be positioned above the Passat but below the Phaeton (seeing as how the Phaeton has been discontinued in North America starting 2006, this will be the halo car in North America). The Passat Coupé may be built at Emden.
Probability of happening: 50%

Rumor 3: Reviving the Corrado
Remember the Corrado you had back in the 90s? Well, for the new Corrado, take the name and leave everything else because all Volkswagen plans to resurrect is the name. There are rumors in Germany that Volkswagen will revive the Corrado name and put it on a 4-door coupé version of the Passat (See Rumor 2). Not exactly a Corrado (the original had only two doors) but maybe Volkswagen hopes to capitalize on the nostalgia the name generates.
Probability of happening: 45%

Rumor 4: New Minivan
If a minivan is what the people want, minivan is what the people might get eventually. A new minivan is apparently in the works, which is one of the four vehicles Volkswagen plans to launch by the end of 2007. This new minivan will seat seven passengers with flat folding rear seats. Sound familiar? It should. Volkswagen is in talks with Chrysler to use their St. Louis factory to build the VW minivan. Expect to see this at the dealership January 2008.
Probability of happening: 70%

Rumor 5: Compact Touareg
The last model in Volkswagen's 4 model launch is a compact SUV similar in size with the Honds CR-V or Toyota RAV4, as it is based on the Golf platform. This compact SUV will look like a smaller version of the Touareg and is expected to be at dealers by November 2007. Some spy shots of a camouflaged Golf Plus have been circulating around the Web. No word on whether or not this is the proposed little brother to the Touareg. It may have "Beduin" as its moniker. The Beduin will be built at Wolfsburg alongside the Touran. There is no official word however various sources across the Internet are reporting that the Beduin may be up for an introduction at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2006.
Probabilitiy of happening: 75%

Rumor 6: Jetta Hybrid
Back in June, rumors of a Jetta Hybrid circulated in the Internet. Indeed, Volkswagen may have plans to introduce a Jetta Hybrid by 2008. No word, though, whether it will be released as a TDI hybrid.
Probability of happening: 65%

Rumor 7: Jetta CDI?
In October, news reports on the Internet indicated that Volkswagen will abandon their Pumpe Duse diesel engine technology in favour of common rail technology. This was confirmed in November during a sales managers meeting that Volkswagen will indeed switch to common rail technology beginning with the Jetta in July 2008, with the Passat to follow shortly after. Volkswagen's common rail engine may produce upwards to 130 HP, maybe more.
Probability of happneing: 55%

Rumor 8: Jetta Facelift
The VW Gazette reported in October that the Jetta may be receiving two facelifts, one minor and one major. The minor facelift on North American Jettas will involved replacing the painted valances with black ones, just like in European models. The Jetta will also get a 115 volt outlet standard as well as a means of connecting an iPod. Then, the major facelift comes for the MY2008 where the Jetta gets a new, Eos style front end and Passat type taillights, which means North American Jettas may finally get LEDs in the taillights. None of these facelifts have been confirmed, however.
Probability of happening: 40%

Rumor 9: Golf and Jetta R36
The VW Gazette reported in October that the Golf R36 has been slated to arrive in 16 months (as of this writing) with a 300 HP version of the Passat's 3.6L engine. Then, the Jetta R36 follows 6 months after the Golf R36, presumably with the same horsepower rating. So far, however, there have been no definite confirmations to these dates but no doubt, we will be getting them.
Probability of happening: 98%

Rumor 10: New Entry Level
Volkswagen may be bringing over a new entry level car in 2008 however Volkswagen isn't saying which model they plan on bringing over. Most likely it could be a Polo as the Fox may be too small for the North American market.
Probability of happening: 65%

Rumor 11: 13 New Models by 2008
According to some sources, Volkswagen intends to launch 13 new models in North America. Now, through the process of elimination, we can remove 9 from the 13 new models (MK.V Golf, GTI, facelifted New Beetle, Jetta, Jetta Wagon (in dealers by March 2007), GLI, Passat, Passat Wagon, Eos). That leaves us with 4 unknown models. The Passat Coupé, compact SUV, and minivan could be 3 of the 4 unknown models. The last model could either be the Scirocco or the entry level car. It should also be noted that an article in the January 2006 issue of Automobile Magazine seems to confirm 3 of the 4 models above (the Scirocco, compact SUV, and the Passat Coupé) but the article does not say anything about a minivan. At this point, anything is possible.
Probability of happening: 60%

Rumor 13: TDI Discontinued
For the past few months, many sources have said that Volkswagen may pull their TDI engine from their lineup because of emissions regulations in 2007 in the US. Of course, it has began with the V10 TDI Touareg. Now, Volkswagen may have to pull their Jetta TDI model and we may never even see a Passat or Golf TDI in the future. It is not known, however, if this will affect Volkswagen's launch of common rail engines in 2008.
Probability of happening: 85%

Some rumors dispelled and some rumors remain rumors. One thing is for sure, 2006 will bring a lot of surprises as Volkswagen continues launching new models.

Volkswagen in 2005

© 2005 The VW Gazette. Images by Volkswagen AG.
The past year will probably go down Volkswagen's history as one of the more eventful ones. It was during 2005 when Volkswagen began to make an attempt to revitalize an aging model line-up by introducing new versions of their "bread and butter" models. In total, Volkswagen introduced 11 new models worldwide this year. But 2005 hasn't all been rosy for Volkswagen. Arguably the largest event in Volkswagen this past year was the rotten scandal that shook the very foundations of the company. Fortunately, Volkswagen managed to recover but not before unearthing the corruption that had been going on.

January
The New Jetta
Volkswagen opened the year with the introduction of the much anticipated (and speculated) all new fifth generation Jetta. During months leading up to the introduction, the Internet was rife with speculation about the Jetta's styling. A few spy shots of the Jetta in camouflage taken while hot weather testing fuelled the speculation even further. When the Jetta was finally revealed, whole automotive industry was stunned. There was a great divide within the Volkswagen community: those who liked the new design and those who found it too, well, Japanese. Forums were flooded with "Jetta looks like a Corolla" posts, alluding to the strange similarity between the Jetta's taillights and the Toyota Corolla's taillights. Needless to say, the New Jetta took some time to warm up to people.

The Ragster Concept
Volkswagen shows a new concept at the North American International Auto Show, The New Beetle Ragster. Basically, it is a ragtop and a speedster all jumbled into one. It was basically a New Beetle sedan sort of flattened at the top to accommodate the Ragster's ragtop. This was more than a concept, however. This showed the things to come for Volkswagen's New Beetle line-up. From the windows down, The Ragster showed what the face lifted New Beetle would look like. It had sharper lines, especially around the wheel arches and the front and rear bumper, different head and taillights as well as different front and rear end treatments making for a newer, fresher, more muscular New Beetle.

NBC Universal and Volkswagen
Volkswagen and NBC Universal signed a worldwide strategic marketing agreement. With this agreement, Universal will incorporate Volkswagen products and brand into its films, DVDs, theme parks, and other entertainment properties. Volkswagen would support numerous media marketing and promotional offers. Perhaps the first major application of this agreement is with Peter Jackson's King Kong. The trailer was first released on Volkswagen's corporate site. Then, just earlier this month, Volkswagen launches the Volkswagen Touareg Kong.

The Golf Plus
Volkswagen ended the month with the launch of the Golf Plus in Europe. Basically a Golf but bigger in every dimension. Despite its Golf nameplate, the Golf Plus features different headlights and taillights, with the latter featuring LED lights. This model, however, is only available in Europe.

February
The New Passat
Volkswagen began February with the premiere of the sixth generation Passat. As with the Jetta, the months leading up to the premiere were rampant with speculation. This was only fuelled by spy shots of the Passat in black camouflage. Unlike the Jetta, however, the Passat was much more welcomed with open arms by the Volkswagen community. The new Passat exuded class and luxury, featuring a powerful front end and an elegant rear end. The interior was nicely executed however, people were anxious to see how the new keyless start worked. With the premiere of the Passat, speculation on the new Estate began.

March
Touareg V10 TDI Discontinued
An unexpected EPA test requirement led Volkswagen to suspend the sales of the Touareg V10 TDI indefinitely. The EPA took issue with the liquid additive that Volkswagen used in its exhaust system to reduce emissions. This additive had been successfully used in Europe, but the EPA felt it needed to conduct its own tests. Thus far, the ten cylinder 310 HP Touareg has yet to return on the Touareg line-up. Rumors are that Volkswagen may have to pull the TDI engine out of its other models.

April
The New Fox
The new Fox launches in Europe, now being Volkswagen's new entry level model. It is really a small car measuring 12.5 feet in length, 5.45 feet in width, and 4.76 feet in height. The wheel base is only 8.10 feet. The Fox was launched with two petrol engines and one TDI engine all complying with the Euro 4 emission standard.

IIHS Praises Jetta
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the new Jetta good ratings in both frontal offset and side impact crash tests. The Jetta is also the first vehicle to receive the top rating of good in every individual measurement category (injury measurement, head protection, and structural design) of the side impact test. It's a testament to the Jetta's crashworthiness.

The New Polo
Volkswagen introduced the redesigned Polo, featuring new headlights, new shape, new grille, and overall larger dimensions. The Polo launches with five petrol engines and four TDI engines all complying with the Euro 4 emission standard.

May
100 Millionth Volkswagen Leaves Assembly Line
The 100 Millionth Volkswagen, a 1.9L TDI Touran in reflex silver metallic, left the assembly line in Wolfsburg in May.

June
The VW Gazette
On June 2 at 9:50 PM, The VW Gazette is launched on the Internet. Starting out as a sort of project to combat boredom during the summer, it has grown to be one of the best sources for news about Volkswagen on the Web. It couldn't have been possible without you, the Volkswagen enthusiast. Here's to your continued support. Thank you very much.

Len Hunt Speaks
Perhaps one of the most exciting times this past year was in June when Len Hunt, the then Executive VP of Volkswagen of America, used the public forums of the VWvortex in order to communicate with enthusiasts in North America and provide reassurance. He addressed Volkswagen's ongoing problem with quality and the possibility of bringing over the 5 door GTI, which we now know will come around June 2006.

EPA Fines VW $1 Million for Emission Glitch
The EPA fined Volkswagen AG $1.1 million for failing to fix or notify officials about a defective oxygen sensor in the Golf, Jetta, and New Beetle. The faulty oxygen sensor increased pollution from the models. This was the largest fine ever issued by the EPA for this type of violation, one that Volkswagen AG has agreed to pay. The defective sensor was found on 326,000 models from 1991-2001. Volkswagen has already conducted a recall, costing $26 million to implement.

Meet Stanley
Meet Stanley, your not so average, run-of-the-mill Touareg. Stanley is literally a computer on wheels. Made through the collaboration of the Volkswagen Group's Electronics Research Laboratory and Stanford University, Stanley utilizes many sensors, laser guided detectors, and complex satellite guided GPS systems in order to propell the Touareg without any input from a driver, whether in the vehicle or remotely. Stanford University has entered Stanley in the DARPA Grand Challenge 2005 where other autonomous vehicles will compete with Stanley.

July
Spying the Eos
It was in July when the first set of spy shots of the Eos surfaced. The photos featured an orange car with camouflaged rear and front ends. The unique folding roof, however, was obvious. The prototype also had design elements from the Concept C car introduced by Volkswagen in the 2004 Geneva Motor Show.

Jetta's First Recall
Volkswagen issued a recall for 39,583 units of the new Jetta. The recall involved a fuel supply clamp in the engine compartment that may not be positioned properly, which could cause a fuel leak running the risk of a fire.

Scandal of the year
Perhaps the biggest news story of 2005 was the shady scandal within Volkswagen AG. It was found that Peter Hartz, head of human resources at Volkswagen AG, bribed union officials with pricey vacations, prostitutes, and prescriptions for Viagra all at the company's expense. Volkswagen immediately launched an internal inquiry, which subsequently revealed the troubling possibility that up to 60 people may have been involved in a ring of corruption.

August
The New Passat Estate
Volkswagen continues its new model offensive with the introduction of the new Passat Estate. Again, spy shots surfaced of the Estate with camouflage but not much was revealed about the critical rear end from the C-pillar back. The premiere of the Estate in August revealed a dynamic rear end from the C-pillar to the rear hatch. Many people even favoured the Estate's design over the sedan. The new Passat Wagon will premiere in North America at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit with a North American launch in February.

September
Crispin Porter + Bogusky
Volkswagen announced in September that Crispin Porter + Bogusky will replace Arnold Worldwide as its new advertising agency. CP+B will have full responsibility for the marketing of all products effective December 5. Burger King and Mini are some of the successful accounts that CP+B hold.

iPod in your Volkswagen
Finally, Volkswagen owners have a new option of integrating their favourite music player into their cars. Apple announced in September that they will be offering an integration solution for Volkswagen and Audi cars. The cable would run from behind the dash to either the glove compartment or the centre console. Commands can be made through the radio controls or steering wheel buttons. The iPod integration is available to the majority of the US 2006 models.

Len Hunt leaves Volkswagen of America
September was a sad day for all Volkswagen enthusiasts in North America. It was in September when Volkswagen made an announcement that Len Hunt would leave Volkswagen of America to move to Bentley. Len Hunt was known to be the advocate for Volkswagen enthusiasts, trying hard to get more models over to North America. Adrian Michael Hallmark replaced Len Hunt as Volkswagen of America's Executive Vice President of Volkswagen of America, effective October 1. The grounds of his moving to Bentley have not officially been revealed however, enthusiasts believe some sort of conflict of interest between Len Hunt's wishes and the wishes of Volkswagen AG. Just a few months ago, Len Hunt resigned from Volkswagen AG and went to Kia.

The Golf R32
The legendary R32 returns marking the launch of the most powerful Golf ever. It features a narrow angle VR6 engine producing 250 HP. The Golf R32 also comes equipped with permanent 4MOTION four-wheel drive. The new R32 features the now recognizable MKV Golf shape with subtle changes, most notable of which are the aluminium effect shield grille unique to the R32. Also unique are the air intake ducts which stretch around to the side of the front bumper. The R32 also features a fully painted front and rear bumper and side skirts and have centre mounted twin tailpipes. Unfortunately, we won't get this in North America. However, as every cloud has a silver lining, what we will get in lieu of the powerful R32 is the even more powerful R36 either in Jetta or Golf form or maybe even both.

The Eos
Volkswagen launched the anticipated Eos cabriolet-coupé at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and confirmed the name days before the event. The name refers to the goddess of dawn who rose from the sea in her chariot to bring daylight to people. The Eos features a unique folding steel roof with an integrated sunroof. Top up or down, the Eos has perfect proportions and a perfect stance when viewed from the front. The Eos was expected to be launched by June but due to delays, we can expect a Fall or Winter launch for North America.

The Golf GT
Volkswagen presented the new Golf GT at Frankfurt. Volkswagen also showcased the 1.4L TSI engine and 2.0L TDI, both producing 170 HP. The TSI is a technological marvel combining both economy and performance utilizing a twin-turbocharged FSI engine.

Porsche and Volkswagen
In September, Porsche buys 20% stake in Volkswagen. This action would eliminate any possibility of a hostile takeover, especially if the VW Law is stuck down by the EU thus leaving Volkswagen vulnerable. Porsche's reason for eliminating a possible hostile takeover is that they wanted to maintain their ties with Volkswagen.

Building two new Volkswagens
In September came confirmation that Volkswagen is planning two completely new models. One is a compact SUV (possibly based off of the Golf/Golf Plus) and the other is unknown but could be a sedan positioned above the Passat (maybe a coupé version of the Passat). The confirmation came when Volkswagen announced the production location for both the compact SUV and the other unknown model. The compact SUV is to be built in Wolfsburg and the other model is to be built in Emden.

October
Stanley Wins DARPA Grand Challenge 2005
A Volkswagen Touareg named Stanley wins the DARPA Grand Challenge 2005. Stanford University won $2 million after crossing the finish line in 6 hours, 53 minutes, and 8 seconds with their fully automated and driverless Touareg, Stanley. The competition involved 23 driverless robots all having to traverse over 130 miles of desert, mountain trails, dry lake beds and tunnels near Primm, Nevada. These vehicles all packed complex sensors and GPS systems which enabled them to move without human assistance.

November
IIHS praises Passat
The Passat follows in the Jetta's footsteps earning a "Double Best Pick" for excellent performance in front and side tests done by the Institute for Highway Safety.

24 Million Golfs
The 24 millionth Golf was produced in Wolfsburg in November. It was a 2.0L TDI Golf Comfortline in Tornado Red. The Golf was first produced in 1974. In 2002, the Golf surpassed the Beetle's record in production.

FINALLY!
Volkswagen released the press release and the first official photos of the North American GTI in November. With many potential GTI buyers waiting eagerly, many who finally saw the GTI in North American form became even more impatient as the GTI scheduled to arrive at our shores in February for the US and March for Canada (but expect it to arrive in Canadian dealerships by the end of February). A few noticeable changes in the North American GTI were the obvious increase in ride height and also the lack of the large bolstered seats, as offered in the European GTIs. Nevertheless, many are still excited to finally have the best GTI since the original MK.I.

The CrossPolo
To be launched in February, Volkswagen premieres the CrossPolo during the Essen Motor Show. It features a funky two tone exterior and interior. This Europe-only model will have three petrol engines and two TDI engines.

The Passat Lingyu
The Passat Lingyu is a China-only version of the new Passat. The Passat Lingyu is distinctly different from its Passat cousin featuring different headlights, taillights and overall shape.

December
Touareg Kong
With the launch of the movie, Volkswagen released a special edition Touareg called the Touareg Kong. The Touareg Kong features cosmetic differences such as silver coloured front and rear underbody guards, silver-look side view mirror housing, and a chrome surround of the bumper air intake. The rear contains an oval tailpipe. Most importantly, the Touareg Kong has a "King Kong" badge on the B-pillar.

Phaeton Lounge
Ever thought of a Phaeton limousine? Never? Well, now you really don't have to because you can just own it (after taking multiple mortgages on the house, of course). Volkswagen debuted the Phaeton Lounge at the Dubai Motor Show in December. Measuring 6.8 meters, it is hardly your run of the mill Phaeton. The Phaeton Lounge may look restrained from the outside but enter and a lavish interior of wood and leather greets you. The Phaeton Lounge features two 2-seating benches facing each other. Amenities includes an intercom, refrigerator, mini-bar, space for champagne glasses (and the champagne, of course), and a humidor. The multimedia entertainment system includes two 17" monitors, two separate DVD players, and PC integrated into the trunk. A USB port in the console allows a laptop to be connected while a UMTS connection delivers high-speed internet access.

Volkswagen at Sea
Volkswagen Marine has signed a distribution contract with Ring Power in the US making Volkswagen Marine engines available for the first time in the US market. Volkswagen Marine engines were first distributed in Europe in 2001.

From model launches to scandals, 2005 has proved to be a full year for Volkswagen. 2006 should bring a lot of excitement to Volkswagen enthusiasts with the launch of the highly anticipated GTI, Golf, Eos, and the Passat Wagon. Stay tuned for The VW Gazette's Rumor Mill 2005 where we'll go over the past year's speculation regarding Volkswagen's future.

Remembering an Icon

Text from Channel4.com. Photo from Volkswagen AG.
Volkswagen is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the restarting of Beetle production after World War II, and the effective birth of the company as a commercial car-maker.

The first post-war Beetle came out of the Wolfsburg factory on December 27 1945; it was one ordered by the British military government for use in their work reconstructing the country and its industry.

British motor industry executives had been invited over to Wolfsburg (a purpose-built development around the factory formerly known as the KdF-Stadt, or 'Strength-through-joy town') with a view to producing the KdF-Wagen, as the Beetle was first known, in the UK. However, they dismissed it as a funny-looking joke - and continued making the Morris Minor and Austin Seven. Major Ivan Hirst, however, in charge of the factory, believed that the odd-shaped, rear-engined and air-cooled car could play a vital role in restarting German industry, and commissioned over 20,000 saloons, special-bodied vehicles and trailers for the peace-keeping troops. The restarting of production also created over 6,000 jobs in Wolfsburg.

Exports of the Beetle started - to the Netherlands - in August 1947 and, in 1955, the millionth Beetle was built. Beetle factories were opened in South Africa and Brazil and production continued in Puebla, Mexico, long after it ceased in Europe. The final Beetle - the 21,529,480th - was built at the end of July 2003.

Goodbye Diesel

Text from Leftlane News.
RUMOR: New U.S. emissions regulations affecting 2007 model year vehicles may force companies like Volkswagen to stop offering cars with TDI in the United States. Leftlane News has received a handful of reports from VW dealers in the U.S. regarding this rumor, with each source reporting virtually the same thing. While it’s possible automakers will find a way to meet the new regulations before it begins building MY2007 cars, the current thinking is that there is no economical way of building cars to comply with the new rules.. The problem is not limited to VW, but likely any maker of diesel passenger cars. Some manufacturers will be able to circumvent the new rules by classifying their vehicles as “trucks,” but this loophole would only be applicable to borderline crossover vehicles. Accordingly, diesel variants of vehicles like the Audi Q7 are likely to be eligible for sales in the U.S. in 2007.

Volkswagen Marine Engines Now Available In US

Text from Volkswagen AG.
Distribution Contract with Ring Power signed

Wolfsburg/St. Augustine, 23 December 2005 - Volkswagen Marine engines are now also distributed in the United States. A corresponding distribution agreement was signed with American company Ring Power Corporation, Florida.

Volkswagen Marine engines are distributed in Europe since 2001. The contract with Ring Power gives Volkswagen Marine access to a market which is several times bigger than Europe and Oceania combined. This is a major step forward in the global distribution of Volkswagen Marine.

Volkswagen AG welcomes this partnership in light of the excellent reputation enjoyed by Ring Power both for their distribution and service of the entire Caterpillar range in Central- and Northern Florida, and for their further commercial activities which will give Volkswagen Marine access to the entire United States. Ring Power has made a substantial initial order of Volkswagen Marine Engines.

The American company will now implement a network of extensively trained Volkswagen Marine partners in all regions of the United States where there is a market for pleasure craft. Product launch in the United States is planned for spring 2006.

Ring Power takes the opportunity to offer users of compact engines a well defined offer of Volkswagen Marine engines, which have extreme refinement, exceptional environmental friendliness, low fuel consumption and minimized maintenance requirements in common – including features like oil change at the touch of a button and automatic adjustment of valve clearance and drive belt tension.

The engines are an outstanding alternative to existing diesel engines for owners of pleasure craft from 18ft upwards. These compact, light weight, high speed and fuel economic diesel engines will be offered in configurations with stern drive, shaft drive and sail drive. This enables entry into the American market for water-ski, sport boat, sport cruiser, sport fish, trawler and sailboat markets.

Volkswagen Returns On Top

Text from Volkswagen AG.
Customers enthusiastic about model offensive

Wolfsburg, 23 December 2005 - Volkswagen is back in first place in Europe. Measured by the number of new vehicle registrations, the brand has regained first place in 2005. "Volkswagen is a powerful brand. We are now harvesting the rewards of our model offensive", claimed Dr Wolfgang Bernhard, Chairman of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen brand in Wolfsburg. "Our models are exciting customers across Europe. That gives us a tailwind for the year ahead," Bernhard stressed.

Between January and November, the European Automobile Association (ACEA) noted 1.416 million new vehicle registrations for the Volkswagen brand in Europe (EU 23 + EFTA). "That is a lead that the competition will not be able to catch up in the last month of the year," said Bernhard. In November alone, 129,000 vehicles of the brand were registered. That gives Volkswagen a market share of 11.1 percent in November, some 1.7 percentage points more than the second place.

By far the most successful model in Europe is the Volkswagen Golf. Between January and the end of October, almost 500,000 Golf registrations were recorded. "This year, the Golf has really gained momentum and has left the competition a long way behind," stressed Bernhard. The launch of the Golf Plus has played an important role in this development. "This success shows that our innovative ideas and concepts enable us to expand and grow, even in the highly competitive compact car segment."

The other models launched in 2005 have also quickly become established on the market. Besides the Golf Plus, Volkswagen also launched the new Polo, the new Fox, the new Passat saloon, the new Jetta, the new Beetle and the new Beetle convertible, the new Passat estate and the Golf R32. In addition, Volkswagen presented the new Eos at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt and at the EcoRacer at the Tokyo Motor Show.

"We have a fresh new model range," explained Bernhard. "But this success will not cause us to sit back on our laurels. We have more surprises is store for 2006. We shall prove that Volkswagen is able to produce vehicles that people dream about and to do so at competitive prices. Our heart is in the high-volume segment."

Phaeton Lounge by Volkswagen Individual

Text from Classic Driver. Photos from Volkswagen AG.
At the Dubai Motor Show, Volkswagen’s personalisation division showed its interpretation of a mobile luxury lounge. Comprising three Phaeton bodyshells, and measuring 6.8 metres in length, the additional 1.8 metres gives additional legroom in the back, as well as an integrated entertainment centre for the passengers.

Inside the car, the designers have come up with everything you could possible want. The colours used are a combination of dark and light leather, with open-grain oak veneer, more commonly used in the boatbuilding industry. The rear compartment offers plenty of space for four people to spread out, on individually adjustable seats. When desired, the partition between ‘lounge’ and driver can be sealed off and communication carried out via an intercom system. The driver also has an external intercom at his disposal (for security) if he needs it.

The Phaeton "Lounge" also has an inbuilt lighting system to illuminate the interior according to the occupants mood. Any colour of the Red Green Blue spectrum can be ordered-up at will from the central console.

Between the two rear seats there is a refrigerator, and an extendable mini-bar in the centre console offers extra space for drinks and refreshments. There is of course space for champagne glasses, as well as a cedarwood humidor.

The multimedia entertainment system includes two 17” monitors that fold out, at the touch of a button, from the headlining, two separate DVD players and high quality headphones. For office work there’s a folding table that swings out of the central console, while keyboard and mouse can be connected by Bluetooth with a PC integrated into the boot. A USB port in the console allows a laptop to be connected, while a UMTS connection delivers high-speed internet access.

Despite its production-based components, and the possibilities of series production, the car remains only a ‘Concept’. It’s up to the local residents in Dubai to give VW enough orders to put it into production...

Heading for Dakar with 27 Vehicles and 78 People

Text and photo from Volkswagen Motorsports.
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Rally feeling in Wolfsburg: after a public event in the “auto city”, the Volkswagen works team, with 27 vehicles and 78 people, set course for the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, the starting place of the Dakar Rally (31 December to 15 January).

To celebrate its farewell, the team, which had claimed third place in this desert classic in 2005, had set up a bivouac. The Volkswagen works drivers, Jutta Kleinschmidt (D), Mark Miller (USA), Bruno Saby (F), Carlos Sainz (E) and Giniel de Villiers (RSA), together with their co-drivers, Fabrizia Pons (I), Dirk von Zitzewitz (D), Michel Périn (F), Andy Schulz (D) and Tina Thörner (S), first answered the questions of numerous media representatives and then gave autographs to lots of motorsport fans having travelled to Wolfsburg for the farewell.

"Dakar" impressions were not only rendered by the Race Touareg 2 cars, the race trucks, the service Touareg, the service T5 busses and the service trucks being showcased but by fascinating images of marathon rally sport projected on a 27-square meter video screen. In the meantime, the impressive convoy comprising five Volkswagen Race Touareg cars and 22 support and service vehicles was preparing for its departure, which started with a "motorcade” through Wolfsburg.

"The departure for Lisbon, the starting place of the rally where the Technical and Administrative Scrutineering will be held from 28 to 30 December, marks the completion of the 11-month preparation phase for the Dakar Rally," says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "We are well prepared and everyone in the team wants to win. Now we just need that ‘famous bit of racing look'."

The first station of the Volkswagen works team is Spain where the squad will be performing a final roll-out with the 275-hp prototypes. "From Madrid the team will be travelling to Lisbon where all vehicles will be parked in the Volkswagen plant over Christmas. Then the team members will be returning to Germany to celebrate Christmas with their families. In time for the start to the rally, the entire team will be in Lisbon, the rally's starting place," explains Kris Nissen.

Extensive preparations for the famous desert marathon
Since the 2005 Dakar Rallye, in which Volkswagen works drivers Jutta Kleinschmidt and Fabrizia Pons, by finishing third overall, claimed the first podium position of a diesel-powered SUV in the 27-year history of the "Dakar, the Volkswagen Race Touareg has been subjected to consistent further development. Apart from an intensive testing programme, the "Dakar” preparations also incorporated experience gained in the FIA Marathon Rally World Cup in which Bruno Saby claimed the title early by clinching three victories and Volkswagen Motorsport won the team classification.

In a parallel project the team was working on the logistical preparation for the 9043-kilometre desert marathon. 27 vehicles and 78 team members are part of the Volkswagen works team during the 2006 Dakar Rally. 15 tough competition days will subject "men and material” to the maximum.

"A motorsport competition of this scale requires intensive preparation," explains logistics expert Paco Crous. "Altogether, we are transporting 25 tons of spare parts and equipment from Germany to the starting location, Portugal, and from there during the rally's 15 competition days via Morocco, Mauritania, Mali and Guinea to Senegal. Included are 400 pre-assembled wheels and tyres, spare parts and tools as well as twelve tents and work rooms for the team management, drivers, co-drivers and engineers as well as – for example - 2000 cans of soup as snacks, 78 one-man tents, 1560 t-shirts and numerous pallets of Red Bull."

To handle this project, the Volkswagen works team relies on service trucks, two race trucks registered for the rally as "quick helpers” on the various legs as well as ten specially prepared Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI cars and two Volkswagen T5 busses to carry the team members and their luggage from one stage finish to the next during desert classic.

"The regulations prohibit the additional supply of spare parts or personnel during the rally. That's why we need to be prepared for any contingency,” says Kris Nissen. "Still, the ‘Dakar' can be expected to hold several surprises in store for us again this year. If that's the case, we simply need to improvise. Yet this is part of the many thrills and attractions of the Dakar Rally which we are prepared to handle with a high level of motivation."

Volkswagen AG Licenses Immersion Technology

Text from Auto Racing Daily.
Immersion Corporation, a leading developer and licensor of touch feedback technology, today announced that Volkswagen AG has signed a license agreement allowing use of Immersion technology for control panels in its passenger vehicles.

The technology supplies tactile, or haptic, cues, so that instead of just feeling the hard surface of virtual control panels, users perceive that buttons depress and release, just as physical buttons and switches do. Automotive control systems enhanced with Immersion's technology will help reduce glance times and distractions for drivers accessing in-car information. The technology works by supplying haptic feedback in response to programmed effects that vary in frequency, waveform, magnitude, and duration. The result is that all sorts of on-screen buttons, switches, and other controls can supply distinct sensations to allow greater discrimination for users and more extensive applications for the control system interface. In cars, these applications include navigation, climate, and entertainment controls.

"We believe that advanced automotive controls are important to enhancing the driving experience and simplifying a growing number of functions within the car," said Dr. Volkmar Tanneberger, head of Electronic Functions Development Department, Volkswagen AG. "We see Immersion's haptic technology as an important element in providing a better driving experience."

"Use of our technology in automotive infotainment systems is completely new," said Mike Zuckerman, senior vice president and general manager of Immersion's Automotive and Industrial business unit. "It's a distinctive way to provide the type of engaging response and rich tactile information that consumers like about physical controls, the authentic feel of pushing a button or depressing a membrane switch. And it's just one of several haptic implementations that we have for car controls."

About Immersion
Founded in 1993, Immersion Corporation is a recognized leader in developing, licensing, and marketing digital touch technology and products. Bringing value to markets where man-machine interaction needs to be made more compelling, safer, or productive, Immersion helps its partners broaden market reach by making the use of touch feedback as critical a user experience as sight and sound. Immersion technology is deployed across automotive, entertainment, medical training, mobility, personal computing, and three-dimensional simulation markets. Immersion's patent portfolio includes over 500 issued and pending patents in the United States and other countries.

EcoRacer Successfully Finishes First On-Road Test

Text from Volkswagen AG.
Prototype to be displayed from 17 December 2005 to 9 January 2006 in the Autostadt in Wolfsburg

Wolfsburg, 15 December 2005 - Volkswagen's EcoRacer sports car has successfully completed its racetrack debut: 34 journalists from nine countries gave the concept car from Wolfsburg a thorough test on the racetrack in Pau in the South of France.


In three days, the motor sport journalists covered over 1200 kilometres, mainly at high speed, in the yellow two-seater. The EcoRacer proved that it is versatile and dynamic in the guise of a coupé, a roadster and a speedster. The EcoRacer will be on display at the KonzernWelt in the Autostadt in Wolfsburg as of 17 December.

Volkswagen made a static presentation of the EcoRacer at the Tokyo Motor Show in October. The concept car was well received by journalists and trade visitors. The idea of testing the mid-engine sports car on a racetrack was developed in Tokyo.

Matthias Rabe, head of Group Research at Volkswagen AG: "We took this unusual step to let people see for themselves that fascination, sportiness and excellent handling can be combined with fuel efficiency. The EcoRacer impressively passed this test without any breakdowns at the racetrack in Pau. This concept car proves that fuel economy and sportiness are not mutually exclusive."

The EcoRacer weighs just 850 kilograms thanks to its carbon fibre body. It accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds. The newly developed 1.5-litre turbo diesel with 100 kW /136 PS has a top speed of 230 km/h and an average fuel consumption of just 3.4 litres per 100 kilometres.

However, not only the technology fulfilled the expectations of the Volkswagen engineers. The design of the vehicle was also presented well at the racetrack. Volkswagen designer Cesar Muntada: "It is a wonderful experience to see your new vehicle on the road for the first time and to see the reactions to it. I am particularly pleased about the emotions the EcoRacer stirred up on the racetrack."

The EcoRacer can be viewed in the Autostadt in Wolfsburg until 9 January 2006.

Volkswagen Design Re-establishes Itself

Text from Volkswagen AG.
- Second German Design centre enhances the importance of the Volkswagen brand

Wolfsburg, 12 December 2005 - Volkswagen Design re-establishes itself under the management of Group Design Manager Murat Günak: From January 2006 two Design Centres will reflect the importance of the Volkswagen brand and the new model offensive.

With the existing Design Centre in Wolfsburg and the new Design Centre in Potsdam, two locations will be in place on an equal footing which will mould the creative future of Volkswagen. Thomas Ingenlath currently responsible for Škoda brand Design will be the Head of the Design Centre in Potsdam. Klaus Bischoff takes over as Head of the Design Centre in Wolfsburg. Bischoff was previoulsy responsible for the Overall Vehicle Design department. Thomas Ingenlath and Klaus Bischoff report to Murat Günak who heads Design for the Group and Volkswagen brand. Jens Manske currently Head of Exterior Design at Volkswagen will head Design at Škoda.

Murat Günak: “Two studios, one brand – the Wolfsburg and Potsdam Design Centres are two strong pillars for the future design of the Volkswagen brand.

Volkswagen chose Potsdam because this location offers suitable infrastructure, has always attracted creative people as a city of art and culture and last but not least is right next to Berlin. In the spring the construction of the Design Centre on a site of 6700 square metres and a covered area of 2600 square metres was begun. It was completed at the end of 2004. The Potsdam Design Centre will carry out Group design activities as well, whilst the Wolfsburg Design Centre is additionally responsible for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles design.

Design is among the most important competition factors in vehicle construction. Four hundred employees of all nationalities work in design for the Volkswagen brand worldwide in Wolfsburg, Potsdam, Los Angeles, Sao Paulo and Shanghai. In particular the models which have been presented since 2003 make clear that at Volkswagen a new era of form language and design lines has been heralded. With a lot of love of detail Europe’s biggest vehicle manufacturer achieves a more dynamic appearance and a stronger emotionalisation of its vehicles.

Volkswagen Presents First Sustainability Report

Text from Volkswagen AG.
WOLFSBURG, Germany - Volkswagen AG presented its first Group-wide Sustainability Report under the motto of “Moving Generations” in Wolfsburg today.

The motto stands for both traditional and a vision of the future and thus unites the two core tasks: To safeguard the future of the Group and support sustainable mobility.

This is the first report to deal comprehensively with environmental protection, economics and social responsibility. A further innovative feature is that coverage has been extended to the Volkswagen Group and therefore includes all brands, companies and service providers in which the Group holds more than 50 percent of the capital.

Reinhold Kopp, Plenipotentiary of Volkswagen AG and Head of Corporate Government Relations, commented: “Sustainability reporting creates transparency to safeguard credibility and trust, and is at the same time an invitation for a critical dialog with our stakeholders.”

The Group-wide Sustainability Report discusses the challenges of the future as well as conflicting goals and potential approaches to solving them adopted by Volkswagen: On the product side, the objective is to offer models that convince customers in respect of price, performance, safety, environmental benefits and comfort.

“Innovative engines such as the TDI and TSI as well as the TFSI are examples of powerful and efficient diesel and petrol engines and are already available in series models. The fusion of petrol and diesel engines seen in the new combined combustion technology in conjunction with synthetic fuels as well as hybrid technology are examples of our approach to sustainable mobility for the foreseeable future. At this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, Audi showcased a hybrid version of the Q7, which will also be on sale from 2008 onwards,” underlined Matthias Rabe, Executive Director Group Research at Volkswagen AG.

Volkswagen’s global responsibility also encompasses an accident research project in Shanghai and plans to launch a Touran Hybrid model in time for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. With regard to social issues, innovative employment models are another contributory factor in the ability to master the future. The “Declaration on Social Rights and Industrial Issues” established worldwide standards for employee relations – making Volkswagen the first company in the automotive sector to do so.

The print version of the Sustainability Report is closely networked with the newly established Group Sustainability Portal: With immediate effect, www.volkswagen-sustainability.com provides comprehensive information on the brands and companies in the Volkswagen Group, our sustainability guidelines and our vision of sustainable mobility. Topics such as intelligent lightweight design, powertrain and fuel strategy, occupational safety policy and the Social Charta which are briefly outlined in the report are discussed in detail in the Group Sustainability Portal.

The Volkswagen Group Sustainability Report was drawn up with reference to the international guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). The completeness, strengths, weaknesses and consistency of the report were examined by Dr. Claus Fichter and Dr. Jens Clausen of Borderstep Institut für Innovation und Nachhaltigkeit. The Independent Review Statement is included in the Sustainability Report.

New Touareg Kong Adds Strength to Model Line-Up

Text from Volkswagen AG.
The official King Kong crew member is now available as an attractive special edition

Wolfsburg, 08 December 2005 - 45 degrees max. gradability,
58 centimetres wading depth, 3.5 tonnes max. trailer weight. The new Touareg Kong is a powerful helper and the ideal crew vehicle at the filming of the new "King Kong" film. This extraordinary Touareg also offers elegant and sporty design, outstanding ride comfort, and the latest technology.

The mighty, colour-coded widened sills, 19-inch "Avignon" alloy wheels in Sterling Silver finish with 275/45 R 19 tyres, the silver-coloured front and rear underbody guards, the exterior mirror housings also in silver-look, and the characteristic chrome surround of the front bumper air intake all contribute to the Touareg Kong's exclusive and eye-catching appearance.

To round off the picture it has sporty oval tailpipe trim, silver-coloured roof bars and the elegant chrome package, consisting of chrome strips on the radiator grille, side windows, and sills, high-gloss black roof pillar trim, and a chrome-finish step on the rear bumper. Naturally each Touareg Kong has a "King Kong" badge on the B-pillar identifying it as an official crew member.

The Touareg also reveals an individual character in its interior: leather seats, "Engine Spin" design garnish trim, and a 4-spoke steering wheel give the interior a sporty and elegant feel. The Rear Seat Entertainment from Volkswagen Individual is also a special treat, not just for cinema fans. The rear passengers can enjoy real cinema flair on the move with wireless headphones and a 7-inch screen integrated into the headliner.

Two cupholders in the central armrest and darkened rear windows underline the special atmosphere. The fully-automatic "Climatronic" air conditioning system with 2-zone temperature control, the parking distance warning system (front and rear distance warning with audible and visual signals), and fog lights complete the Touareg Kong's generous equipment specification.

Alongside the specific "Kong" features, customers can adapt their vehicles to their individual needs with other optional equipment from the Touareg programme: for example they can add a reversing camera for safe manoeuvring, variable anti-roll bars for greater traction and comfort off tarred roads, or bi-xenon headlights with bend light for an optimum view in all conditions.

In the jungle – be it the urban kind or the wilderness – not only the standard compass in the roof console can help out; the engines available for the Touareg Kong have ample power reserves for all types of road. Two petrol engines are on offer in the form of the 3.2 litre V6 and the 4.2 litre V8. The V6 delivers 241 PS / 177 kW and has a maximum torque of 310 Nm. The V8 reaches 310 PS / 228 kW and 410 Nm.

There is also a generous range of diesels for the Touareg Kong. The customer can choose between three TDI® engines with the latest direct injection, starting with the 2.5 litre in-line five cylinder engine producing 174 PS / 128 kW power and 400 Nm torque. The equally refined and economical 225 PS / 165 kW V6 TDI delivers 500 Nm and covers the mid-range. The top-of-the-line diesel is the V10 TDI, which is capable of an impressive 313 PS / 230 kW and 750 Nm torque and is a peerlessly smooth power source in the Touareg Kong too.

The new Touareg Kong is available in four paint finishes with prices starting at 48 225 euros. The price saving on the "Kong" equipment package is up to 4 200 Euro.

Police in North Rhine-Westphalia Drive the Volkswagen Passat Estate TDI

Text from Volkswagen AG.
The first 30 of 1 000 radio patrol cars are delivered

Grevenbroich/Wolfsburg, 07 December 2005 - The police in North Rhine-Westphalia drive Passat Estate TDIs. Volkswagen handed over the first 30 of a total of 1 000 silver-green radio patrol cars to State Minister of the Interior Dr Ingo Wolf on Wednesday. The carmaker was awarded the order on the basis of a bid from Volkswagen Leasing GmbH in a Europe-wide invitation to tender. According to market estimates, every second police vehicle used in Germany including passenger cars and transporters now comes from Volkswagen.

State Minister of the Interior Dr Ingo Wolf received the symbolic vehicle key from Peter Fischer, Head of VW Sales – State Authorities and Christian Welack who is responsible for Key Account Management – Fleet Customers at Volkswagen Leasing. The minister emphasized both the favourable leasing deal and the new Passat generation's modern vehicle concept. He said the Passat was economical, comfortable and easy to operate, and exemplary in technical standards from its handling to its safety equipment.

The 1 000 Passat Estates for the North Rhine-Westphalia police are equipped with the 2.0 TDI engine (103 kW/140 PS), which combines a high torque of 320 Nm with excellent fuel economy. Together with the globally unique automatic dual clutch gearbox (DSG) the TDI represents an ideal power unit. The DSG from Volkswagen brings together the advantages of a manual and those of an automatic without any loss in economy and gear change comfort. The gear shifts cannot be felt and fuel consumption remains as low as with a manual gearbox. The TDI engine also comes with a diesel particulate filter.

The Passat Estate also features an impressive interior with excellent ergonomics, comfortable seats, even more boot space, automatic air conditioning, curtain airbag system, and other equipment details providing police officers with the best working conditions for their daily duties.

Also throughout Germany the police relies on Volkswagen, both for passenger cars and transporters. According to market estimates every second police car in Germany now carries the VW badge. In the last three years alone the Volkswagen brand has won large orders in Europe-wide invitations to tender for in total more than 9 000 police vehicles for the police forces of North Rhine-Westphalia, Baden-Württemberg, Lower Saxony, Schleswig-Holstein, and Berlin.

On the basis of attractive deals Volkswagen Leasing has recorded a substantially increased share of leased models from over 50 percent of vehicles delivered in 2002 to over 70 percent today.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars
The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand delivered 3.064 million vehicles in more than 150 countries in 2004 (2003: 3.075) and employs more than 130 000 people worldwide. In nearly all classes, Volkswagen can offer its customers vehicles with leading technology that meet the highest requirements in design and quality. These include the Golf and the Passat, the small cars Fox and Polo and the luxury models Phaeton and Touareg.

One List Volkswagen Doesn't Want to Be On

© 2005 The VW Gazette.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada has released a list of the most stolen cars in Canada. The 1999 and 2000 Honda Civic SiR takes the top spot as the most stolen car. No surprise there. It is surprising, however, to see Volkswagen represented on the list. The fifth stolen car, according to the bureau, is the 1993 Volkswagen Corrado. Perhaps this is understandable as the Corrado did not have an immobilizer system as standard equipment. Sadly, it doesn't end there. Volkswagen is once again represented as the ninth most stolen vehicle with the 1999 Volkswagen Golf GTI. Now this is a bit more puzzling as the 1999 Golf GTI already had an immobilizer system as standard equipment.

The bureau says this list is based on actual insurance claims collected from almost all automobile insurance companies in Canada. They further commented that the vehicles making the top ten did not have a bureau-approved immobilizer system.

Top ten stolen vehicles:
1. 2000 Honda Civic SiR two-door.
2. 1999 Honda Civic SiR two-door.
3. 1996 four-wheel-drive Chevrolet/GMC Blazer/Jimmy S Series two-door.
4. 1994 Honda Civic Si hatchback two-door.
5. 1993 Volkswagen Corrado two-door.
6. 1995 Honda Civic Si hatchback two-door.
7. 1992 Chrysler Voyager and Dodge Caravan.
8. 2002 all-wheel-drive Subaru Impreza WRX four-door.
9. 1999 Volkswagen Golf GTI hatchback two-door.
10. 1993 Honda Civic Si hatchback two-door.

Volkswagen's Future Product Blueprint

Text from AutoWeek.
MUNICH, Germany -- Volkswagen brand Chairman Wolfgang Bernhard has borrowed from his days at the Chrysler group to create a future product blueprint for VW.

Internally, the plan is called "Hut" -- a German word that means hat. It refers to VW's initiative to place a unique exterior, or hat, over vehicles that share underpinnings.

The strategy is "to offer different models with a single change of the sides and roof parts, without changing platforms," Emilio Saenz, managing director of VW's Autoeuropa assembly plant in Portugal, told Automotive News Europe, a sister publication to Automotive News.

Autoeuropa is a leading candidate to produce VW's niche vehicles, sources say.

In the next three years, VW will launch as many as 10 vehicles that either will be based on derivatives of current cars or will be niche models.

Crossing over

The first vehicles using the Hut plan will be "Cross" versions of current models that will offer distinct styling and unique engines but similar underpinnings as mainstream models. The first example, a Cross Polo, will be unveiled at the Geneva auto show in February, followed by the Cross Golf Plus in July and Cross Fox later next year. All Cross versions will have styling that is different from mainstream models and meant to attract younger buyers.

Among planned niche vehicles are a Golf-based coupe called the Scirocco, due in 2008, and a four-door coupe-style vehicle based on the Passat that will be similar to the Mercedes-Benz CLS. The Passat coupe should be in showrooms by 2009.

Bernhard expects these benefits from the Hut strategy:

>> VW will no longer rely so heavily on core vehicles such as the Golf and Polo.

>> The carmaker can expand its lineup while keeping costs under control.

Bernhard took charge of the VW brand on May 1. He quickly realized that one of the automaker's most pressing problems in the next three years will be a lack of new high-volume models. "We have the wind in our face, and we will get no help from volume launches," Bernhard said during an analyst call in July.

VW launched its fifth-generation Golf in fall 2003. The sixth-generation Passat went on sale last March, and the fifth-generation Jetta went on sale in June.

Chrysler's way

"For the next two to three years, our strategy must be to reduce cost to survive and to finance the next product offensive," Bernhard said at the launch of the Eos coupe cabriolet at the Frankfurt auto show in September. "It's very similar to the situation at Chrysler."

During 2002 and 2003, Bernhard helped start a so-called "top hat" approach at Chrysler, where he was COO. The strategy was to develop derivatives such as the Chrysler 300 sedan (sold as the Chrysler 300C in Europe) and Dodge Charger sedan, two vehicles based on common platforms and parts but with completely different rooflines.

At VW, Bernhard wants to cut 7 billion euros, or $8.25 billion at current exchange rates, in development costs by 2010 by using common parts among several different vehicles and producing multiple models on flexible assembly lines.

But not everyone is convinced the strategy will work or that Bernhard's cost-cutting plan represents a significant savings.

Adam Jonas, a European analyst at Morgan Stanley in London, warns that platform sharing without significant differentiation could be a problem for VW.

"The strategy has to be done carefully," Jonas says. "The markets are too competitive to chance delivering a shell of a car without significant innovations. Buyers are wise enough and savvy enough to know there are not significant changes."

UK Price for Jetta Announced

Text from Reuters UK.
VW has announced prices for the new Jetta, the Golf with a boot.
Prices start at £14,335 for the 115 bhp Jetta S 1.6 FSI, rising to £18,015 for the Sport 2.0 TDI. Equipment on all models includes alloy wheels, climatic air-conditioning, rain sensors and LED rear lights. Safety features include Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control and curtain airbags.

Incidentally, if you were thinking that the name sounds slightly familiar, Jetta was the name used for Golf saloons in the 1970s and 1980s. It then became the Vento and finally the Bora. Now VW has decided to revert to the original name, which has always been used in the USA, the car's biggest market.

Jetta and Passat Named "Top Safety Picks" by IIHS

Text from Volkswagen of America.
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. –The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has announced that the Volkswagen Jetta and Passat are “Top Safety Picks” for 2006. They earned this distinction based on their results in front and side impact tests plus their seat and head restraints that protect the neck in rear impacts.

“Our vehicles feature precise German engineering and craftsmanship,” said Adrian Hallmark, executive vice president, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Volkswagen cars are designed to meet the stringent safety requirements demanded by the Autobahn.”

Last month, the 2006 Volkswagen Passat earned “Double Best Pick” designation for outstanding performance in front and side tests conducted by the 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.

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.

Kiplinger's Names New Beetle "Best in Class"

Text from Volkswagen of America.
New engine, stability control contribute to high mark

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has been named the best car under $18,000 by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance. The car, which was refreshed for 2006, received the top scores in its class, and the magazine acknowledged the enhanced engine and standard stability control.

The 2006 New Beetle comes standard with a more powerful new 2.5 liter, five-cylinder engine that creates 150 horsepower. Another significant technical update is standard traction control with Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP).

Styling changes for the 2006 New Beetle include bolder, slightly sharper bodylines, especially at the wheel wells and bumpers that are tailored for a more modern overall impression. New details include a larger, more oval headlight treatment, new taillights, and new bumper designs; inside, the freshening involves a new instrument cluster design with chrome applications to the instruments and also the air vents.

The New Beetle evokes times past yet remains timeless, still stirring the emotions and communicating with owners, drivers and everyone who sees it. The 2006 New Beetle remains distinctive, unique and recognizable, but with a more powerful appearance and a more powerful base engine.

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 Canada November Sales Results

Text from CNW Group.
AJAX, ON, Dec. 1 /CNW/ - Volkswagen Canada sales totalled 2,646 new units for November 2005.

This total is comprised of:
87 New Beetles
311 Golfs and GTIs
1,671 Jettas
498 Passats
76 Touaregs
3 Phaetons

This brings Volkswagen Canada's year to date sales up to 29,169 which is an increase of 1.1% over this time last year.

Passat and Jetta sedan sales continued to do well in November 2005, compared with November 2004, Passat sedan sales were up by 41.8% and Jetta sedan sales were up 61.6%.

October Sales Results

Volkswagen of America November Sales Results

Text from Volkswagen of America.

	VW-US Snapshot						---------- YEAR-TO-DATE ----------
			Nov-05 Actual	Nov-04 Actual	Yr/Yr % change		Nov-05 YTD Actual	Nov-04 YTD Actual	Yr/Yr % change
		New Beetle - Coupe	1,309	1,469	-10.9%		15,270	19,572	-22.0%
		- Convertible	836	1,031	-18.9%		17,869	19,934	-10.4%
		Total New Beetle	2,145	2,500	-14.2%		33,139	39,506	-16.1%
		Jetta Sdn	8,721	5,050	72.7%		88,055	75,048	17.3%
		Wgn	22	739	-97.0%		3,866	8,907	-56.6%
		Total Jetta	8,743	5,789	51.0%		91,921	83,955	9.5%
		Eos (Cabrio)	-	-	N/A		-	1	-100.0%
		Golf/GTI/R32	921	1,699	-45.8%		14,126	23,200	-39.1%
		Passat Sdn	4,526	3,564	27.0%		33,176	47,173	-29.7%
		Wgn	312	1,167	-73.3%		9,417	13,883	-32.2%
		Total Passat	4,838	4,731	2.3%		42,593	61,056	-30.2%
		Phaeton	77	308	-75.0%		763	1,741	-56.2%
		Touareg	1,322	2,197	-39.8%		15,697	24,976	-37.2%
		T4	-	-	N/A		-	207	-100.0%
		TOTAL	18,046	17,224	4.8%		198,239	234,642	-15.5%

October Sales Results