Get ready for a Westfalia redux. French-Canadian designer Alexandre Verdier has designed an updated version of Volkswagen's famous Westfalia. This design, which is still an early concept, retains all the functionality of the old Westfalia then builds on it, all contained inside a package that pays homage to the classic VW.
More photos after the jump.
The design still utilized the pop top but now rises straight up instead of tilted on the old Westfalia. The roof does double duty producing adequate electric power through solar panels mounted on the roof. Functionality continues inside with seatbacks that transform into stairs for easy access to the second level. Indeed, this new iteration also includes a kitchenette, which swings out of the van. The van even includes a set of fold-out chairs, which store neatly in a drawer in the back.
Design-wise, the Westfalia is as modern as any road car in today's standards. Clean lines, pillarless greenhouse, and possibly some LED lighting.
Don't hold your breath, however, waiting for this to reach showrooms. Verdier is still looking for a company to partner with.
Yesterday, Volkswagen released information about a new concept called the IROC. The concept, which takes its name from scIROCco, will be the the car by which the forthcoming Scirocco (due out in 2008) will be based upon. Volkswagen was forced to expedite the release of its first official photos after a European car mag had leaked information a bit too early. Along with these photos, Volkswagen has also released video on the IROC. If you can brave the odd choice of music, these show the IROC in motion.
Press release and videos after the jump.
Volkswagen Press Release
Volkswagen Iroc, World Premiere Berlin, August 2006
Iroc Central Aspects
Design and dynamic of a new age: VW Iroc concept as a perspective on the sports car of tomorrow
Iroc transfers the globally successful Scirocco idea into the future.
Sports car with four seats, sleek design and agile turbo engines
Wolfsburg / Berlin, August 24, 2006. Comeback of a successful idea: 33 years ago at the international Motor Show in Geneva Volkswagen presented a sensational coupé. It was compact, distinctive, agile, spacious and affordable. Volkswagen called it the Scirocco. The car struck the nerve of the times: More than half a million first generation Sciroccos were produced worldwide. Turning point: In August 2006 the largest car maker in Europe is showing the reinterpretation of the successful Scirocco idea in a world premiere – the Iroc concept.
New VW sports car design: Like the first Scirocco with its visual straightforwardness the Iroc also marks a stylistic turning point through its progressively designed radiator grill and a distinctive sensuality of forms. The concept of both Volkswagens is closely related, even though the vehicles are separated by over three decades: The first generation Scirocco was an attainable dream car for many people. Because the Scirocco was an automotive superstar of the 70’s, styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro and equipped with four full-fledged seats, a proper trunk, large hatchback and a lot of self-esteem. The Iroc concept takes up this fascinating idea again.
Purebred sports car instead of a classic coupé: However, in contrast to the original Scirocco the Iroc is no classic coupé, but a progressively designed sports car with an extremely long roof and a comparatively steep rear end. This has two advantages. Firstly: The Iroc features sharp proportions. Especially when viewed from behind it becomes immediately apparent that this long roof together with side window sections is situated on very broad and powerful shoulders. The Iroc thus achieves a waist of flawless sports car theory. Secondly: The Iroc also has room in back for two adults and ample luggage. On balance the provocatively designed Iroc combines a high degree of suitability for daily use, pure driving fun and expressive design into a Volkswagen that as a possible series-production vehicle will also be very attractively positioned in terms of price. Viper green meets dark carbon: The Iroc concept exhibits numerous subtleties in detail. Paint example: Although anything but retro styled, the green used is an homage to the first generation Scirocco for which this exact shade of color was especially typical starting with the 1976 model. Then as now it’s called “viper green metallic”. This glaring green of the Iroc is especially effective in combination with the high contrast black shades of the concept. Carbon example: The central roof element is composed of dark tinted glass; this element is supported by a structure covered with carbon. An integrated lengthwise support is also a part of these materials. The side sills of the Iroc also have a carbon surface. The structure of the sill visible from outside continues seamlessly into the interior.
Sexy dimensions: With its short overhangs the Iroc efficiently utilizes a wheelbase of 2,680 mm for the space provided inside. The concept is 1,400 mm high, 4,240 mm long and 1,800 mm wide. The light-alloy rims specially designed for the Iroc and 235 tires are implemented in 19 inch size.
Twincharger and DSG: The Iroc is powered by a TSI engine, referred to in-house as a Twincharger. Shifting tasks are handled by the DSG direct shift gearbox. About the Twincharger: First employed in the Golf GT in 2006, TSI engines are currently the most efficient four-cylinder gasoline engines in the world. The combination of compressor and turbocharger shows the path to the future. The compressor compensates for the typical powering up weaknesses of turbo-only gasoline engines at low rpms. The turbocharger in contrast packs a mighty punch at higher revs. The combination of both superchargers in large-volume production engines is the only one of its kind in the world. The TSI version used in the concept achieves 155 kW / 210 hp. In principle, a large range of supercharged engines are conceivable for the Iroc that could start significantly under 110 kW / 150 hp. But there’s one thing every engine theoretically employed in the Iroc has to guarantee: Driving fun.
FRONT END DESIGN / Radiator grill and headlights make unmistakably clear that the Volkswagen Iroc concept is more than a cruiser
Radiator philosophy: The new design expression of the Volkswagen concept shows that the Iroc is a car thoroughly designed for dynamics. A look at the front end makes this positioning emphatically apparent. There has never been a radiator grill of this shape for a Volkswagen. By doing so the company is manifesting the decision to use different “Volkswagen faces” for specific models and segments. This is already practiced for the Golf, for example, which features the typical Golf radiator grill in the Trendline, Comfortline, Sportline and Individual versions, but sports variations of the crest radiator grill for the sportier GT, GTI and R32 versions.
Hexagon of aluminum: The sports car grill specially designed for the Iroc concept is made of light, brushed aluminum in the outer areas. The honeycombed-shaped structure of the radiator grill has been a signature of the sporty Volkswagen since the debut of the current Golf GTI. Designed as a hexagonal air intake, the grill goes all the way down to the dark front apron. To the right and left of it there are two more air intakes for cooling the brakes. While the upper transverse web of the radiator grill is flush with the engine hood, the short side sections of the frame directly abut the xenon headlights. It is apparent here that the image of the radiator grill hexagon almost inevitably results from the connection of the headlights. The headlight casing itself is comparatively narrow and drawn up to the fenders in the modulation. Together with the radiator grill the headlights pay full honor to the Iroc’s “viper green” paint.
V-shape up to the A-pillars: As a virtual continuation of the radiator grill lines two elevated and sharply cut flanges divide the engine hood into three sections. In the middle and a bit lower the largest of these surfaces continues the V-shape of the sports car grill up to the A-pillars. The A-pillars themselves are hard to see from the front, because the windshield is extremely wide and overlaps the pillars from the front. The two other surfaces of the engine hood descend into the exposed fenders.
DESIGN SILHOUETTE / Marked C-pillars and window areas; large surfaces with a completely unique excitement
Statement of the surfaces: Whoever wipes his hand first across one of the headlights then over the fender and one of the doors will feel that the surfaces of the silhouette twist against one another. In particular the waistline above the front wheel arches and the door handles up to the upper edge of the rear lights drawn far to the side demonstrate this effect. Depending on perspective and the way the light falls this causes the side sections to look different each time, fascinating and like a taut muscle.
Endlessly long roof: Furthermore, it’s the hidden B-pillars, the markedly distinct C-pillars and the embedded rear side window here that together with the seemingly endlessly long roof line impart a completely unique presence and dynamic. The surfaces of the side windows extend the compact body of the Iroc. Still more: They reverse the proportions of classic sports cars – short roof, long engine hood. And this shape makes the Iroc unique. Moreover, the roof spoiler integrated in this section adds even more dynamics, both functionally and stylistically. A completely unique counterpoint to the interplay of green and black of the concept is, last but not least, the sculpturally designed rear lights that are strikingly succinct, even in silhouette.
REAR END DESIGN / A waist of pure sports car theory; rear lights as unmistakable as a fingerprint
A typical and yet completely new rear end: The sculptural shape of the rear lights is most clearly seen from the rear. A typical and yet completely new Volkswagen rear end: The vehicle character here is determined by the relationship of the proportions between roof and shoulder sections and thus the waist. If it is sharply contoured classic sports car lines emerge. And this is exactly what the Iroc has. Due to the roof extending far to the back, the designers were able to dramatically pull in the sides and place the passenger compartment – the roof along with B- and C-pillars – on very sexy shoulders or, better to say, hips. The already wide track has an even wider effect visually. The fact is: The sexy proportions in this case stand in stark contrast to the more tightly drawn core elements of the rear end.
Rear lights like eyes: This effect is underscored by the nearly eye-shaped contour of the horizontally arranged rear lights, which – being integrated far into the fenders – act like a continuation of the C-pillars. The clear and reduced shape of the rear window is clearly set off from the lower part of the hatch and rear apron. The general view of the broad track together with waisted roof line plus roof spoiler and a diffusor visually suggested in the rear apron imparts a markedly powerful image of the Iroc. Detail in the margins: Even the flat and trapezoid-shaped exhaust pipes comply with the dictates of dynamics, because they continue the shape of the diffusor to the outside.
INTERIOR/ Bucket seats with 5-point belt underscore Nürburgring-Nordschleifen talents of the concept
Variable four-seater: As outlined, the Iroc is a four-seater. Behind the wide open (and attached just as wide in the roof) hatchback a spacious trunk with over 300 l of storage volume is concealed. The level corresponds to the original Scirocco. The trunk capacity can also be greatly expanded by folding down the back seats. The resulting flat loading surface and the folded down seat backs feature guide rails onto which a multifunctional transportation lock system can be integrated.
Car racing suitability: The extremely sporty orientation of the Iroc concept is also reflected par excellence in the interior. Under the auspices of the uniquely conceived design theme an interior was developed that was uncompromisingly harmonized for potential racing use. And this at the racing car level as the front bucket seats with integrated 5-point seatbelts and central lock already show. However, the focus of the design lies on gauges and controls. Two large and completely newly designed round instruments form the visual center and highlight of the cockpit: Both main instruments have a bluish glow in a dark acrylic casing. The driver looks into two cylinders with twelve illuminated bars; they create a three dimensional segmentation within the instruments. Two bright metal rings enclose both central gauges. The surfaces of the painted dashboard elements are refined with a crystal structure, similar to other parts used in the interior.
Concept breaks with conventions: Generally applied, practically all materials represent a creative break with what is known and has been learned. The color and trim designers combined color contrasting materials such as neoprene in “viper green”, leather with reptile embossing (in bicolor black/anthracite) and “breathing” high-tech “space fabric” (in “titan black”). In addition to the instrument panel encased in black leather, a layer of carbon paint which is also black is used on the doors, the roof area and floors and forms the framework for the most important functional blocks. Example of door opener: The robust handle in aluminum look design corresponds in shape and color to the compact central console. Example of gearshift lever: When idle it lies flush in a console and only after ignition moves into operational position – an innovative anti-theft protection system and fascinating visualized technology at the same time. Finally, the following two examples from the dashboard make clear how far the love for detail and for cars goes at Volkswagen: The hexagonal air conditioning vents in matt silver mirror the design theme of the radiator grill. A excerpt from the world of great sports cars is meanwhile the row of classic toggle switches.
Text from Volkswagen Motorsport. WOLFSBURG, Germany - The American Mark Miller and the South African Ralph Pitchford in the Volkswagen Race Touareg are forming a new driver/co-driver combination for the 2007 Dakar Rally.
The signing of Miller/Pitchford means that the third pairing of the Volkswagen factory team – alongside two-time World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz (Spain) and Michel Périn (France) as well as the South African Giniel de Villiers, the runner-up in this year's "Dakar” in the Race Touareg, and the German Dirk von Zitzewitz – has been confirmed. While 43-year-old Mark Miller, after claiming fifth place in January, will be contesting the upcoming 29th edition of the desert classic (06 to 21 January) for the Wolfsburg-based automotive manufacturer for the second time, his co-driver Ralph Pitchford (44) is a newcomer to the team.
"Mark Miller is an exceptionally fast and committed driver and, on top of that, a real team player,” says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "That's why we're happy to be able to continue working with Mark during the 2007 Dakar Rally. In the 2006 edition he truly added value and his co-driver Ralph Pitchford in his first competition for us will probably be doing the same. We've come to know Ralph's professional style of working during test drives in Tunisia and think that he, like all our drivers and co-drivers, embodies the determination of Volkswagen Motorsport."
For Mark Miller, who in the legendary hillclimb race at Pikes Peak (USA) in a production-derived Volkswagen Touareg clinched his first class victory in early July, this will be the second "Dakar” with Volkswagen Motorsport, and his fourth altogether. "Compared to last season, the team has improved yet again," says Miller, who calls Phoenix, Arizona (USA) home and has won the popular U.S. Rally Baja 1000 on several occasions. "Even more so than before we're all working towards the common goal of winning the most famous and most difficult desert rally for Volkswagen. Kris Nissen has put together a genuine team in which everyone is working to help everyone else. I'm happy to be part of this team and will try and contribute my part to the team's success through good performances.”
During seven-day test drives in Tunisia – simulating the competitive conditions of the Dakar Rally - the Miller/Pitchford duo was able to get adjusted to one another. "Ralph and I not only speak the same language when it comes to words," says Mark Miller. "This facilitates communications. In upcoming tests we'll get even more used to each other and form a striking team." Ralph Pitchford, whose racing career started in motocross, finished in 15th place overall in the 2006 Dakar Rally as the co-driver of his compatriot Alfie Cox.
Text from Volkswagen of America. Touareg V10 TDI pushes ahead new diesel trend in USA
WOLFSBURG / COLORADO - With the Touareg V10 TDI a series production off-road vehicle has reached the summit of Pikes Peak at 4,300 metres for the first time in the history of the legendary "Race to the Clouds".
The competition, officially called "Pikes Peak International Hillclimbing Contest", provided the sporting backdrop for the market launch of the Touareg V10 TDI in the USA. On 1st September, the sale of the high-end off-road vehicle, which is equipped with a diesel particulate filter as standard, will start in the USA.
The Touareg V10 TDI is the first turbo-diesel off-road vehicle in the US market with a particulate filter (DPF). Volkswagen is, in this way, once again setting a trend for drive technologies. In comparison to similarly equipped petrol engine vehicles, the 310 bhp Touareg V10 TDI is approximately 30 percent more efficient. As is the case in Europe, Volkswagen is seen as the leading manufacturer of diesel passenger vehicles in the USA. A total of twelve percent of all Volkswagens sold between New York and San Francisco already have the TDI logo, and this trend is increasing. In the TDI versions, the New Beetle and Golf are, according to the "U.S. Environmental Agency" (EPA) and the "U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)", the most economical vehicles in their class on the US market.
The Touareg V10 TDI with diesel particulate filter will now augment the US off-road vehicle segment, which is dominated by petrol engine models, with a particularly fascinating, responsive, but also economic model. The three Touaregs participating in the "Race to the Clouds" were the same as the standard production model, with the exception of special safety equipment for the competition (roll-over cage, fire extinguisher, sports seats with five-point seat belts). The three vehicles used diesel fuel with low sulphur content. Racing driver Mark Miller (who also drove at the Rallye Dakar 2006 for Volkswagen) was the fastest up the mountain: after 14 minutes and 8 seconds he saw the finish line and thus left many vehicles that had been built especially for the competition behind him. The other two Touareg V10 TDI vehicles were driven by Ryan Arciero and US racing legend Danny Sullivan.
The Touareg is an international success. In Germany, the Volkswagen off-road vehicle is available at prices as of 41,450 Euro (Touareg TDI with 128 kW / 174 bhp). The European version of the Touareg V10 TDI with 230 kW / 313 bhp costs 74,650 Euro.
Volkswagen’s California Design Center builds an ideal coastal cruiser
PEBBLE BEACH, Calif—The Eos Highway 1 design study will debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance during the weekend of August 18-20. It will be showcased on the Concept Lawn in front of the Lodge at Pebble Beach, an ideal setting to emphasize Eos Highway 1’s seductive blend of elegance and sporty dynamics.
“The Eos Highway 1 was imagined as the perfect vehicle for the car enthusiast’s driving lifestyle,” said Derek Jenkins, Chief Designer at Volkswagen’s Santa Monica, California Design Center. “The ease of transforming the Eos from coupe to convertible not only makes it enjoyable for all kinds of weather, it’s like having two cars in one, both a comfortable cruiser and a performance coupe. We wanted to reflect that dual nature in the modifications we made in the creation of the design study. The special leather upholstery and piano black lacquer trim are key components of the luxurious interior, but the 20-inch wheel and tire package, lowered suspension, thick flat-bottom sport steering wheel and rear lip spoiler all communicate a different aspect of the car’s character—performance, the kind that lets a driver really enjoy the challenges of roads like Highway 1.”
Eos Highway 1 sits about an inch lower than the stock version due to a coil-over suspension system from H&R Special Springs, a manufacturer of high-quality suspension components. In addition to the more aggressive stance, this setup delivers tauter, performance-oriented handling. Jenkins wanted to strengthen the concept car’s sportier stance, and fitted 20 x 8-inch Mille Miglia multi-spoke alloys and then wrapped them in low and wide 245/30 Continental performance tires. A final exterior touch is a discrete trunk lid spoiler that adds an aerodynamic flourish and hint of the car’s performance potential.
The Eos Highway 1’s drive train features the 250-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 combined with the innovative DSG double-clutch 6-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic, yet another example of the car’s dual nature. The DSG system not only offers the driver the advantage of choosing between full automatic operation or full manual selection, DSG also changes gears more quickly and smoothly than a conventional transmission, while improving fuel economy. The handsomely equipped production Eos 3.2 L, with standard DSG, goes on sale October 2, 2006 at $36,850.
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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle Convertible, GTI, GLI, Jetta, Passat, Passat Wagon, Eos, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Text from Volkswagen of America. AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc., announced today that it is the official automotive sponsor of the second annual Download Festival, Live Nation’s premiere music and technology festival that will descend upon the U.S. in Boston on August 20 and San Francisco on September 30.
As the official automotive sponsor, Volkswagen will have a major presence at the Download events, with several vehicles – including the all-new Eos, GTI, Jetta and Rabbit models – taking center stage as artist shuttle service and product displays. Additionally, in between the two festival dates, Volkswagen will sponsor two club venue events, called Volkswagen Road to Download, featuring Kasabian in Philadelphia on September 21 and a second location to be announced soon.
The VW Garage – a garage-style lounge – and an artist interaction stage offer a unique place for festival-goers to experience Volkswagen. The artist interaction stage will feature Q&A sessions with Download talent, including 311 and Jurassic 5 in Boston. VW will digitally record budding musicians who choose to jam in the VW Garage and spotlight their riffs on vw.com. Hammocks, couches and ping-pong tables will beckon festival-goers to come and chill at the Garage, where they can also pick up free VW-branded merchandise like bandannas, guitar picks, LED keychain lights, and t-shirts.
Volkswagen will give back to the music community by raffling off a First Act guitar signed by the musicians at the Boston show. The raffle will benefit the Berklee College of Music’s City Music Program. The charity recipients for the San Francisco and VW Road to Download shows will soon be announced.
“Volkswagen has a rich history of supporting pioneering music properties and emerging artists,” said Heidi Korte, Brand Promotions Manager. “The Download Festival is innovative in its pairing of music with technology and speaks directly to the type of tech-savvy people who buy Volkswagens.”
A VW Roadside Assistance Team will travel the parking lot, passing out CDs and branded blankets to lucky festival-goers. Volkswagen will also reward its loyal Owners with convenient parking and a chance to win VIP access, including seat upgrades, backstage Meet and Greet passes, commemorative keychains and exclusive on-line access to streaming video from Download 2006.
Joining 311 and Jurassic 5 on the Boston bill at the Tweeter Center will be Dropkick Murphys, G. Love & Special Sauce, The Wailers, Pepper, Black 47, State Radio and Parker House & Theory. Beck will headline the San Francisco show on September 30 at the Shoreline Amphitheater. Information about the complete lineups can be found at www.downloadfestival.com.
Leading up to the events, Volkswagen will be featured in a variety of pre-promotional initiatives, including color ads in Rolling Stone magazine, television spots and outdoor advertising.
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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, Jetta, GTI, GLI, Passat, Passat Wagon, and Touareg through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Volkswagen Brazil has issued a recall for 40,800 vehicles. These vehicles have suffered defects in the form of cracks on the fuel injection system. The vehicles invovled in this recall include: 5,800 Fox, 8,600 CrossFox, 11,800 Polo, 2,200 Golf, 8,000 Kombi Vans, and 4,400 SpaceFox. In an statement sent out by e-mail, Volkswagen Brazil says that they detected cracks in the fuel injection systems.
For more information, contact Volkswagen Brazil Customer Service at 0800-0195775 or your local dealership. Volkswagen says that owners whose vehicles are affect will be informed by mail.
Text from Volkswagen of America. Volkswagen signs as a significant sponsor of the Woodward Dream Cruise
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Volkswagen of America, Inc. is joining nearly 2 million people and 40,000 classic cars at the 12th Annual Woodward Dream Cruise in suburban Detroit this weekend. As a top sponsor of the world’s largest one-day automotive event, Volkswagen will bring The Thing and the Volkswagen Garage to the epicenter of car culture.
“Volkswagen is firmly rooted in the pop culture of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. Volkswagen Beetles and vans were commonly found cruising along Woodward Avenue, “ said Steve Keyes, general manager of public relations. “We’re pleased to be associated with the Woodward Dream Cruise in such a big way this year.”
Dream Cruise visitors will find a yellow 1973 Thing cruisin’ along Woodward and Volkswagen will offer relaxation and entertainment at the Volkswagen Garage, located at Memorial Park at Woodward and thirteen mile in Royal Oak during the Cruise this Saturday. The Volkswagen Garage is open to the public and will include hammocks and couches for lounging and ping-pong tables. Nearby, Volkswagen will sell merchandise such as t-shirts, personalized dog tags and miniature versions of the “fast” icon. Free hub cap Frisbees will be available while supplies last.
The Woodward Dream Cruise presented by Eaton is the largest one-day car event in the world, attracting over one million participants and 40,000 classic cars each year. This summer classic celebrates the ‘50s and ‘60s when Woodward Avenue was the heart and soul of American cruising in the city that put America on wheels. Cruisers drive along a 16-mile stretch of boulevard through the nine host communities just north of Detroit, while spectators line much of the route enjoying the Motor City’s perennial love affair with the automobile. The Dream Cruise is packed with special events, live music, children’s activities and an amazing array of classics, hot rods and custom cars. The 12th Annual event will take place on August 19, 2006. Visit the official website at www.woodwarddreamcruise.com for more information.
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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, GLI, Jetta, Passat, Passat Wagon, Eos, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Text from Volkswagen of America. AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – North American consumers now have a chance to test-drive Europe’s top-selling convertible—the 2007 Volkswagen Eos, featuring a revolutionary five-panel roof that transforms a hardtop coupe roof with an integrated sunroof to an open convertible.
The Eos, which goes on sale this fall, arrived in showrooms across the country last week for consumer test-drives and displays.
Volkswagen offers the Eos with two engines: an award-winning 2.0 liter turbo, 200 horsepower, four cylinder starting at $27,990 and a 3.2 liter, 250 horsepower version of Volkswagen’s narrow angle V6 starting at $36,850.
In addition to the innovative CSC (coupe-sunroof-convertible) roof, the Eos includes high-quality standard features such as Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), safety-optimized front headrests, front airbags and specially developed front side head-thorax airbags; 16-inch alloy wheels (17-inch standard on the V6 model), air conditioning system, fog lights, panoramic sunroof, power windows, and cruise control.
The dimensions of the Eos enhance the vehicle's dynamics. Together with its length and height, the vehicle's width gives the Eos a particularly powerful appearance and contributes to the car’s extraordinarily agile and safe handling characteristics. Its leading-edge roof engineering includes multi-folding components with fully automatic operation. The result is pure driving enjoyment regardless of whether the roof is up or down.
The Eos is available with an even more impressive lineup of options, including a double clutch (DSG™) six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic®, automatic headlights, dual-zone Climatronic™ climate control, 12-way power driver seat, heated front seats and washer nozzles, windblocker, center armrest, trip computer, and leather wrapped steering wheel, brake handle, and shift knob for $31,065.
A further upgrade to the 3.2 liter, 250 horsepower V6 engine with added wood trim, 17-inch all-season tires, multi-function steering wheel, HomeLink®, rain sensing wipers and satellite radio is available at $36,850.
Additional options include a Dynaudio® premium sound system with ten-channel amplifier, ten loudspeakers and 600-watt output power, bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic and static cornering lights, DVD navigation system, park distance control and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Like all new Volkswagen models, the Eos comes with 24-hour Roadside Assistance for four years with unlimited mileage, and new vehicle warranties including:
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.
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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, GLI, Jetta, Passat, Passat Wagon, Eos, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Climatronic™ and DSG™ are trademarks of Volkswagen AG. All other trademarks used in this document are the property of their respective owners.
Text and photo from Volkswagen AG. WOLFSBURG, Germany - The most exclusive automobiles of Volkswagen Individual GmbH can be recognized by its own logo starting in the fourth quarter of 2006: the “i” for the product brand “Individual”.
It is worked into an emblem which bears resemblance to the VW emblem of the 50ies. The product brand logo reflects what the competence center for striking low volume productions and innovative niche products of the Europe's largest automobile producer started in 2003 when establishing Volkswagen Individual GmbH - the project of dreams come true. Volkswagen Individual GmbH conceptualizes these dreams in three different business areas “Individual”, “R” and “Product Impulses”:
Business area product brand “Individual”: Through the product brand Individual VW can offer a spectrum of possibilities unmatched by other high volume producers. It stretches from design oriented exclusive optional equipment to totally customized Exclusives. So far the options for individualization are offered for the Golf, Golf Plus, Jetta, Touran, Eos, Sharan, Passat, Passat Variant, Touareg and Phaeton.
Logo for two vehicle categories: Starting at a certain level of upgrading these Individual models will be graced by the new “i“ logo. Located in three different positions on the vehicle: on the outside the chrome-plated emblem will be placed on the sides of the front fenders. In the interior the Wolfsburg upgrading specialists have the sign imprinted into the leather of the front headrests. Additionally, the logo can be found in combination the spelled out “Individual” in the door entry area door entry area. The logo is used for two vehicle categories. First for complete models like the Golf Individual or Touareg Individual and second for vehicles built in series which are upgraded by at least one Individual seat system. Graphic joins tradition and modern days: From a graphic point of view the new logo of the product brand “Individual” brings three aspects together. Aspect 1 is self explanatory: the stylized letter “i" makes a typographical reference to the company and to its principal task, individualizing. Aspect 2 is clear to everyone the moment they set eyes on the side “face” of the Golf: the logo graces the graphic design of the front part with its headlights and radiator grill in an abstract way. Aspect 3 comes full circle to history: the shape of the emblem pays tribute to the brand history of Volkswagen: already the bow hood of the legendary Beetle was graced by the coat of arms of the city of Wolfsburg (starting 1951), later on being replaced by the round VW symbol. Business area product brand “R”: Under the label of the product brand "R" extremely sporty Volkswagen are developed. The current Golf R32 is the first one of the R-models and in its high performance takes center stage.
Business area “Product Impulses”: In the business areas “Product Impulses” Volkswagen Individual sets a course and develops special series like the Polo GTI Cup Edition, the Cross Polo or the Touareg W12 Executive.
Special-Purpose Vehicles: Last but not least, Volkswagen Individual GmbH also develops special-purpose vehicles for the police and other official usages such as the natural-gas powered Touran EcoFuel.
According to What Car?, Volkswagen is slated to debut a facelifted Touran in the Paris Motor Show this coming September. The revised Touran will not sport any major changes other than its front end, which will be styled to conform with the current Volkswagen norm. The origin of the photo is unknown but it does show a good idea on what we can expect. The changes only goes as far as the exterior. Engine choices should remain the same, including the fuel-sipping 1.4L TSI engine.
In addition to the revised Touran, there is a possibility that Volkswagen will be unveiling a coupé concept by the month's end, just in time for the Paris Motor Show. This concept, called the Concept S, will be the precursor to the oft-speculated Scirocco.
Text from Volkswagen of America. Rabbits’ and ‘Bunnies’ Join Forces for Unique Back Cover Advertisement Shoot and Cameo
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The Volkswagen Rabbit logo mimics its distant cousin, the official Playboy Rabbit Head logo, in an ad on the back cover of the September issue of Playboy, due on newsstands Friday, August 4.
The back cover, which showcases a rear view of cover models Holly Madison, Bridget Marquardt and Kendra Wilkinson, stars of E! Entertainment Television’s The Girls Next Door, was produced using special simultaneously shot front and back cover images. This unique cover photo perspective, a first for Playboy, features the Volkswagen Rabbit logo making a special cameo appearance on Holly’s lower back. The surprise Rabbit sighting is the first time that Playboy has featured a rear view perspective on the back cover of the magazine.
“The return of the Rabbit to the North American market has been extremely well received. The Playboy opportunity was a great chance to unite two famous and iconic brands,” said Volkswagen's Director of Brand Innovation Kerri Martin.
The issue kicks off the second season of the reality show The Girls Next Door, which gives viewers an inside look at life at the Playboy Mansion through the eyes of Hugh Hefner’s three girlfriends Holly, Bridget and Kendra.
In early 2006, Volkswagen announced that it was going back to its roots with the original Rabbit nameplate for the U.S. and Canadian markets. The new Rabbit hopped into the market this summer, and has already jumped into the eyes of consumers and onto the cover of a leading iconic lifestyle magazine. The Rabbit is sold in both two and four-door versions, with pricing starting at $14,990 for the two-door.
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 sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, Jetta, GTI, GLI, Passat, Passat Wagon, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.
Photo copyright: Doane/Priddy. Just weeks after Volkswagen announced the name of their new Golf/Rabbit-based SUV, the Tiguan has fallen victim to the quick camera skills of photographer Chris Doane as it was caught being tested. Despite donning thick camouflage fore and aft, the Tiguan's overall shape is unmistakably Volkswagen; the windows and the roofline is identical to that of the Touareg. Inside, the test Tiguan sports the dashboard of Europe's Golf Plus. This could change, if ever so slightly, by the time it is revealed September of next year at the IAA in Frankfurt.
Engine offerings are still unknown as of now however the GTI's 2.0T engine should be offered, as well as a V6 (perhaps the 3.2L V6) and a diesel. The Tiguan should also come in a choice of front-wheel drive and 4Motion all-wheel drive. Pricing, though unconfirmed, should start at around €26,000.
Text from Volkswagen AG. Child safety has top priority with Volkswagen
Wolfsburg, 02 August 2006 - Vehicle safety is important for all vehicle occupants, particularly for children. For this reason, the development engineers at Volkswagen also concentrate on small passengers. Numerous safety features for children are integrated in current Volkswagen models as standard.
Even today, approximately 50 percent of fatal accidents involving child passengers are caused by inadequate protection or failure to use protective systems. For example child seats: European studies demonstrate that more than half of all child seats are fitted or used incorrectly. If the vehicle has integrated child seats, there is no need to fit and remove child seats – a task that is often awkward.
In the Passat, Volkswagen offers a completely new generation of integrated child seats for children aged between three and twelve years of age (weight classes II to III). The new seat is easy to operate and can be folded flush into the rear seat bench when not in use. The safety experts at Volkswagen have adapted the child seats so that the small passengers can sit comfortably and in safety: the seat bolsters are now more ergonomic and can be adjusted on the sides to protect the body in the event of a side-impact collision. Specially designed side head restraints protect the head and neck. They also prevent the child slumping to the side, for example when asleep, and assuming a dangerous position.
The folding boosters are another plus. In the event of a collision, the rear of the booster is lowered in a fraction of a second to prevent the child submarining under the belt. This patented mechanism is particularly effective in head-on collisions. The integrated child seat in the Passat has been awarded a prize by the German motorist association ADAC and is available as an optional extra for 255 euros (two seats for 445 euros). Integrated child seats are also available for the Sharan (for up to four children) as optional equipment for 220 euros each.
The Isofix system anchors portable child seats particularly well. Standard connectors attach the child seat firmly to the vehicle body. The advantage of Isofix is that it is simple and fool-proof to operate and holds the child seat firmly in the vehicle. The Isofix standard anchor points are fitted to the outer rear seats in all Volkswagen models as standard. The Isofix system is fitted to the front passenger seat as standard in some models, and is optional in the Eos convertible coupé. As in all Volkswagen models, the front passenger airbag can be deactivated by using a keyswitch, for example when transporting a rear-facing baby seat (in the Fox the front passenger airbag can be deactivated by Volkswagen dealerships).
The very good results in the Euro NCAP child protection crash tests are yet another testament to the development expertise of Volkswagen. The Fox was awarded 42 points, the best score in the super-mini class. The Golf and the Passat also performed convincingly and were awarded 37 points and 38 points respectively.
Unseen dangers often lurk inside vehicles: objects that have not been secured can strike children and adults in the event of sudden braking manoeuvres and collisions. Volkswagen vehicles have numerous stowage compartments where these objects can be stowed safely. For example the Touran: the compact MPV has a total of 39 stowage compartments. For example, drawers can be fitted under the driver and front passenger seats. Three individual compartments are integrated in the roof console, and the door trims have compartments that can easily hold a 1-litre bottle.
Text from CNW Group. AJAX, ON, Aug. 1 /CNW/ - Volkswagen Canada sales totalled 3,347 new units for July 2006, compared with 2,987 new units in July 2005. There has also been an increase in YTD sales from 16,980 in July of 2005 to 18,785 in July of 2006, a jump of over 10%. The monthly total is comprised of: 191 New Beetles 181 Golfs 156 GTIs 817 Rabbits 1,697 Jettas 257 Passats 48 Touaregs
We are pleased to announce that in its second month, Rabbit Sales jumped by over 60%. Jetta sedan sales increased 33.5% from 1,155 units in July of 2005 to 1,542 units for July of 2006 and GTI sales increased by over 30% from the previous month.
Text from Volkswagen of America. AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – August 1, 2006- Volkswagen of America, Inc. today reported July sales of 22,627, a 5.0% increase over prior year July sales of 21,553.
Signifying Volkswagen’s return to its roots, the Rabbit posted July sales of 2,109. This is the highest monthly Golf/ Rabbit sales figure since 2002. The Rabbit’s unique combination of “Volks-pricing”, standard features, and iconic branding have succeeded in attracting new prospects, and buyers, to the Volkswagen brand.
Volume carlines, such as Jetta and Passat, continue to gain momentum in the marketplace. Year-to-date, Jetta is up 13.5% over 2005 levels, while Passat posted a year-to-date increase of 50.1% over 2005.
Year-to-date sales for the Volkswagen brand reflect an increase of 17.3% (138,672 units for 2006, as compared to 118,257 units for 2005). Shown below is the model-by model breakdown for July, and year-to-date, for the Volkswagen brand.
Get ready for a Westfalia redux. French-Canadian designer Alexandre Verdier has designed an updated version of Volkswagen's famous Westfalia. This design, which is still an early concept, retains all the functionality of the old Westfalia then builds on it, all contained inside a package that pays homage to the classic VW.
According to 
