Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles celebrates 20 Years of the California & debuts Caddy Topos Sail Study @ the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are celebrating 20 years of the VW campervan nameplate the California at the 2008 Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf.

The California name is new to Volkswagen as prior to 2003 the California was built by famed Motorhome maker Westfalia for Volkswagen, that deal ended when Westfalia was bought by DamilerChrysler (Damiler).

The T5 based California is now fully built and designed by VW Commercial Vehicle's Special Business Unit in Hannover making Volkswagen one of only two manufacturers that build motorhomes within their global range.

Also making its debut is the Caddy Topos Sail Study taking the yacht theme to a new level, with its innovative bumper that turns into a step drawer with a ladder built in to the rear hatch which gives you access to the roof which is truly German engineering at its best with a deck that flaps into seating positions and also hide storage areas.

Stay tuned for more pics and info as the show starts tomorrow.

Gallery after jump.-Success story of a touring vehicle: more than 80,000 California have been sold

-Caddy Topos Sail design study and mosaic module for the California Beach as further highlights

Hanover / Düsseldorf, 22nd August 2008: The most successful and popular touring vehicle in its class – the California made by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles – is celebrating an important birthday at this year's Caravan trade fair (30.8. to 7.9. in Düsseldorf). New ideas for the leisure time vehicle will also be presented within the scope of the anniversary "20 Years California": the design study Caddy Topos Sail shows similarities towards yachting design; two vehicle interior concepts extend the scope of application for the California Beach.

The success story of the Volkswagen California began in 1988: that was the kick-off for the first Volkswagen touring vehicle built on the basis of the Transporter with a rear engine. Three generations – from the California on the basis of the T3 through to the current T5 – have been extremely popular with customers. More than 80,000 vehicles have already been sold. This makes the California the most successful touring vehicle in its class.

Further highlights at the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles trade fair stand in Hall 16 at the Düsseldorf trade fair are the Caddy Topos Sail study as well as two vehicle interior concepts which demonstrate the flexibility of the California Beach.

The concept study Caddy Topos Sail shows a link to yachting, in particular through the multi-functional roof with wooden planking. The appearance of the new "Woody" is avant-garde and modern. Clothed in a wooden outfit, the design of the Topos is reminiscent of exclusive sports boat construction in the 1950's. Brushed or polished aluminium as well as a pool ladder with four steps in the tailgate further emphasise this character.

It all started with a mosaic programme for individual construction. The VW bus driver of more than 50 years ago was already able to set the vehicle up according to their requirements. This is now also possible with the California Beach. Two or three seat benches can be anchored as required using the rails on the floor. This option for a four or five-seater vehicle then further influences the layout of the modular camper with water boiler, sink and cooker.

20 years of the Volkswagen California – 20 years of mobile leisure

-Successful model celebrates its birthday
-Around 80,000 vehicles built
-Optimal vehicle for long journeys

The Volkswagen California touring vehicle is twenty years old. Since its market launch in the summer of 1988, around 80,000 vehicles have been produced to date. Around 5000 California vehicles currently roll off the assembly lines each year.

When the Caravan Salon opened its doors in Essen in 1988, an in-house touring vehicle was exhibited on the Volkswagen stand for the first time. Its name: California. In the press context: "VW brings movement to leisure." For 39,900.00, Deutschmarks, this took the following form: A folding bench seat for two people in the rear, which can be laid flat to make a bed if required, and a narrow kitchen range with a refrigerator, gas hob and sink plus stowage space on the left-hand side. All of this bridged by a pop-up roof offering two additional berths.

"Volkswagen is making leisure beautiful", could be read next to the VW insignia in the sales brochure. Around 22,000 purchasers were to heed this call during the California T3's three-and-a-half year production period.

"The Volkswagen California has remained unbeaten in its segment for twenty years. Its success constantly leads us to reflect on further variants for the future", says Stephan Schaller, spokesman for the Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge brand's board of management.

In 1990, Volkswagen revealed the new California based on the new T4 Transporter. The successor was familiar and nevertheless completely different. Because the new Transporter generation no longer had a great deal in common with the old generations. From then on, the engine and drive train were located at the front: "The first double bed with front-wheel drive". Production began in 1991.

Shortly afterwards, the California Coach came onto the scene. The rear left panel and the omission of double glazing and other minor features enabled a price of around 48,000.00 DM from the very start of series production in 1993. The California was also available as a long wheelbase "Tour" and "Club" version. The highlight was the California Exclusive in 1994. This offered the autonomous "absolutely carefree package" for 59,890.00 DM.

The new face and various technical innovations offered by the passenger car variants of the T4 also came into play for the California as of 1996. And: From then on, the California formed part of the product range of the newly established Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge brand. Significant highlights were introduced in 1998. The Syncro was available with the 102 hp TDI, for example. The top TDI engine offered a whopping 150 hp.

The California fleet was ready: From then on, an attractively priced special model was on offer at each Caravan Salon; this was distinguished from the series production version by bundling various features which otherwise incurred a surcharge. The second generation was discontinued in 2003. Around 39,000 T4-based California vehicles were built, with some 14 percent of these being exported.

"The California is less dependent on the economy than on the zeitgeist. A California is often purchased in the same way as a sports car, because it is the fulfilment of a dream for many customers. Today, we can look back at sales of around 80,000 vehicles", says sales and marketing director Harald Schomburg.

The third California generation, based on the new Transporter, stood in the spotlight at the 2003 Caravan Salon. The new California once again made use of its predecessor's tried-and-tested outline. The furniture consisted of aluminium plates with a corrugated core. The pop-up roof was also manufactured from aluminium and opened electrohydraulically at the push of a button. The raised bed in the new California was longer and wider, and promised high reclining comfort thanks to a slatted frame.

Three years after first being presented, the California was also available with a solid high roof. The "no limit" design study was additionally presented completely in white. Series production of the "NoLimit", in slightly modified form, was scheduled to start just prior to the 2007 Caravan Salon. Only 222 of these numbered and extensively equipped vehicles, including a manufacturer's certificate, were available for sale to customers.

The very same year, the California was joined by its puristic brother: The "Beach". The two-passenger bench seat, which could be folded into a bed, was located on the right in the rear. A stowage box for widening the bed was situated to the left of this. An upholstered luggage compartment cover extends the length of the bed. Side pockets and a luggage net were fitted as standard in the model version with standard roof. These were not installed the pop-up roof.

To kick off the 2008 model year, Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge is presenting an attractively priced special model with a rear bicycle rack. The "Biker" is characterised by its extensive standard equipment and its price advantage of 3890 euro. The California is therefore an ideal sports companion. Belgian racing legend Jacky Ickx is of the same opinion; since mid-2008, he has been travelling to various events in a California 4MOTION, and calls the touring vehicle "the optimal vehicle for my trips".
















Source:Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

Volkswagen on course for world domination

Last year, Volkswagen announced plans to become the world's largest automaker by 2018. Needless to say, many in the industry dismissed Volkswagen's plans as a distant goal at best. Here was Volkswagen, 4th largest in the world, hoping to surpass The Toyota Way in a mere decade? It seemed impossible.

But oh, how times have changed. Almost a year later, things are shaping up for Volkswagen. Since Volkswagen announced their plans, Toyota has since reported a 40% drop in profits and has also reduced their sales goal by 7% from a predicted 10.4 million vehicles sold in 2009 to only 9.7. Still a large margin but a sign that the world's largest automaker is hurting, too. Just last month, Toyota saw an 18% drop in sales. Compare that to Volkswagen's mere 4%. This despite the perceived halo effect of the Prius.

So it looks like Toyota is starting to lose its lead. But what about Volkswagen? Well, the big news today is that Volkswagen has surpassed Ford as the 3rd largest automaker in the world, after Toyota (1st) and General Motors (2nd). Europe's largest automaker beat out the Blue Oval by selling 3.31 million (7.2% over the previous year) vehicles worldwide compared to Ford Motor Company's 3.22 million. While the results are only for the first half of the current fiscal year and could still change within the rest of the year, it shows that Volkswagen has the capability to really take the lead in the industry. Volkswagen is obviously doing something right.

Continued success in emerging markets such as China and India, the forthcoming production plant in the US, and improvements in quality and pricing will all contribute to Volkswagen's success.

Press release after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen, Autoblog

VOLKSWAGEN OVERTAKES FORD

Volkswagen Group in the fast lane: Wolfsburg automaker now holds third place in global vehicle sales ranking

WOLFSBURG, Germany - The Volkswagen Group has taken its place among the world's top three automakers thanks to the Wolfsburg-based company's outstanding delivery figures in the first half of 2008. Rival Ford had to settle for fourth position.

"We are delighted that the Volkswagen Group has made it to the global automobile industry's top three for the first time. This shows that we are on the right track with our ever-stronger international presence and, above all, our product program. We will systematically push ahead with our growth course even in the present difficult market environment," Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, commented.

With 3.31 million vehicles delivered in the first half of 2008, the Volkswagen Group increased deliveries in the first six months of this year by 7.2 percent, moving up to third place in the global vehicle sales ranking and overtaking its rival Ford, which announced vehicle sales of 3.22 million for this period.

Sixth generation GTI spied

The forthcoming Mk. VI Golf will undoubtedly spawn many variations and one of them will be the GTI. Overall the Mk. VI GTI looks like the angrier, meaner brother of the Mk. V with sharper lines (inherited from the Mk. VI Golf) and (thankfully) all those holes in the honeycomb grille. That must mean something good for what goes under the hood. Around back, we get a dual tailpipe setup mounted at each end, giving this version of the GTI something much more special.

Rumors are circulating that the Mk. VI GTI is slated for an introduction at the Paris Motor Show. In the meantime, hit up the golfmk6.com link below to see more shots.

Source: golfmk6.com, photo: KGP

2009 Gol Sedan First Official Photo

VW Brazil have released the first photo of the Gol NF based sedan ahead of its official release in October at the Sao Paulo Motor Show.

The photo shows an obvious design change to the rear end from our prevoius post scoop of a mini Passat CC like rear end, instead designers must be going for a more conventional three box design.

Stay tuned for more info and news as it comes to hand.

Source: VW Brazil

Scoop: 2009 VW Voyage and VW Saveiro Revealed !!!

WOW what a weekened for VW Enthusiasts especially for our Brazilian brethren.

Well known Brazilian website Best Car Web Site has got the scoop of the year revealing what appears to be clay models of the new Gol NF based sedan and pickup truck (utility) from the Sao Jose dos Campos VW Design Studios.

The Saveiro design borrows heavily from its German cousin the Tiguan whereas the sedan which will be named Voyage could almost be described as a mini Passat CC.

Both are based on the 2009 Gol which itself is based on components of the current PQ24 Polo and next generation PQ25 Polo due next year.

Voyage will be unveiled at the Sao Paulo Motor Show in October and the Saveiro pickup unveiling will follow in 2009.

Source:Best Car Web Site - Brazil

Mk. VI Golf variants expected

The Mk. V Golf was infamous for spawning about ten million different derivatives (ok, maybe not ten million but probably a dozen). The Mk. VI hasn't even settled into the scene yet, just being revealed mere weeks ago, and already the endless possible Golf-derived variants are already being talked about.

Perhaps the greatest stablemate of the regular Golf is the GTI. For it's sixth appearance, Volkswagen is apparently going even farther with the work they started with the Mk. V GTI, making it an even worthier successor to the original Mk. I hothatch. Slated to be released shortly after the Golf's market launch, the engine choice, at least in Europe, is purported to be the base A5 engine; a 2.0L TFSI that makes 208 hp at 4500 rpm and 258 lb. ft. of torque at 1500 rpm thanks to Audi's valvelift technology.

For the third R model Golf, Volkswagen is purported to drop the 3.2L VR6 that has made the line so popular. Instead, Volkswagen will go for a high-boost 2.0L making 265 hp. All-wheel drive does stay in the menu. No word on when we can expect this "R20" to hit the market.

Lastly, Volkswagen will also be building a successor to the Cabrio with the Mk. VI Golf. A convertible version is on the menu for 2010 and will feature a soft top derived from the A3 Convertible (instead of an Eos-like hardtop).

Source: Autoblog

Volkswagen releases details on Mk. VI Golf

So after an unexpected leak of Mk. VI pictures, Volkswagen finally released details for the next generation hatchback.

Of course, the Mk. VI is a Mk. V under the skin. Move on if you're looking for a new platform. Instead, only the sheetmetal is different and that's what Volkswagen focuses on. They admit that design cues were taken from the Scirocco. No surprise there. Volkswagen calls the Mk. VI design "three-dimensional" referring to how edges are more defined and accentuated. Inside, Volkswagen boasts that the Mk. VI has an interior that belongs in a higher class, as the dash and instrument panel were derived from the Passat CC. Volkswagen also boasts that cabin noise will be at an all-time low thanks to a new layer in the windshield that keeps noise from entering the cabin.

There will be a total of 6 engines offered at launch: two common-rail diesels (ranging from 110 hp to 140 hp) and 4 TSI gasoline engines (80 hp to 122 hp). Keep in mind that these are the engine choices for the European launch so don't go looking for them when you pick one up (more on that in a second). The current base Mk. V engine was made especially for the North American market so expect something similar for the Mk. VI (though not necessarily the 5 cylinder). Lastly, Volkswagen has begun switching to DSG instead of offering conventional automatics with the Mk. VI. Except for the base trims, all Mk. VI Golfs will be offered in either a 6-speed manual or a 6 or 7-speed DSG.

So when can we expect it? Volkswagen says that launch is in October in Europe. It then launches "in succession" in Africa, Asia, Australia and North America. Take from that what you will but it looks like a North American launch sometime next year. And for those still doubting a US launch, remember this.

Higher resolution images after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen








The Best Golf of All Times

Wolfsburg, 05 August 2008 - Golf's high levels of value and comfort nullify class distinctions

* New Golf design points the way to Volkswagen's future
* TDI, TSI and DSG systems improve fuel economy by up to 28 percent
* First Golf with adaptive chassis and automatic distance control


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

Innovative power – the Golf democratizes progress

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

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

Exterior design – Precision in a new form

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

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

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

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

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

Interior – imploding class distinctions

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

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

Noise reduction – the quietest Golf since the first model

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

Diesel engines – migration to common rail injection

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

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

Gasoline engines – more economical than ever before

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

DSG – replaces conventional automatic

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

Mk. VI Golf is now officially leaked

As they say, embargoes are meant to be broken. Indeed that's just what happened when images of the new Mk. VI Golf surfaced on the internet earlier today, days ahead of the planned unveiling later this week.

This car signifies that Volkswagen wants to remain at the top of the hot hatch segment. The Mk. VI has a nice combination of Mk. V and Scirocco design cues. We can clearly see the new face of Volkswagen: the two-bar grille bisecting the VW badge at the front. Around back, the Mk. VI gets simpler, more geometric taillights. No more quad-round taillights! Exactly what pattern the brake lights make is unknown. Looks like the rear will take some getting used to. Inside, We are presented with Volkswagen's new interior. Nothing too radical from the Mk. V's, with the biggest changes being a more organic flow to the dash, the HVAC vents and controls, and the instrument panel (at least from the picture's vantage point). Overall, the car looks lower, wider and sleeker.

As is usually the case with leaks like this, information is coming in bits and pieces. Volkswagen's press release should clear that up though when it comes out sometime this week. For now, let's just take a look at the Mk. VI Golf and decide if we like it or not.

More images after the jump

Source: Autoblog

Mark VI Golf pictures due Wednesday

Thats right according to reliable sources on carspyshots.net VW will reveal our first glimpse of the sixth generation Volkswagen Golf this coming Wednesday, Autobild also confirmed this on Saturday evening.

So stay tuned to The VW Gazette for all the info and pictures.

Source: Autobild

UP: Volkswagen reports July sales results

HERNDON, Va.— Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced July 2008 sales of 20,442 units, a 4.0 percent increase over the July 2007 sales of 19,653 vehicles. On a year-to-date basis, 2008 Volkswagen sales are 1.1 percent ahead of 2007 sales through July.

“We’re pleased with our July sales results,” said Mark Barnes, COO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “For Volkswagen to be ahead of last year’s sales in this tough economy reflects the strength of our brand. Our new products launching later this year are sure to give us even greater momentum.”

The GTI, the original pocket rocket, posted its best sales month since March of 2006, with July sales of 1,619 units, up 31.4 percent over last July. Volkswagen’s innovative coupe-convertible-sunroof Eos continues to be a summertime top-seller with sales of 1,363 units, up 14.6 percent over last July.

Source: Volkswagen of America