Paris Preview: GTI photos are out

Just a few days before the Paris Motor Show, shots of the Mk. VI GTI hits the web. It's an evolutionary design to the current GTI looking tighter, leaner, and sharper. The front end is even more aggressive with the wide airdam and foglights off to the sides. The signature GTI red line on the grille that returned on the current Mk. V GTI after a long hiatus continues for the 6th iteration. Around back, the GTI gets R32-like treatment with tailpipes off to the sides.

Under the hood will be a 207 hp TFSI engine and the GTI will come equipped with an electronic limited-slip differential and the Scirocco's adaptive chassis. DSG should be the gearbox of choice though a manual will probably be offered as well. We should know more in a few days time.

More photos after the jump.

Source: evo via Autoblog

Volkswagen unveils pickup concept

For almost a decade, we've been hearing about Volkswagen's entry into the pickup truck market. It began with the AAC, which turned into the precursor to the Touareg when it reached production. After the AAC, Volkswagen remained largely silent on the topic though the rumours persisted. It wasn't until early this year when Volkswagen decided to publicly announce that a Volkswagen pickup is back on the table.

It seems all those Toyota Hilux test mule photos were meant to really distract us from the fact that Volkswagen actually had another Japanese maker in mind. The Concept Pickup, as it is currently called, looks decidedly like the Honda Ridgeline. Good thing or bad, you decide but one thing for sure, it looks miles better than the Ridgeline. The grille to the headlights are all quintessential Volkswagen of late and actually fits the schnoz of the Concept Pickup perfectly. The massive wheel arches and bars alongside the bed are nice touches. The Concept Pickup's design is perhaps one of Volkswagen's best yet. Engine choices are not set in stone yet however expect a mix of gasoline and diesel power plants mated to a 6-speed manual or a 6- or 7-speed DSG.

It is important to note that the Concept Pickup is designed to for emerging markets, specifically South America. Whether we see this in North America is unknown (though conventional wisdom dictates that it should do well here). More information should be coming this week.

More photos after the jump.

Source: Autoblog

Volkswagen working on three Mk. VI variations

I'll admit, this summer has been bereft of Volkswagen news, aside of course from the occasional rumour or spyshot. But the fall is coming and that also means we are closing in on the Paris Motor Show this October. Ahead of the show, we are now receiving details on some of the Mk. VI Golf's variants, namely the GTI, the R version, and the GTD.

The GTI (spyshot pictured), a concept of which is said to be unveiled at Paris, will receive a power bump by 10 bringing the total output to 210 hp. Much like the current GTI, the 6th gen GTI should reach 60 in under 7 seconds and have a top speed of 150 mph. Expect this out in the (European) market middle of 2009. Sources also say that, like the launch of the Mk. V in the US, the GTI will be brought to North America ahead of the Rabbit (or Golf if Volkswagen decides to return to the classic nomenclature).

The R version of the Mk. VI as we've mentioned before will forgo the six banger in favour of a 4 cylinder engine. Fans are already foaming in the mouth. But don't worry too much, the next R version is said to make 270 hp and will also have AWD. I must admit, 270 hp and AWD in a much lighter car thanks to a 4 cylinder sounds pretty sweet! The next R version is expected to arrive near the end of 2009.

Lastly, the GTD, a diesel version of the GTI, is expected to produce 170 hp from its common rail diesel engine. Release is expected in April of next year.

Source: Autoblog

Caddy & Caddy Maxi Sportline for the UK Revealed !!!!!

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK have released the first image of the new Caddy Sportline and Caddy Maxi Sportline models which will be released in October.

Both vans will feature sporty alloy wheels, lots of chrome, wicked side steps, body coloured bumpers and a roof spoiler added to this the Caddy Sportline range will be powered by VW's popular 140hp / 103kW TDI engine that propels the Caddy from 0-62mph (0-100km/h) in around 10 seconds.

Click link for the Press Release.

INTRODUCING THE NEW CADDY AND CADDY MAXI SPORTLINE

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has released the first images of two exciting new models in its stylish Sportline range – the Caddy Sportline and Caddy Maxi Sportline vans, set to go on sale next month.

They join the existing Transporter Sportline panel van (short and long wheelbase) and Transporter Sportline kombi to make a range of five models in Volkswagen’s dynamic Sportline range. Each vehicle combines aggressive yet tasteful styling additions while retaining the versatility for which the vehicles are renowned to provide customers with a vehicle that’s equally suited to commercial or leisure applications.

Full details of the specification and prices will be announced in October, but as the preview photographs indicate the distinctive styling of the Caddy Sportline and Caddy Maxi Sportline includes alloy wheels, a lower front spoiler with fog lights, chrome upper and lower grilles, chrome side rails, body coloured bumpers and door mirror housings, plus a rear roof spoiler.

‘We’re excited by the potential for the Caddy Sportline and Caddy Sportline in the small and medium-sized van market,’ said Gemma Cox, Product Manager, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

‘Judging by the popularity of the Transporter Sportline with customers wanting to create a distinctive and dynamic image for them and their business, we’re sure the Caddy Sportline and Caddy Maxi Sportline will be just as successful,’ she continued.

Source:Volkswagen UK

UP: Volkswagen reports August sales results

HERNDON, Va.— Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced August 2008 sales of 22,292 units, a 2.9 percent increase over the August 2007 sales of 21,655 vehicles. On a year-to-date basis, 2008 Volkswagen sales are 1.3 percent ahead of 2007 sales through August.

“We’re extremely pleased with our August sales results,” said Mark Barnes, COO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “This is a tough economy and for Volkswagen to be ahead of last year’s sales is a true testament to the strength of our brand. With our recent launch of all-new 50-state compliant clean diesel Jetta TDI, Jetta SportWagen, Tiguan and our other exciting new product offerings, like the CC and Routan arriving late September, we’re looking forward to continued success.”

August represents the best Jetta month for Volkswagen since May 2006. With fuel economy becoming a key purchase criterion, consumers are looking at more economical vehicles, which positions Volkswagen very well. Volkswagen’s all-new 50-state compliant clean diesel Jetta TDI is selling about as fast as the dealers can get them into their showrooms, with a turn rate of close to 75 percent.

Source: Volkswagen