VW Golf, VW Jetta: Hybrid in the works for 2013

VW is working on a hybrid version of the VW Golf and VW Jetta for 2013.

Ulrich Hackenberg, VW's R and D chief, says the 2013 models could be offered with a choice of battery size, and therefore of zero-emission range, to suit different customer needs. The bigger-batteried versions would also be more economical, but cost more to buy.

Hackenberg says a final decision has yet to be made, but the question of offering a battery choice is currently under consideration. He also revealed that the plug-in Jetta will have a greater electric-only range than the Golf because it has a larger trunk.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Golf, VW Jetta

Source: Inside Line

VW Golf, VW Jetta: Hybrid in the works for 2013

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VW Sharan: Beauty shots video

Nice video with beauty shots and driving scenes of the VW Sharan. Enjoy!

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Source: The German Car TV

VW Sharan: Beauty shots video

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VW Polo GTI: Floor impressions from Geneva Motor Show

Great floor impressions here of the VW Polo GTI from the Geneva Motor Show.

Drawing a clearer line to the GTI's of yore than it's biggie-sized brother, the Polo GTI embodies everything we loved about the Mk1: a small footprint, supreme usability and a miserly mill packing a potent punch. In this newest iteration, said punch is provided by a 178-horsepower turbo- and supercharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder putting out an incredibly healthy 184 pound-feet of torque. Those figures aren't too far away from what our beloved GTI produces, and the Polo comes in a few hundred pounds lighter and doesn't skimp on the good bits (top notch interior and the XDS differential).

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Polo GTI

Source: Autoblog

VW Polo GTI: Floor impressions from Geneva Motor Show

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VW Amarok: Live impressions from Geneva Motor Show

We found some live impressions of the VW Amarok from the Geneva Motor Show.

Double cab versions will be delivered to customers first, with single cab variants arriving in 2011. They can choose between two- and all-wheel drive editions, with the latter capable of being spec'd with a Torsen limited-slip differential. The LSD allows for 40% power to be delivered to the front wheels, 60% to the rear.

Speaking of power, VW offers two of its 2.0L TDi engines making either 158 hp/295 lb-ft or 120 hp/251 lb-ft. Both get mated to a six-speed manual transmission and can come with other features designed to enhance off-roading like Off-Road ABS, Hill Descent Assist, and Hill Hold Assist.

The diesel powerplants give the Amarok a claimed 2535 lbs payload inside of its 27-sq-ft. bed and a 6173 max towing capacity.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Amarok

Source: Automobile Magazine

VW Amarok: Live impressions from Geneva Motor Show

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VW Touareg: Live impressions from Geneva Motor Show

The new VW Touareg is showing its sleek looks at the Geneva Motor Show. Have a look!

This one comes standard with a Torsen limited-slip differential, and then you can order a Terrain Tech Pack that adds the differentials and serious off-road capability that once came standard. That takes fuel economy upward, an boost also helped by the increased curve and lower Cd. VW sold 500,000 units of the previous-gen Touareg and it should do even better with this one.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Touareg

Source: Autoblog

VW Touareg: Live impressions from Geneva Motor Show

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VW Sharan: Live impressions of next generation from Geneva Motor Show

Nice live impressions here of the next-generation VW Sharan from the Geneva Motor Show.

For a start both rear doors now slide (electrically if you pay for it), allowing easier access to rows two and three. The three seats in the middle row slide back and forth by up to 160mm, pivot forward by 20 degrees to allow easy access to the rear row, and both the second and third row of seats can fold flat into the floor.

On the outside VW’s design team has taken cues from the new Polo – inspiration would be the wrong word – and there’ll be a Seat version shown in autumn 2010. It’s big and slab-sided (we’re aware there’s a boat in the background of one of our images!) but that also means more space inside. And although the Mk2 Sharan is 220mm longer (including a 75mm wheelbase stretch) and 92mm wider than its predecessor – it’s also 12mm lower – the new MPV actually weights 30kg less than the car it replaces.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Sharan

Source: Car Magazine

VW Sharan: Live impressions of next generation from Geneva Motor Show

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VW: Electrification plans announced

VW has announced its electrification plans during the Geneva Motor Show.

First up will be a test fleet of 500 battery-powered Golfs coming next year.

The Golfs will be followed in 2012 by a production hybrid version of the next-generation Jetta for the U.S. market. It makes sense for VW to launch the Jetta hybrid in the U.S. since this is the largest market for both hybrids and Jettas. The Jetta will be followed by hybrid versions of the Golf and Passat in 2013.

2013 will be a busy year for battery-powered cars at VW. The E-Up! (pictured), which was shown as a concept last fall in Frankfurt, will go into full production in 2013 as VW's first mass produced electric vehicle.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW

Source: Autoblog

VW: Electrification plans announced

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VW Jetta: Next generation will look like this?

We found an interesting preview of the next-generation VW Jetta and the rendering is based on the New Compact Coupe. The new design is following Walter de'Silva's design direction for VW. Expect to see the real deal in autumn 2010 already!



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Source: VW Jetta

VW Jetta: Next generation will look like this?

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VW CrossGolf: Officially revealed!

VW has officially revealed the VW CrossGolf ahead of the Geneva Motor Show.

With new styling, new TDI and TSI engines and new equipment. After the classic Golf, Golf Plus, Golf Variant, Golf GTI and the Golf R introduced just a few weeks ago, the range covers six very independent models. However, among one another they share the high-tech components of an innovatively conceptualised modular system toolkit. For example, the new CrossGolf, as well as the previous CrossGolf, were developed based on the Golf Plus. The Cross, as an all-around vehicle, bridges the gap between the MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) and SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle); that is, it unifies the variability of an MPV with the ruggedness of a SUV. Common to all of these vehicles is the higher seating position that is in more demand than ever.

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Source: German Car Forum

VW CrossGolf: Officially revealed!

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VW Golf GTI: Canadian Car of the Year

The VW Golf GTI has been awarded as Canadian Car of the Year.

VW's lovable little pocket rocket has been named the car of the year by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada. AJAC chose the GTI over nine other vehicles in the "best new" category, giving VW's compact corner-cutter another feather in its cap. The AJAC car of the year award is determined by 70 journalists who judge 20 parameters and a reported total of "46,000 pieces of data in all."

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Golf GTI

Source: Autoblog

VW Golf GTI: Canadian Car of the Year

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VW Scirocco R: Road test report

Nice road test report here with the VW Scirocco R. Enjoy!

Instead, consider the 0-100mph time, which at 13.7sec matches that of the Mégane RS 250. Negate the effect of unfavourable conditions by looking at the 30-100mph interval and the Scirocco R is 0.5sec quicker than the Renault, which is in turn 0.2sec quicker than the Focus RS.

So it is fast, but also flexible. Compared with the regular 2.0-litre TSI Scirocco, which is remarkably linear for a turbocharged engine, there is more a pronounced power band. The boost starts to build from 2200rpm, before really getting into its stride at 2500rpm. And yet the R’s engine remains impressively tractable, producing no histrionics if you slot fifth gear from as low as 20mph.

Similarly, the engine is happy working at the top end of the rev range. Although torque starts dropping off from 5000rpm, and power from 6000rpm, the Scirocco R will happily rev to its 6500rpm red line without ever feeling breathless.

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Source: Autocar

VW Scirocco R: Road test report

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VW Golf Variant: Comparison against Hyundai i30CW SLX

Interesting comparison here of the VW Golf Variant against the Hyundai i30CW SLX.

Volkswagen Golf Wagon 90TSI ... $29,490 plus on-road and dealer costs. 1.4-litre turbo 4-cyl; 90kW/200Nm; 7-speed dual-clutch auto; 6.2L/100km and 144g/km CO2; FWD.

Value No alloy wheels, no cruise, eight-speaker stereo with optional iPod connectivity and Bluetooth. Three-year, 100,000-kilometre warranty.

Safety Hatch gets five-star EuroNCAP rating. Six airbags, stability control. Parking sensors, reversing camera extra.

Inside Stylish and spacious. More rear legroom than Golf hatch and rear seats fold down for 1495 litres of cargo room.

Engine 1.4-litre turbo engine wants premium unleaded but gives good performance and economy. DSG auto can hesitate off the line.

How it drives Loves corners (despite slight body roll), rides well

Verdict $2000 price premium over hatch makes the wagon a pricey proposition but attention to detail wins.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Golf Variant

Source: Drive

VW Golf Variant: Comparison against Hyundai i30CW SLX

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VW CrossPolo: First look

Here's more intel about the VW CrossPolo.

Although billed as a crossover, the CrossPolo is essentially a lifted Polo hatchback, blessed with extra ground clearance and some rugged styling. Black body cladding was added to the car’s lower portions, highlighted by silver accents on the front and rear fascia that are designed to resemble skid plates. Inside, the two-tone interior receives black webbed seat inserts, along with “CrossPolo” logos embroidered into the seatbacks.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW CrossPolo

Source: Automobile Magazine

VW CrossPolo: First look

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VW Sharan: First teaser of next generation MPV

Here's the first teaser of the next-generation VW Sharan. Have a look!

The all-new second-generation MPV has a front end design in line with VW's current design paradigm as seen in VW's newest models. In addition, the MPV also looks to be sitting on a new set of wheels. NO detials have been released so far, but it's expected to feature a third row bench and sliding rear doors.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Sharan

Source: World Car Fans

VW Sharan: First teaser of next generation MPV

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VW Jetta SportWagen TDI: Road test report

Nice road test report here with the VW Jetta SportWagen TDI.

I just love sport wagons and there’s lots to love about the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI. Yes, this clean diesel mid-sized wagon is rather affordable (base MSRP $24,310), has fun-to-drive German engineering, a hip minimalist interior and gets almost unbelievable fuel economy (42 mpg hwy).

Yes, the 2010 VW SportWagen TDI pleases in more ways than one. On a weeklong road test of a shiny black model, I feel completely in love with this sexy, sporty and kinda mysterious-looking Euro sedan.

Driving up scenic Pacific Coast Highway at twilight on a gorgeous winter’s day, the 2010 Jetta SportWagen TDI made my driving dreams come true with its sophisticated looks and smooth, yet sporty driving characteristics.

Even better is this gas-sipping sedan is eligible for a $1,300 federal income tax credit by qualifying for the “advanced lean burn technology motor vehicle” credit. Why such a nice rebate? The 2010 Jetta SportWagen TDI feeds on today’s low sulphur diesel gasoline, which burns super clean and is good for the environment.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Jetta SportWagen TDI

Source: Autotropolis

VW Jetta SportWagen TDI: Road test report

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VW CrossPolo: Officially revealed ahead of Geneva Motor Show

VW has taken off the wraps of the VW CrossPolo which will be shown at the Geneva Motor Show.

The compact crossover is powered by extremely fuel-efficient engines with a power range from 70 to 105 horsepower. In Europe, buyers will be able to chose from a total of three gasoline and three common rail TDI turbodiesel engines, three of which can be equipped with an optional seven-speed DSG dual clutch transmission.

Key design elements include the unique bumpers, finished in an anthracite color and fitted with fog-lights and larger intakes. Moving to the sides, the CrossPolo also gets black wheelarch extensions, new side sills, and 17 inch alloy wheels.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW CrossPolo

Source: Motor Authority

VW CrossPolo: Officially revealed ahead of Geneva Motor Show

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VW Polo GTI: First look

Join us for a first look at the VW Polo GTI.

The new Polo GTI, which debuts at the 2010 Geneva motor show in March, makes use of Volkswagen’s super- and turbocharged 1.4-liter “Twincharged” I-4. Output is listed at 180 hp, and a stout 184 lb-ft of torque, the latter available at a scant 2000 rpm. With a curb weight slightly over 2600 pounds and a seven-speed, dual-clutch gearbox, VW says the car will sprint from 0-62 mph in just 6.9 seconds, and top out at 142 mph. For the greenies, Volkswagen claims the Polo GTI returns 47 mpg on the European combined cycle, and emits just 0.49 pounds of carbon dioxide per mile.

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Source: Automobile Magazine

VW Polo GTI: First look

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VW Golf Bluemotion 1.6 TDI: First drive report

Interesting first drive report here with the VW Golf Bluemotion 1.6 TDI.

Eco-friendly cars are often grim, hair-shirted things that you suffer as penance for your emissions, even though they pump out less CO2 than their standard brethren. But the new VW Golf Bluemotion is none of that. It doesn’t look funny (it runs alloys and a lowered ride height), it’s not made of egg cartons inside (splash out £120 on leather wheel and gearknob for the full, plush Golf effect), yet it sneaks below 100g/km for free road tax, and promises 74.3mpg.

Even better, the new 2010 Golf 1.6 TDI Bluemotion offers start/stop tech, regen braking, sill extensions (plus those alloys and lower suspension for better aero) for just £785 more than a similarly trimmed standard S 1.6 TDI – and it offers 11.5mpg more than that car.

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Source: Car Magazine

VW Golf Bluemotion 1.6 TDI: First drive report

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VW Golf: More spy shots of 7th generation

We found some fresh spy shots of the next-generation VW Golf.

Herr Winterkorn whet CAR's appetite with a few nuggets on the next Golf. 'The modular transverse matrix opens a new set of opportunities,' he told us. 'By being significantly more space-efficient, MQB offers distinct packaging advantages – which in turn will directly influence the shape of the car. Don't worry: the next Golf will again be instantly recognisable as a Golf. But it will also push out the envelope in a way no previous transition from one model generation to the next has done.'

The Golf Mk7 range will continue very much as today's. The CC coupe-cabriolet with folding hard top is on ice, but a cheaper Golf cabrio is expected in 2014. The Scirocco has been deemed a success, and the three-door Golf may become a sleeker, more coupé-ish derivative. We publish the full roll-out on page two of this article.

The MQB hardware underneath the new Golf Mk7 enables shorter overhangs, a longer wheelbase and a more advanced silhouette, including a more raked windscreen and more upright back window. They're not going to muck up the Golf style, however. Trad chunky C-pillars and geometric lines will continue for that iconic look.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Golf

Source: Car Magazine

VW Golf: More spy shots of 7th generation

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VW Golf TDI: Efficiency can be fun!

Nice review here of the VW Golf TDI.

With diesel-powered engines slowly but surely making their way onto the American market, the German automakers are taking the lead, introducing diesel-powered variants of their most popular gasoline-powered models. Increased fuel-economy, more torque, and a smaller price-premium over gasoline-powered cars than electric-hybrids, diesel power certainly offers a range of benefits. Current diesel prices however, are slightly higher than that of gasoline, which in turn, makes the American public a bit reluctant to fully embrace the technology.

Volkswagen however is one automaker that is not deterred; the German manufacturer currently sports in its lineup four TDI Clean Diesel models: the Jetta, Jetta SportWagon, Touareg, and Golf are available in the TDI variant. We recently had the chance to get behind the Golf TDI for a week-long test-drive and never even put gas… we mean diesel… in the car.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Golf TDI

Source: eGM Cartech

VW Golf TDI: Efficiency can be fun!

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VW Polo GTI: First official photos

VW has officially released the VW Polo GTI. Hot ride!

FEAST your eyes on the pocket rocket that every hot hatch fan has been waiting for! This is the all-new Polo GTI – and as Auto Express predicted over 12 months ago, it gets a 178bhp 1.4-litre supercharged and turbocharged four cylinder petrol engine hooked up to a seven-speed DSG twin-clutch transmission.

Making its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week, the Polo GTI goes on sale in August priced at around £18,000. It will be available in both three and five-door bodystyles.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Polo GTI

Source: Auto Express

VW Polo GTI: First official photos

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VW: Will build electric engines in-house

VW has decided to build future electric engines in-house.

The German automaker’s electric motors will span the entire Volkswagen Group, which means they will likely be used for the upcoming range of Audi e-tron cars as well. A new components organization will be set up to become the system supplier for electric technology.

Volkswagen will use its existing engine plant in Salzgitter, Germany to build the new electric motors, the first of which will appear in an all-electric version minicar previewed by 2009’s E-Up! concept car.

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Source: Motor Authority

VW: Will build electric engines in-house

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VW Touareg Hybrid: First official details

Here are the first official details of the VW Touareg Hybrid.

The 2011 Volkswagen Touareg to be sold in the States offers only V-6 engines, in gasoline and diesel. A 4.2-liter V-8 TDI diesel offered elsewhere won't come to the States, and previous gasoline V-8 and V-10 TDI diesel engines are no longer needed.

The gasoline V-6 hybrid model is now the top of the line, replacing those two larger engines not only in the U.S. but also in Europe. It will arrive one year later, as a 2012 model. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on all models.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Touareg Hybrid

Source: Green Car Reports

VW Touareg Hybrid: First official details

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VW Jetta TDI, VW Passat CC, VW New Beetle: Special editions launched

VW has launched special editions of the VW Jetta TDI, the VW Passat CC and the VW New Beetle in the US.

The first model under the knife is the slinky CC, which emerges as the CC R-Line. As with the European version, the R-Line changes are mostly cosmetic: a new body kit and front spoiler, 18-inch wheels, tinted taillights, brushed-aluminum door sills, and a couple of R-Line badges.

The Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition (pictured above) is as close as the average driver can get to the cars in VW’s diesel race series. The Jetta receives the Cup car’s body kit, stiffer suspension and grabbier brakes from the Jetta GLI, and 18-inch wheels with performance tires.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW

Source: Car and Driver

VW Jetta TDI, VW Passat CC, VW New Beetle: Special editions launched

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VW Golf R: Reviewed!

Nice review here of the VW Golf R.

So what is the difference the new VW Golf R and the Golf GTI?

Essentially it comes down to this: 59bhp, drive to the rear wheels as well as the fronts, a set of 18-inch rims and a £6k premium. Think of the Golf R as Volkswagen’s answer to the Audi S3.

While the front-wheel drive GTI makes do with 207bhp and 206lb ft of torque, the R achieves 266bhp and 258lb ft from the same 1984cc of capacity. The extra power and the traction of four-wheel drive is enough to overcome the alarming 182kg weight penalty, allowing the R to hit 62mph in 5.7sec (GTI, 6.9sec) while at the top end, the GTi is all out at 147mph leaving the R to forge on ahead to 155mph.

The Golf R certainly feels quicker than the GTI, not outrageously fast but definitely more urgent both in acceleration and in the sound it emits. And despite sounding less cultured than the old V6, this 266bhp four is keener to rev and mates with the standard six-speed manual far better than before when it could feel rather clunky.

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Source: Car Magazine

VW Golf R: Reviewed!

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VW Amarok 2.0 TDI: Driving report

Here's the first driving report with the VW Amarok 2.0 TDI.

On the move, the Amarok combines excellent off-road abilities with solid, predictable car-like handling. The combination of a solid, leaf-spring rear axle, mechanical locks on the centre and rear diffs and traction control means that most extreme off-road situations require little more than pressing the accelerator and adjusting the wheel so that it goes in the correct direction.

Where VW's achievement is much more impressive is the on-road refinement. The Amarok does not ride over broken surfaces with the sophistication of the Freelander, but the ride is exceptionally good for a vehicle with a payload of 1150kg. The steering is well weighted, though devoid of much feel, but provides enough feedback on what's going on beneath the tyres to allow fluent, quick progress on the paved Patagonian highways and dirt tracks that made up the 170 mile test route.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Amarok 2.0 TDI

Source: Autocar

VW Amarok 2.0 TDI: Driving report

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VW: More hybrids on the way, Jetta may be next

VW will introduce more hybrids and the VW Jetta might be next.

Volkswagen has just taken the wraps off its new 2011 Touareg SUV, which in hybrid form delivers a V-8 like 375 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque from its V-6/electric motor combination and a relatively frugal fuel economy (European combined) of 29 mpg. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg for Volkswagen's new hybrid onslaught, which is expected to eventually span the automaker's full line of models, including minicars, hatchbacks and sedans, and even diesels.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW

Source: The Car Connection

VW: More hybrids on the way, Jetta may be next

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VW Touareg: Promotional trailers released

VW has released 3 promotional trailers for the new VW Touareg. You can see the exterior and interior design as well as the VW Touareg having some fun in the desert. Have a look!





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Source: The German Car TV

VW Touareg: Promotional trailers released

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VW Touareg: Next-generation officially unveiled

VW has officially taken the wraps off the next-generation VW Touareg. Sleek looks!

The new Touareg brings with it Volkswagen's first ever mass produced hybrid drivetrain. The hybrid combines the VW Group's supercharged and direct injected 3.0-liter V6 with an electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Touareg hybrid gets a combined rating of 28.6 mpg (U.S.) on the EU cycle, a number that will probably be closer to 24-25 when it arrives Stateside. The diesel powered TDI does even better now with a rating of 31.8 mpg (U.S.). The Touareg is also available with a normally aspirated 3.6-liter gasoline V6 and for the first time the awesome 335 horsepower 4.2-liter TDI V8. Even the diesel V8 is rated at 25.8 mpg (U.S.).

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Touareg

Source: Autoblog

VW Touareg: Next-generation officially unveiled

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VW Golf R: Comparison against Ford Focus RS

Interesting comparison here of the VW Golf R against the Ford Focus RS. Hot hatches galore!

With 266bhp and four-wheel drive, the subtle R aims to provide devastating all-weather performance in a practical shell. It’s available as a three or five-door, and with a six-speed gearbox in manual or twin-clutch DSG form.

Its rival here, the 301bhp Ford Focus RS, is less of a shrinking violet. The rally-inspired hatch is adorned with spoilers, scoops, huge exhausts and a muscular bodykit.

And while some buyers will be put off by its bold lines, there can be no argument about the performance on offer. The Golf and Focus are the Jekyll and Hyde of the hot hatch sector, but which one will come out on top here?

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Golf R

Source: Autoexpress

VW Golf R: Comparison against Ford Focus RS

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VW Passat: Comes fully loaded

Nice review here of the fully loaded VW Passat.

At first glance you might look at the $27,195 MSRP for the 2010 VW Passat and suffer from a bit of sticker shock. But then you will notice something. This car isn't just well equipped it comes with most any toy you can imagine all as standard equipment (barring navigation). VW has even been nice enough to throw in 3 years/36,000 miles of free maintenance. What a thoughtful gift, VW!

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Source: Family Car Guide

VW Passat: Comes fully loaded

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VW Jetta TDI: Long-term road test report

Interesting long-term road test report here with the VW Jetta TDI diesel.

The Jetta TDI that emerged is clean enough to satisfy the emissions laws of all 50 states without resorting to urea injection, plus, it is powerful (140 horses) and quick enough (0 to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds) to satisfy us. In fact, our TDI proved to be as quick to 60 as a manual five-cylinder gas Jetta.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Jetta TDI

Source: Car and Driver

VW Jetta TDI: Long-term road test report

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VW Polo: Nominated for World Car of the Year

The VW Polo has been nominated as World Car of the Year, together with the Audi Q5 and the Porsche Panamera.

Nominations for World Car of the Year have been announced.

The 10-strong shortlist has been chosen by 59 jurors and is spearheaded by the 2010 European Car of the Year, the Volkswagen Polo.

The winner will be announced at the Geneva motor show next month.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Polo

Source: Autocar

VW Polo: Nominated for World Car of the Year

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VW Golf R: Driving report

We found an interesting driving report with the VW Golf R. Enjoy!

It might not have the bragging rights of a six-cylinder, big-capacity engine anymore, but the R lacks absolutely nothing in performance. Actually, its delivery is relentless, with 258lb.ft making itself felt from the depths of the rev counter before the turbo properly kicks in about half way up, surging the car forward with brutal tenacity and a lovely four-cylinder fizz. Every high-rev gearchange is rewarded with a boom-like cough from the tailpipes too.

But when it comes to putting its power down, there's just so little drama. It's quicker than the Focus RS - and feels it too - yet where the Focus demands a gentle arm wrestle to wring the most from it, the R stays as straight and true as a National Geographic documentary, no matter how you mistreat the throttle. What's so exceptional about it, though, is that there's still a fluidity and poise about the way it changes direction. During second gear corners you can feel the four-wheel drive's brain directing traction to the wheels that need it, pulling the car around, yet it does that while allowing you the sense that you're still in control. It really is phenomenally rapid, but despite its unfussy power delivery and clinical four-wheel drive traction it's surprisingly interactive.

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Source: Car Enthusiast

VW Golf R: Driving report

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VW New Beetle: Next generation will look like this?

Here's an artist's rendering of how the next-generation VW New Beetle could look like.

Although the New Beetle used this name in many markets around the world, reports suggest that it will lose the "New" prefix and return to being just a Beetle.

The car will gain quite a notable amount of interior space, especially at the rear. It will be bigger both inside and outside, and feature LED technology in the front and rear exterior lights clusters. Muscular wheel arches will underscore its intentions of attracting a younger, feistier set.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW New Beetle

Source: Worldcarfans

VW New Beetle: Next generation will look like this?

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VW: Micro car concept by Brazilian design interns

Design interns at VW do Brazil have created this interesting looking VW Micro Car concept. Have a look!

The goal was to create a Smart Fortwo-sized/like mini capable of accommodating two people plus some luggage in similar comfort to the VW Fox supermini.

The team came up with several proposals to power the 2.48 meter (97.6-in.) long car including VW's current 1.0-liter engine and various two-cylinder units (inline, V-shaped and boxer versions), all mounted at the rear, plus a plug-in version equipped with four in-wheel electric motors.

The vehicle's design is simple, but in a cool, 'Apple' sort of way, and is heavily influenced by the Volkswagen Up! concept series.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW IN Micro Car Concept

Source: Carscoop

VW: Micro car concept by Brazilian design interns

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VW Touareg: Starring in new Repo Men movie

The VW Touareg will be featured in the new Repo Men movie with Jude Law and others.

In the futuristic action-thriller Repo Men, humans have extended and improved our lives through highly sophisticated and expensive mechanical organs created by a company called The Union. The dark side of these medical breakthroughs is that if you don’t pay your bill, The Union sends its highly skilled repo men to take back its property…with no concern for your comfort or survival. Jude Law plays Remy, one of the best organ repo men in the business. When he suffers a cardiac failure on the job, he awakens to find himself fitted with the company’s top-of-the-line heart-replacement…as well as a hefty debt. But a side effect of the procedure is that his heart’s no longer in the job. When he can’t make the payments, The Union sends its toughest enforcer, Remy’s former partner Jake (Academy Award® winner Forest Whitaker), to track him down. Now that the hunter has become the hunted, Remy joins Beth (Alice Braga), another debtor who teaches him how to vanish from the system. And as he and Jake embark on a chase across a landscape populated by maniacal friends and foes, one man will become a reluctant champion for thousands on the run.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Touareg

Source: Thanks to Jesper for the tip

VW Touareg: Starring in new Repo Men movie

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VW Jetta TDI SportWagen: Track tested!

Nice track test here with the VW Jetta TDI SportWagen.

What's so great about the TDI anyway? Mostly torque and great mileage. Its 236 pound-feet of torque tops the gasoline-powered 2.0-liter engine by a healthy margin (207 lb-ft) and the TDI's EPA ratings of 30 mpg city and 42 mpg highway make it one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the road. And what do you lose in terms of performance? See what our test drivers had to say after some track time.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Jetta TDI SportWagen

Source: Inside Line

VW Jetta TDI SportWagen: Track tested!

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VW: New R Performance group to be established

VW will establish a new R performance group. Good news for all VW lovers!

The official announcement is expected at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in March. After that, it'd be reasonable to expect additional performance models to come out of the new R GmbH. So far we've got the new Golf R (which is expected to arrive in North America early next year), the Scirocco R (which, to our eternal chagrin, remains grounded overseas), and there are reports of an upcoming Jetta R (previewed by the New Compact Coupe concept unveiled in Detroit), to say nothing of appearance-only packages like the CC R-Line.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW R performance

Source: Autoblog

VW: New R Performance group to be established

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VW Touareg: Leaked pictures of next generation

These might be the first, leaked pictures of the new VW Touareg. At least in model car form.

The toy cars have been leaked onto the internet and show just how the new SUV will look ahead of its official launch at the Geneva Motor Show in March. As you can see, the new Touareg gets a front end inspired by the latest Golf and Polo hatchbacks and also a full length glass roof. The rest of the shape is a softer evolution of the current Touareg.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Touareg

Source: Auto Express

VW Touareg: Leaked pictures of next generation

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VW Polo: Europe's Car of the Year

The VW Polo is collecting awards like an Audi R8 is collecting flies on the Autobahn: the VW Polo has now been awarded as Europe's Car of the Year. Congrats!

The redesigned Volkswagen Polo edged the Toyota iQ as Europe's Car of the Year 2010, in a surprisingly close vote that saw winner and runner-up separated by only 10 points. The redesigned Opel/Vauxhall Astra finished a distant 3rd.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Polo

Source: Inside Line

VW Polo: Europe's Car of the Year

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VW Golf GTI: Four seasons update

Nice winter update here of the test drive with the VW Golf GTI.

Notwithstanding these relatively minor gripes, the GTI has in fact been a pleasure in its first weeks here. The traditional plaid cloth seats have charmed everyone who has sat in them, and several drivers have praised the smooth manual gearbox. We're also still amazed with the new GTI's level of refinement. Writes road test coordinator Michael Ofiara: "The car is amazing; so much more refined than my wife's Mark 5 GTI. It's going to be a fun year." Even a nitpicker would have to agree with that sentiment.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Golf GTI

Source: Automobile Mag

VW Golf GTI: Four seasons update

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VW Touareg Hybrid: Review of the prototype

Interesting review here of the VW Touareg Hybrid prototype.

While General Motors opted for a highly optimized version of its 6.0-liter V8 for its hybrid trucks, Volkswagen is instead using one of the newest engines in the group in the Touareg. The new 3.0-liter TSI V6 debuted in 2009 in the Audi A6 and S4. The new hybrid gets the engine in the more powerful 333 horsepower / 324 pound-foot form used in the sporting S4. VW gets this output from a comparatively small engine through a combination of direct fuel injection with a mechanical supercharger. Even before factoring in the hybrid system, the V6 already benefits from the advantages of engine downsizing. The six cylinder engine has output on a par with the larger 4.2-liter V8 also offered in Touareg, but in more efficient package. In addition to the smaller displacement, the engine also features other enhancements like a water pump that can be switched off during engine warm-up. This reduces the parasitic draw while speeding up the warm up.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Touareg Hybrid

Source: Green Fuels Forecast

VW Touareg Hybrid: Review of the prototype

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VW Golf R: New pics show what to expect

Here are some new pictures of the VW Golf R in the snow and they show what to expect when it will come to the US.

Although VW has yet to confirm that the fastest ever Golf is headed to the U.S., the word on the street is that the 265-hp, all-wheel drive hatch is on its way to the Colonies later this year, with a choice of either a six-speed manual or dual-clutch gearbox.

The turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI four-cylinder's performance stats are almost enough to make us forget about the Scirocco, if just for a moment, with a 155 mph top speed and a 5.5-second run to 60 mph (5.7 seconds with the manual gearbox).

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Golf R

Source: Autoblog

VW Golf R: New pics show what to expect

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VW Passat CC: Now with 5-seat option

The VW Passat CC is now available with a five-seat option, at least in Europe.

The four-door sedan was a hot topic a year ago, and Volkswagen's Passat CC remains one of the only offerings in the affordable end of the spectrum. But apparently buyers, while intrigued by the look, were put off by the four-seat configuration. VW has listened, however, and is offer a new bench rear seat that expands seating to five.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Passat CC

Source: The Car Connection

VW Passat CC: Now with 5-seat option

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VW Golf 2.0 TDI: Test drive report

Interesting test drive report here of the VW Golf 2.0 TDI.

First Impressions: We are very impressed. We recently asked you guys whether or not you would consider a diesel powered vehicle over gasoline – with most of you leaning towards diesel (which was a bit surprising to us). There are some obvious benefits to buying a diesel powered car over a gasoline powered car including a boost in fuel-economy, a boost in torque and the final price differential over gasoline models is generally much smaller than that for hybrids vehicles.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW Golf 2.0 TDI

Source: eGM Cartech

VW Golf 2.0 TDI: Test drive report

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VW: TDI technology for racing and beyond

Great article here about VW's TDI technology and how it dominated the Dakar Rally. Make sure to read!

The Wolfsburg based brand therefore remains the only manufacturer to have won the car category of the Dakar Rally with diesel power. TDI technology was already dominant in 2009 in Argentina and Chile. In addition to the efficiency of the Volkswagen Group's diesel direct injection technology the Race Touareg's reliability was the key to the 2010 "Dakar"; victory. The powerful 300 hp Race Touareg won seven of 14 possible stage victories and eleven days in the lead were credited to the four-wheel drive racers from Wolfsburg.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW

Source: Business Week, photo by VW

VW: TDI technology for racing and beyond

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VW: 1-2-3 win at Dakar rallye

VW made an impressive demonstration of their power with the 1-2-3 win at the Dakar rallye.

Triumphant title defence in South America: Volkswagen has won the legendary Dakar Rally for the second time in succession and including 1980 for a third time.

After a ‘showdown in blue' the Volkswagen duos and their TDI powered Race Touareg prototypes celebrated a one-two-three podium lockout at the finish of the toughest challenge worldwide in motorsport. In the process, Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz (E/E) triumphed by only 2 minutes 12 seconds ahead of his team mates Nasser Al-Attiyah/Timo Gottschalk (Q/D) in a thrilling finale on the closing 202 kilometre sprint on the 14th and final rally day. Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/ZA) claimed third position. Last year's winners Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (ZA/D) finished seventh.

Related news: GermanCarBlog, P4MR, VW

Source: VWvortex

VW: 1-2-3 win at Dakar rallye

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