Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Volkswagen Tiguan and Touareg take the R-Line]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/volkswagen-tiguan-and-touareg-take-the-r-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/volkswagen-tiguan-and-touareg-take-the-r-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/volkswagen-tiguan-and-touareg-take-the-r-line/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2014 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line

Volkswagen's Detroit Auto Show presence is big on utility this year, with the CrossBlue three-row concept vehicle occupying the lion's share of the limelight, both literally and figuratively. But that isn't stopping Volkswagen from lavishing attention on its already established crossover and sport utility vehicles with new R-Line derivatives. The Tiguan and its big brother Touareg are getting a host of look-faster items to increase their sporting appeal.

On the outside, the Tiguan R-Line receives handsome 19-inch alloys peering out from beneath fender extensions, premium lighting (bi-Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lamps), along with matching side skirts and a liftgate spoiler. On the inside, sportier accommodations include aluminum trim and a flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters. As with other R-Line models, there are no powertrain modifications to go with the more aggressive visuals (that being the province of R standalone performance models like the R32), though the suspension has been firmed up an unspecified amount. The Tiguan R-Line will be available in front- or all-wheel drive configuration.

The more upscale Touareg R-Line (not present at the show though revealed by Volkswagen earlier) receives a similar suite of upgrades, including a new body kit, 20-inch alloys, dual oval-shaped exhausts, LED taillamps and special badging. Like the standard model, the Touareg R-Line is available only with 4Motion all-wheel drive, but can be had with the buyer's choice of either gasoline or diesel power.

Pricing has yet to be revealed for either model, but VW promises both will debut in the third quarter of this year.


Continue reading Volkswagen Tiguan and Touareg take the R-Line

Volkswagen Tiguan and Touareg take the R-Line originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 volkswagen tiguan r-linedetroitdetroit 2013r-linetiguantouaregvolkswagenvwMon, 14 Jan 2013 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20428126/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/14/volkswagen-tiguan-and-touareg-take-the-r-line/20428126/article-detail.xml 20428126 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-vw-tiguan-r-line-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-vw-tiguan-r-line-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen breaks 40-year-old sales record in 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/13/volkswagen-breaks-40-year-old-sales-record-in-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/13/volkswagen-breaks-40-year-old-sales-record-in-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/13/volkswagen-breaks-40-year-old-sales-record-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The last time Volkswagen moved this many vehicles in America in one year, Richard Nixon was still a President in good standing, Let It Be was a radio hit and each car wearing the VW badge boasted an air-cooled engine. That's right, with a grand total of 580,286 vehicles sold in the US last year, the VW Group has broken its own four-decades-old sales record by 2,899 vehicles.

Of that 580k total sold, 438k were Volkswagens and 139k were Audi products - increases of 35.1 percent and 18.5 percent, respectively, in year-over-year sales. The ultra-premium members of the VW group also fared well; Bentley delivered 2,315 vehicles for a 23.3-precent increase, and Lamborghini delivered 520 units for a 52.9-percent jump. Bugatti, we're told is "right on track."

Jetta (pictured) sales paced the marque with 170k models sold, and Passat also finished very strong with sales of 117k total. Tiguan also racked up its best year on file, with 31,731 models shifted.

The company expects what it is calling "moderate growth" for the 2013 sales year ahead, though perhaps not at so blistering a rate as it racked up in 2012. Scroll down to read the official Volkswagen press release.

Continue reading Volkswagen breaks 40-year-old sales record in 2012

Volkswagen breaks 40-year-old sales record in 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audibentleybugattijettalamborghinipassatsales recordtiguanvolkswagenvwSun, 13 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20427592/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/13/volkswagen-breaks-40-year-old-sales-record-in-2012/20427592/article-detail.xml 20427592 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/volkswagen-jetta-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/volkswagen-jetta-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen adding R-Line trim to Touareg, Tiguan for 2014]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/volkswagen-adding-r-line-trim-to-touareg-tiguan-for-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/volkswagen-adding-r-line-trim-to-touareg-tiguan-for-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/volkswagen-adding-r-line-trim-to-touareg-tiguan-for-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Volkswagen introduced its aggressive R-Line appearance package on the CC and Beetle last year, but later this year, this treatment will also be applied to VW's crossovers, the Tiguan and Touareg. Both sporty-looking utility vehicles will be unveiled next week at the Detroit Auto Show.

The 2014 Tiguan R-Line comes standard with bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights, and the package adds 19-inch wheels, grey fender extensions, body-color side skirts and a liftgate spoiler. Inside, the R-Line adds a flat-bottom sport steering wheel with paddle shifters, a black headliner and numerous metallic trim accents such as the stainless scuff plates, the aluminum pedals and metallic finish on the instrument and door panels. The Tiguan R-Line will be offered in front- and all-wheel drive configurations.

As for the 2014 Touareg R-Line (shown above), this model gets an ever more distinctive look with an aggressive front fascia, 20-inch wheels and dual oval-shaped exhaust outlets in addition to the painted side skirts and LED taillights. Similar metallic interior trim pieces found inside the Tiguan R-Line will also make their way into the Touareg as well as gloss black accents on the instrument panel and center stack.

VW says that both new R-Line models will get R-Line badges and a sport-tuned suspension. Pricing won't be announced until closer to the launch of both models sometime this fall, but you can still check out the more info on both in the press release posted below.

Continue reading Volkswagen adding R-Line trim to Touareg, Tiguan for 2014

Volkswagen adding R-Line trim to Touareg, Tiguan for 2014 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 volkswagen tiguan r-line2014 volkswagen touareg r-lindetroitdetroit 2013r-liner-line packagetiguantouaregvolkswagenvwFri, 11 Jan 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20426531/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/11/volkswagen-adding-r-line-trim-to-touareg-tiguan-for-2014/20426531/article-detail.xml 20426531 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-volkswagen-touareg-r-line-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-volkswagen-touareg-r-line-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen confirms three-row utility for Detroit, no Routan replacement in sight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/volkswagen-confirms-three-row-utility-for-detroit-no-routan-rep/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/volkswagen-confirms-three-row-utility-for-detroit-no-routan-rep/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/volkswagen-confirms-three-row-utility-for-detroit-no-routan-rep/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan - dead-on front view

At a small media roundtable session with journalists at the Los Angeles Auto Show today, Klaus Bischoff, Volkswagen's head of global design, confirmed that VW's much-rumored three-row utility vehicle will be "most hopefully" revealed at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

The vehicle is expected to be at once larger and less expensive than the Touareg range, something more akin to a longer Tiguan (shown above) than an off-road juggernaut. That said, Bischoff was quite clear that VW considers the unnamed model to be an SUV, not a crossover. If you're envisioning a body-on-frame vehicle with a low-range, think again. When Bischoff was questioned about what constitutes an SUV versus a CUV, he pointed to design elements like the positioning of the A-pillar, not the hardware underneath. According to Bischoff, the three-row's off-road capability will be "not as strong as the Touareg, but more than good enough to compete... It's an SUV in the European way - in the Volkswagen way."

As far as an MPV for North America goes, Bischoff says that a replacement for the aging Routan minivan is "not on the to-do list," noting that VW will end its relationship with Chrysler, which manufacturers the Routan. Word of no future MPV would also appear to corroborate reports that the retro-minded Bulli concept van of 2011 also has no production future.

Volkswagen confirms three-row utility for Detroit, no Routan replacement in sight originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 20:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto showlala auto showroutantiguantouaregvolkswagenvwWed, 28 Nov 2012 20:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20390587/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/28/volkswagen-confirms-three-row-utility-for-detroit-no-routan-rep/20390587/article-detail.xml 20390587 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-dead-on_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-dead-on.jpg <![CDATA[VW mulling Microbus-style CUV to ramp up segment sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/vw-mulling-microbus-style-cuv-to-ramp-segment-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/vw-mulling-microbus-style-cuv-to-ramp-segment-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/vw-mulling-microbus-style-cuv-to-ramp-segment-sales/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

VW Microbus Concept

Volkswagen is on a mission to dominate sales in almost ever category, with a goal of selling one million Audis and VWs yearly in the United States by 2018. Projected U.S. sales of both brands for 2012 is only 565,000. To bridge that gap, analysts say the two brands will need to compete in almost every sales category.

VW and Audi have the sedan customers covered, but offerings in the crossover segment are slim. Automotive News says it hears VW is planning a couple of crossover variants, the most interesting of which concerns a possible greenlight for the Microbus-inspired Bulli concept from the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Unnamed VW executives are said to have expressed interest in a Microbus-type crossover large enough for five adults. We think a retro-themed Veedub bus would look very nice next to the newly restyled Beetle.

Other rumors have VW developing a seven-seat crossover to compete with Ford's Explorer and the Honda Pilot. The new Chattanooga plant is probably where it would be built in time for sales in 2014.

Sources also say the upcoming Tiguan replacement will be "U.S.-sized" (i.e., larger) for 2014. Fewer than than 30,000 Tiguans are sold every year, possibly because of limited legroom and cargo space compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

VW mulling Microbus-style CUV to ramp up segment sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audibullibuscrossovermicrobusq3tiguanvolkswagenvolkswagen salesvwMon, 10 Sep 2012 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20319805/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/10/vw-mulling-microbus-style-cuv-to-ramp-segment-sales/20319805/article-detail.xml 20319805 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/volkswagen-bulli-concept63_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/volkswagen-bulli-concept63.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volkswagen Tiguan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volkswagen Sharpens its CUV Game

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan

The Volkswagen Tiguan hasn't exactly enjoyed booming success on the U.S. market. In a land populated by a people distrustful of anything with less than a league of ground clearance under the belly pan, the high-riding CUV should have been right at home. But a preponderance of well-oiled competitors like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape meant elbowing onto the scene was a bit more difficult than Volkswagen anticipated. That trend has been hard to buck in the three years since the machine first touched our shores. While the model has seen a steady climb from the 13,903 units it sold in 2009 to the 25,990 that went home last year, those figures pale in comparison to the heavyweight Honda. Buyers bought nearly eight times the number of CR-V models in 2011.

So, the engineers and designers at Volkswagen freshened up the Tiguan for 2012. Small tricks like a new front fascia and reworked light elements help give the vehicle a more upscale appearance outside, while the interior retains all of the simplicity and well-executed materials that we've come to appreciate from the German automaker. Slightly improved fuel economy is also part of the recipe, but these changes aren't quite enough to help the Tiguan hold its own against all-new generations of both the CR-V and the Escape.

Continue reading 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen tiguan2012 volkswagen tiguan reviewfeaturedreviewreviewstiguanvolkswagenvolkswagen tiguanvwMon, 13 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20299024/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/13/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-review/20299024/article-detail.xml 20299024 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-review.jpg <![CDATA[VW trending toward best U.S. showing since 1973]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/vw-trending-toward-best-u-s-showing-since-1973/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/vw-trending-toward-best-u-s-showing-since-1973/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/vw-trending-toward-best-u-s-showing-since-1973/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Volkswagen Passat 2.5 SEL - silver - front three-quarter view

Volkswagen product planners have been making more concerted overtures to North American customers over the last year or so, and their efforts appear to be working. On the strength of new Jetta and Passat models tailored specifically for U.S. customers (read: larger and less costly), VW is poised to reach its best sales year since 1973, says the Chattanooga Times Free Press.

According to the report, VW's sales are up 35.4 percent year over year for a total of 208,725 units, suggesting that the German automaker should see over 400,000 sales this year if its momentum holds up. Of particular note to the Tennessee paper, June's Passat sales totals exceeded 10,000 units for the fourth month in a row. The Passat is built in Chattanooga, where they are planning to add a third shift to keep up with demand by month's end.

Other products carrying water for the brand? VW's new Beetle, surging Golf and the facelifted Tiguan, whose sales are steadily improving after a slow start.

VW trending toward best U.S. showing since 1973 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jul 2012 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beetlechattanoogagolfjettapassattiguanvolkswagenvolkswagen salesvwvw salesThu, 05 Jul 2012 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20272922/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/05/vw-trending-toward-best-u-s-showing-since-1973/20272922/article-detail.xml 20272922 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-vw-passat-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-vw-passat-review.jpg <![CDATA[VW considering new midsize utility for NA; Polo and Up! still on table]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jonathan Browning - Volkswagen NA CEOWe've already heard word that Volkswagen may be considering a new Alltrack version of its Jetta for the North American Market, but TheDetroitBureau.com reports the automaker is also looking at other high-riding options. Jonathan Browning, Volkswagen Group of America CEO, says a new mid-sized SUV may show up in the lineup alongside the next-generation Tiguan (which itself is likely to get a trio of variants). The unnamed model would fit below the Touareg in size and price and would likely be co-developed engineers in the U.S. and those in another part of the world. So, when can we expect to see the model? Development is currently in its earliest stages, which means we'll have to wait until 2015 at the earliest.

Meanwhile, Browning makes it clear Volkswagen is also keen to flesh out its lineup with other new models, including a new mid-sized sedan. A sub-Golf offering may also show up from Europe, which means the automaker may bring over either the Polo or the new Up! micro car. The blossoming stable is part of an effort to keep the company's recent sales growth on track. Volkswagen has made it clear the company wants to triple its companywide sales by 2018.

VW considering new midsize utility for NA; Polo and Up! still on table originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceocrossovercuvjonathan browningsuvtiguantouaregvolkswagenvolkswagen ceovolkswagen tiguanvolkswagen touaregFri, 01 Jun 2012 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20248507/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/20248507/article-detail.xml 20248507 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/browning-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/browning-628.jpg <![CDATA[More details on three-row Volkswagen Tiguan for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/27/more-details-on-three-row-volkswagen-tiguan-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/27/more-details-on-three-row-volkswagen-tiguan-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/27/more-details-on-three-row-volkswagen-tiguan-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,



When Volkswagen opened its new Chattanooga factory, there were lots of questions about what else it was going to build there, since Passat volume wouldn't come close to soaking up the facility's 150,000-unit capacity. A three-row crossover was often mentioned as another model, with Automobile reporting that a possible 180,000-unit expansion could lead to Porsche, Audi and VW CUVs being built there.

Now Car and Driver reports that a three-row Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer fighter will be built, and it will "almost definitely" be assembled in Tennessee or Mexico. It might use the Passat's platform, the rumored engine is VW's 3.6-liter V6, and its MSRP is expected to strongly challenge those of its competitors (in the manner of the Jetta and Passat's newly competitive price strategies).

The same report claims that VW is working on a Tiguan more suited to American tastes, which probably means turning it into something more like a Jetta crossover than a Golf CUV. Last year, there were several reports that Volkswagen was considering moving both Golf and Tiguan production to North America, and a Stateside-leaning Tiguan might mean now is the right time to do so.

More details on three-row Volkswagen Tiguan for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 27 Nov 2011 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen tiguanchattanoogatiguanvolkswagen tiguanvwvw crossovervw tiguanSun, 27 Nov 2011 12:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20113815/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/27/more-details-on-three-row-volkswagen-tiguan-for-u-s/20113815/article-detail.xml 20113815 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/vw3-rowsuv_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/vw3-rowsuv.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen rolls out Tiguan with R-Line package]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/volkswagen-rolls-out-tiguan-with-r-line-package/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/volkswagen-rolls-out-tiguan-with-r-line-package/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/volkswagen-rolls-out-tiguan-with-r-line-package/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line

Walk around most any European city - Germany especially - and you're bound to see a wealth of showroom-stock German automobiles with factory-installed sport packages. BMWs with M-Sport kits. Audis with S-Line packs. Mercedes-Benz in AMG Sport trim. These are vehicles that don't include the upgraded engines, brakes or suspensions of their more muscular counterparts, but at least they look the part. Wolfsburg is the latest to join in on the action, as Volkswagen R GmbH continues to roll out sporty body kits for VWs in addition to genuine performance variants like the Golf R and Scirocco R.

The latest offering accessorizes the Tiguan with a range of options to make it look sportier than it actually is. The R-Line exterior pack includes reshaped bumpers front and rear, side sills (in what Volkswagen calls "matt chrome" and we'll assume means satin finish), a faux-diffuser, 19-inch alloys and a rear spoiler. Inside, customers can also opt for an R-Line interior pack complete with sport seats, multifunction steering wheel, aluminum accents, stainless pedals and black roofliner, with black leather upholstery available to match.

Of course, R-Line badges abound inside and out, but while the package is initially being offered in Germany (where, Volkswagen asserts, the Tiguan reigns as the most successful SUV on the market), we've yet to receive word on American availability. Feel free to scope out the full skinny in the press release after the jump and the pair of high-res images in the gallery.

Continue reading Volkswagen rolls out Tiguan with R-Line package

Volkswagen rolls out Tiguan with R-Line package originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>r-linetiguanvolkswagenvolkswagen rvolkswagen r gmbhvolkswagen r-linevolkswagen tiguanvolkswagen tiguan r-linevwMon, 07 Nov 2011 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20099821/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/07/volkswagen-rolls-out-tiguan-with-r-line-package/20099821/article-detail.xml 20099821 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/webtiguan-r-line1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/webtiguan-r-line1.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volkswagen Tiguan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Building Momentum With A Mid-Life Refresh

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
2012 Volkswagen Tiguan - Click above for high-res image gallery

At first blush, Munich seems like an awfully long way to travel for the chance to drive a mid-cycle refresh. But Volkswagen has good reason to ask us to schlep across the Atlantic to drive its updated-for-2012 Tiguan: Momentum.

The compact crossover had a bit of a knock-kneed start out of the gates when it arrived in the U.S. in May of 2008 as a 2009 model. While demand was spectacular at home in Europe, the VW failed to find early favor with North American shoppers, despite entering a white-hot segment. But that's rapidly changing. Last year, Tiguan sales increased from fewer than 14,000 units to nearly 21,000, and this year, it's on its way to a new record, selling almost 3,100 units in May alone. And thanks to a series of meaningful updates for 2012, there's every reason to believe that the kid brother of the pricey Touareg will continue to find increasing favor among consumers.

Continue reading 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen tiguanfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivetditiguantiguan dieselvolkswagenvwMon, 13 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19964471/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/13/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-first-drive-review/19964471/article-detail.xml 19964471 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-vw-tiguan---01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-vw-tiguan---01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[VW phasing out rearview cameras thanks to quake shortages?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/vw-phasing-out-rearview-cameras-thanks-to-quake-shortages/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/vw-phasing-out-rearview-cameras-thanks-to-quake-shortages/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/vw-phasing-out-rearview-cameras-thanks-to-quake-shortages/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

rear-view camera

It struck back on March 11th, 2011, but the earthquake in Japan continues to cause havoc all around the world in some unique ways. Rumor has it that if you were hoping to purchase a Volkswagen with a rearview camera, you're going to have to wait a while. According to AskaVWSalesGuy.com, Volkswagen has put a halt on backup camera installation on most vehicles in its lineup.

Affected models and trims include the CC Lux Plus, Lux Limited and VR6, all Touareg models and the Tiguan SEL with Premium Nav. Per the in-the-know VW sales guy, Volkswagen is on the hunt for a new supplier. We asked Volkswagen for comment and were told that the matter was being investigated.

VW phasing out rearview cameras thanks to quake shortages? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backup cameraccearthquakejapanjapan quakerear-view camerarearview cameratiguantouaregvolkswagenvwThu, 09 Jun 2011 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19948516/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/09/vw-phasing-out-rearview-cameras-thanks-to-quake-shortages/19948516/article-detail.xml 19948516 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/backup-camera-body-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/backup-camera-body-630.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen Tiguan to be built in North America?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/31/volkswagen-tiguan-to-be-built-in-north-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/31/volkswagen-tiguan-to-be-built-in-north-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/31/volkswagen-tiguan-to-be-built-in-north-america/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
2012 Volkswagen Tiguan - Click above for high-res image gallery

Volkswagen is reportedly seriously considering moving production of its compact Tiguan crossover to this side of the pond in an effort to cut costs. If the Tiguan moves to North America, it will likely be built alongside the Jetta and Passat. By moving production of the small CUV here, Volkswagen would cut down on shipping and labor costs, as well as put its plants closer to some parts suppliers.

According to Automotive News, VW execs hope such a move would stop exchange rate fluctuations diminishing profits from the world's number two car market and allow it to better stay ahead of consumer trends. The proposed move of Tiguan production coincides with the opening of VW's new $1 billion plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. If everything goes according to plan, the new plant will crank out 150,000 vehicles a year starting in 2012.

Volkswagen Tiguan to be built in North America? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 May 2011 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen jetta2012 volkswagen passat2012 volkswagen tiguanchattanoogachattanooga tennesseejettapassattennesseetiguanvolkswagenTue, 31 May 2011 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19953427/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/31/volkswagen-tiguan-to-be-built-in-north-america/19953427/article-detail.xml 19953427 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/volkswagen-tiguan-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/volkswagen-tiguan-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen gets cute with the Piñata in latest Tiguan spot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/04/volkswagen-gets-cute-with-the-pinata-in-latest-tiguan-spot/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/04/volkswagen-gets-cute-with-the-pinata-in-latest-tiguan-spot/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/04/volkswagen-gets-cute-with-the-pinata-in-latest-tiguan-spot/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

volkswagen tiguan pinata commercial
2011 Volkswagen Tiguan commercial - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The guys and gals in Volkswagen advertising have proven to be a clever bunch, as commercials like the Darth Vader Super Bowl spot have garnered as many copycats as any spot in recent memory. The Das Auto team appears to have pulled off more cleverness with a spanking new spot for the 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan, and we can see the spoofs in our heads already.

Hit the jump to watch as a young man with some serious anger management issues takes out his angst on an SUV-shaped Piñata. The little guy hammering away is funny enough (we wonder how many times the bat ricocheted off the Piñata and onto his head), but then the candy-packing vault turns to reveal... you'll have to hit the jump to see for yourself. Very clever, VW ad team.

Continue reading Volkswagen gets cute with the Piñata in latest Tiguan spot

Volkswagen gets cute with the Piñata in latest Tiguan spot originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 May 2011 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 volkswagen tiguandarth vader commercialfunny adfunny commercialtiguantiguan advolkswagenvolkswagen advolkswagen ad pinatavw advertisingWed, 04 May 2011 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19931751/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/04/volkswagen-gets-cute-with-the-pinata-in-latest-tiguan-spot/19931751/article-detail.xml 19931751 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/vw-pinata-commercial_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/vw-pinata-commercial.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen wants to bring three-row CUV, subcompact to U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/report-volkswagen-wants-to-bring-three-row-cuv-subcompact-to-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/report-volkswagen-wants-to-bring-three-row-cuv-subcompact-to-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/report-volkswagen-wants-to-bring-three-row-cuv-subcompact-to-u/#commentsFiled under: , ,

jonathan browning, vwVolkswagen is working hard to make sure it accomplishes its North American assimilation plan. In order to fully realize its ambitious 800,000-unit volume target, the automaker will be required to introduce an even greater variety of vehicles into its existing lineup. Jonathan Browning, CEO of Volkswagen North America, says that he and his team understand this, and a few new VW family members could wind up in U.S. dealer showrooms.

According to Car and Driver, Volkswagen believes that an additional crossover is needed to help round-out the lineup. This vehicle would need three-rows of passenger seating, and its crosshairs would target the likes of Ford's Explorer and the Honda Pilot. For whatever it's worth, the scuttlebutt we've heard is that VW is considering a stretched Tiguan to fill this duty, as a three-row Touareg would be too costly for the family-oriented segment.

Volkswagen could also be looking to go small. Though its current European-market Polo seems like an easy solution, VW believes that's not the case. The car is not ready for U.S. consumption, and it would require a bit of "Americanizing" before VW will sell you one.

We love the Polo and are looking forward to whatever form in which it arrives, but we'd love to see us some Scirocco and Amarok, too.

[Source: Car and Driver]

Volkswagen wants to bring three-row CUV, subcompact to U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browningcar and driverjonathan browningpolotiguanvolkswagenvolkswagen polovwvw crossoverTue, 26 Apr 2011 14:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19923015/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/26/report-volkswagen-wants-to-bring-three-row-cuv-subcompact-to-u/19923015/article-detail.xml 19923015 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/jonathan-browning_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/jonathan-browning.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volkswagen Tiguan shows its new face in Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-shows-its-new-face-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-shows-its-new-face-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-shows-its-new-face-in-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
2012 Volkswagen Tiguan - Click above for high-res image

The Volkswagen Tiguan is getting a makeover for the 2012 model year, and the changes will be on display this week at the Geneva Motor Show. Changes include a refreshed front end that incorporates the automaker's new sullen yet distinctive aesthetic.

The grille has been remade to mimic that of the new Jetta and Passat, with a pair of horizontal chrome strips that blend into the Tiguan's updated headlamps. Jumping up to the top SEL trim will net you updated peepers with Bi-Xenon lamps and the LED eyeliner treatment that seems to be all the rage these days. Volkswagen still hasn't released a photo of the Tiguan's new boot, but the post-jump press release tells us that the taillamps have been updated to reveal a "double L" pattern. SEL buyers will also get new 19-inch "Savannah" wheels designed by R GmbH.

VW made minor enhancements to the Tiguan's interior as well, including updated material choices and a rash of standard features. All 2012 Tiguan models will receive an eight-speaker sound system and Bluetooth, aux-in and heated side view mirrors.

The Tiguan will retain the excellent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, but fuel economy has been given a serious bump. VW claims the updated engine will fetch 29 miles per gallon in highway driving, up considerably from the 25 mpg of the outgoing model. Follow the jump to read over the the official press release, and click on the photo above for a closer look at the 2012 Tiguan.

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan shows its new face in Geneva

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan shows its new face in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 14:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen tiguangenevageneva 2011geneva motor shownew tiguantiguantiguan geneva 2011volkswagenMon, 28 Feb 2011 14:54:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19860196/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/28/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-shows-its-new-face-in-geneva/19860196/article-detail.xml 19860196 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-volkswagen-tiguan-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-volkswagen-tiguan-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volkswagen Tiguan ordering now underway in Europe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/05/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-ordering-now-underway-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/05/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-ordering-now-underway-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/05/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-ordering-now-underway-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
2012 Volkswagen Tiguan - Click above for high-res image gallery

While it won't make its official debut until March 1st at the Geneva Motor Show, European customers can begin ordering the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan compact SUV right now. VW made this announcement and released a small set of official photos yesterday (a leaked screencap also made the rounds earlier in the week).

The base price for the freshened Tiguan, whose styling reflects the automaker's new corporate design language, is set at €24,175 for the Trend & Fun trim, which features the 120-horsepower 1.4L four-cylinder TSI engine. Volkswagen says that it's opening up ordering so far in advance because the old Tiguan is sold out due to its popularity. VW is also quick to point out that the new-look Tiguan's base MSRP is unchanged from the previous version.

No other specs were released at this time, and we're still in the dark as to the updated Tiguan's U.S. launch timetable and pricing (we figure it'll be on hand at the New York Auto Show in April). More info will likely become available as we get closer to Geneva. In the meantime, check out the high-res gallery of the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan below. VW's press release is posted after the jump. Thanks to Kyle for the heads-up.


Gallery: 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan ordering now underway in Europe

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan ordering now underway in Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Feb 2011 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 volkswagen tiguan2012 vw tiguantiguanvolkswagenSat, 05 Feb 2011 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19830204/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/05/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-ordering-now-underway-in-europe/19830204/article-detail.xml 19830204 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/2012vwtiguanlo001_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/2012vwtiguanlo001.jpg <![CDATA[Restyled 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan leaks out ahead of Geneva debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/restyled-2012-volkswagen-tiguan-leaks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/restyled-2012-volkswagen-tiguan-leaks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/restyled-2012-volkswagen-tiguan-leaks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan

Here we have our first look at the facelifted 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan, courtesy of an apparent slip from the automaker's domestic website.

From the sole image we have so far, it looks like the Tiguan is getting a tweak to more closely resemble the new Touareg, with a new front end encompassing revised headlights with LED elements. The blue vehicle in the background also appears to feature off-road cladding incorporated into the front bumper.

Volkswagen is expected to debut the restyled SUV at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. Stay tuned for more.

[Source: Autopareri via autoblog.it]

Restyled 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan leaks out ahead of Geneva debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 geneva motor show2012 Volkswagen Tiguangenevageneva 2011geneva motor showTiguanVolkswagenThu, 03 Feb 2011 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19827545/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/03/restyled-2012-volkswagen-tiguan-leaks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/19827545/article-detail.xml 19827545 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/volkswagentiguanrestyling_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/volkswagentiguanrestyling.jpg <![CDATA[Opinion: VW webisodes with SNL's Bill Hader go awry [w/videos]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/opinion-vw-debuts-webisodes-with-snls-bill-hader-w-videos/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/opinion-vw-debuts-webisodes-with-snls-bill-hader-w-videos/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/opinion-vw-debuts-webisodes-with-snls-bill-hader-w-videos/#commentsFiled under: , ,

VW Jetta and Bill Hader
Bill Hader and the Volkswagen Jetta - Click above to watch the videos after the break

If you have watched Saturday Night Live the last couple of years, you may share my opinion that the only things truly funny is Weekend Update, when cast members do a really good parody of real people like Sarah Palin, Barack Obama and the like, or when the cast produces video set-pieces beforehand.

When the show goes into original sketches, it can be a long hard, painful, unfunny slog. And this brings me to a new set of video webisodes produced by Volkswagen and ad agency Deutsch/LA starring SNL cast-member Bill Hader.

Webisodes are an increasingly common and important marketing tool used by companies, especially automakers. Ford has especially been making wide use of them as it seeks to be king of social media. The thinking goes like this: We are limited to 30-second and 60-second ads on TV because of cost, but why not get jiggier with longer-form pieces on the net where we don't have to pay for time.

The best of this medium remains BMW's The Hire series of web films.

Click here to continue reading how VW went wrong.

Continue reading Opinion: VW webisodes with SNL's Bill Hader go awry [w/videos]

Opinion: VW webisodes with SNL's Bill Hader go awry [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill haderjettasaturday night livesnltiguanvolkswagenvwwebisodesFri, 07 Jan 2011 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19791744/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/07/opinion-vw-debuts-webisodes-with-snls-bill-hader-w-videos/19791744/article-detail.xml 19791744 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/vw-bill-hader_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/vw-bill-hader.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Bloomberg</i>: VW eying expanded SUV lineup for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/bloomberg-vw-eying-expanded-suv-lineup-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/bloomberg-vw-eying-expanded-suv-lineup-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/bloomberg-vw-eying-expanded-suv-lineup-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Volkswagen Touareg
2011 Volkswagen Touareg - Click above for high-res image gallery

All signs may be pointing to ever steeper gas prices by the end of the year, but according to Bloomberg, that may not be enough to stop Volkswagen from unleashing a new wave of SUVs (or more than likely, CUVs) on the American market. VW head honcho Jonathan Browning has been quoted as saying that the company wants to expand its portfolio of compact SUVs in short order, and that eventually, there may be room for growth in the larger SUV market as well. Of all the vehicles sold in the U.S. last year, SUVs and crossovers made up 29 percent of the mix.

As of right now, Volkswagen only offers two utility vehicles in the States - the compact Tiguan crossover, which, according to Bloomberg, sold 20,946 units last year and the larger Touareg SUV. Volkswagen only managed to move 4,713 Touareg models in the U.S. in 2010, but the new model (shown above) is expected to help the line's fortunes. The company's planned expansion of its SUV offerings is part of a larger offensive designed to net the company U.S. sales of one million vehicles by 2018. Doing so would mean tripling the company's current sales, so the automaker is invested in exploring new ways to bring buyers to the showroom.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg


Photos copyright (C)2010 Jonathon Ramsey / AOL

[Source: Bloomberg]

Bloomberg: VW eying expanded SUV lineup for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jonathan browningtiguantouaregvolkswagen suvvw suvFri, 07 Jan 2011 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19790303/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/07/bloomberg-vw-eying-expanded-suv-lineup-for-u-s/19790303/article-detail.xml 19790303 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/touareg-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/touareg-630.jpg -1 2