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[Reports: Phaeton coming back to the U.S... again *UPDATE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/report-phaeton-coming-back-to-the-u-s-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/report-phaeton-coming-back-to-the-u-s-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/report-phaeton-coming-back-to-the-u-s-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

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

This time, with feeling. According to both Bloomberg News and USA Today, Volkswagen is once again considering bringing the ill-fated Phaeton back to the U.S. market. The reasons behind the move are many, but center around VW's intention to triple its market share here in the land of the free by 2018. In order to do that, the company is planning on rolling out its luxury bruiser one more time, bolstered in part by the success Hyundai has seen with its Genesis sedan. Of course, that particular luxury cruiser doesn't cost anything close to the Phaeton's $85,000 MSRP - even the Korean automaker's forthcoming Equus range-topper will likely not command that sort of money - and its success in the U.S. remains as-yet unproven.

Bloomberg spoke with Juergen Borrmann, the director of the carmaker's Dresden facility. Borrmann said that the company is gunning for the U.S. and that by the time the model hits our parking lots, it will be completely reworked.

Consider us interested.

Supposedly, the American version will feature a slew of different engine choices compared to the cars currently on sale in Europe and China, as well as a significantly different interior materials. According to the report, our model will share very little with the next-generation car set to hit the market next month. Hey, if at first you don't succeed...

*Update: Volkswagen says that while it thinks that there are opportunities for the Phaeton in the U.S., right now no final decisions have been made. At the same time, the carmaker says that it is continually working with the Dresden plant to evaluate potential markets for the luxury sedan.


Gallery: 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton


[Sources: Bloomberg News, USA Today]

Reports: Phaeton coming back to the U.S... again *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dresdenPhaetonveedubVolkswagenVolkswagen PhaetonVolkswagenPhaetonVWVW PhaetonVwPhaetonThu, 19 Aug 2010 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19600077/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/19/report-phaeton-coming-back-to-the-u-s-again/19600077/article-detail.xml 19600077 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/phaeton-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/phaeton-630.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta gets with the (American) program]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/21/2011-volkswagen-jetta-first-drive-road-test-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/21/2011-volkswagen-jetta-first-drive-road-test-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/21/2011-volkswagen-jetta-first-drive-road-test-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


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

For Volkswagen of America, it doesn't get more brot-und-butter than the Jetta. Forced into the shadow of the best-selling Golf, VW Germany's refrain was "Sell more Golfs!" To which VoA would steadfastly reply, "Americans don't want hatchbacks!"

This went on for over two decades until the corporate mothership finally recognized that its compact sedan was what the people wanted Stateside. So for 2011, the Jetta has been restyled, reformed and reinvigorated with a new purpose: to take on the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, not to mention the Mazda3.

How? This story begins and ends with price. A 2011 Jetta in "S" trim will set you back just $15,995. Compare that to the 2010 model, which starts at $17,735, and the Civic and Corolla which clock in at $15,655 and $15,450, respectively. The "German premium" has finally been addressed. But at what cost? We trekked to San Francisco to find out.


Gallery: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta: First Drive


Photos by Damon Lavrinc / Copyright (C)2010 AOL

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta gets with the (American) program

First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta gets with the (American) program originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Jetta2011 jetta first drive2011 jetta review2011 Jetta road test2011 Jetta SEL2011 Volkswagen2011 vw jetta2011Jetta2011JettaFirstDrive2011JettaReview2011JettaRoadTest2011JettaSel2011Volkswagen2011VwJettafeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveGLIGolfJettajetta evaluationjetta reviewjetta road testJetta SELJettaEvaluationJettaReviewJettaRoadTestJettaSelVeedubVolkswagenvolkswagen jettaVolkswagenJettaVWvw jettaVwJettaWalter deSilvaWalterDesilvaWed, 21 Jul 2010 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19562218/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/21/2011-volkswagen-jetta-first-drive-road-test-review/19562218/article-detail.xml 19562218 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lead1vwjetta2011fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lead1vwjetta2011fd.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen reconfirms EVs for 2013, next-generation vehicles to reduce weight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/20/volkswagen-reconfirms-evs-for-2013-next-generation-vehicles-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/20/volkswagen-reconfirms-evs-for-2013-next-generation-vehicles-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/20/volkswagen-reconfirms-evs-for-2013-next-generation-vehicles-to/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Speaking outside its Electronics Research Lab in Palo Alto, California, Volkswagen chairman Dr. Martin Winterkorn reconfirmed the automaker's commitment to bring electric vehicles to market in 2013, beginning with the eGolf compact and eUp! city car.

Drawing a faint parallel to the original Beetle, Winterkorn told the assembled media that "Volkswagen is working on the electric car for everyone." And one of the first electrified V-Dubs will be its bread-and-butter Golf hatchback.

"The automotive industry is reinventing itself," Winterkorn continued, "and Volkswagen will be the first automaker to mass produce the electric car for everyone." VW believes that electric vehicles are the next great revolution in the automobile, and in order to achieve its goal of becoming the world's top automaker by 2018, it believes it has to dominate the EV segment.

In addition to bringing two EVs to market in the next three years, the Touareg Hybrid (shown above) is being produced, with the hybrid Golf and Jetta due later that year and the hybrid Passat following in 2012. All of which VW considers to be interim products.

Although current battery technology has limited the eGolf to a 100-mile range when fitted with a 26.5 kWh battery pack, Winterkorn asserts that "Our customers are not willing to compromise. They expect the same thing from a standard [internal-combustion engine] Golf as they would from an electric Golf." But until its partnerships with Samsung, Toshiba and other battery manufacturers pan out and develop lighter, smaller, less expensive and higher capacity batteries, they'll have their work cut out for them.

When asked what VW plans to do about vehicle weight, Winterkorn rattled off a litany of advanced materials - from carbon fiber to magnesium - and told Autoblog that the next generation of Volkswagen products will undergo a weight loss program.

[Image: Sean Gallup/Getty]

Volkswagen reconfirms EVs for 2013, next-generation vehicles to reduce weight originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E-upeGolfelectricelectric autoelectric carsElectricAutoElectricCarseupevEVsgolfmartin winterkornMartinWinterkornsamsungtoshibaupveedubvolkswagenvolkswagen golfVolkswagenGolfVolkwagen upVolkwagenUpvwvw golfVwGolfweight reductionWeightReductionwinterkornTue, 20 Jul 2010 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19560473/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/20/volkswagen-reconfirms-evs-for-2013-next-generation-vehicles-to/19560473/article-detail.xml 19560473 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/winterkorn-with-touareg-hybrid-getty-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/winterkorn-with-touareg-hybrid-getty-630.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Volkswagen CC set to get wagon variant. Wait, wha?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/14/rumormill-volkswagen-cc-set-to-get-wagon-variant-wait-wha/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/14/rumormill-volkswagen-cc-set-to-get-wagon-variant-wait-wha/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/14/rumormill-volkswagen-cc-set-to-get-wagon-variant-wait-wha/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Volkswagen CC - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're not sure if you've noticed, but we've officially entered the dog days of Summer. And while that means that temperatures have begun crawling their way to the triple digits in certain portions of the country, it also means that genuine auto industry news has slowed somewhat. Of course, that won't stop the interwebs from generating a very unique brand of news that's all its own. Where hard facts and quotes fail to materialize, the hallowed rumor will be more than happy to take over. In that spirit, Autocar is reporting that Volkswagen is mulling the creation of a long-roof version of its CC four-door coupe.

According to the UK publication, an unnamed source within the manufacturer leaked the plans for a CC wagon, and the company's board will vote on whether or not to build the vehicle later this year. The reasoning behind the model seems stable enough - Autocar says that since Passat is on its way out in the U.S. and the car's successor won't be available in wagon trim, the company will need something to fill the void. But the CC? Really? Time will tell, we suppose, but call us skeptical on this one. If true, we're fully expecting VW to claim that it is poised to build the world's first five-door coupe - you know, if Mercedes-Benz doesn't beat them to the punch.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Volkswagen CC Sport

volkswagenccreview_01volkswagenccreview_02volkswagenccreview_03volkswagenccreview_04volkswagenccreview_05

[Source: Autocar]
Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Rumormill: Volkswagen CC set to get wagon variant. Wait, wha? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autocarCCCC WagonCcWagonpassatpassat ccPassatCcRumorveedubVolkswagen CCVolkswagen CC WagonVolkswagenCcVolkswagenCcWagonvwVW CCVwCcMon, 14 Jun 2010 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19514965/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/14/rumormill-volkswagen-cc-set-to-get-wagon-variant-wait-wha/19514965/article-detail.xml 19514965 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/cc-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/cc-630.jpg <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Volkswagen releases full slate of 2011 Phaeton images and info]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/09/pics-aplenty-volkswagen-releases-full-slate-of-2011-phaeton-ima/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/09/pics-aplenty-volkswagen-releases-full-slate-of-2011-phaeton-ima/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/09/pics-aplenty-volkswagen-releases-full-slate-of-2011-phaeton-ima/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

It's not surprising that the latest batch of photos of the reworked 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton were all taken in China. The Middle Kingdom is by far the biggest market for VW where wealthy executives prefer to be driven rather than get behind the wheel. As we already witnessed at the Beijing Motor Show, the Phaeton has now adopted the same horizontal theme for its fascia that we have seen on every other recent Volkswagen introduction, and the headlamp clusters now feature LED eyeliner running lamps.

Interestingly, the Phaeton is the first car to incorporate the ability to download Google Maps satellite imagery and points of interest data over a mobile phone. The new information can be overlaid on the built-in navigation maps to provide a vastly expanded and up-to-date database of information compared to the static data that can be stored on-board the car.

A camera behind the windshield can actually read traffic signs and display information like speed limits and no-passing zones on the navigation screen and the driver information display in the main instrument cluster. The camera can also scan the surroundings for other cars that could suffer glare from the bi-xenon headlamps and mask portions of the lights to cut that glare. We'll be curious to see just how well the Dynamic Light Assist works at maintaining light for the driver without blinding others. While you ponder all of that technology, check out our high-res gallery below and the official press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: Volkswagen releases full slate of 2011 Phaeton images and info

Pics Aplenty: Volkswagen releases full slate of 2011 Phaeton images and info originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Jun 2010 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Volkswagen2011 volkswagen phaeton2011Volkswagen2011VolkswagenPhaetonphaetonveedubvolkswagenvolkswagen of chinavolkswagen phaetonVolkswagenOfChinaVolkswagenPhaetonvwvw of chinaVwOfChinaWed, 09 Jun 2010 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19508748/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/09/pics-aplenty-volkswagen-releases-full-slate-of-2011-phaeton-ima/19508748/article-detail.xml 19508748 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/db2010au00559largeopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/db2010au00559largeopt.jpg <![CDATA[Officially Official: Volkswagen Polo GTI, 177 hp, 40 mpg and plaid seats!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/10/officially-official-volkswagen-polo-gti-177-hp-40-mpg-and-pla/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/10/officially-official-volkswagen-polo-gti-177-hp-40-mpg-and-pla/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/10/officially-official-volkswagen-polo-gti-177-hp-40-mpg-and-pla/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Volkswagen Polo GTI - Click above for high-res image gallery

Volkswagen has fleshed out its latest generation Polo lineup with the introduction of a new GTI variant. This latest GTI has the same output as the last hot Pol,o but now produces it on one-quarter less petrol. Each and every one of its 177 horsepower now comes from VW's twin-charged 1.4-liter TSI inline-four with direct injection, a turbocharger and a mechanical supercharger. The combined fuel efficiency goes from 29.8 miles per gallon to 39.9 mpg on the EU test cycle.

The Polo GTI gets a similar rounded five spoke wheel design to its big brother, the Golf GTI, along with the obligatory red brake calipers and trim on the grille. Note, too, that this is the first Polo to get LED eyeliner running lamps and corner markers along with bi-xenon headlamps. In proper GTI fashion, the seats are covered in a plaid fabric just like the originals of three decades ago. In fact, with the growth of the Golf over six generations, this Polo is actually almost the same size as the original Golf.

Interestingly, the Polo GTI only comes with the quick shifting seven-speed DSG gearbox and sprints to 62 miles per hour in just 6.9 seconds, and handling will be aided by VW's electronic differential lock, which is said to reduce oversteer.


Gallery: 2011 Volkswagen Polo GTI


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Officially Official: Volkswagen Polo GTI, 177 hp, 40 mpg and plaid seats!

Officially Official: Volkswagen Polo GTI, 177 hp, 40 mpg and plaid seats! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 May 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Volkswagen2011 volkswagen polo2011 Volkswagen Polo GTI2011Volkswagen2011VolkswagenPolo2011VolkswagenPoloGtiGTIpolotwinchargerveedubvolkswagenVolkswagen PoloVolkswagen Polo GTIVolkswagenPoloVolkswagenPoloGtivw poloVwPoloMon, 10 May 2010 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19470771/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/10/officially-official-volkswagen-polo-gti-177-hp-40-mpg-and-pla/19470771/article-detail.xml 19470771 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/db2010au00150medium-copy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/db2010au00150medium-copy.jpg <![CDATA[Why It's Not Coming Here: VW Amarok priced at $35k in Europe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/20/why-its-not-coming-here-vw-amarok-priced-at-35k-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/20/why-its-not-coming-here-vw-amarok-priced-at-35k-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/20/why-its-not-coming-here-vw-amarok-priced-at-35k-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Volkswagen Amarok - Click above for high-res image gallery

One of the last details concerning the Volkswagen Amarok, its price in euros, has been filled in: €26,203, or $35,260 U.S. in the ever misleading straight-up conversion from euros to dollars. Subtracting the 19 percent duty folded into that price in Germany, you're still left spending €21,224, or $28,555 U.S. That's what you call "Holy smokes!"

If we want to make the admittedly difficult attempt to put some context around that without diving into European taxes and price structures, let's take the Golf. The most basic two-door version is €16,650, or $22,399 U.S. Subtract that 19 percent duty and you're at €13,487, which is $18,144. That matches up quite nicely with the U.S. price for the base two-door model: $17,620.

Back to that bog-standard Amarok - at $28,555, you're just a grand short of a Ford F-150 XL Super Cab, which decimates the 122-horsepower Amarok in everything but gas mileage. By the time you get to the Amarok in Highline trim, you're up to 163 hp and you've added four-wheel-drive, but you've also got a €37,169 ($50,022 U.S.) bill before taxes and fees. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is why there will be zero VW Amaroks sold in these fifty states. For the rest of you, start saving.


Gallery: Volkswagen Amarok


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Why It's Not Coming Here: VW Amarok priced at $35k in Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Apr 2010 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 amarok2011Amarokamarokveedubvolkswagenvolkswagen amarokvolkswagen pickupVolkswagenAmarokVolkswagenPickupvwvw amarokvw pickupVwAmarokVwPickupTue, 20 Apr 2010 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19446386/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/20/why-its-not-coming-here-vw-amarok-priced-at-35k-in-europe/19446386/article-detail.xml 19446386 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/amarokpricedeu-1271745735_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/amarokpricedeu-1271745735.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI delivers potent one-two punch of efficiency and entertainment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/14/2010-volkswagen-golf-tdi-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/14/2010-volkswagen-golf-tdi-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/14/2010-volkswagen-golf-tdi-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI - click above for high-res image gallery

It's time for American consumers to stop being scared of small diesel cars. Currently, we can't think of a single automaker that isn't shelling out bags of money to research and develop new hybrid powertrains - cars that are efficient first and fun-to-drive second (or third, or fourth). Diesel vehicles, on the other hand, offer a different sort of solution. Gobs of torque delivered at low revs and impressive fuel economy work together without sacrificing too much in the way of driving pleasure. Besides, does anyone really want to live in "One Nation Under Prius?"

Volkswagen introduced us to its new Jetta TDI a little over a year ago, proving that clean diesel technology offers a way forward for anyone who gives a hoot about driver involvement. Now, the automaker has fitted its well-received 2.0-liter diesel engine in the all-new sixth-generation Golf. Can this hatch prove to America that it's possible to fuse efficiency and enthusiasm together in a high-quality package? Can you really have your cake and eat it, too? Hit the jump to find out.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI delivers potent one-two punch of efficiency and entertainment

Review: 2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI delivers potent one-two punch of efficiency and entertainment originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Apr 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Golf2010 Volkswagen Golf2010Golf2010VolkswagenGolfdieselfeaturedgolfgolf reviewgolf road testgolf tdiGolfReviewGolfRoadTestGolfTdirabbitreviewroad testRoadTestTDIVeedubvolkswagenvolkswagen golf tdivolkswagen rabbitvolkswagen road testVolkswagenGolfTdiVolkswagenRabbitVolkswagenRoadTestvw golf reviewvw rabbitVwGolfReviewVwRabbitWed, 14 Apr 2010 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19438248/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/14/2010-volkswagen-golf-tdi-review/19438248/article-detail.xml 19438248 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/lead1vwgolftdireview2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/lead1vwgolftdireview2010.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Get Shorty - VW Amarok goes single-cab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/16/spy-shots-get-shorty-vw-amarok-goes-single-cab/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/16/spy-shots-get-shorty-vw-amarok-goes-single-cab/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/16/spy-shots-get-shorty-vw-amarok-goes-single-cab/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Spy Shots: Volkswagen Amarok single-cab - Click above for high-res image gallery

Is the two-door, single-cab pickup truck a thing of the past? Sometimes it seems that way, and judging by the distinct lack of bench seats and long beds we see roaming the parking lots at the local Home Depot, most of us prefer an extra set of doors and a couple more seat belts in lieu of a lower price. Looking around the streets of small-town America, though, not to mention other countries that depend on the personal pickup truck, there's still a need for an honest-to-goodness little work truck - and that often means a single cab.

Volkswagen appears to realize this fact, and here are the spy photos to prove it. Somewhat surprisingly, VW doesn't seem the least bit concerned with camouflaging these single-cab Amaroks, despite the fact that the German automaker has so far only offered a dual-cab configuration. We have no idea when this two-door Amarok may hit the global market, but we'd expect to see the same 2.0-liter common-rail turbo diesel four-cylinder with 163 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and we still don't expect to see it in the U.S.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Volkswagen Amarok single-cab


[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: Get Shorty - VW Amarok goes single-cab originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarokamarok single cabamarok single-cabAmarokSingle-cabAmarokSingleCabpickupsingle cabsingle-cabSingleCabVeeDubvolkswagenvolkswagen amarokVolkswagenAmarokvwVW AmarokVwAmarokTue, 16 Feb 2010 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19360007/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/16/spy-shots-get-shorty-vw-amarok-goes-single-cab/19360007/article-detail.xml 19360007 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/vw-amarok-single-spy-2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/vw-amarok-single-spy-2.jpg <![CDATA[Report: VW's Jacoby says brand will double U.S. sales in 2-3 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/13/report-vws-jacoby-says-brand-will-double-u-s-sales-in-2-3-yea/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/13/report-vws-jacoby-says-brand-will-double-u-s-sales-in-2-3-yea/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/13/report-vws-jacoby-says-brand-will-double-u-s-sales-in-2-3-yea/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Volkswagen of America's President and CEO Stefan Jacoby is bullish on the future of the people's car company - so much so that he feels sales of his brand in the U.S. will double within the next few years. Automotive News reports that the German exec has estimated that sales will reach "400,000 to 450,000 vehicles." Even without the sour state of the economy, those are massively ambitious figures: VW sold just 213,454 cars and crossovers in America in 2009, down four percent versus the company's 2008 numbers.

Jacoby didn't give specific reasons for the increase in sales projections, but his numbers would appear to fall in line with VW's goal to sell 800,000 vehicles in the U.S. market by 2018. Wolfsburg is also optimistic that industry-wide U.S. sales will settle somewhere around 15 million units per year in the next few years; still about two million units shy of peak sales figures a few years back, but still 40 percent better than 2009 levels. VW is projecting U.S. auto sales to hit up to 11.5 million units this year.

At present, VW's U.S. operations are not profitable, but Jacoby believes that the region may become profitable in 2013.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Report: VW's Jacoby says brand will double U.S. sales in 2-3 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Jan 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>stefan jacobyStefanJacobystephan jacobyStephanJacobyVeedubvolkswagenvolkswagen salesVolkswagenSalesvwVWAGWed, 13 Jan 2010 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19311592/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/13/report-vws-jacoby-says-brand-will-double-u-s-sales-in-2-3-yea/19311592/article-detail.xml 19311592 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/vw-jacoby-630-getty-blue_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/vw-jacoby-630-getty-blue.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: VW finished eating companies, will now focus on digestion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/report-vw-finished-eating-companies-will-now-focus-on-digestio/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/report-vw-finished-eating-companies-will-now-focus-on-digestio/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/report-vw-finished-eating-companies-will-now-focus-on-digestio/#commentsFiled under: ,



We have a feeling historians will spending a fair portion of next few years finding new words to describe just how bad this year was for the auto industry. And then, at some point, they'll get around to Volkswagen, a company that has been zagging while almost all others zigged. Over the last twelve months, VW has taken a stake in Suzuki, bought Karmann, won European Car of the Year, won the Dakar Rally, turned its eye to F1, released a litter of well received cars, put autonomous cars everywhere, thrown huge money at hybrids and electric cars, and made recycling fun. And it's building a $125 million dealership in Manhattan. And then there was that whole Porsche thing. And it took the crown of No. 1 automaker. We could continue, but there's a post to finish...

When it comes to mergers and acquisitions, remarks from company CEO Martin Winterkorn suggest that VW is finished doing its impression of 18th century England. "We are satisfied with the current line-up," he has told Automotive News. "I don't see any need (for further M&A activity)." That, in spite of his assertion that other companies "want to come under our roof."

VW will focus on what is sure to be a busy year ahead, integrating Porsche and its interest in Suzuki, at the same time as it gears up Karmann's factory for the Boxster, and builds its U.S. plant and prepares its new NMS model. Winterkorn is expecting VW's market share to increase in 2010, which might solidify a place at the top position; although after the shellacking General Motors and Toyota took while they wore the crowns, we don't know why VW would want the attention. And as for the end of M&A, perhaps Winterkorn hasn't heard the rumor about Piech's eyes on Ducati...

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

REPORT: VW finished eating companies, will now focus on digestion originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MAmartin winterkornMartinWinterkornmergersmergers and acquisitionsMergersAndAcquisitionstakeoverVeedubvolkswagenvwwinterkornMon, 21 Dec 2009 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19288870/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/21/report-vw-finished-eating-companies-will-now-focus-on-digestio/19288870/article-detail.xml 19288870 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/vw_no_ma_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/vw_no_ma.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line now on sale - in Europe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/volkswagen-passat-cc-r-line-now-on-sale-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/volkswagen-passat-cc-r-line-now-on-sale-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/volkswagen-passat-cc-r-line-now-on-sale-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2010 Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line - Click above for high-res image gallery

Volkswagen just opened the order book on the Passat CC with the R-Line package in Europe. We saw this car at the Frankfurt Motor Show and were completely smitten with it. Taking the regular CC's swoopy coupedan shape and adding the R-Line package makes it just about perfect. What stops it from being perfect is the fact that the R-Line package doesn't add any oomph. Just like Audi's S-Line, its alterations are mainly cosmetic.

The R-Line package adds an aero kit, surprisingly modest "Mallory" pattern 17-inch wheels, R-Line emblems, smoked taillights, R-Line aluminum sill plates, a unique three-spoke multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel, front foglamps, and the Park Pilot system.

It becomes the eighth R-Line model in Volkswagen's lineup and will add 2,200 euro to the price of your CC - about $3,200 in Yankee bucks. Full press release after the jump and plenty of live and press pics below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Volkswagen CC R


Photos by Jonny Lieberman / Copyright (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.

Gallery: 2010 Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line now on sale - in Europe

Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line now on sale - in Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Volkswagen CC2010 Volkswagen CC R2010 Volkswagen CC R-line2010VolkswagenCc2010VolkswagenCcR2010VolkswagenCcR-lineCCcc r-lineCcR-linepassatpassat ccpassat cc r-linePassatCcPassatCcR-lineR-LineVeedubvolkswagenVolkswagen CCVolkswagen CC R-LineVolkswagen Passatvolkswagen passat cc r-lineVolkswagenCcVolkswagenCcR-lineVolkswagenPassatVolkswagenPassatCcR-lineVWvw ccvw cc r-lineVW passatvw passat ccvw passat cc rvw passat cc r-lineVwCcVwCcR-lineVwPassatVwPassatCcVwPassatCcRVwPassatCcR-lineWed, 16 Dec 2009 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19283357/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/16/volkswagen-passat-cc-r-line-now-on-sale-in-europe/19283357/article-detail.xml 19283357 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/01-cc-r-live-620op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/01-cc-r-live-620op.jpg <![CDATA[New VW Beetle coming in two years, Scirocco still not in cards for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/new-vw-beetle-coming-in-two-years-scirocco-still-not-in-cards-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/new-vw-beetle-coming-in-two-years-scirocco-still-not-in-cards-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/new-vw-beetle-coming-in-two-years-scirocco-still-not-in-cards-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Malibu Barbie VW New Beetle Convertible - click above for high-res gallery

We're in Wolfsburg, Germany right now for the launch drive of the 2010 Volkswagen Golf and we've just returned from a presentation at the company's design center with Walter de Silva. We'll have more on de Silva's comments a little later, but first, we did have a chance to chat with VW of America CEO Stefan Jacoby about future products.

First up, despite de Silva's promise that VW wont do retro designs, there is a new New Beetle coming. When the NB debuted a decade ago, we lamented the fact that it officially carried the "New" prefix (unfortunately, Autoblog was not yet born so no one at VW heard our complaints). This time around it will just be called "Beetle." Contrary to some speculation that it might move to the NSF platform of the forthcoming Up! model, the Beetle will still ride on the Golf's chassis when it appears in two years. Jacoby didn't say how the next Beetle might change to meet de Silva's "no retro" statement, but it will continue to fill VW's niche quotient.

Speaking of niches, the Scirocco remains dead to us, despite the fact that Lower Saxony seems to be crawling with them. The problem, Jacoby explains, is that the Scirroco appeals to almost exactly the same buyers who opt for the GTI. Company research indicates that there would be almost no incremental sales increase with the Scirroco, instead it would just cannibalize the GTI. Why not just replace the GTI? Adding the coupe would be another niche product that requires more parts inventory, training, marketing dollars and so on. While we as enthusiasts might want another coupe, the numbers just don't add up for VW - especially when every Euro costs $1.47. Sorry.


Gallery: Malibu Barbie VW New Beetle Convertible



New VW Beetle coming in two years, Scirocco still not in cards for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beetleNew BeetleNewBeetleSciroccostefan jacobyStefanJacobyVeedubvolkswagenVolkswagen BeetleVolkswagen bugVolkswagenBeetleVolkswagenBugVWVW BeetleVW bugVW SciroccoVwBeetleVwBugVwSciroccoWalter de SilvaWalterDeSilvaWed, 07 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19187485/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/07/new-vw-beetle-coming-in-two-years-scirocco-still-not-in-cards-f/19187485/article-detail.xml 19187485 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/vw-barbie-beetle-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/vw-barbie-beetle-630.jpg <![CDATA[VIDEO: VW channels <i>Back to the Future</i>, <i>Grease</i> for new Polo ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/video-vw-channels-i-back-to-the-future-i-i-grease-i-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/video-vw-channels-i-back-to-the-future-i-i-grease-i-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/06/video-vw-channels-i-back-to-the-future-i-i-grease-i-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Volkswagen Polo Commercial - click above image to watch the video

A few months ago, we found ourselves aimlessly and fortuitously wandering around the nether regions of a Los Angeles based press fleet's deep storage unit. Total "no cameras" zone. We stumbled in deeper and deeper, past the A8s used for Transporter 3, past the bright pink Mattel Barbie VW Routan and matching pink Barbie New Beetle Convertible with a motorized make-up valise that emerges from the trunk. Suddenly, lo and behold, there's a red 2009 Volkswagen Polo in all its Euro-only glory. Can we drive it? No. Please? No. Come on, man - just a quick drive? No, also - no.

So why is a Volkswagen Polo socked away in the very back of a warehouse? For a commercial, man. And it's actually a pretty nifty commercial, reminiscent of the town square scenes in Back to the Future. They even use the same Universal Studios back lot to film the new Polo spot. However, instead Marty McFly leading Biff and the baddies into the back of a manure truck, the commercial transitions to a Grease-like drag race between the Polo and some sort of chopped '50s zeitgeist flame job convertible - we'll go with custom Buick Roadmaster (or... 1953 Packard). Anyhow, we're not going to spoil the ending, beyond letting you know that the Polo wins. Make the jump to watch the video. UPDATE: ha ha ha.


Gallery: 2010 Volkswagen Polo


[Source:Volkswagen via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: VW channels Back to the Future, Grease for new Polo ad

VIDEO: VW channels Back to the Future, Grease for new Polo ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Back to the FutureBackToTheFutureBuick RoadmasterBuickRoadmasterGreaseGrease movieGreaseMoviePoloVeedubVolkswagenVolkswagen PoloVolkswagenPoloVWVW poloVwPoloTue, 06 Oct 2009 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19179502/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/06/video-vw-channels-i-back-to-the-future-i-i-grease-i-for/19179502/article-detail.xml 19179502 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/polo50s_lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/polo50s_lead.jpg <![CDATA[Hans Gruber, Your Ride Is Here: Volkswagen rolls out White Night Eos special edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/volkswagen-rolls-out-white-night-eos-special-edition-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/volkswagen-rolls-out-white-night-eos-special-edition-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/volkswagen-rolls-out-white-night-eos-special-edition-model/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Volkswagen Eos White Nights - Click above for high-res image gallery

We know that Volkswagen's new special-edition Eos isn't named after a mythical cavalry figure on an ivory steed, but when we heard that the automaker's latest model has been dubbed White Night, we couldn't get Harry Ellis, the cloying stereotypical Eighties businessman from the original Die Hard movie out of our heads ("Hans... Boobie... I'm your White Knight."). Given that the terrorists in this seminal Bruce Willis film are equally stereotypically cold Germans, we're not sure that authorities at the Deutsche automaker will appreciate what came to mind for us, but we digress.

In any case, the Eos White Night is big on contrast, with a Candy White body offset by a Deep Black Pearlescent roof, side mirrors, and radiator grille. The look is an interesting one, as it uproots one of the inherent strengths that the folding hardtop convertible medium achieves best - the ability to have a matching body shell and roof, something that isn't as easily achieved with a conventional folding cloth top.

In addition to the contrasting black-and-white motif, the White Night also receives cherry-red LED taillights, 18-inch "Budapest" alloys, as well as nappa black leather with contrasting light seams, White Night sill panels, and Candy White trim strips. Every White Night comes equipped with automatic climate control, sports suspension (lowered 15 mm) and heated front seats.

The special edition Eos is available for order with any engine save the gasoline V6 - but at this time, it is a Europe only model that starts at a tidy €33,140 (over $46k USD!). 1980's White Nights Mercury Sable owners, eat your heart out.

High-res gallery below, official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Volkswagen Eos White Nights


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Hans Gruber, Your Ride Is Here: Volkswagen rolls out White Night Eos special edition

Hans Gruber, Your Ride Is Here: Volkswagen rolls out White Night Eos special edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 May 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bruce WillisBruceWillisDie HardDiehardEoshardtop convertibleHardtopConvertibleVeedubvolkswagenVolkswagen EosVolkswagenEosVWWhite NightsWhiteNightsThu, 28 May 2009 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19050800/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/05/28/volkswagen-rolls-out-white-night-eos-special-edition-model/19050800/article-detail.xml 19050800 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/white-nights-eos-580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/white-nights-eos-580.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen gives Brits racier-looking Tiguan R Line]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/15/volkswagen-gives-brits-racier-looking-tiguan-r-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/15/volkswagen-gives-brits-racier-looking-tiguan-r-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/15/volkswagen-gives-brits-racier-looking-tiguan-r-line/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Volkswagen Tiguan R Line - Click above for a high-res gallery

In the States, Volkswagen's Tiguan has been struggling to find buyers, but over in Europe, there the cute-ute has been going gangbusters, enjoying wait-list levels of popularity.

No surprise, then, that it's Europe that will get a racier looking model first. Dubbed "R Line," the pumped-up Tiguan is primarily an appearance package, not really a full-blown performance model. In any case, the Tig benefits from a reworked front-end including a revised splitter and a matte chrome-finish grille, although perhaps the most distinctive element of the crossover's transformation are the fender flares that house a set of 19-inch alloys, which are tied together by a new set of side sills. Out back, there's a new bumper fascia incorporating an air diffuser motif and a discrete spoiler. All-in, it's a clean looking package that reminds us of VW's Tiguan concept from SEMA in 2008, albeit better resolved with a more unified appearance, particularly along the bodysides.

There are the usual interior upgrades for this sort of package as well, including R branded sport seats, aluminum pedal pads and trim, and additional standard equipment like dual-zone climate control. The biggest departure, however, is the fitment of a flat-bottomed wheel, a familiar looking (but entirely welcome) addition.

Volkswagen is providing no information about driveline upgrades, so for now, at least, the buyer apparently gets his or her choice of the same 2.0-liter TSI gasoline four-cylinder or either of a pair of 2.0-liter TDI diesels available in lesser versions. The Tiguan R Line will hit UK dealers in June, with prices ranging from £24,635 (nearly $37k USD) for the less powerful TDI on up to £26,305 (over $39k USD) for TSI engine.

VW remains mum on any plans for the States, but given the trickle of Tigs leaving dealers at the moment, it may be a tough sell. On the other hand, a racier looking model may be exactly what is required to jumpstart interest in the model, so who knows? Official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Volkswagen Tiguan R Line


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Volkswagen gives Brits racier-looking Tiguan R Line

Volkswagen gives Brits racier-looking Tiguan R Line originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossovercute-uteCUVR LineR-LineRLineTiguanVeedubVolkswagenVolkswagen UKVolkswagenUkVWVW UKVwUkWed, 15 Apr 2009 17:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1518106/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/04/15/volkswagen-gives-brits-racier-looking-tiguan-r-line/1518106/article-detail.xml 1518106 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/vw-tig-r-580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/vw-tig-r-580.jpg <![CDATA[It's official: Volkswagen not bringing Scirocco to U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/06/its-official-volkswagen-not-bringing-scirocco-to-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/06/its-official-volkswagen-not-bringing-scirocco-to-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/06/its-official-volkswagen-not-bringing-scirocco-to-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Volkswagen Scirocco - Click above for high-res gallery

Word leaked late last week via an official-looking dealer communiqué that Volkswagen had finally decided to pass on bringing the Scirocco to the U.S., but to the best of our knowledge, nobody has gotten first-hand confirmation that the sporty hatchback will not make it across The Pond - until now.

We just got off the phone with Tom Wegehaupt, Volkswagen' of America's public relations coordinator, and he has given us an on-the-record confirmation that the car will not be coming to the U.S. Apparently, the business case just couldn't be made for the car, what with fears of the model cannibalizing sales of the forthcoming GTI and the health of the auto market.

We imagine that other factors were at work too, including the sour economy at large, America's historic aversion to hatchbacks, the short shelf-life of most sports-car models, and so on. Either way, if you want a sporting hatch from Wolfsburg, it looks like you're going to have to slake your performance joneses with something badged G-T-I.


Gallery: 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco

It's official: Volkswagen not bringing Scirocco to U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Apr 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsGTIhatchbackSciroccosports carSportsCarVeedubVolkswagenVWWegehauptMon, 06 Apr 2009 15:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1509495/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/04/06/its-official-volkswagen-not-bringing-scirocco-to-u-s/1509495/article-detail.xml 1509495 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/scirocco-live-001_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/scirocco-live-001.jpg <![CDATA[Leapin' Leipzig! Volkswagen Golf GTD details and photos released]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/27/volkswagen-golf-gtd-details-and-photos-released/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/27/volkswagen-golf-gtd-details-and-photos-released/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/27/volkswagen-golf-gtd-details-and-photos-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2010 Volkswagen Golf GTD - Click above for a high res gallery

Volkswagen is set to introduce the world to its new Volkswagen Golf GTD at the Leipzig Motor Show in Germany. What we have here is the basic GTI package, except that the wonderful gas-powered 2.0-liter turbo engine that powers VW's latest hot hatch has been yanked in favor of a new high-performance turbo diesel engine (also displacing 2.0 liters) that offers up 168 horsepower and, just as importantly, about 260 lb-ft of torque. VW says the new drivetrain package is enough to scoot the new GTD to 60 mph in about eight seconds. European combined fuel economy is rated at 44.4 mpg (U.S.) with CO2 emissions of 139 g/km.

On the outside, the GTD features all of the exterior differentiation of the GTI, except that the red exterior accents are now done in chrome. Step inside, and you'll be greeted with VW's signature plaid seating surfaces, though the red fabrics and stitching are now done in light grey. German sales of the GTD will begin in May, with the rest of Europe likely following shortly thereafter. So far, there's no official word on whether the GTD is coming to America, but signs point to "Yes." Press release after the break.


Gallery: 2010 Volkswagen Golf GTD


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Leapin' Leipzig! Volkswagen Golf GTD details and photos released

Leapin' Leipzig! Volkswagen Golf GTD details and photos released originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselgreenleipzig motor showLeipzigMotorShowVeedubvolkswagenvolkswagen golfvolkswagen golf gtdVolkswagen RabbitVolkswagenGolfVolkswagenGolfGtdVolkswagenRabbitVWvw golf gtdVW RabbitVwGolfGtdVwRabbitFri, 27 Mar 2009 12:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1500295/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/03/27/volkswagen-golf-gtd-details-and-photos-released/1500295/article-detail.xml 1500295 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/vw_golf_gtd_580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/vw_golf_gtd_580.jpg <![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Volkswagen Golf VII already in the cards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/rendered-speculation-volkswagen-golf-vii-already-in-the-cards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/rendered-speculation-volkswagen-golf-vii-already-in-the-cards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/rendered-speculation-volkswagen-golf-vii-already-in-the-cards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The current Volkswagen Golf (a.k.a. "Rabbit"), which is a 2010 model, hasn't made it through the front nine, and already the next Golf is being teed up behind it. The new model is planned for 2012, two years earlier than planned, perhaps because VW wants to recast what the Golf represents with a return to frugal-yet-sporty motoring.

If these AutoExpress renderings are at all accurate, the reskin won't make your jaw drop, as there is little planned for the hatch's exterior save for a few tweaks. It is the philosophy of the car that takes a new stand, however: the Mk VII is rumored to ride on a smaller platform than the MkVI, borrow parts from the Polo, employ lightweight body panels, and get VW's Twin Drive plug-in diesel hybrid engines.

The focus on reduced weight will mean more punch from VW's smaller TDI engines. The Twin Drive, which is three electric motors mated to a 1.5-liter diesel, works on battery power alone at 31 miles-per-hour or below, and doubles the gas mileage of the 2.0-liter TDI. VW is also working on a Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) that ditches the spark plugs in a gas engine to give it the fuel efficiency of a diesel. If VW can bring all of those things together in a couple of years and keep the fun-to-drive factor, the MkVII Golf sounds like a clear winner.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Rendered Speculation: Volkswagen Golf VII already in the cards originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativecoupegolfgolf mkvigolf mkviigolf viGolfMkviGolfMkviiGolfVigreenhatchbackhybridrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationVeedubvolkswagenvolkswagen golfVolkswagenGolfvwvw golfvw golf mkvivw golf mkviiVwGolfVwGolfMkviVwGolfMkviiWed, 25 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1470737/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/02/25/rendered-speculation-volkswagen-golf-vii-already-in-the-cards/1470737/article-detail.xml 1470737 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/golf_mkvii_4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/golf_mkvii_4.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2009: Volkswagen CC Gold Coast concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/13/chicago-2009-volkswagen-passat-cc-gold-coast-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/13/chicago-2009-volkswagen-passat-cc-gold-coast-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/13/chicago-2009-volkswagen-passat-cc-gold-coast-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the VW CC Gold Coast concept


It made its debut over the summer at Pebble Beach. It showed up again in November at SEMA. And finally, we have a set of our own live shots of the CC Gold Coast concept because Volkswagen sent the swanky 4-door to Chi-town.

The Gold Coast is doused in a rich-looking brown finish dubbed "Pepe Pepper" by DuPont, and it adopts a squat, muscular stance riding on a set of KW coilovers. 19-inch wheels fill out the wells nicely, and a full ground effects kit brings the look even closer to the ground. Veedub's 280-horsepower 3.6 FSI V6 sits underhood, mated to a six-speed DSG. Stopping power on this looker is further enhanced with a set of the Audi R8's ceramic discs in front.

While the CC Gold Coast is technically a concept, VW's making sure it gets in front of as many eyes as possible. Hence, we wouldn't be surprised to see the "concept" moniker eventually turn into "special edition" - minus those supercar stoppers.

Gallery: Chicago 2009: Volkswagen CC Gold Coast


Photos copyright Frank Filipponio/ Weblogs, Inc.

Chicago 2009: Volkswagen CC Gold Coast concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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