Entries by VW Golf

Being one of the biggest automakers in Europe, VW is always on the lookout of ways to increase its sales and production. This year, its strategy is to bring in new models in India to help boost up its already high sales.

VW announced that it will be launching two new models in India and after its Indian plant has been completed nest year, it plans to produce 110,000 vehicles annually as well.

The president of VW India, Joerg Mueller, said, “We will get our ‘Jetta’ (sedan) to the Indian market this summer while the luxury sedan ‘Phaeton’ will also be introduced this year.”

The Indian auto market is already fast-growing and so giant automakers such as Volkswagen are already fast-exploring their potential sales in the said auto market and bringing in their models to be sold.

Aside from this, VW is also saying that its goal is to launch a small car that is based on the mini-hatchback Polo in 2010. Price of this small car has not yet been disclosed by the German automaker.

VW announced its small car plan perhaps to give information that it also plans to offer an affordable car as Tata Group is scheduled t reveal the world’s cheapest car, “People’s Car,” in the upcoming auto show in the country. It is considered as the cheapest as it costs only about 100,000 rupees or 2,500 dollars.

Tata Group’s new vehicle offer has actually triggered a race among automakers to be able to produce the best and most affordable, that is to say, least expensive vehicle.

By 2009, VW is expecting that the manufacturing plant it is putting up now in Chakan near Pune will be completed and fully operational. This wil have a production capacity of 110,000 vehicles and it will be the assembly plant for the “Polo” variant and Skoda “Fabia,” both of which are scheduled to be launched in 2010.

VW is actually already selling its premium “Passat” sedan and luxury sports utility vehicle “Touareg” in India as it was predicted that sales in the Indian auto market will double to two million units by 21010.

On the other hand, the Jetta will be assembled in Aurangabad in the western state of Maharashtra, at the Volkswagen Skoda plant. This plant produces around 25,000 Skodas yearly for the auto market in India. Meanwhile, VW will have its Phaeton imported.

VW is also seriously considering bringing its SUV, the VW Tiguan, in the Indian market as it considers India as “a key market for strategic growth.”

VW Polo BlueMotion models have been delivered to Europe’s most environment-friendly car rental company, the Green Motion Vehicle Rental. This permits the rental company to rent these BlueMotion Polos to its customers. Customers will now be able to experience driving a class-leading vehicle emitting less carbon dioxide emissions and having great fuel economy without having to buy one. That’s not all. Customers of Green Motion Vehicle Rental can also look forward to driving the BlueMotion models of Estate, Passat Saloon and Estate, and the Golf Hatchback as the rental company will also add these later in the year to its fleet of green vehicles for rent.

Green Motion Vehicle Rental has three active hire locations – Palmers Green in North London, Oxford, and in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire. Palmers Green will be the first one to get the first VW Polo BlueMotion as it will be fist allocated in that operation. This particular VW Polo BlueMotion vehicle was supplied by Ridgeway Volkswagen in Newbury, Buckshire and had been funded by the Lombard Vehicle Management. A total of 300 Golf and Passat BlueMotion models are scheduled to arrive later in the year.

Richard Lowden, the Managing Director o0f Green Motion Vehicle Rental, commented saying, “We are delighted to welcome Volkswagen’s BlueMotion product onto our fleet. Being able to offer our customers the choice to hire quality Volkswagen product while making their contribution to reducing their carbon footprint represents a unique and powerful selling opportunity.”

Nick Berry, the Rental and Direct Sales Manager of VW Fleet Services, said, “The Polo has been very well received since launch and we’re delighted that Green Motion has decided to add a number of our BlueMotion products to its hire fleet. Customers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their motoring activities and our vehicles enable them to “do their bit” while offering a high quality driving experience.”

The BlueMotion tag after these VW models means that they belong to the group of the most fuel efficient vehicles of the German automaker. It means that the VW Polo BlueMotion has a combined fuel economy figure of 74.3 miles per gallon and just 99g/km of carbon dioxide emission. Because of these figures, the Polo BlueMotion is exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty. The engine of VW Polo BlueMotion which is a three-cylinder 1.4-liter TDI 80 PS with diesel particulate filter is not the only thing that was optimized to decrease fuel consumption and emissions. Its tires, aerodynamics, gears, wheels, interior, and body sound were optimized as well.

It was last year that Canadians were all able to check out two new VW models – the City Jetta and the City Golf. VW has only decided that time that it needs its two models to compete at entry-level prices in Canada.

But since the models of City Golf and City Jetta which were introduced in Canada looked more like how they looked like ten years ago. For that, the German automaker VW had to do a rethink of its design and so the 2008 model for the two VW entry-levels in Canada were redesigned to look more like today’s vehicles. The current VW design had been incorporated into both the front and rear ends of the VW City Jetta and Golf. Thus, it now looks more modern, more today’s vehicles.

The 2.0-liter single-cam four engine under their bonnets are relatively refined and capable and produces 115 horsepower. Another great thing about it is that it can generate its torque at a relatively low revolution per minute. This engine is then mated to either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic with Tiptronic that is now available in most new generation vehicles.

Inside, both the driver and the passengers will be happy seating on its comfortable chairs. Their chairs are both supportive and ergonomic, thanks to the tilt-and-telescopic steering wheels which have now been made standard on the models. These seats are even height adjustable so they really provide comfort to whoever sits on them. And to complete the modern look of the VW City Jetta and City Golf, the steering wheel and the instrument panel have been enhanced.

Luxurious features on these two VW models include multi-speaker audio system, USB jack, and auxiliary jack for the jump-drive type devices to be used on the cars as well.

For safety, VW has made the four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock have been made standard on these two models. If potential buyers want to add more safety equipment on the model, then they can opt to install electronic stability control, side curtain airbags and side airbags, for an additional price of course.

Asia will finally have a taste of the German-produced vehicle, the VW Tiguan as it makes its Asian debut during the Taipei International Auto Show which opened last week and will continue to run until the 7th of January this year.

The Marketing Director for VW Singapore, Dr. Olaf Duebel, said, “The Tiguan, often nicknamed the ’small brother’ of the Touareg, can be recommended for drivers who enjoy outdoor activities in the country.”

Dr. Duebel has guaranteed that drivers of the VW Tiguan will enjoy the model, with all its performance, versatility, and its glamorous design. But still the VW Tiguan prides itself of providing highly comfortable driving behaviors which can adapt to both city and countryside driving. At the same time, it remains to be a great off-road vehicle because of its SUV built.

This VW model is available in three versions – Sport & Style, Track & Field, and Trend & Fun and all are offered in tow variants. Both the Sport & Style and the Trend & Fun versions were designed more for use in on-road driving. This is because these two versions have safe and highly comfortable driving characteristics, making hem perfect for city and countryside driving.

On the other hand, the Track & Field version is especially-designed for use off of the asphalted trails with its 28-degree entry angle before impacting the front of the car. There’s a newly-developed off-road mode that’s available in the standard version of the VW Tiguan. This mode helps wih controlling a wide range of assistance systems which, in turn, will allow drivers to experience a relaxing, comfortable, and safe off-road driving.

With regard to the power unit used, VW will propose three TSIs models for gasoline engines – direct injection engine complete with turbo-charging or a turbo-charging plus super-charging. This engine is equipped with four cylinders which are capable fo delivering 110 kW / 150 PS, 125 kW / 170 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS, respectively.

During the 2008 Taipei International Auto Show which happened just last week, the Managing Director for VW Singapore, Dr. Olaf Duebel, said that VW has plans on developing new automotive technologies that also comply with both the environmental requirements and the demands of the customer. During the said auto show, Dr. Duebel also officiated the opening ceremony of the German automaker’s booth to which he also introduced the new VW Tiguan.

VW wants to add more. And what the German automaker wants to achieve, it does so with much success at the end. That’s the case with its 2008 VW Touareg 2 V6. This year, this luxurious sports utility vehicle from Volkswagen promises better performance packaged in a more masculine and sporty look.

The 2008 model year for the VW Touareg is the second generation for the model and it has been redesigned to look more sporty as ever. The aesthetic upgrades include a revised front grill and headlight assembly. The reason for these visual updates is to make the Touareg stand out more amongst its kind. And having such that commanding presence, its exudes an aura of being either a large midsize SUV or a small full-size SUV, a great off-road vehicle and a comfortable highway vehicle.

Climbing inside the 2008 VW Touareg (take note: climbing), one will notice a few changes here and there. However, there are still a few features from the first generation which remained such as the useful storage and spacious room. The climate control system and the air conditioning system works efficiently so passengers do not have to worry about their ride not being all relaxing and comfortable. Again, they can benefit from the fresh outside air through the beautifully-designed sunroof without the wind turbulence getting to their last nerve. Great entertainment is freely given by the audio system guaranteeing clear music from the cabin soundproofing, which by the way, is also user-friendly. One of the few changes I mentioned is the comprehensive but easy-to-read instrument panel of the 2008 Touareg model.

the Touareg weighs 2,332 kilos but despite its heavy structure, its acceleration speed is quite fast – zero to 100 kilometers per hour is achieved in a matter of 10.4 seconds. It generates power from its 3.6-liter V6 engine and this power unit is mated to a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. And being one great off-rod vehicle, one can experience its full all-wheel drive capability with just a push of a button.

During the Fleet Awards event which happened at a five-star hotel, VW Fleet Services acknowledged the success of its top-performing retailers and staff. The VW Fleet Services has already own the Fleet News Manufacturer of the Year Award five times and the German automaker is saying that its success is due to the first class products and the quality its staff provides.

Vincent Kinner, the Head of VW’s Fleet Services, said that it’s their staff who serve their customers who really make a difference. The ethos is that driving force behind the success of the Fundamentally Fleet Program of the German automaker VW, this program had been launched back in 2005 and the objective of the program is to educate, motivate, and recognize the excellence within the retailer network.

The candidates were from different Retailers across the UK and they have gone through a series of activities which aim to measure their capabilities, product knowledge, and skills. According to the candidates, the understanding and awareness of the environmental issues were one of the most challenging activities. However, the activities involving environmental issues also proved to be rewarding for the candidates. These activities have given them enough knowledge about the BlueMotion Range of VW.

Kinner commented on the Awards event, saying, “I’m delighted to be able to meet so many individuals who make such a difference to our business. There were many new faces in the programme this year and the quality of candidates was particularly high. Attending this event has made me extremely proud of Fundamentally Fleet and what it has achieved, and it also gives me great confidence that Volkswagen Fleet Services can continue its success in the coming year.”

The new VW Polo Match is set to be the replacement of the S level in the Polo range line-up. In line with this, the German automaker is expecting that this new addition or replacement to the line-up will be the biggest selling model in the VW Polo range. There are some significant differences with the S such as the Polo Match offers increased value and equipment. But still, it keeps the famous characteristics of the VW Polo of efficiency, quality, and practical ability.

The new VW Polo Match is accentuated by its set of wheels which is 15-inch ‘Charade’ alloy wheels and its body-colored door strips, door handles, bumper strips, and wing mirrors which have indicators. When one looks at the model’s front end, one will see that there is a pair of fog lights set into the car’s twin air dams.

These are not the only highlights of this new VW model. Knowing VW and its elegance, it also improved the look of the model’s interior. The steering wheel, handbrake grip, and the gear knob have been leather-trimmed. For entertainment, VW has installed a six-disc CD autochanger or an iPod connection for endless music playback from one’s very own music library. Aside from that, the German automaker has incorporated some practical additions such as split folding rear seats, useful drawer under the passenger’s seat, height-adjustable driver’s seat, and electric front windows.

The engines providing the VW Polo Match’s power include the 1.4-liter TDI engine and a 1.2-liter petrol engine. the price for the new VW Polo Match start around £9,315 for the 1.2-litre three-door model and will increase to £11,380 for the 1.4-litre TDI five-door variant. If one wishes to get a taste of this new VW offering, then one can start ordering now at any VW Retailers.

German automaker VW has done it again. The German automaker has released the latest evolution of its revolutionary DSG twin-clutch transmission box. This gearbox is proud to feature seven gears which help bring about an increase in efficiency and it features a more compact design.

The seven-speed gearbox is mounted transversely in the engine and the difference it has with the current six-speed DSG gearbox is that it makes use of dry clutches versus the pair of clutches immersed in oil in the six-speed DSG gearbox. Because of the dry clutches, the new gearbox became more compact, had reduced weight, and has an improved efficiency. The new seven-speed DSG gearbox has been designed to operate under moderate power and torque loadings. This new transmission box from VW will be mated to a 1.4-liter TSI 122 PS engine. However, this gearbox can also be mated to a 1.9-liter TDI diesel engine with Diesel Particulate Filter.

The seven-speed DSG gearbox, when installed in the VW Golf hatchback, helps the vehicle save 10 g/km CO2 from 149 g/km to 139 g/km. the fuel economy of the VW Golf hatchback also improved to 47.9 mpg from 44.8 mpg, which is an increase of 3 mpg. This transmission box is also able to provide the VW Golf with the seemingly contradictory virtues of great performance and increased fuel economy. Its lower gears are closely spaced, thus, the in-hear acceleration is improved, making it easy to do overtaking maneuvers. On the other hand, the higher gears are lengthened in order to maximize economy and decrease loading on the engine.

Car enthusiasts waiting to try out this new transmission box will have to wait for another month or two as it will make its debut in UK in February. However, the seven-speed DGS gearbox is already open for ordering at any VW Retailer. Price for this transmission box starts at £15,982 when mated with the Golf S 1.4-liter TSI 122 PS.

VW has just recently celebrated the 60th year of its VW Transporter or Mini Bus by showcasing it in front of a large crowd. The festivities seem not to end as now, a book has been released about this legendary van for its fans to relive and read all about it.

It was only 3 months a go, in October, when more than 5,100 VW Transporters and Mini-Buses met up at the Hanover Exhibition Center for the International VW Mini Bus Meeting. Over 71,000 visitors paid a visit to the event to celebrate and relive the VW vans.

It was Lutz Schilling and Cliff Serna who came up with the book named ’60 Years VW Bulli – The Book” (Bulli being the van’s nickname in Germany). This book contains 330 pages of snap shots, studio shots, and pictures of almost every VW Bulli present during the event. The story of the VW Transporter is also included in the book in detail and coupled by pictures of the van from the finest exhibits at the Wolfsburg Automobile Museum. Some of the pictures in the book include a stretched Mini Bus painted in black and red, a mint-colored TI pick-up with camper trailer and a yellow T3 ambulance conversion.

Harald Schomburg of VW Commercial Vehicles said, “The International VW Mini Bus Meeting was a remarkable experience. This book will be a perfect memento of an unforgettable event.”

The German automaker VW has decided to release a version of its VW Touareg sports utility vehicle that’s more economical and more powerful. This VW sports utility vehicle makes use of a 3.0-liter V6-turbodiesel engine.

This engine will be made more economical and at the same time, its horsepower and torque will be increased to 176kW and 550Nm. This means that the horsepower increased by 11kW and the torque by 50Nm. Fuel efficiency will also be affected as the German figures are saying that the average fuel consumption with the six-speed auto will decrease to 9.9 liters per 100 kilometers from the current figure of 10.7 liters per 100 kilometers when used in urban driving. Acceleration speed will also decrease – zero to 100km/h will be attained in just over eight seconds versus the nine seconds the current Touareg version is capable of.

Along with its aim for environmentally friendly vehicles, the German automaker became one of the founding members of the alliance of German industries that will put in $820 million. This investment will be used for the development of high-performance lithium-ion batteries. The aim of this development project is to increase the performance density and energy of the batteries and to accelerate its use in production as well. The other companies included in this project are Bosch, BASF, and the German Ministry for Education and Research.

VW’s head of research group, Juergen Leohold, said, “In the future, there will be parallel use of various automotive drive systems, all the way to purely electric drive, and a high-performance lithium-ion battery as the energy carrier will be a key technology.”

The German automaker Volkswagen is currently rethinking its small car plans for India. The reason stated by VW says that this ‘setback’ is primarily because it is taking another careful look at the project to make it more feasible for the German automaker. Another factor believed to be affecting the small car plans is the changes often happening at the top management level.

Sources also said, “VW’s focus on India could have been impacted, thanks to the recent spate of changes at the top management level. This, in turn, is likely to affect the overall direction of the project to a large extent.”

But the small car plan for India has not been totally thrown at the waste basket as the VW board will still hold a debate regarding it in January of next year.

Last year, the German automaker announced its plans of launching a of its VW Polo from its new plant in Chakan which is near Pune around 2009. The initial capacity planned was around 1 lakh vehicles. the biggest challenge VW has yet to take is to benchmark the cost of the Polo with that of Suzuki’s Swift. But of course, the German automaker has not been successful yet in doing so. To do this, it either has to bring in another model or work at its costs which would result to further delaying the Polo. Another option is to price the Polo on par with the C-Class like the Accent or Ikon. But this would also mean a much further delay.

Therefore, VW can only decide whether to bring a much bigger vehicle to India or work hard at reducing the costs of the Polo to make it more feasible.

To contribute in the world battle against air and environmental pollution and as vehicles are among the major air pollutants, VW decided to produce its VW Space Up! Blue fuel cell concept vehicle. The German automaker is saying with much pride and confidence that this particular concept car produces zero emissions. This is thanks to the electric motor, lithium-ion batteries and a solar panel are equipped in its concept car. These power producers help the model cover 65 miles.

VW will be presenting a new series of racing cars by 2008 in North America to test their racing vehicles in the area. The German automaker will be presenting its vehicles on the road and these vehicles are equipped with a technology that aims to increase fuel mileage and at the same time still protect the environment, particularly the quality of air.

The German automaker VW has decided to redesign its range of VW Polo. And the result? A better and bigger built VW equipped with an advanced engine for its power production. Indeed, the new VW Polo has been freshened up so good that it is now ready to rival the likes of Honda Jazz and Ford Fiesta for recognitions when it comes out in 2008.

The idea behind the styling of this new VW Polo is to combine the taut bodywork of the old VW Polo but highlighted by intricate detailing of the automaker’s recent concept car, the VW Up!. With this design, the new VW Polo will have a more distinctive front end because of the twin-slat grill and the sporty headlights. A classy rising waistline is also incorporated together with the Tiguan-style tail lights.