Official:VW Polo Sedan Debuts in Russia

Volkswagen has unveiled the VW Polo Sedan and released a set of official photos with the new model which will be offered with only one engine option and available exclusively for the Russian market.

Power for the 2011 Volkswagen Polo Sedan comes from a 1.6L Otto 4-cylinder engine making 103-hp. The Polo Sedan can be equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic gearbox with sequential shift function. That makes Volkswagen the first automaker to offer Russian customers an up-to-date automatic gearbox in the segment.

Assembly for the VW Polo Sedan will take place at the Kaluga plant in Russia and as far as active safety systems the car will be offered with 2 airbags, head rests and 3-point seat belts for all its passengers plus ABS on the Comfortline trim level and up and ESP and side air bags on the Highline version.   

The Polo sedan is being assembled at VW's Kaluga plant. It will be marketed in Russia in three trim levels: Trendline, Comfortline and Highline.

It will retail in Russia for just a tad over 10,000 euro ($14,600).

Press Release:

World premiere of the Polo Saloon in Moscow

- A first: a Polo specially developed for the Russian market
- Moderate pricing: quality and reliability for a wide circle of customers

Wolfsburg / Moscow, 02 June 2010 – While advance sales began for the Polo produced in Kaluga, Russia, the world premiere took place before 200 high-ranking guests in Moscow today. For the first time in the history of the brand, a vehicle has been developed specially for the Russian market, bearing in mind its specific climate and street conditions.

Frank Wittemann, Head of the Volkswagen Brand in Russia: “The new Saloon extends Volkswagen’s range of vehicles und builds a bridge from our bestsellers in Russia, the Passat and the Jetta, to the small familiy car segment. With it, an even greater number of friends of our brand can choose a vehicle according to their taste and possibilities. The new vehicle complies with the global quality standards of Volkswagen in every respect, while being very attractive in terms of price: The Polo Saloon is being offered at a price from just a bit over 10,000 euros and up.”

The new Saloon is being built on a completely new assembly line at Volkswagen AG’s plant in Kaluga. The Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a new 1.6-litre Otto engine (77 kW / 105 PS). It can be combined with a 5-gear manual gearbox or a 6-gear automatic gearbox with sequential shift function (Tiptronic). Hence Volkswagen is the first automobile manufacturer offering their Russian customers such an up-to-date automatic gearbox in this vehicle class.

A high level of safety is ensured already in the Trendline basic version-two airbags, head rests and three-point seat belts for all five passengers. From Comfortline and up, the Polo is equipped with ABS as standard. In the Highline top version, additional safety systems are integrated that are normally unavailable in this class-for instance: side air-bags and ESP.

The specific demands of Russian drivers and the climate and street conditions in Russia have both been carefully taken into account during the new Saloon’s development: long-term tests were conducted in different climate zones, and the street conditions in the most variegated regions in Russia were examined. The available petrol qualities were tested repeatedly as well. Thus the vehicle has been equipped with an up-to-date and reliable engine that is ideally suited to those operating conditions prevailing in Russia, a galvanised, non-corrosive body and a wheel suspension geared to bad roads. Particularly robust paints were used for the car’s paint job, and the chrome parts are also highly resistant to aggressive agents.

Volkswagen Golf Blue-E-Motion Concept

Volkswagen has unveiled the Golf blue-e-motion concept car in a ceremonial presentation today for the German Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel.

The Golf blue-e-motion concept car is powered by an electric motor integrated in the engine compartment in front that delivers a total of 113 HP. The car has an autonomy of 150 kilometers and can hit a top speed of 86 mph, while the sprint from 0 to 60 mph is made in 11.8 seconds. The concept car will be undergoing tests in all conceivable weather conditions next year with the use of 500 test cars.

That electric engine is able to develop a maximum power of 85 kW, that means 115 horsepower, but the maximum torques is bigger, of 270 Nm which is obtained almost instantaneously. The engine is powered by a package of litiu-ion batteries placed centrally under the back seat and in the trunk, like this it’s capacity goes from 350 liters to 237 liters. Power comes from a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 26.5 kilowatt-hours.


Press Release

Initial Facts: Golf blue-e-motion - Presentation at Foundation Event
for a "National Platform for Electric Mobility"

• Volkswagen Presents Golf blue-e-motion Concept to German Chancellor

• Golf powered by zero-emissions electric motor to launch in 2013

• Golf blue-e-motion with 150 km range will also satisfy driving needs
  of commuters

Wolfsburg / Berlin, 03 May 2010 - Today, German Chancellor Dr. Angela
Merkel will have a close look at a concept of the future Golf blue-e-motion
in Berlin. Volkswagen is forging new links to the era of electric mobility
with this pure electric drive version of the most successful European car
ever produced. In 2013, after the debut of the Up blue-e-motion (a new city
specialist), the Golf blue-e-motion and the technically closely-related
Jetta blue-e-motion will launch on the market. In the same timeframe, the
Lavida blue-e-motion will also launch in China. The stated objective:
Volkswagen wants to use bestsellers such as the Golf to take electric
vehicles out of their niche model status and to become the market leader for
a new type of sustainable mobility by 2018. This strategy coincides with
planning by the German federal government, which would like to see about one
million electric vehicles on the streets by 2020.

Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of
Volkswagen AG: "Future electric cars give us enormous opportunities for
reshaping mobility to be even more sustainable. When it comes to the
environment, however, we must ensure that the energy used to operate these
electric cars is produced from renewable sources. Since automotive
manufacturers do not have any influence on the types of power plants that
are built, the federal government must ensure that eco-friendly energy
sources are utilised. Only then will we experience a genuine transition to a
new era."

In parallel with the electric vehicle offensive, Volkswagen is
accelerating the introduction of new hybrid models as well. The new Touareg
Hybrid is already on the market; in 2012 a hybrid version of the Jetta will
debut, then in 2013 the Golf Hybrid and Passat Hybrid will launch. Just as
methodically, Volkswagen will continue its development work on advanced and
extremely efficient petrol, diesel and natural gas engines (TDI, TSI,
EcoFuel), because it is an indisputable fact that a wide variety of drive
technologies will coexist far into the future. "This makes it all the more
important for the German federal government to proactively support the
introduction of new technologies. With regard to electric mobility, the
current temporary exemption of E-cars from taxes is inadequate," says Prof.
Dr. Winterkorn. The Volkswagen chief continues: "Starting in 2013 - the
launch year for many new electric vehicles - the purchase of cars with
zero-emissions drive systems should be promoted with a sustainability
incentive. France, for example, has already pledged a cash incentive of
several thousand Euros to buyers. We need to send such a signal in Germany
as well. Moreover, and this is no less important, the German federal
government must very quickly make provisions for broad coverage with a
network of recharging stations across the republic, so that the
infrastructure is available at the same time the electric car offensive is
launched. Each new recharging station will also reinforce the public's trust
in the everyday utility of electric vehicles. Both of these components -
state-funded incentives and infrastructure - are crucial and cannot endure
any delay."

Golf blue-e-motion concept car - highly anticipated

The Golf blue-e-motion concept being presented to German Chancellor
Angela Merkel will be powered by an electric motor integrated in the engine
compartment in front, and its power of 85 kW / 115 PS drives the car
silently. Like all electric motors, the motor used in the Golf also outputs
a very high maximum torque (270 Newton-meter) right from a stop. The result:
more fun in zero-emissions driving. The electricity for driving the electric
motor is stored in a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 26.5
kilowatt-hours.

A driving range of up to 150 kilometres can be realised in the Golf
blue-e-motion; the specific range depends on driving style and factors such
as use of the air conditioning and heating system. This range meets the
needs of most German commuters: According to the German Federal Statistical
Office, 6 of every 10 people in the workforce commute by car - on average
45.8 percent drive less than 10 kilometres (one-way commute), another 28.1
percent between 10 and 25 kilometres and 16.2 percent over 25 kilometres.
The Golf blue-e-motion can also handle the driving ranges typically covered
by many service providers. In short-distance driving, the zero-emissions
Golf offers a sustainable solution to private users as well.

More noticeably than on today's modern petrol or diesel engines, the
maximum range of an electric car is severely reduced when its maximum power
is demanded frequently. However, the Golf blue-e-motion - with its top speed
of 140 km/h - provides ample power reserves so that less energy is consumed
while driving, and it can even coast or "sail". "Sailing" occurs whenever
the driver - adopting an anticipatory style of driving - releases the gas
pedal, or more apropos: the electric pedal. As in the drive system of the
Touareg Hybrid, which is being produced today, the motor is then is
disengaged from the drivetrain so that the car can coast with the least
possible drag. The Golf blue-e-motion even recovers kinetically generated
energy by battery regeneration in this mode of driving.

Adapted to the vehicle's architecture, the concept car's battery unit is
located in the bootspace (useful remaining cargo capacity: 237 litres),
under the rear bench seat and in the centre tunnel (between the front
seats). A separate air cooling system ensures a constant thermal environment
in the battery compartment.

As mentioned, all key primary and secondary drive components were
integrated in the engine compartment at the front of the vehicle. In coming
up with this design, developers applied experience they gained in numerous
design studies. As in the E-Up concept car, an integral form of electric
drive is used in the Golf blue-e-motion. Representing the core of the
integral drive are the electric motor together with a transmission and
differential. Energy management is handled by a high-voltage
pulse-controlled inverter, which - along with the 12 Volt electrical
system's DC/DC converter and charging module - is integrated in the compact
integral drive. The entire unit is relatively light and compact. The
five-door and five-seat Golf blue-e-motion, for example, weighs just 205
kilograms more than a comparable Golf BlueMotion TDI with DSG - despite the
fact that electric car batteries are known to be heavy and weigh 1,545
kilograms on the concept car.

Next year, Volkswagen will be testing the drivetrain and energy storage
modules of the future Golf blue-e-motion with a fleet of 500 test cars -
under all conceivable conditions. Essentially, the countdown to production
launch of the future Golf blue-e-motion has already begun. The future is
almost here, especially in Germany, because this is where one million
electric vehicles will be on the roads starting in 2020 - this goal was
resolved by the German federal government on August 2009 and is established
in the "National Development Plan for Electric Mobility." A long road lies
ahead of us until 2020, especially since battery costs certainly need to be
drastically reduced. However, another certainty is that a large number of
the one million electric vehicles of the year 2020 will wear the VW badge.

Golf blue-e-motion Concept Car – Technical Data
Dimensions
Length	4,199 mm
Width	1,786 mm
Height	1,480 mm
Wheelbase	2,575 mm
Drive System
Drive type	Electric motor
Power (max. / continuous)	85 kW / 50 kW
Max. torque	270 Nm
Transmission / Tyres
Transmission	EQ 210 (1-gear transmission)
Final drive type	Front-wheel drive
Tyre size	205/55 R16
Driving Performance
0-100 km/h	11.8 s
Top speed	140 km/h
CO2 emissions with electricity generated from renewable sources	Negligible

VW invites users to help create the Infotainment systems of the future

Open Innovation Contest, "App My Ride", begins on 3rd May

Wolfsburg, 26 April 2010 - Volkswagen is inviting designers, programmers, developers and interested users to help develop applications for the Infotainment systems of the future as part of the Open Innovation Contest, "App My Ride". With this contest, Volkswagen has become the first car manufacturer to use the idea of open innovation for the further development of its products.

In the so-called "App My Ride" competition, users can jointly develop new Infotainment applications with Volkswagen. A jury of experts will select the winner whose creativity will be rewarded with special prizes. "Our aim is to invite the international developer community to take part in designing a future system," says Prof. Dr Jürgen Leohold, Head of the Volkswagen Group Research. So-called apps, also known as application programmes for certain devices which are available through an online shop, have helped to contribute to the smartphone boom. Applications designed by users (User Generated Content) are of central importance to the boom and are made available online by other users. Companies like Apple and Google successfully aid this nearly inexhaustible source of innovation.

"A quiet revolution is taking place right now," explains Dr Johann Füller, CEO of the innovation agency partner to Volkswagen through the "App My Ride" competition, Hyve AG. "The customer-orientated culture of the internet places an enormous power in the hands of the users. Leading organisations are starting to harness this power to develop better solutions and increase their competitiveness." Exactly what the "App My Ride" contest is targeting.

Currently a prototype for Volkswagen's Infotainment system is being developed in which Flash applications designed by different creators can be accumulated. In order to research the potential of apps for the vehicle Infotainment system, Volkswagen is trying to produce the most varied collection of applications possible.

An "innovation community" open to all internet users will be created as of 3rd May 2010 for the competition under the following URL: app-my-ride.volkswagen.com. Here, participants in the competition can log in and either load programmed apps or send in their creative ideas for future ones. "The participants are supposed to imagine what the purpose of their ideal Infotainment system is and how it would work and now they have the opportunity to make it a reality. At the same time, you can analyse the existing apps on our platform and discuss their design, uses and purposes," explains Dr Peter Oel, Head of "Control Designs and Drivers" of Volkswagen Group Research.

To develop an app, the participants must have the following:

- An idea for an app to be installed in a vehicle

- Graphic design of the user interface

- Programming in Adobe Flash / Flex

The purpose, design and logical construction of the app should be geared towards the possible requirements of drivers and other occupants.

The participant's creativity will be rewarded at the end of the competition. The most innovative application will be chosen by the "App My Ride" community and a jury consisting of Volkswagen managers and external experts. Besides cash and non-cash prizes worth up to €14,000, a special prize for students will also be awarded. This involves a placement within Volkswagen Group Research in Tokyo, Shanghai, California or Wolfsburg. Moreover, the winner of the competition can also expect an exclusive trip to take part in an international vehicle presentation which covers the costs of the flight and hotel.

VW HAPPY 60TH BIRTHDAY TO THE WORLD'S MOST POPULAR VAN

The Volkswagen Transporter was first produced in March 1950, making this month its 60th anniversary. The popular van has subsequently sold over 10 million units worldwide and gone through five generations of evolution. The latest T5 facelift was launched in the fourth quarter of 2009 and comes in styles such as the people-carrying Caravelle as well as the campervan California.


That first model, the T1, featured a four-cylinder, air-cooled, 1.1-litre petrol engine typically fitted at the rear end. It made 18 kW (25 PS / 25 bhp) and could muster a top speed of 97 km/h (60 mph) when really pushed.


In comparison the latest T5 model is powered by a 2.0-litre common rail turbo diesel unit pushing out between 62 kW (83 bhp / 84 PS) and 132 kW (178 bhp / 180 PS), and can run up to 192 km/h (119 mph).



Over the years the Transporter became an icon for both business and leisure use. From rock bands to fleet managers, to families of seven, people bought it for its generous interior space and comfort.

More Photos

Press Release

HAPPY 60TH BIRTHDAY TO THE WORLD'S MOST POPULAR VAN

Production of the Volkswagen Transporter van officially started in March
1950 and during the 60 years since then it has become one of Volkswagen
Commercial Vehicles' best-selling models globally, the number one imported
van in the UK as well as one of the most iconic and popular vans in the
world.

With over 10 million produced, the Volkswagen Transporter has evolved
through five generations of functional and practical bodystyles, each
representing the ultimate multi-purpose vehicle of its time and loved by
business and private users alike for transporting goods or people for work
or leisure. This unique heritage is the focus of the current ‘Evolution of
Van' advertising campaign for the new Transporter which was launched in the
UK in January.

The first T1 ‘split-screen' model was powered by a four-cylinder,
air-cooled, 1.1-litre petrol engine mounted at the back of the vehicle. It
produced 25 PS of power and had a top speed of about 60 mph. By comparison,
the new Transporter enjoys the refinement of Volkswagen's latest 2.0-litre,
common rail, turbocharged diesel engine, available with power outputs
ranging from 84 PS to 180 PS and a top speed of up to 119 mph, plus the
latest stability control systems and braking technology that would have
sounded like something from a science fiction novel 60 years ago.

Although the design has evolved over the years, the first and the latest
Transporter share the same badge on the front and the same design principles
of a generous loadspace and an enviable reputation for quality and
durability.

Similarly, comparing the latest Volkswagen California with a T1 campervan
shows that both make efficient use of the space available to create a
vehicle equally suitable for daily trips to work or the shops, as for
weekend escapes or continental capers.

Over the years, Volkswagen Transporters have endured challenging round
the world trips by enthusiastic travellers, been used as the preferred
choice of travel for rock bands since the 1960s to the present day, and been
relied upon by many businesses needing a fleet of delivery or passenger
carrying vehicles.

The first Transporter was imported into the UK in 1955, and the latest
version of the van as well as today's people-carrying and campervan
versions, the Caravelle and California, arrived in the UK this January, 55
years later.

World Premiere: Touareg debuts with hybrid drive and high-tech range of engines

TO THE POINT

Volkswagen SUV is 208 kilograms lighter and 20 percent more fuel efficient

Volkswagen is unveiling the completely redeveloped Touareg as a world premiere. It is the most technically innovative “VW” since the brand has been in existence. This Touareg is reinterpreting the fascinating multipurpose SUV idea in a contemporary way – thanks to a range of engines that are nearly 20 percent more fuel efficient and a large variety of new assistance and safety systems. The Touareg will also be the first and only off-roader in Europe by a German car maker to be available in a hybrid version too. It sets standards among fully off-road capable SUVs with petrol engines that have a fuel consumption value of just 8.2 litres fuel per 100 kilometres. The Touareg Hybrid can be driven up to 50 km/h in purely electric mode - emissions-free. Among the diesel engines, the Touareg V6 TDI with 7.4 litre combined fuel consumption now posts the best value in the segment of genuine SUVs. Both versions, the Touareg Hybrid and V6 TDI, are the most fuel efficient petrol and diesel SUVs ever built in Europe in this large vehicle class.


New era SUV – lighter, more aerodynamic and fuel efficient

As has already been accomplished on the globally successful, smaller Tiguan, Volkswagen is systematically striving for sustainability on the new Touareg too. The first precondition was met: The SUV was lightened by 208 kilograms in the base version! A quantum leap. Yet, the body has five percent greater torsional rigidity, which makes it the leader in its competitive class. A second precondition was met as well: Designers attained a significantly improved Cd value. Along with aerodynamic refinement efforts, another factor at work here is that this Touareg is built lower to the ground than the previous model. Together with front end styling based on the new Volkswagen design DNA, this results in a smaller frontal area. The third precondition: All engines, now offered with a standard 8-speed automatic transmission – a first in this market segment – demonstrate significant fuel economy advantages over the previous model; in some cases the advantage is far greater than two litres per 100 kilometres.


SUV for all trails – All-wheel drive in two versions

Also modified in pursuit of reduced fuel consumption was the standard all-wheel drive. In the base version ("4Motion"), all new generation Touaregs have all-wheel drive with Torsen limited-slip differential (4MOTION; climbing ability: 31 degrees). Like the Tiguan Track & Field, the Touareg also has an "Off-road driving programme", which - at the press of a button - tunes the ABS, EDS and ASR for off-road duty, activates Hill Descent Assist and adjusts the automatic gearshift points.

Instead of a Torsen differential, the V6 TDI can be ordered with an optional "Terrain Tech Packet" that has an even more rugged transfer case designed for off-road duty. It includes reduction gearing and centre and rear differentials, each with up to 100 percent locking (4XMOTION; climbing ability: 45 degrees). Similar to the first Touareg generation, this version also has a rotary switch the driver now uses to adapt the car to specific duty conditions over five levels: 1. "On-Road"; 2. "Off-Road" (like "Off-road driving programme" plus automatic control of the mechanical locks); 3. Low (like "Off-road" plus activation of reduced gearing, higher shift points, no automatic upshift in manual mode); 4. Addition of centre differential lock; 5. Addition of rear differential lock. Equipped like this, the Touareg can conquer any terrain on Earth.


SUV for everyday driving – more space, more innovations

Volkswagen has not only made the new Touareg lighter, more fuel efficient and an agile performer; it has also made it into an even more versatile, all-round vehicle. The new interior was made more functional, the seats more comfortable and leg room in the rear is larger. Now the rear bench seat has 160 millimetres in longitudinal adjustment, and the backrest angle can be adjusted. Electrically unlatched at the press of a button as an option, it folds down in seconds and frees up 1,642 litres of cargo space. Already standard equipment in the base version is a radio-CD and info system, which is intuitively controlled over a 6.5-inch touch-screen.

The parking brake is now activated by pushbutton. The engine (V6 versions) automatically shuts off at traffic lights and restarts as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal (Stop-Start system). As an option, the tailgate can be opened and closed by a RF remote control unit integrated in the car key. The largest panoramic sunroof of all SUVs provides for light even on overcast days. The innovative "Area View" utilises four cameras to detect the Touareg’s surroundings and this enhances safety. Also offering protection are up to nine airbags. Lane Assist ensures that the vehicle does not stray from the right path; meanwhile, Side Assist warns of vehicles approaching from the rear when changing lanes. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with integrated Front Assist can brake to a stop in an emergency and tension the seatbelts as a precautionary measure. Bi-Xenon headlights with Dynamic Light Assist perceive oncoming traffic and adjust the light beam to eliminate unwanted glare, and adaptive roll compensation ensures that the Touareg sits solidly on the street. For the first time, there will be special features on the new Touareg under the new "Exclusive" badge from Volkswagen Individual. Options that can be ordered include 19-inch alloy wheels ("Girona" type), fine wood inserts ("Olive Ash") and a leather interior ("Nappa") in the two-colour combinations "Dark Burgundy / Titan Black" or "Pepper Beige / Titan Black".

Touareg – the best of two worlds

About 500,000 car drivers chose to buy the first generation of the SUV. It is a luxury sport utility vehicle that offers a high level of comfort, sporty driving properties, avant-garde styling, excellent quality and unlimited expedition capabilities – essentially the best of the passenger car and off-road worlds unified in one concept. This is now being followed up by the new Touareg – a high-end and versatile all-round vehicle that brings these two worlds together even more perfectly. The Touareg will already be available at dealers in April.

DRIVE CONCEPTS

FSI / TDI / TSI / Hybrid:
New hybrid petrol engine, new V8 TDI, extremely fuel-efficient V6 TDI

• Touareg Hybrid with V6 petrol engine replaces V8 petrol in many countries
• V8 TDI outputs 800 Newton-meter torque; V6 TDI has 7.4 litre fuel consumption

The new Touareg is the first Volkswagen and SUV from Europe that will be available in a Hybrid version. With its combined fuel consumption of just 8.2 l/100 km the Touareg Hybrid sets new standards among full-fledged SUVs with petrol engines. Naturally, its CO2 emissions are low too: 193 g/km. The hybrid drive as the top powertrain option combines the power of a classic eight cylinder engine with the fuel economy of a six or four cylinder engine. It replaces the previous V8 petrol engines in Europe and America and carries on Volkswagen’s successful downsizing strategy. Consequently, the V10 TDI and W12 engine versions of the previous model are no longer being offered either.

Key components of the Touareg Hybrid powertrain - equipped with a high-voltage battery - are its supercharged V6 TSI (petrol direct injection engine with 245 kW / 333 PS), 8-speed automatic transmission - ideally suited for hybrid and towing duty - and the hybrid module that is integrated between the internal combustion engine and the automatic transmission. This compact module with disengagement clutch weighs 55 kilograms. Located downstream of the V6 TSI, it integrates the disengagement clutch and E-Motor (34 kW / 47 PS) in one housing. When the V6 TSI and E-Motor work simultaneously (boosting), a total power of up to 279 kW / 380 PS is generated with a maximum torque of 580 Newton-meter as measured on the dynamometer.

Volkswagen has chosen a parallel hybrid drive configuration for the Touareg. In contrast to other potential hybrid systems, it assures excellent off-road performance and unlimited continuous climbing ability. With a maximum trailer payload of up to 3.5 tonnes, the Touareg is also an ideal towing vehicle, even in the hybrid version. Moreover, the parallel hybrid is more efficient than alternative hybrid concepts on long-distance and freeway journeys. The Touareg Hybrid attains a maximum speed of 240 km/h and accelerates to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds.

Compared to a conventional SUV of the same size and power, the hybrid concept delivers over 25 percent fuel savings in city driving. In combined mode driving – a mix of city, highway and freeway drives – development engineers calculate an average savings of 17 percent. Essentially, four parameters were exploited to achieve this fuel efficiency on the Touareg Hybrid:

E-Motor: Electric, emission-free driving (up to 50 km/h) reduces petrol consumption. In this case, the V6 TSI is not only shut off, but is also disengaged from the 8-speed automatic by a disengagement clutch to avoid drag torque losses.

Coasting: As soon as the driver releases the accelerator pedal, the V6 TSI is disengaged from the transmission. This is even possible at higher speeds (up to 160 km/h), i.e. on the freeway as well. The Touareg "rolls" significantly longer, since drag torque losses are eliminated. When drivers adopt an anticipatory style of driving, this has a direct and positive impact on fuel economy.

Regenerative Braking: During braking, the E-Motor - now operating as a generator – recovers kinetic energy, which is then stored in the high-voltage battery (NiMH battery).

Stop-Start System: The Stop-Start system integrated in the powertrain improves fuel economy, especially in urban areas and stop-and-go traffic.

Efficient Trio – V6 FSI, V6 TDI and V8 TDI

Fuel economy and emission values are also significantly improved on the conventionally powered Touareg versions. Consider the V6 FSI, a direct injection petrol engine with 206 kW / 280 PS: At 9.9 l/100 km, the 3.6-litre engine with 360 Newton-meter torque now consumes an incredible 2.5 litres (!) less than the previous engine version. This combined fuel consumption is equivalent to CO2 emissions of 236 g/km. And that is precisely 60 g/km less than before.

The diesel engines were made more fuel efficient as well. An advanced version of the successful V6 TDI that still outputs 176 kW / 240 PS (European version) is being offered right at market launch; it offers entry into the world of the Touareg; the 550 Newton-meter strong turbo-diesel consumes a ground-breaking low 7.4 l/100 km (analogous to 195 g/km CO2), which is 1.9 litres less than before. CO2 emissions are reduced by 49 g/km compared to the previous Touareg V6 TDI and by a respectable 24 g/km compared to the previous version with BlueMotion Technology that already had very good values.

Entirely new to the Touareg programme is a V8 TDI with 4.2 litre displacement and 250 kW / 340 PS. Considering its power and fabulous maximum torque of 800 Newton-meter, the combined fuel consumption of 9.1 l/100 km (equivalent to 239 g/km CO2) is extremely good. This TDI is not offered in the USA. In some cases, the engine range will be country-specific in terms of the diesel and petrol engines offered.

BODY CONCEPT

Design & Dimensions:
New Volkswagen “Design DNA” shows vision in styling

• Touareg grew longer, lower, more spacious and distinctly more dynamic
• In terms of engineering, 10 percent lower weight is a quantum leap

The new Touareg clearly shows gains in the dynamic performance of its engines and running gear as well as in its looks. The latter is of course attributable to the vehicle’s new styling. In parallel, its special ratio of dimensions scores too. Background: At 4.80 meters, the new Touareg was extended by 4.3 centimetres but is now exactly 2.0 centimetres lower at 1.71 meters. Analogous to the length, the wheelbase has grown to 2.90 meters (gain of 4.0 centimetres). The width of the Touareg remained constant at 1.93 meters. With the exception of the Porsche Cayenne, no other SUV in this class is lower. And that generates a very unique dynamic of proportions.

The goal of the designers, led by Volkswagen Head of Design Klaus Bischoff, was to give the Touareg an even more elegant image based on the new Volkswagen "design DNA". And that applies as much to the now horizontal lines of the front end with its distinctive headlights as it does to the typical Touareg rear image and its unmistakable night look of its rear lights, and a leaner, more athletic car body. This has produced an SUV that shows timeless styling that is visually sustainable. It makes a qualitative statement and a strong appearance, all while conveying an image of understated elegance and style.

Technical highlights of the car body

Although the Touareg is now more than 200 kilograms lighter, with a static rigidity of 24,800 Nm/º (five percent gain) it is the most technically advanced body in its segment. Comfort and crash behaviour benefit equally from this. Illustrating just how thoroughly the Touareg team approached design of the body-in-white is the new panoramic glass sunroof: At a size of 990 x 1,452 millimetres, the sliding/vent sunroof practically fills the entire roof area. Normally, such a large opening – a full 350 percent larger than a normal sunroof – would be expected to have a negative impact on rigidity values. But this is definitely not the case on the Touareg thanks to its fundamental rigidity and reinforcing subframe. Even at a (theoretical) speed of 260 km/h, it is still possible to close the sunroof, and it would not generate any wind noise even at 300 km/h.

Another new design feature in the Touareg is the optional (standard on the Touareg Hybrid and V8 TDI) electrically opening and closing tailgate. Not only can it be operated from inside the vehicle and outside at the tailgate; now it can also be actuated by RF remote control. Obstruction detection ensures the safety of this feature. In addition, the Touareg is the first in its vehicle class to utilise what is referred to as multiple insulating layers to isolate noise; it weighs much less than conventional insulating materials yet is more effective.

INTERIOR CONCEPT

Design & Innovations:
Visual masterpiece with practical advantages

• Touareg has much more space and longitudinal adjustment of rear bench
• Cockpit bridges gap between luxury class and SUV demands

The interior of the new Touareg reflects absolute perfection in the details. The basic layout brings together a remarkable clarity of lines, timeless elegance, high level of functionality and superior material quality. Generating special appeal is the interplay between SUV-typical ruggedness and the ambiance of a luxury vehicle. Another high priority on this Volkswagen was to makes its controls intuitive right from the start.

In the Touareg, the driver takes a seat in an SUV that is distinguished by well-coordinated and systematic ergonomics. This type of uncompromising excellence in user controls and seating, as well as ideally tuned human-machine interfaces, is a Volkswagen quality that has contributed to the brand’s international success. In the new Touareg – with its complex range of features – it was a special challenge to implement the same intuitive control logic as in a Polo or a Golf. The results speak for themselves.

Cockpit without compromises

Set up in front of the driver is a clearly laid out and high-end cockpit. All key information is displayed within the driver’s visual field in the precisely organised instrument cluster. Another new development – placed between the four round instruments for the speedometer, tachometer, engine temperature and fuel gage – is a seven-inch multi-functional colour display with a 15:9 aspect ratio. It is standard equipment on the Touareg Hybrid and with the V8 engines. The premium version of the display enables several viewing modes without overloading the driver with information. Rather the driver can have specific information shown or hidden by making selections from self-explanatory and colour-coded context menus ("Navigation", "Media", "Telephone", "Vehicle", "Assistance"). In the Touareg Hybrid, the colour display also indicates the drivetrain’s energy flow. The V6 FSI and V6 TDI versions of the Touareg are equipped with a five-inch display that is also new.

The classic, round analogue instruments also exhibit a high level of value and precision. They have electroplated chrome bezels and illuminated red pointers. The dials are backlit by white LEDs and have a three-dimensional look. These upgrades and special anti-reflective glass instrument covers are reminiscent of the round instruments on fine chronographs.

Centre console with clean styling and ideal ergonomics

A completely updated generation of audio/navigation systems was developed for the Touareg. Standard equipment here is the "RCD 550" radio-CD system with 6.5 inch touch-screen and integrated 6-disc CD changer. As an option, this infotainment module can be upgraded to the "RNS 850" navigation system with an 8-inch touch-screen; its other features include 3D map representation (building view and topographic view via "Digital Terrain Model"), a 40 Gigabyte hard drive (20 Gigabyte memory for music, movies, etc.), DVD player, speech activation and in European versions digital radio reception (DAB). Naturally, the system can also be expanded to include a Bluetooth interface for telephones, a Media Device Interface for MP3 players including iPod/iPhone, TV and a Dynaudio sound system.

Besides intuitive control by touch-screen menuing, the "RCD 550" and "RNS 850" offer a context-based control bar along the lower screen border. Eight keys are located here ("Radio", "Media", "Nav", "Traffic", "Phone", "Climate", "Car" and "Setup") for switching between the basic menus as well as two rotary knobs. All key functions can be accessed using these two levels – touch-screen and control bar. This includes all energy flow and consumption data on the Hybrid version.

Directly under the infotainment unit - optimally visible and logically organised - are the basic controls for the draft-free two-zone climate control system (optional four zones including rear depending on the model). The gearshift grip for the 8-speed automatic is also positioned perfectly for the hand. Behind it, toward the two-part centre armrest, are the rugged and technically styled rotary switches for controlling the running gear and all-wheel modes. Integrated next to the gearshift lever are keys for the Stop-Start function and the electric parking brake.

Perfected driver and front passenger seating

The front and rear seats of the Touareg have been fully redesigned, and they offer significantly improved comfort on long journeys. Along with basic seats, Volkswagen will offer optional comfort front seats on the SUV (standard on Touareg Hybrid and V8 TDI) as well as sport seats. All adjustments on the comfort and sport seats are electrically powered. Included on these seats is a new pneumatic air cushion in the side supports of the backrests. Also standard with these seats: head restraints (front) with both height and longitudinal adjustment. They can be fitted closer to the head, reducing the risk of whiplash injury in the event of an accident. Comfort seats will also have a climate control function (ventilation of seat and backrest surfaces).

New rear seating system and more space in rear

Despite the reduced vehicle height, head room was improved in both the front and rear. Leg room on the rear bench seat also grew significantly, since it was the interior that benefited from the 40 millimetre longer wheelbase. The results: leg room grew from 68 millimetres to 104 millimetres. And this gain is quite noticeable.

In addition, the Touareg’s interior now exhibits a variability that equals the qualities of a large estate car. The reasons: First, the rear bench has 160 millimetres of longitudinal travel, and its backrests can be adjusted to three levels of tilt. As an option, the 40:60 split bench can also be conveniently unlatched electrically via a button in the cargo area or from the side of the driver’s seat. In the maximum case, the Touareg’s cargo capacity ranges from 580 to 1,642 litres depending on positioning and adjustment of the rear bench seat.

ASSISTANCE/CONVENIENCE SYSTEMS

Active & Passive Safety:
The new Touareg monitors its surroundings

• New and further advanced assistance systems offer peace of mind
• New ACC with Pre-Crash function and Area View to perceive surroundings

The new Touareg offers an extraordinarily large range of highly advanced technologies. Many of them are entirely new, while others were intensively upgraded. The parking brake is now activated by pushbutton. The camera-based Area View detects the Touareg’s surroundings, providing an extra measure of safety. Lane Assist ensures that the vehicle does not stray from the right path; meanwhile, Side Assist warns of vehicles approaching from the rear when changing lanes. Adaptive cruise control (ACC) can brake the vehicle to a stop in an emergency; in parallel, the seatbelts are tensioned. Bi-Xenon headlights with Dynamic Light Assist "see" oncoming traffic and adjust the high beam lights to eliminate unwanted glare. Adaptive roll compensation - a feature of the further advanced air suspension - ensures that the Touareg impressively tracks through curves like a sports car. An overview of the assistance systems:

• Area View is a surroundings monitoring system being introduced for the first time at Volkswagen. Via four cameras (in the tailgate, outside mirrors and radiator grille) Area View transfers images all of the Touareg’s surroundings to the central touch-screen in the centre console. In off-road driving, for example, Area View uses front and side cameras to acquire images immediately in front of and next to the vehicle, and this is extremely helpful on extreme trails. Thanks to the "Trailer View" mode, a trailer’s movements can also be displayed as a function of the steering input.

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) - The latest generation of this system with Stop-and-Go function (automatic driving / braking in stop-and-go traffic), automatic emergency braking as well as sensor-controlled Pre-Crash function (tensioning of driver and front passenger seatbelts by electric motor in anticipation of potentially hazardous situations). ACC will be offered as a component of a new driver assistance package. In this case, systems like the new Area View are also on board.

• Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic headlight range control. Dynamic headlight range control, a camera-based system, detects oncoming traffic as well as vehicles in front of the Touareg and adjusts the light pattern so that it does not produce any glare for other vehicles (area of the headlight is masked), yet it gives the driver the best possible illumination of the roadway.

• Electric parking brake. This parking brake is actuated by the press of a button. It releases automatically when starting to drive again.

• Air suspension with adaptive roll compensation in a further developed version. The 4-corner air suspension assures maximum comfort with minimal rolling motion of the bodywork.

• Lane Assist is also camera-based. If there is a risk that the car will leave the lane without activating the turn signal, the system warns the driver by vibrating the steering wheel.

• Side Assist. Radar sensors at the rear of the vehicle warn the driver of vehicles approaching from the rear when changing lanes.

FEATURES

V6 FSI / V6 TDI / V8 TDI / Hybrid:
Even base version has a touch-screen and high-tech features

• V6 FSI and V6 TDI considerably better equipped than previous model
• Hybrid and V8 TDI dazzle with full array of standard features

Even the Touareg V6 FSI and V6 TDI have a set of standard features that goes beyond the average. Factory installed equipment that is always aboard include electrically folding and adjustable wing mirrors, rain sensor, load sill guard in trim colour, multi-function leather-trimmed steering wheel plus cruise control, centre armrests, front and rear, four 12-Volt appliance plugs, alternative RF remote actuation of electric window lifts, automatically opening cargo cover, automatic climate control (individually adjustable, left and right), modular rear seating system, multi-function display, "RCD 550" radio system with touch-screen control and integrated 6-disc CD changer, speed-dependent Servotronic, 17-inch alloy wheels ("Sonora" with seven spokes) with size 235 tyres, Stop/Start system and regenerative braking as well as ambient lighting for the door handles.

When it comes to safety, the following features are added: electronic stabilisation programme (ESP), trailer stabilisation, Hill Start and Hill Descent Assist, an effective network of airbags, front fog lights including static cornering lights, daytime running lights, adaptive brake lights (automatic hazard flasher at full braking), automatic door locking when vehicle is in motion (deactivatable), self-dimming rear-view mirror and illuminated entry at all doors (including tailgate).

Standard features of the Touareg Hybrid and V8 TDI

The two new top versions, the Touareg Hybrid and Touareg V8 TDI, have even more exclusive exterior and interior features. Consider the exterior: Standard features here include a chrome pack (side window frames, lower cooling air inlet, load sill guard, tread plate, door sill trim and exhaust pipe ends), Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, Coming Home and Leaving Home lighting feature, self-dimming outside mirror on the driver’s side, electrically opening and closing cargo area tailgate as well as the "Keyless Access" locking and engine starting system. The Touareg Hybrid and V8 TDI also leave the factory on 18-inch alloy wheels and size 255 tyres. On the V8 TDI, "Tacora" type wheels (ten spokes) are used, and the Hybrid has customised "Yukon" wheels with five sets of dual spokes. Visually, the Hybrid can also be recognised by its Hybrid logos on the chrome side trim at the front and rear and on the interior trim of the centre console.

Moreover, the interior of the Touareg Hybrid and V8 TDI is customised by details such as leather upholstery ("Cricket" pattern) with comfort seats, including electric 12-way seat adjustment in front, pedal caps in stainless steel look, footwell illumination, multi-function display with large colour display, storage compartments under the front seats, decorative inserts in the fine wood "Walnut Root" and tread plates with stainless steel accents. Last but not least, an anti-theft warning system is included. So this vehicle is genuinely "fully equipped"!

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The Golf sport has a new name - ABT Golf R

When ABT Sportsline deals with the VW Golf, the result is traditionally a compact super sports car. This is because the world's largest tuner of vehicles from the Volkswagen group has given all generations of the successful Wolfsburg car an optical and technical boost. The current super Golf answers to the letter R, which announces the most important characteristics of the car: the "R" stands for "racing" - it transports the experience of ABT, which has recently defended its DTM title and won the ADAC GT Masters. Instead of the series-standard 270HP (199 kW) the engine now offers a dynamic 310HP (228 kW). With a high-speed of 261 km/h the ABT R is especially fast - and it is also capable of quick acceleration: it sprints from a standstill to a speed of 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds.


"The compact car is really good fun, particularly on corners", states Hans-Juergen Abt. For the General Manager of ABT Sportsline each Golf is a challenge which he and his team are happy to confront: "VW gave the Golf dynamism when it was in the cradle - it defines sportiness in its class. And the Golf R is the champion of fast Golfs." Optically, some interesting details provide the vehicle with a particularly self-confident appearance: the ABT Daytime running lights, front apron and front lip make the Bavarian car seem even more powerful and perfectly harmonise with the new CR alloy. The especially light design wheel looks exceptional on the ABT Golf R, particularly in 19 inch. Fitting high-performance tyres are, of course, also available, meaning that nothing stands in the way of the especially agile shape of the Golf sport. The newcomer to the Golf family is, of course, absolutely suitable for everyday driving and is good-natured and not touchy in heavy traffic. But look out when it let's loose...


ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
Engine: 2.0 TSI, 1984 ccm capacity
Performance tuning: ABT Power
Performance: 310 HP/228 kW (standard: 199 HP/270 kW)
ABT AERODYNAMICS
ABT front skirt


ABT OPTICAL CHARACTERISTICS
ABT daytime running light
ABT front lip spoiler
ABT WHEEL TECHNOLOGY
ABT BR wheel in 18 and 19 inches
ABT CR wheel in 18 and 19 inches
Available also as complete set of wheels with sports tyres

via:world car fans

Family Ties: Audi Owner Rebadges TT Coupe as a Volkswagen

At a first glance, few would guess that the first generation Audi TT shares a platform, engine and most of its mechanics with parent company Volkswagen's Golf as well as the VW Jetta, New Beetle, Seat Leon, Skoda Octavia etc., etc.







more detail. ...

2010 Volkswagens Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition

Three All-New Special Edition Volkswagens Now Available in Dealer Showrooms

The 2010 CC R-Line, 2010 Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition, And 2010 New Beetle Red Rock Edition add performance and individuality

HERNDON, Va., Feb. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced that three all-new 2010 special edition models are now available in dealer showrooms. The CC R-Line, Jetta TDI® Cup Street Edition, and New Beetle Red Rock Edition all build on the already great features of their standard versions, with unique elements and design cues exclusive to these special models.

"Volkswagen constantly looks for ways of providing our customers special limited edition models that provide the opportunity of owning something unique," said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "The CC R-Line, Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition, and Red Rock Edition New Beetle demonstrate our brands ability to provide our customers something truly special."


The 2010 CC R-Line

Volkswagen's CC is one of the most stylish and sporty coupe sedans currently available in the market today. For drivers who want a more aggressive look to match, the new CC R-Line comes outfitted with a number of visual enhancements for a decidedly sporty look. A body kit with side skirts and a new front bumper, including an integrated chin spoiler, give a more aggressive appearance. Special 18-inch "Mallory" wheels, R-Line badges on the front fenders, and smoked taillamps complete the exterior upgrades. Brushed aluminum door sills are added to the interior. The CC R-Line is powered by the highly acclaimed, performance-bred 2.0T engine, mated to either a six-speed manual transmission, or a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG®) equipped with paddle shifters.


The 2010 Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition

Born from the popularity of Volkswagen's groundbreaking Jetta TDI Cup race series – now entering its 3rd season – and enthusiast demand for a race-inspired version of the popular Jetta TDI, comes the 2010 Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition. Various modifications inside and out ensure the Street Edition is instantly connected to the TDI Cup cars racing on tracks throughout North America. The Street Edition offers the same full body kit found on the TDI Cup race cars with an aerodynamic front bumper, side skirts, and rear valance. Also included are 18-inch "Charleston" wheels with high-performance tires, larger GLI brakes with red painted calipers, and the European-tuned sport suspension from the GLI. Sport seats with Interlagos cloth, a leather-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel, and brushed aluminum door sills mark the interior. Volkswagen's proven 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel engine makes 140 horsepower and 236 lbs.-ft. of torque, sent through either a six-speed manual, or a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG®) transmission.


The 2010 New Beetle Red Rock Edition

The charm and passion of Volkswagen's iconic New Beetle, which was unveiled at the 1998 North American International Auto Show, continues with the 2010 New Beetle Red Rock Edition. Only 750 of the custom coupes will be available, each with a unique, two-toned exterior comprised of Red Rock metallic paint and a painted black roof. An all black interior complements the overall color scheme, while select 17-inch wheels and a full sport suspension improve driving excitement out on the open road.

The 2010 CC R-Line (starting at $29,590), the 2010 Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition (starting at $24,990), and the 2010 New Beetle Red Rock Edition ($20,390) are all available now.

To learn more about these and other Volkswagen models, please visit www.vw.com.


About Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Golf, GTI, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Eos, Passat, Passat Wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2010 Volkswagens come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or www.media.vw.com to learn more.

SOURCE Volkswagen of America, Inc.
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MTM Golf VI GTI / GTD Tuning Packages

MTM puts the Golf GTI and GTD under mighty pressure

• Up to 100 hp more and fantastic characteristics for the Golf GTI

• 205 hp for the diesel Golf GTD

The sixth generation of Golf - optional with the 3 magic letters GTI or GTD - is like his predecessors an object of desire for the tuners. Either up to 310 hp (228 kW) for the GTI or 205 hp (151 kW) for the GTD, the VW and Audi refiner from Wettstetten offers for both cars different power and configuration stages, which improve significantly the characteristics and have a positive effect on the car.

The results: faster lap times, optimum value and lots of recommendations. And that not only in the MTM domains - best vehicle dynamics, thanks to a perfect complete package of power enhancement, exhaust system, suspensions and sport rims - but also for fuel consumption. In a comparative test, the MTM Golf GTD had a fuel consumption less than 8 litres per 100 km, which relegated its competitors to the fringe.


With the GTI for a new takeoff

The GTI drivers of the sixth generation will be spoiled with MTM products, which stand more for technique rather than optics. Four power enhancement stages, beginning with 270 hp (199 kW) through the optimization of the ECU and it even goes further. In its upper stage, MTM reaches more than 300 hp through the modification of the ECU, MTM turbocharger with exhaust manifold and complete 4 pipes exhaust system. The exact characteristics are 310 hp (228 kW) and a torque of 410 Nm, with a time of 1.16 min realized on the small track of Hockenheim, top speed of about 270 km/h and 5,7 seconds from 0 to 100.

MTM provides the new GTI with 19" sport rims in new BIMOTO 9-spoke-design which offer enough space for the MTM brake system with 380 mm discs. Last but not least, MTM advises the in-house suspension kit, which lowers the front about 30 mm.

For the ones who are only searching 'a little bit' more, they are in good hands at MTM. The 60 hp upgrade compared to the series car and also the 18" sport rims in the Bimoto Design - available since the beginning of 2010 - enable a first entry into MTM high quality tuning already available from 2.698 Euros incl. taxes.


Mighty Diesel power. The Golf GTD by MTM.

With a power upgrade - through ECU modifications - of 205 hp (151 kW) and a torque of 380 Nm, the MTM Golf GTD is clearly ahead of the series GTD, with an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h of 7,1 s instead of 7,8 s and a particularly higher flexibility.

For those who are looking for more than a power upgrade, it's also possible to revert to MTM's full range of tuning products. Starting with the well-known MTM exhaust system in 4-pipe-optic and 80 mm diameter, over MTM suspensions, MTM sport rims in the BIMOTO design and MTM brake system, the Golf GTD can perfectly provided with.

Nobody has to be afraid of the prices: 800 Euro (incl. taxes, excl. installation) for the power upgrade, 1.499 Euro for the 18" rim set and for the ones who pay an additional charge of 400 Euro even gets a 19" rim set.


Source: MTM; Photos easycarblog

VW intends to topple Toyota

10 million sales by 2018 is new goal

BY ANDREAS CREMER
BLOOMBERG NEWS

Volkswagen, Europe's largest carmaker, said it plans to increase sales to more than 10 million vehicles by 2018 as it seeks to dethrone Japan's Toyota.

VW's management board approved business targets, including profit margins, measured by earnings before interest and taxes, of at least 5% for the automotive business in the "medium term," Wolfsburg, Germany-based Volkswagen said in a statement Wednesday. The target doesn't include Porsche, which will be integrated by 2011, it said.

Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn has a target of beating Toyota, the world's biggest carmaker, in global deliveries and profit margins. VW sold 6.29 million cars and SUVsworldwide last year, an increase of 1.1% from 2008. Toyota said last month that 2009 vehicle sales, including those of affiliates, fell 13% to 7.81 million vehicles.

"It shows plenty of ambition in the whole Volkswagen Group," said Stephen Pope, chief global equity strategist at Cantor Fitzgerald in London. "By being able to learn from Porsche's discipline, it gives them that extra springboard."

By 2018, Volkswagen, which includes the Audi luxury division and Czech unit Skoda, should have a pretax profit that exceeds 8% of sales, the company said.

Volkswagen shares fell 18 cents, or 0.3%, to 65.72 euros after rising as much as 1% on the Frankfurt exchange before the announcement. The automaker has a market value of 25.7 billion euros ($36 billion).

"With the implementation of 'Strategy 2018,' the Volkswagen group is seeking global economic and environmental leadership in the automotive industry by 2018," VW said in its statement. The plan would include "significant cost cutting, in part through the more prominent use of the modular design principle."

VW foresees steps to promote research and development of hybrid and electric cars, according to the statement. VW will also maintain "strict discipline" on spending and aim to keep the expenditure on fixed assets in automaking at about 6% of sales in the medium and long term.

Volkswagen Golf R Launches in Europe

The new Golf R is here. Designed by Volkswagen Individual. All-wheel driven. As the flagship of the model series it is equipped with standard Bi-Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights. Shifted manually or by optional DSG. At 199 kW / 270 PS it is the most powerful version of the model series ever built. At the same time, it is the most fuel-efficient Golf R of all times – 21 percent (!) more fuel efficient than the previous model. A high-class sports car with compact-class fuel economy. The data in detail: The Golf R sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. The Golf R performs even better when shifted with the optional direct shift gearbox (DSG): It leaves the 100-km/h mark behind it in a sensational 5.5 seconds.


The best data: While the retired Golf R32 processed 10.7 litres fuel per 100 kilometres, the new Golf R only needs 8.5 litres – 2.2 litres less! Accordingly, CO2 emissions are reduced from 255 to 199 g/km. After 100 kilometres, the automatically shifted Golf R DSG is filled with just 8.4 litres (195 g/km CO2) at the fuel pump.

The enormous efficiency gain of the new Golf R is not some magic trick; rather it is the result of intelligent downsizing. Its legendary predecessor generated its power from a displacement of 3.2 litres ("32") and six cylinders. In the new model, this is accomplished with four cylinders and 2.0 litres of displacement – a highly advanced direct injection petrol engine with turbo-charging (TSI). At the fuel pump and on the winding mountain road, this high-tech alliance is superior to a classic six cylinder with multi-point injection. Proving that even the sound of a four cylinder can leave a strong impression are the fifth and sixth generations of the Golf GTI, also powered by a four cylinder TSI. And the Golf R - and the chrome dual tailpipes of its sound-optimized exhaust system - display a significantly broader "sound spectrum".


The TSI’s torque characteristic is just as impressive.

By comparison: The six cylinder of the previous model developed a maximum torque of 320 Newton-meters at 2,500 rpm. And that too was remarkably good. The turbo four-cylinder direct injection engine of the new Golf R, on the other hand, transfers 350 Newton-meters torque to the crankshaft, also available from 2,500 rpm, but it can maintain this peak value up to 5,000 rpm. So the new car delivers a fascinatingly high level of fundamental dynamic performance. The Golf R32 and Golf R are really only equals in one discipline; they each have a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited on the Golf R).

The new Golf R uses the EA113 series direct-injection petrol engine; its turbocharger makes it very flexible and variable right up to the highest end of the performance curve. The 1,984 cm3 TSI’s specific power is a respectable 100.3 kW / 136.6 PS per litre displacement, and its responsiveness is just as impressive. The engine’s power can be spontaneously summoned in the blink of an eye over its entire speed range. As mentioned, the engine also shows off its potential acoustically. Visually too: Its two chrome tailpipes are visible under the diffuser integrated at the centre of the bumper – an "R trait" of the previous model as well.


The four-cylinder engine develops its tremendous propulsive power via a turbocharger (up to 1.2 bar boost pressure) with intercooling. The engine, weighing in at just 152 kilograms, is controlled by a fully electronic engine management system with E-Gas. The cylinders of the four-cylinder engine have been equipped with reinforcing bolts, unlike less powerful TSI versions. Design engineers also designed stronger connecting rods that can reliably transfer the engine’s high torque to the crankshaft. Last but not least, the cylinder block was reinforced to handle the aggressive engine forces.

The Golf R transfers the TSI’s power to the road via the latest generation of Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, which is standard equipment. Compared to the version implemented in the Golf R32, the system underwent significant advanced development. Above all, power transmission between the front and rear axles – especially the all-wheel differential that operates in an oil bath – demonstrates clear advantages compared to the previous generation. The most important one: Activation of the all-wheel differential no longer requires a difference between the front and rear axle speeds.

That is because, and this is different than on the previous generation, an electric pump is being used to build pressure for the first time. The electric pump supplies oil to a hydraulic reservoir with a working pressure of 30 bar. A control module computes the ideal drive torque for the rear axle, and it uses a valve to control how much oil pressure is applied to the working pistons of the multi-plate clutch. The contact pressure at the clutch plates rises in proportion to the desired torque at the rear axle. The amount of torque that is transferred can be varied continuously by the amount of pressure applied to the clutch plates. Unlike the previous 4MOTION generation, the system operates independent of slip, since the system’s working pressure is always available. When starting up and accelerating, spinning of the wheels at the front axle is prevented more effectively, since the control module regulates torque distribution based on dynamic axle loads. In extreme cases, nearly 100 percent of the drive torque can be directed to the rear axle, a plus in terms of active safety and dynamic performance.

When it came to the running gear, development engineers adopted the first-class system of the current production Golf. This means: In front the familiar McPherson strut suspension with helical springs and telescoping shock absorbers; at the rear a multi-link suspension ensures that the standard ESP system seldom needs to intervene. The basic layout was transformed into a sport chassis with ride-height lowered 25 millimetres, and the springs, dampers and stabilisers were completely re-tuned to this new configuration. Also available as an option is DCC dynamic chassis control whose character was fully tuned to the Golf R. This system continually adapts suspension damping to the roadway and driving situation. In addition to the standard "Normal" mode, the driver can manually activate a "Sport" or "Comfort" mode.


The brake system was also modified for the Golf R’s higher level of driving performance. Instead of a 16-inch system, a 17-inch brake system is used; all brakes have internally ventilated discs and R-specific brake callipers painted a high-gloss black with R-logo. In front the discs are 345 millimetres in diameter, and 310 millimetres at the rear. The electronic stabilisation program (ESP) was also modified. It can be switched to a new Sport mode via the ESP button. During very fast and curve-filled drives – as on a circuit – the ESP system delays intervention, enabling even more responsive handling properties. The electro-mechanical power-assisted steering was given a sportier characteristic as well. If the Golf R is ordered with optional DCC dynamic chassis control, the power-assisted steering is given a specially tuned characteristic for each of the system’s driving modes ("Sport", "Normal", "Comfort").

The running gear maintains its contact with the road via new 18-inch alloy wheels ("Talladega" type in "Sterling Silver" colour) with 225/40 tyres as standard equipment. The same style wheels are available in a 19-inch version with 235/35 tyres as an option. Customers can also order the 19-inch wheels in "Glossy Black". Regardless of the colour, when 19-inch wheels are selected the headlight housings always appear completely in black, and the Golf R windows are tinted from the B-pillars back.

Like the first two generations of the Super Golf (I starting in 2002, II in 2005) - and the car’s new sister model the Scirocco R - the new Golf R also sports an entirely new set of exterior and interior features. Volkswagen designers have given the Golf R independent styling with a bundle of well-coordinated refinements, including large air scoops to meet the cooling demands of the 270-PS engine. The Golf R clearly represents the peak of the model series, and the quality of its styling follows the basic design language of "La Semplicità" set forth by the Head of Group Design, Walter de Silva.

Outside, it is customised by features such as the new "Talladega" style wheels, black brake callipers with R-logo and new bumper design. In front, three very large air intakes shape the front bumper section of the Golf R; louvres on the intakes are painted in high-gloss black, and standard LED strips that serve as daytime running lights are integrated in the two outer air intakes. Also painted in high-gloss black are the two louvres of the radiator grille. A new R-logo design appears in chrome on the right side of the grille. Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering light, included at no extra charge, illuminate the way through the night. On its sides, the Golf R is recognisable by side skirt extensions in body colour and mirror housings painted in high-gloss black.


The Golf R can be clearly made out as an independent top model at the rear as well. The rear lights, a new design, stands out along with the bumper with diffuser and centrally positioned tailpipes, R-logo and larger roof edge spoiler. They operate with standard LED technology that is visually distinctive and exhibits extremely quick response as well as long in life.

The sixth generation Golf, with its high-end interior materials, breaks through class distinctions to the next higher class. The Golf R benefits from this quality image too; its power reserves alone put it in a league of its own. Additional special upgrades developed by Volkswagen Individual highlight the car’s high-end positioning.

A key equipment option here is the newly designed "Top Sport seat system" with heated seats in front that have excellent ergonomic properties. The driver just sits down, adjusts the longitudinal and height positions of the seat, adjusts the steering wheel, buckles up, and is ready to go. The seat fits as though it were tailor-made. Here, the Golf R - together with the Golf GTI and Golf GTD - is setting standards among the international competition. The centre panels of the sport seats are upholstered in the honeycomb textured grey-black "Kyalami" design – named after the race course of the same name in South Africa; the front edge of the seat is upholstered in Titan Black fabric. The inside panels of the side supports are upholstered with crystal-grey "San Remo" micro-fibres. The rest of the seat components and the roofliner are coloured black. The new R-logo is embroidered in the front head restraints as well. Motorsport shell seats for driver and front passenger are also available as an option; they have integrated head restraints with embroidered R-logos. In this case, the centre seat panels are upholstered in the "San Remo" micro-fibre fabric. On the outside, the shell seats are upholstered with black leather.

All seams of the interior are in "Art Grey" (exception: Motorsport shell seats). As so are the decorative seams of the standard multi-function three-spoke leather steering wheel. Perforated leather is used at the top and bottom of the steering wheel, ensuring maximum hand grip. The sides of the steering wheel with their ergonomic motorsport attributes are fully trimmed in leather. Spokes in fine black piano paint add an elegant aspect that finishes the sporty image. The centre steering wheel spoke bears the R-logo. The fascinating material contrast of piano paint and chrome conveys the passion for finesse and precision in every detail of the interior.

Also re-styled are the R gearshift knob, carpet floor mats with piping in "Art Grey", aluminium door tread plates with R-logo and the instruments with their blue pointers and a speedometer scale that reads up to 300 km/h. Stainless steel sport pedals and R-specific instrument and door accents in "Silver Lane" styling round out the custom features. Standard equipment on the Golf R also includes an automatic climate control system ("Climatronic") and the "RCD 310" radio-CD system (4 x 20 Watt) with MP3 player plus dual tuners.
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