Noi modele VW pana in 2008!

VW Polo Gets New 6 Speed Gearbox


The Polo is now available with a six-speed automatic gearbox - the first vehicle in its class to offer this level of comfort and convenience. In conjunction with the new 77 kW / 105 hp 1.6-litre petrol engine, the gearbox gives the Polo the characteristics of a mid-class vehicle in the small vehicle segment.

The Polo is one of the most successful and versatile small cars in Europe. It has once again raised the bar with the new engine/gearbox combination and is the first vehicle in its class to have a six-speed automatic gearbox with gear ranges which are closer together for smoother performance. This is now the second automatic gearbox available in the wide Polo range of seven petrol engines and four diesel engines.

In combination with the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with 77 kW/105 hp, the Polo is capable of a top speed of 187 km/h. It accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 11.3 seconds. The combined fuel consumption is 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres.

The Polo Trendline with the six-speed automatic gearbox coupled with the 1.6-litre petrol engine has a starting price of 15,500 euros. It is also available in the Comfortline and Sportline versions. The "Goal" special model starts at 16,875 euros. The equipment package of the Polo "Goal" represents a price saving of 918 euros.

The Volkswagen Bank has attractive financing options for the Polo "Goal" and for other models in its "All-Inclusive" programme. With the Volkswagen "carefree package" ("AutoCredit" personal contract purchase), the monthly payment for the Polo "Goal" with a six-speed automatic gearbox is, for example, just 152 euros*. This not only includes comprehensive vehicle insurance and an extended warranty but also the option of outstanding payment cover with free integrated income protection insurance. In addition, the Volkswagen carefree package includes free inspection and maintenance for four years.

The six-speed automatic gearbox is offered with a Tiptronic function (+/-) and the gears P-R-N-D-S. The "S" position gives the driver a sporty driving programme in which the automatic gearbox changes gear at higher engine speeds. In the "S" position the gearbox does not shift into the sixth gear as the top speed is reached in the fifth gear. In addition to this, the Tiptronic function, now also available in the Polo, enables the driver to select a gear manually. The long sixth gear reduces the engine speed and thus reduces fuel consumption, which is particularly noticeable in motorway driving. This also has a positive side-effect: the noise level is reduced.

The 1.6-litre engine is also available with a manual five-speed gearbox.

New IROC Concept Provides Glimpse into Upcoming Scirocco


                    http://vwgazette.blo...impse-into.html

scania freak: ai dreptate ce am postat eu nu era noul Scirocco, mea culpa.

Nu-i problema stai calm.  

Reports: Volkswagen Passat R36 due in spring 2007


        Earlier this month, German and Dutch media reports indicated Volkswagen would roll out its powerful R36 Passat in spring 2007 with a 300 horsepower engine and DSG gearbox. The U.K.'s AutoExpress now says Volkswagen has "confirmed" the report, indicating the R36 will be used to do battle with the turbocharged Mazda 6 MPS. The report indicates the R36 will use the same 280bhp 3.6-litre V6 engine already available in the U.S. However, we strongly suspect initial reports of an uprated 300 horsepower version of the engine are more accurate. It's also possible different versions may be offered for various markets. Some reports have suggested the R36 will take styling cues from the Passat R GT Concept.

SCANIA FREAK, on Aug 30 2006, 18:33, said:

BESTIAL !

armonie, forta, agresivitate, va rupe gura targului !!!

clar, una din cele mai frumoase masini VW.

Quote

Westfalia Redux



Get ready for a Westfalia redux. French-Canadian designer Alexandre Verdier has designed an updated version of Volkswagen's famous Westfalia. This design, which is still an early concept, retains all the functionality of the old Westfalia then builds on it, all contained inside a package that pays homage to the classic VW.

The design still utilized the pop top but now rises straight up instead of tilted on the old Westfalia. The roof does double duty producing adequate electric power through solar panels mounted on the roof. Functionality continues inside with seatbacks that transform into stairs for easy access to the second level. Indeed, this new iteration also includes a kitchenette, which swings out of the van. The van even includes a set of fold-out chairs, which store neatly in a drawer in the back.

Design-wise, the Westfalia is as modern as any road car in today's standards. Clean lines, pillarless greenhouse, and possibly some LED lighting.

Don't hold your breath, however, waiting for this to reach showrooms. Verdier is still looking for a company to partner with.

Volkswagen at Automechanika 2006


Source: Volkswagen AG.
Automechanika Innovation Award for VW vehicle diagnostics concept

WOLFSBURG, Germany - “So that your Volkswagen remains a Volkswagen�– Europe’s largest automaker is presenting some 50 products, services and concepts under this motto at Automechanika 2006, the international leading trade fair for the automotive industry, taking place in Frankfurt from 12 - 17 September. In Hall 3.1, Volkswagen will not only be showing numerous innovations and trends for technical maintenance and service, but also making a comprehensive presentation of its accessories and genuine parts business.

Volkswagen will receive the Automechanika Innovation Award 2006 for the first series-model use of new vehicle diagnostics communication standards. Volkswagen service partners have been using the ASAM-UDS basic system, an internationally defined protocol standard in diagnostics communication, in their VAS-505 diagnostics equipment for the VW Crafter since May 2006.

Press release continues after the jump.

Volkswagen will in future be offering its service partners an enhanced standard of training through a new concept for training and certifying qualified Volkswagen Service Trainers in five fields of competence (technical, brand, method, HR and social competence), which are integrated in on-site training at service partners.

The Volkswagen Job Exchange has established itself as a successful and sustainable instrument for the labor market. 1,500 dealers and service partners of Volkswagen in Germany already use this free internet platform to recruit skilled employees, and there have been more than 12,500 applications since 2003.

Volkswagen is now introducing a mobile platform for many of the low-cost, alternative repair methods featured in its Clever Repair Program. As a result, customer service becomes even more flexible, especially for small repair jobs. By the end of the year, VW workshops plan to deploy at least 30 of these new Clever Repair mobile vehicles.

Volkswagen is ready to meet increased demand from customers for diesel particle filter retrofits and has a wide range of available kits. VW service partners offer diesel particle filters for almost every model series. These filters have been endurance tested and specially designed or engineered for each model and engine range.

Under the EU’s Leonardo da Vinci project, Volkswagen TV is investigating whether its successful concept of interactive training and information broadcasting for VW service partners can also be transferred to small and medium-sized enterprises throughout Europe. Volkswagen has won a total of 20 project partners in nine countries for this research project.

The new aerodynamics package from Volkswagen Accessories demonstrates that the Volkswagen Passat has what it takes to set sporting highlights. The sporty-design premium set comprising front apron, side skirting, rear apron, rear spoiler lip and twin tail pipe trim, refines the optical impression and reduces air resistance. The set will be available from VW partners from the end of 2006.

Volkswagen is presenting these products and services, together with many more, at Automechanika 2006. "Providing service for over ten million Volkswagen brand vehicles in Germany and more than 50 million vehicles all over the world represents a great challenge and brings enormous potential for a successful service business. That is what we are aiming to bring across to visitors at Automechanika," said Dietmar Hildebrandt, Head of Volkswagen After Sales. Service quality, market development and customer satisfaction go hand in hand in meeting this challenge.

VW Calls For Preferential Status For Second-Generation Biofuels


As part of its fuel and powertrain strategy, Volkswagen is backing innovative second-generation biofuels and is calling on politicians to develop a sustainable tax model providing a secure framework for investing in the development and market launch of these new fuels.

"The present assessment regarding the sustainability of first and second-generation biofuels is entirely unsatisfactory, both in economic and environmental terms. One biofuel is not the same as another: some first-generation biofuels can best be described as a ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’. Some of them have a worse CO2 balance than conventional gasoline fuels, but nevertheless still bear the name of ‘biofuel’", Dr. Bernd Pischetsrieder, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, commented in Berlin on Thursday. "First-generation biofuels receive tax incentives from scarce budget resources and consequently constitute a bad investment. That cannot be considered sustainable in either the ecological or the economic sense of the word."

Volkswagen has for many years been working intensively on concepts for reducing fuel consumption and substituting fossil energies. "Our fuel concept is based on second-generation biofuels which can be produced from biomass, are to a large extent CO2 neutral and do not compete with food production," Pischetsrieder added.

Second-generation biofuels are now on the threshold of commercialization. "In technical terms, second-generation biomass fuels are easy to blend with other fuels and thus help to reduce CO2 levels in the short term", said Pischetsrieder. Relatively high manufacturing expenditure means that second-generation biofuels cannot yet be produced economically on a large scale. Production costs alone for the cellulose ethanol process are currently higher than the costs for both mineral oil-based gasoline and conventional bioethanol. Long-term conditions that also provide a financial incentive for greater CO2 efficiency are needed in order to bring these second-generation fuels to market despite these obstacles and to encourage the further development of the process to bring costs down.

"With a sustainable, holistic tax model offering market-oriented incentives, second-generation biofuels can establish itself on the market," Pischetsrieder said. Apart from taking CO2 efficiency as a yardstick, he also called for further sustainability criteria, oriented for example to factors such as the use of fertilizers and pesticides, the protection of rainforests, social standards, employment potential and security of supply, to be included in fuel taxation. "Excessive subsidization and the misallocation of politico-economic resources must be avoided," Pischetsrieder commented. Volkswagen has developed a tax model catering for both CO2 efficiency (primary criterion) and the sustainability criteria he outlined. Volkswagen believes that such a system could encourage tax harmonization in Europe.

"Volkswagen is already working on concepts for the industrial production of second-generation biofuels and is willing to encourage their production through substantial investment," Prof. Dr. Jürgen Leohold, Head of Group Research at Volkswagen, said. He added that Volkswagen welcomed the German government’s plans for a lower tax rate on Biomass-to-Liquid and cellulose ethanol fuels until 2015. "However, we doubt this is sufficient for the long-term planning security needed for major investment, "Leohold added.

New biofuels bring significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions

Second-generation biofuels include SunFuelâ , a synthetic Biomass-to-Liquid fuel, and cellulose ethanol, which can be produced from whole grains or various kinds of agricultural residue such as corn stover. First-generation biofuels, such as biodiesel or bioethanol, are mainly produced from the grain kernels only. Second-generation biofuels triple the yield per hectare and, unlike first-generation biofuels, do not compete with food production.

Volkswagen cooperates closely with other automakers, bio-tech companies and mineral oil corporations in developing fuels. Volkswagen supports the development of promising processes and is already working on powertrains that can run on biofuels: Volkswagen has developed the fully synthetic SunFuelâ diesel fuel together with CHOREN Industries GmbH and other partners. By using biomass, the CO2 cycle can be almost completely closed and greenhouse gases cut by approx. 90 percent. With regard to gasoline fuels, Volkswagen is cooperating with partners such as the Canadian Iogen Corporation, whose process for producing cellulose ethanol offers a similarly high CO2 reduction potential.

VW Mk5 Golf Tdi By Janspeed


Janspeed launches Mk5 Golf TDi ‘Sprint’ enhancement package – 185bhp and handling to match

Salisbury based performance engineering company Janspeed is delighted to announce a new enhancement package for the 140PS Golf Mk5 TDi. Designed to increase engine performance and sharpen the Mk5’s already acclaimed dynamics, Janspeed’s Sprint package broadens the driving appeal of the Golf, enabling it to become a true diesel hot hatchback, one that’s equally at home on road and track.
Engine performance upgrade

Developed in conjunction with Superchips - Janspeed’s electronics partner – the 138bhp Golf TDi is remapped to produce a healthy 185bhp at just 3896rpm. This power boost is allied to a mammoth 290lb/ft of torque (up from 245lb/ft) which peaks at a mere 2185rpm, endowing the Janspeed Golf TDi with impressive flexibility and in-gear acceleration.

Pleasingly, the frugality that endears the Golf TDi to many is retained post-conversion, as the Janspeed Sprint equipped car easily records over 42-45mpg on average consumption.
Dynamic chassis enhancement

While the good ride and handling qualities of the Mk5 Golf are well documented, careful development has produced a tauter, more performance focussed chassis, without compromising ride integrity.

Bespoke uprated front and rear anti-roll bars have been fitted, which significantly reduce lean during spirited cornering, while producing a nicely neutral handling balance. In addition, 30mm upgraded lowering springs are utilised, allied to the original dampers, to help reduce the costs of the conversion.
Affordable performance

Costing just £1395.00 including fitting and VAT, the Janspeed Golf Mk5 TDi Sprint package represents excellent value for money, as it offers Golf GT TD beating performance for significantly less money.
Janspeed Sprint Golf Mk5 TDi Performance figures

0-60mph 7.9 seconds

Top speed 133mph

Volkswagen Tops J.D. Power Automotive Environmental Index



Source: Volkswagen of America.
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Volkswagen of America, Inc. is the industry’s most environmentally friendly automaker according to J.D. Power and Associates’ just-released, 2006 “Alternative Powertrain Study, ” which includes the Automotive Environmental Index. Volkswagen places three products on the automotive researcher’s list of low emission vehicles—including the Golf, Jetta and New Beetle. The study includes gasoline, diesel and hybrid powered vehicles.

The new study combines U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data with voice-of-the-customer information to scrutinize 37 automotive brands relative to a range of environmental factors, including fuel economy, emissions and air quality. The vehicles are then ranked to determine an Automotive Environmental Index (AEI), with Volkswagen topping the list as the product leader in environmental performance.

Press release continues after the jump.

Said Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, chairman of the Volkswagen brand: “The “Alternative Powertrain Study” is testament to our intensive and global commitment in the area of economic engines. And this innovative strength continues to have an impact, via our range of TDI vehicles. No other manufacturer has sold more diesel cars in the United States and that upward trend continues.”

The J.D. Power and Associates study also recognizes Volkswagen and its products as strong performers in the diesel arena. Volkswagen is the leading manufacturer of diesel cars in the United States, including the new Touareg V10 TDI— the first turbodiesel SUV in America with a particle filter, and the Jetta TDI, the industry’s top selling diesel vehicle.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. 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 Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, GLI, Jetta, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.

BLAST FROM THE PAST !!!    



               Volkswagen Chameleon Concept


Concept in familiar and nostalgic package

Volkswagen of America, Inc. is introducing an exciting new concept vehicle from its Electronics Research Laboratory (ERL), located in Palo Alto, California. The ERL has taken a 1964 Deluxe Microbus and retrofitted it with a collection of cutting edge technologies. Dubbed the “Chameleon”, this renovated bus contains projects developed by ERL engineers and external partners that explore novel design concepts for tomorrow’s cars.

With the goal of preserving the classic look of the Microbus, the theme of the concept vehicle is “Hidden Technologies.” This goal is appropriately parallel to Volkswagen’s continuous mission to develop technologies that enhance the driving experience while limiting driver distraction.  The large size and unique layout of the Microbus provides a tremendous platform to creatively integrate many different technologies. A multitude of projects are showcased in the Chameleon, representing the latest advancements in the topics of audio, speech, sensors, displays, navigation, lighting, batteries, solar cells and much more.

In addition to being a cultural icon, the Deluxe Microbus carries a uniquely Californian flavor. With its 21 windows and soft-top canvas roof, the vehicle was a favorite of surfers and adventurers on the West Coast, and is considered a prized collector’s item today. Acknowledging California’s traditionally environmentally friendly attitude, the ERL collaborated with Hybrid Technologies (www.hybridtechnologies.com) to replace the original VW engine with an all electric drive engine powered by lithium polymer batteries. Surfboards mounted on the roof are also lined with flexible solar panels that provide an additional source of energy to this 100% electric vehicle.

The interior of the bus is full of surprises, with an interactive digital instrument cluster, imbedded capacitive touch-pads, digitally enhanced sound quality, exciting rear seat entertainment options, and speech activated controls available throughout the cabin. The exterior houses several exciting new approaches for keyless entry, LED lighting, wide-angle parking cameras, switchable glass and much more.

The Volkswagen Electronics Research Laboratory intends to use the Microbus as a public relations tool to showcase the potential future of automotive electronics set in the nostalgic package of this favorite old-timer. The Chameleon has already been showcased in Germany to Volkswagen executives and engineers. It made its North American public debut at the AltWheels event in Boston, MA on Friday, September 22, 2006.

Testing the Subcompact Waters



For the last few years, many Volkswagen enthusiasts have come to the same conclusion: Volkswagen needs a small car in North America, fast. As gasoline prices continue to rise, people are looking more into economical small cars in the subcompact and compact categories and Volkswagen is no where to be seen.

Not until now.

This week, Volkswagen Canada has announced two "new" models only for Canada called the City Golf and City Jetta. Other than the branding, nothing in the City Golf and City Jetta are new. These two models are the previous Mk. IV generation Golf and Jetta sold only until the new Rabbit and Jetta were launched. It seems like a shrewed marketing scheme by Volkswagen...or is it? Let's take a closer look.

Instead of putting resources into developing a new compact just for the North American market or into modifying an existing European model to certify it for the North American market, Volkswagen has instead decided to rely on an existing platform already certified for the North American Market. Plus, since the City Golf and City Jetta are based on the previous Mk. IV models, the level of fit and finish will be higher than usual compared to other cars in the subcompact and compact categories. What we have with the City Golf and City Jetta is more car for less money.

Under the hood, Volkswagen has decided to keep the previous generation's 2.0L inline 4 that outputs 115 hp. This should help keep fuel consumption to a minimum. The 2.0L will be paired with a five speed manual with an optional 4 speed auto. Standard features include four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, a CD player that plays MP3s, and a tilt/telescopic steering wheel among other things. A bevy of options are also available.

At first glance, this may seem like nothing much but look closer. Read between the lines. If the City Golf and City Jetta become successful, it may signal the beginning of a thriving subcompact market for Volkswagen and may force them to rethink their strategy in this market segment. If the City Golf and City Jetta meets their sales targets in the next year, we may see a new subcompact this side of the pond.

But for now, Canadians can expect to see the City Golf and City Jetta in showrooms on October 14.

Press release to follow after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen Canada.
AJAX, ON, Sept. 25 /CNW/ - Volkswagen announced its new 'City' brand entry strategy which is defined with two models: the 2007 City Golf and 2007 City Jetta. Exclusive to the Canadian market, these new brand entry propositions are the latest models to join an already impressive roster of value-priced models recently-introduced at Volkswagen.

"This strategy will enable us to compete very effectively in the popular and growing sub-compact segment in Canada," said John White, Executive Vice-President of Volkswagen Canada. "These cars will appeal to a new category of buyers who, otherwise, might not have considered the Volkswagen brand", added Mr. White.

The City Golf and City Jetta models go on sale on October 14th, with pricing starting at $14,900 for the City Golf and $16,700 for the City Jetta. Standard features include 15 inch wheels, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, MP3-readable CD player, height adjustable and telescopic steering wheel, variable intermittent front wipers, height adjustable driver seat, 60/40 split folding rear seat, and more. The City Jetta also adds standard power door locks with remote locking, an anti-theft alarm system, chrome exterior appliqués, aluminium-look instrument surrounding, and front floor mats. Packed with value, the City Golf and City Jetta models conjugate legendary German engineering and driving enjoyment, with a very sensible price point.

The 2007 City Golf and City Jetta benefit from industry-leading fit and finish, class-leading driving dynamics, as well as the inherent body strength and crash protection coming from their laser-welding production process. These vehicles also offer a spacious and practical interior with easy entry thanks to large door and luggage compartment openings.

Drivers of the City Golf or City Jetta will benefit from their suspension system that uses an independent McPherson strut font setup, as well as a track-correcting torsion beam at the rear. Moreover, a five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. Both the City Golf and City Jetta are powered by a proven and torque-generous 2.0 litre four-cylinder engine that generates 115 horsepower and 122 lb/ft of torque at a low 2,600 rpm. Among the most impressive driving advancements, is an optional electronic stability programme (ESP) that uses multiple sensors, coupled with the vehicle's ABS system, to selectively apply the brake on an individual wheel in an attempt to maintain the driver's control of the vehicle at all times. This comprehensive safety system also includes an integrated
electronic differential lock (EDL), anti-slip regulation (ASR) traction control, as well as an emergency brake assistant (EBA).

The list of individual option continues with side airbags, side curtain protection, and air conditioning. Packages offered are the following: a cold weather package with heated front seats and washer nozzles, a convenience package replete with items such as power windows, mirrors, and cruise control, and finally, a luxury package with power sunroof and 15" alloy wheels. For added assurance, the City Golf and the City Jetta will come with 24-hour Roadside Assistance for four years with unlimited distance and new vehicle warranties including:

- Five-year/100,000 kilometres (whichever occurs first) Powertrain
Limited Warranty
- Four-year/80,000 kilometres (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle
Limited Warranty with wear and tear items and adjustments excluded
after the initial 12 months/20,000 kilometres
- 12 year unlimited distance Limited Warranty against body-panel
corrosion perforation

China Daily Press Release

Construction started Wednesday on a Sino-German car platform component joint venture between German auto giant Volkswagen and the First Automotive Works Corp (FAW).

Total investment in Volkswagen FAW Platform Co Ltd, based in the capital city of Northeast China's Jilin Province, will reach 1.42 billion yuan (US$171 million), according to a Volkswagen statement.

In what is the third joint venture between FAW and Volkswagen, which will start producing axle assemblies in 2005, the German automaker will have a 60 per cent stake, with FAW - China's biggest State-owned automaker - holding the remaining 40 per cent.

The joint venture is part of Volkswagen's plans to increase its investment in China with local partners by 5.3 billion euros (US$6.5 billion) by 2008 in order to maintain the firm's leading role in the world's fastest-growing car market.

The two automakers now have a joint venture in Changchun, named FAW VW, producing the Volkswagen Jetta, Bora and Golf, and Audi A6 and A4.

Volkswagen, FAW and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp (SAIC) also operate a transmission joint venture in Shanghai.

Folker Weissgerber, a Volkswagen board member, said that the components joint venture in Changchun will supply the new models on its PQ35 platform, which are to be introduced into FAW VW and the other car joint venture with SAIC in Shanghai.
santana, Passat, polo, golf, Touran,
FAW VW will produce the Caddy wagon at the beginning of next year and the new-generation Bora later on.

The Shanghai joint venture, which is producing the Santana, Passat, Polo and Gol, will make the Touran multi-purpose vehicle this year.

Volkswagen said that it has also submitted an application to the Chinese Government to establish an engine joint venture with FAW in Dalian, a port city in Northeast China's Liaoning Province.

Volkswagen said that it had signed a new technical transfer agreement with FAW to introduce new models into FAW VW.

Apart from the Caddy, FAW VW will produce Volkswagen's light-duty buses and vans at FAW's plant in Jilin, another city in Jilin Province.

"The establishment of the Volkswagen FAW Platform Co Ltd is part of our efforts to increase local content in order to cut costs and improve our competitiveness in China," Weissgerber said.

Analysts say Volkswagen's move is driven by the strong euro and regulations concerning key components imports in China's newly launched auto policy.

The production cost pressures on Volkswagen and other European automakers operating in China have increased as a result of the strong euro.

The strong euro increased FAW VW's production costs by more than 2 billion yuan (US$240.9 million) last year, company executives said.

In line with China's commitments to the World Trade Organization (WTO), the nation's new auto policy, issued last month, ended the requirement that the local content rate of all cars made in China must start with at least 40 per cent and increase to 60 per cent in a year and to 80 per cent in two years.

Asta e mai interesanta.

Da insa numai in China se gaseste.  

Captive import, anyone? Daca VW ar avea tupeul sa o aduca la 8-10000 de euro in .ro, ar rupe gura targului.

Da ar fi ceva, insa nu o vom vedea pe la noi.