Noi modele VW pana in 2008!

VW Iroc la Paris


              http://www.worldcarf...pt-photo-update

Ala e EOS Maximus nu Golf CC !    



            Volkswagen Introduces 2007 Special Edition Models


Soon, Volkswagen of America will be offering the Jetta/GLI, GTI, and New Beetle convertible in even more flavours as they begin to roll out special edition models for 2007. Up on the list are a Wolfsburg Edition Jetta, a Fahrenheit GLI and GTI, and a Triple New Beetle convertible.

For the Wolfsburg Edition Jetta, Volkswagen has taken a standard 2.5L Jetta, slapped on a few "Wolfsburg" badges, and added some extra features like 16" alloys, leatherette seating, and a cold weather package. For a manual transmission, Volkswagen wants $19,360 in return; $20,435 for the automatic.

The Fahrenheit GLI and GTI are both essentially identical to their respective models except for some cosmetic details. Both the Fahrenheit GLI and GTI will get bold colours: Fahrenheit orange for the GTI and Fahrenheit yellow for the GLI. These two unique models, coming in a limited run of 1,200 units each, will come with Fahrenheit badging and its own unique limited edition number on the steering wheel. DSG, European sport tuned suspension, 18" "Charleston" alloys, heated leather sports seats, and sunroof can be had for both models. Inside, both Fahrenheit models will have unique trim and stitching in the colour of each respective model (orange for the GTI and yellow for the GLI). You can have a Fahrenheit GTI for $27,665, a manual Fahrenheit GLI for $27,880, and an automatic GLI for $28,995.

Volkswagen claims that the Triple White New Beetle convertible has strong ties to the original beetle. Regardless, the Triple White New Beetle convertible will, as the name suggests, come in white. white exterior, white interior, and a white convertible roof boot. The model, limited to a 3000 unit run, will also offer 17" alloys, white leatherette seats and armrest, and black carpeting and floor mats. The Triple White New Beetle convertible will cost $25,990.

Press release to follow.

Source: Volkswagen of America.

Volkswagen's 2007 Special Editions Offer Variety, Individuality

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – For 2007, Volkswagen will offer a lineup of special edition models with unique characteristics to create excitement in showrooms and individuality among owners. The Wolfsburg Edition Jetta, Fahrenheit GTI, Fahrenheit GLI and Triple White New Beetle convertible will build on the already great features of the standard versions of these models, with elements and design cues exclusive to these special editions.

The Wolfsburg Edition Jetta is a 2.5 L Jetta with a “Wolfsburg” badge, leveraging the brand’s German heritage. Special features include 16-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, leatherette seats, cold weather package and monster floor mats. With manual transmission, this special edition is $19,360; automatic transmission is $20,435, representing a $2,000 value when compared to a similar equipped Jetta. The Wolfsburg Edition Jetta is available in the following color schemes: silver with anthracite trim; white with beige trim; black with beige trim; black with anthracite trim; and platinum gray with art gray trim.

The Fahrenheit GTI introduces a unique, energetic exterior color – Fahrenheit orange – to this sporty, high performance hatchback. Each of these 1,200 models will come with a Fahrenheit badge and its unique limited edition number on a three-spoke perforated leather steering wheel, adding to the car’s individuality. This special edition offers European sport tuned suspension; 18-inch “Charleston” alloy wheels; “Fahrenheit” badging; heated leather sports seats; a sunroof; orange interior trim; orange stitching on the floor mats, DSG® boot, brake handle and steering wheel; and optional Sirius Satellite Radio. This special edition model is $27,665.

Similar to the Fahrenheit GTI, Fahrenheit GLI introduces a splashy color to the GLI lineup. The GLI special edition offers the same additions to the powerful model as the Fahrenheit GTI, but with an exclusive Fahrenheit yellow exterior and yellow trim and stitching in the interior. The manual transmission model is priced at $27,880 and the automatic at $28,955. The Fahrenheit GLI will also only be available in 1,200 special edition models.

The Triple White New Beetle convertible offers a new color combination that has strong ties to the legendary original Beetle. With Campanella white exterior, white interior and a white convertible roof boot, the Triple White is available with automatic transmission for $25,990. Each of these 3,000 special editions also offers 17-inch alloy wheels, a three-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel, white leatherette seats, white leatherette center armrest, black carpeting, floor mats and door panels, and SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

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.

2008 Scirocco to be Named "Scirocco"



The name is held in high regard by enthusiasts alike. It is no wonder then that Volkswagen announced last week that the upcoming Scirocco will indeed be named "Scirocco". Currently in the form of the Iroc concept, which debuted at the Paris Auto Show, the now confirmed Scirocco is due to hit showrooms in 2008.

Years of rumors and speculations has culminated to this point. The Scirocco's return is offical and confirmed. Now, all that remains to be seen is how much of the Iroc will Volkswagen be keeping for the 2008 iteration of the Scirocco. Expect a sneek peek of the Scirocco sometime in the middle of next year with spyshots surfacing in the coming months.

In the meantime, feast your eyes on some Iroc press release photos after the jump.

Volkswagen Introduces 2007 Special Edition Models [Updated]


Soon, Volkswagen of America will be offering the Jetta/GLI, GTI, and New Beetle convertible in even more flavours as they begin to roll out special edition models for 2007. Up on the list are a Wolfsburg Edition Jetta, a Fahrenheit GLI and GTI, and a Triple New Beetle convertible.

For the Wolfsburg Edition Jetta, Volkswagen has taken a standard 2.5L Jetta, slapped on a few "Wolfsburg" badges, and added some extra features like 16" alloys, leatherette seating, and a cold weather package. For a manual transmission, Volkswagen wants $19,360 in return; $20,435 for the automatic.

The Fahrenheit GLI and GTI are both essentially identical to their respective models except for some cosmetic details. Both the Fahrenheit GLI and GTI will get bold colours: Fahrenheit orange for the GTI and Fahrenheit yellow for the GLI. These two unique models, coming in a limited run of 1,200 units each, will come with Fahrenheit badging and its own unique limited edition number on the steering wheel. DSG, European sport tuned suspension, 18" "Charleston" alloys, heated leather sports seats, and sunroof can be had for both models. Inside, both Fahrenheit models will have unique trim and stitching in the colour of each respective model (orange for the GTI and yellow for the GLI). You can have a Fahrenheit GTI for $27,665, a manual Fahrenheit GLI for $27,880, and an automatic GLI for $28,995.

Volkswagen claims that the Triple White New Beetle convertible has strong ties to the original beetle. Regardless, the Triple White New Beetle convertible will, as the name suggests, come in white. white exterior, white interior, and a white convertible roof boot. The model, limited to a 3000 unit run, will also offer 17" alloys, white leatherette seats and armrest, and black carpeting and floor mats. The Triple White New Beetle convertible will cost $25,990.

Volkswagen's 2007 Special Editions Offer Variety, Individuality

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – For 2007, Volkswagen will offer a lineup of special edition models with unique characteristics to create excitement in showrooms and individuality among owners. The Wolfsburg Edition Jetta, Fahrenheit GTI, Fahrenheit GLI and Triple White New Beetle convertible will build on the already great features of the standard versions of these models, with elements and design cues exclusive to these special editions.

The Wolfsburg Edition Jetta is a 2.5 L Jetta with a “Wolfsburg” badge, leveraging the brand’s German heritage. Special features include 16-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, leatherette seats, cold weather package and monster floor mats. With manual transmission, this special edition is $19,360; automatic transmission is $20,435, representing a $2,000 value when compared to a similar equipped Jetta. The Wolfsburg Edition Jetta is available in the following color schemes: silver with anthracite trim; white with beige trim; black with beige trim; black with anthracite trim; and platinum gray with art gray trim.

The Fahrenheit GTI introduces a unique, energetic exterior color – Fahrenheit orange – to this sporty, high performance hatchback. Each of these 1,200 models will come with a Fahrenheit badge and its unique limited edition number on a three-spoke perforated leather steering wheel, adding to the car’s individuality. This special edition offers European sport tuned suspension; 18-inch “Charleston” alloy wheels; “Fahrenheit” badging; heated leather sports seats; a sunroof; orange interior trim; orange stitching on the floor mats, DSG® boot, brake handle and steering wheel; and optional Sirius Satellite Radio. This special edition model is $27,665.

Similar to the Fahrenheit GTI, Fahrenheit GLI introduces a splashy color to the GLI lineup. The GLI special edition offers the same additions to the powerful model as the Fahrenheit GTI, but with an exclusive Fahrenheit yellow exterior and yellow trim and stitching in the interior. The manual transmission model is priced at $27,880 and the automatic at $28,955. The Fahrenheit GLI will also only be available in 1,200 special edition models.

The Triple White New Beetle convertible offers a new color combination that has strong ties to the legendary original Beetle. With Campanella white exterior, white interior and a white convertible roof boot, the Triple White is available with automatic transmission for $25,990. Each of these 3,000 special editions also offers 17-inch alloy wheels, a three-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel, white leatherette seats, white leatherette center armrest, black carpeting, floor mats and door panels, and SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

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.

Oferte si la modele VW  


               Volkswagen Tour Special Editions


For VW Polo, Golf and Golf plus

Volkswagen is bettering its previous offer. The popular special edition Goal models for the Polo, Golf and Golf Plus have an attractive successor – the Tour. The fully equipped all-rounder is a cut above its prematurely sold-out predecessor and once again offers a price advantage of up to €1,093 for the Polo and €1,055 for the Golf. And to really enjoy the new car, a free day’s holiday from the travel agents TUI is also thrown in.
The Tour – the complete all-rounder

The package, which has been developed for the new special edition model, is very well balanced and is perfectly in tune with customer demands: big 16" wheels for the Golf and Golf Plus, 15" wheels for the Polo, air conditioning, high-quality radio system, cruise control (for models 47 kW and up), multi-function display, ParkPilot and many other extras are included. Furthermore, the Polo, Golf and Golf Plus come with ESP as standard, setting the standards in safety for compact cars.

The design too is immediately striking. Special Tour lettering with the TUI Smiley logo on the rear side panels, seat centre strips with the "popcorn" pattern, decorative trims for instrument panels (Golf), centre console and doors, leather for the steering wheel and hand brake as well as blue decorative stitching make this special edition model a real eye-catcher. All three models are available in the new Olympia-blue pearlescent colour.

And as if you could wish for anything more, prices for special equipment for the Tour models are also reduced.

All special edition Tour models may be ordered now. Volkswagen’s usual wide range of diesel and petrol engines is available for all three models and DSG is available for the Golf. The Polo Tour is available from €13,225, the price for the Golf starts at €17,250 and the Golf Plus starts at €18,725.
The "Winter Season" package – safely through the winter

It is important that a car is prepared for adverse road conditions, especially in winter. For this reason, Volkswagen has developed an attractive optional winter package which includes winter tyres with corresponding steel rims and hubcaps, heated front seats, fog lights, automatically heated front washer jets and headlight washer system. The package costs €495 for the Golf Tour and Golf Plus Tour and offers a customer saving of €300. For the Polo Tour, the package costs €595 with a customer saving of €343.
A free day’s holiday – Co-operation of Volkswagen and TUI

Upon purchasing a special edition Tour model, customers receive a voucher for a free day’s holiday. Whether it be a holiday in the Robinson Club or hiking in Austria, the voucher is redeemable against holidays offered by TUI travel agents and applies to all full-paying party members booking a trip of 7 nights or more without flights, or for package holidays of 14 days or more including flights. The voucher can be redeemed against all new bookings between 1st November 2006 and 31st March 2008.
Finance made easy – the excellent "Volkswagen peace of mind" package from ADAC returns as the "All inclusive package"

The "peace of mind package" which was successfully started in July for the special edition Goal models will run for the Golf and Golf Plus Tour models as well as the Touran (not available as a Tour model) and will be known as the "All inclusive package". It includes an extended four year warrantee, fully comprehensive insurance cover as well as free maintenance and inspection for four years and credit redemption agreement, even in case of unemployment and all this for 0.9% APR.
The Goal was a real hit – a review

Volkswagen brought out the special edition Goal models for the Polo, Golf, Golf Plus and Touran right on time for the FIFA world cup. Just like the football team, this special edition model was a sensational success. All expectations were surpassed with over 100,000 vehicles sold by the beginning of September. By mid-September all vehicles through to end of production were sold out. The rate of installation in several months was more than 50% for the Golf and even 78% for the Golf Plus. This is evidence that the packages were just what the customer wanted.

Volkswagen for a school of batteries

It too much is not known, but Volkswagen works for a very long time on the electric traction, and it even acts to make even more, with a new single partnership in Europe.



The problem of the electric cars, and to a lesser extent of the hybrids, was always that of the storage of electricity. The electric cars that Volkswagen had at one time manufactured (in all small series) used lead-acid batteries, and Si the hybrids of today chose technology NiMH, everyone agrees about to be appropriate that the future belongs to the Lithium-Ion. For better including/understanding it, and better exploiting it, particularly in the hybrid automobile applications, the German manufacturer joins the university of Münster. The objective is to create a research center specialized, with the installation of mastères specialized for the postgraduate students.



The object of these studies are the storage of the energy and its methods of conversion, particularly the electric power in a battery Lithium-Ion in a hybrid automobile application. Prime objectives: an improvement of the performances (for example, a better energy density), and a fall of the costs. The prototype which illustrates this page, which is a little old, but we do not have photographs of more recent prototypes, used a battery Panasonic, the same one as on Prius, because it was the objective of VW to test a TDI and its hybrid technology with this battery which one connait the value on the Japanese car. One knows that Volkswagen will never propose hybrid gasoline, whose advantage in term of consumption is debatable compared to an engine TDI VW (according to the manufacturer), but if VW could leave an hybrid TDI with battery Li-Ion great capacity, it would be a large projection. One is unaware of however when similar car will be available…

Holy Phaeton


Volkswagen Chairman Dr. Bernd Pischetsrieder presented Pope Benedict XVI a specially equiped Phaeton in Vatican City today. The black, long wheelbase Phaeton is powered by Volkswagen's top 6.0L W12 engine that outputs 450 hp and is said to "meet the comfort, privacy and security requirements of the Holy Father."

Press release after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen AG.
PISCHETSRIEDER PRESENTS PHAETON TO POPE BENEDICT XVI

WOLFSBURG, Germany / VATICAN CITY, Italy- Pope Benedict XVI has been presented with a specially equipped Phaeton by the Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, Dr. Bernd Pischetsrieder. “It is a particular honor for us to have the privilege of providing Pope Benedict XVI with a fitting limousine”, said Pischetsrieder during the presentation in the Vatican City on Wednesday.

The extended wheelbase version of the Volkswagen Phaeton is finished in black and is powered by a 450 hp, 6.0 l W12 engine. The limousine has been specially equipped to meet the comfort, privacy and security requirements of the Holy Father.

Volkswagen One Step Closer to a Pickup?

Back in 2000, Volkswagen showed off a pickup truck concept called the AAC at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Being the precursor to the Touareg, some thought Volkswagen was going in the pickup truck direction. Fast forward to 2003, the Touareg comes out with identical front ends with the AAC but no bed at the back. Eventually, any chance of a pickup from Volkswagen died down. Last year, however, we reported that Volkswagen may again be seeing a pickup in their future, more precisely, in 2007.

Volkswagen now seems to be one step closer to brining the AAC to reality. Volkswagen Individual, popular for creating the strech limo Phaeton Lounge, has shown a Touareg pickup at some auto show in Italy.

The Touareg pickup is a complete evolution from the AAC. The Touareg sheds the concept's suicide doors making for a more compact and sporty looking truck. The bed is lined with diamond plate to take a beating. Other than that, however, not much is known about the Touareg pickup.

More than likely, this is Individual stretching its muscles showing the world what it can do with the Touareg. In reality, there may really be no market for a pickup from Volkswagen. Will we see a pickup next year? Not too likely.

Touareg V10 TDI Now on Sale in the US


As promised by Volkswagen, the Touareg's top engine returns in the US after a two year hiatus that involved the EPA. What makes the Touareg V10 TDI different from two years ago is the inclusion of a particulate filter which reduces emissions. As well, with the ability to use ultra low sulfur fuel, the Touareg V10 TDI now satisfies emission requirements in all 50 states. Just like before, however, the V10 TDI engine still produces 310 hp and 553 ft-lb of torque. All this while consuming 30% less fuel than conventional gasoline engines.

The Touareg V10 TDI comes with a bevy of available features that includes an in six-disc CD changer, navigation system, and a four-zone climate control. The Touareg also comes standard with 4XMotion all-wheel drive, as well as a list of safety feautres and driver aids.

The Touareg V10 TDI is available in showrooms right now for US$67,750.

Ultra-low sulfur diesel engine complies with new emission standards in all 50 states; particulate filter further reduces emissions

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The 2006 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI® – the first turbo-diesel light-duty vehicle in the U.S. market with a particulate filter – is now available in showrooms. The Touareg V10 TDI is a high-performance, ten-cylinder diesel version of Volkswagen’s popular luxury SUV. With an engine that takes ultra low-sulfur fuel, it meets the stricter emission requirements in all 50 states. A particulate filter further reduces emissions, making this Touareg one of the cleanest diesels ever.

The Touareg’s powerful five-liter, ten-cylinder engine boasts 310 horsepower at 3,750 revolutions per minute and offers impressive pulling power with 553 lbs-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. The diesel engine consumes up to 30 percent less fuel than traditional gasoline engines.

Standard equipment includes six-disc CD changer, navigation system, Park Distance Control, keyless access, power height-adjustable telescoping steering column with memory, power height-adjustable front seat belts with memory, four-zone climate control (Climatronic), heatable rear seats and silver roof rack and rails.

The Touareg comes with Volkswagen’s 4XMotion™ all-wheel drive system, providing superior traction control. Standard equipment includes Anti-lock Brake System, Anti-slip regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, Engine Braking Assist, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Electronic Stabilization Program with brake assist, Hill Descent Assist and Hill Climb Assist.

The Touareg V10 TDI is available starting at $67,750.

All new Volkswagen automobiles come with 24-hour Roadside Assistance for four years with unlimited mileage, and new vehicle warranties, including:

· Five-year/60,000 mile (whichever occurs first) Powertrain Limited Warranty

· Four-year/50,000 mile (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty with wear and tear items and adjustments excluded after the initial 12 months/12,000 miles

· 12 year unlimited distance Limited Warranty against corrosion perforation.

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, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, Touareg and Phaeton through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers.

Alte poze cu Papa Benedict si noul sau Phaeton.  

oare care e faza cu primitul masinilor de la constructori? banuiesc ca papa nu a platit un cent.. banuiesc ca stie ca face reclama la o firma si (banui) ca primeste si bani pentru asta gresesc?

Greu de spus daca l-a cumparat sau nu, insa in articol e mentionat ca masina a fost construita dupa cerintele de siguranta si confort cerute de Papa.  

romaximusro, on Oct 20 2006, 17:54, said:

Normal ca face reclama, dar banii primiti se duc pe exorcizari si pe acoperirea secretelor Vaticanului.

Fahrenheit GTI & Fahrenheit GLI 2007


      http://www.motorpasi...hrenheit-gl.php

romaximusro, on Oct 20 2006, 17:54, said:

Nu primeste nici un ban. El accepta sa i se puna la dispozitie o masina, care desigur ca  a fost selectata din mai multe oferte.

Volkswagen ESP Plus Steering Impulse


     Safe through autumn and winter
ESP plus steering impulse intervenes when it gets slippery
Steering impulse shortens stopping distance by up to 10 percent
Introduction of electromechanical power steering makes steering impulse possible for the first time
Golf, Golf Plus, Jetta, Eos, Touran and Passat have ESP plus steering impulse as standard

Just a little “tug” on the steering wheel, “carried out” by the electromechanical power steering, “commanded” by the electronic stabilisation program. But it’s all that is needed for the driver to do the right thing intuitively: countersteer. In very specific situations; during emergency braking on roads with different friction coefficients (for example damp leaves or snow on the right and dry on the left). Countersteering contributes towards shortening the stopping distance in such cases by up to ten percent. But to do this, the car “needs” steering that can be actuated electronically. And this is installed in the Volkswagen Golf, Golf Plus, Jetta, Eos, Touran, Passat and Passat estate as standard – in the same way as the ESP plus steering impulse. Best to be safe.

ESP plus steering impulse in practice: Surroundings as previously described, autumn or winter, one half of the road surface is dry, the other is frequently covered with damp leaves or even snow. Until now, the scenario on the surface described with different friction coefficients (called "μ-split" in engineering terms) during emergency braking with ESP would end in an ideal case as follows: Thanks to ESP, the car will not skid out of control, the driver can keep it on course and avoid any possible obstacles. Since the braking effect has to be based on the wheel with the poorest friction coefficient in order to prevent the vehicle from breaking out, the wheels cannot be braked as sharply as they would actually permit on a dry surface. The reason for this: without countersteering in the correct direction, the vehicle would break out by overbraking of a wheel, as the unsymmetrical braking forces caused as a result would bring about a tendency of the vehicle to rotate in the direction of the road surface with greater traction. Sounds complicated and it really is. But just at this point is when ESP plus steering impulse intervenes.

ESP determines the right direction: The system "detects" the direction in which the driver has to countersteer to decelerate the vehicle optimally without it breaking out. This is why the unit gives the command to the electromechanical power steering to send a steering impulse in the required direction. This is perceived by the driver in the steering wheel, who then follows this signal intuitively and carries out the classic countersteer. As a result of this stabilising intervention, the brake pressure at the wheels can be increased with the greatest amount of grip. The consequence: a shortening of the stopping distance by the aforementioned 10 percent.

The driver keeps everything under control: The ESP plus steering impulse does not take on the job to actually steer the vehicle. The sovereignty with regards to handling the vehicle remains completely with the driver at all times. On the contrary, the system gives just a recommendation to steer, even if barely noticeable, with a torque of no more than three Newton metres. This is therefore as far as it ever goes: ESP thinks, the person steers – it’s just more effective.

Race Touareg 2 Successfully Completes Test Run


Source: Volkswagen Motorsport
WOLFSBURG, Germany - The countdown for the 2007 Dakar Rally is running: ten weeks before the start of the cross-country classic in Lisbon, Volkswagen’s factory team has completed the development programme for the Race Touareg 2 with an intensive test in Tunisia.

Coming up next as a warm-up will be a competition run of two Race Touareg 2 cars for Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn and Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons in the UAE Desert Challenge (5 to 10 November).

"The test runs in Tunisia went very well. We were able to complete our entire programme,” said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "The test took place in two different regions: in the high sand dunes near El Borma close to the Algerian border and on the camel grass stretches near Ksar Ghilane in the north of Tunisia. In the UAE Desert Challenge one Race Touareg 2 representing the latest technical evolution for the Dakar Rally will be entered while the second factory car will compete with the 2006 World Cup specification and a few new components. As the next item on our agenda in the weeks ahead, we're going to concentrate on the logistical preparation for the Dakar Rally and the preparation of the competition vehicles. This means we're right on schedule."

All four Volkswagen factory pairings actively participated in the seven-day test runs in Tunisia: Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/RSA), Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (E/F), Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons (FIN/I) and Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (RSA/D) shared the work of checking – among other things – new suspension components fitted to a Race Touareg 2. "Unfortunately, the weather wasn't all that favourable because due to rain before the test the sand dunes were relatively hard. Soft sand would have been better suited for our purposes," Kris Nissen explained. "A second Race Touareg was running as a practice vehicle morning, noon and night. This gave our drivers and co-drivers the opportunity to specifically practice driving on sand, to simulate various situations in a cross-country rally and to enhance the navigation skills in unknown terrain together with the co-driver."

While the factory drivers were testing in Tunisia the race team in Germany was busy performing the final preparations for the UAE UAE Desert Challenge starting on 5 November. In the past few days the Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 cars for Carlos Sainz and Ari Vatanen were flown to the United Arab Emirates. Driver and team will follow starting on 1 November. In addition to the Volkswagen works team, the Portugese Team Lagos with Carlos Sousa/Andreas Schulz (Portugal/Germany) entered by Phoenix Sport will compete in the FIA Cross-Country Rally World Cup season's finale event in another Race Touareg 2.

Volkswagen R GTI Revealed      


          Thirty years ago Volkswagen launched the GTI, the “hot hatch” that would revolutionize the concept of affordable and accessible high-performance motoring. Now comes the R GTI, a look forward into the future of compact car performance, making its debut at the 2006 SEMA Show in Las Vegas on October 31.

Over its four generations, the GTI has grown larger, its technology more sophisticated and powerplants more muscular, but Volkswagen has never abandoned the formula that made the GTI badge an instant icon of affordable, exhilarating performance — a big-hearted engine beating in a compact, usefully shaped and lightweight platform.

Few cars have enjoyed such an enduring run of success, and to honor the GTI’s rich past, Volkswagen has cast an eye on the GTI of tomorrow with the R GTI, a low-flying stealth machine developed by Volkswagen Chief Designer Derek Jenkins and his talented crew at the Volkswagen Design Center California, located in Santa Monica. With its striking carbon-fiber body panels, four-passenger sports car interior, powerful turbocharged engine and competition-bred suspension, the R GTI is a stimulating fusion of style and dynamic excellence, fully modern in content and achievement yet staying true to such longstanding Volkswagen values as drivability, durability and utility.

The R GTI evolved from the stunning R Concept cars that stole the show at SEMA in 2005, and the R badge connects to the fabulous R32, one of the most sophisticated and thrilling Volkswagens ever to come from the factory. However, unlike those R concept vehicles from last year, which showcased the extremes of performance-tuned Volkswagens, the R GTI represents a more streetable concept. Although the R GTI is a one-off and Volkswagen currently has no plan to put it into production, the dedicated enthusiast could gather many of the R GTI’s elements for a personal project, sourced from Volkswagen or from the thriving automotive aftermarket that has helped keep the GTI’s red badge blazing in the hearts of the world’s driving enthusiasts.

Jenkins approached the R GTI with the motorsport-inspired goal of “speed through lightness.” That is, reducing the car’s weight is as critical to improved performance as amplifying the engine’s output. In collaboration with the firm OSIR Design, hand-laid carbon fiber component experts, Jenkins replaced the stock GTI’s front fenders, hood, side rockers, and hatch door with carbon-fiber panels developed by both OSIR and Jenkins’ in-house team. In addition to providing a weight advantage, the carbon fiber’s black weave creates a dazzling visual complement to the lustrous black paint scheme, which itself was adorned with hexagonal “stealth” graphics that echo the grille of the original GTI.

Additional carbon-fiber components are the lower front spoiler, front grille surround, rear rooftop spoiler and Jenkins-restyled rearview mirror housings, all in carbon fiber. Other distinctive exterior design touches include blacked-out front headlamp housings, R32 tail lamps with smoked lenses, R32-type central twin exhaust pipes with motorcycle-theme tips, a la Jenkins’ GX3 three-wheeler concept from 2005.

Reference to the GTI’s trademark hexagonal grille pattern is also seen in the R GTI’s specially constructed 19x9-inch aluminum alloy wheels, with lightness as a crucial contributor to reduced unsprung weight, and improved ride quality and cornering. Tucked within fenders designed for additional clearance, the beefier running gear includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup ultra-high-performance radials, sized 265/30-19. In track tests, the larger tire footprint proved to be a valuable ally in transferring the engine’s prodigious 340 ft-lb of torque to the ground. Despite being rolled straight out of the design studio on to the track, the R GTI pulled off an impressive zero to 60-mph time of 4.8 seconds.

The chief contributor to the R GTI’s impressive performance is the turbocharged engine developed in conjunction with APR, one of the country’s leading aftermarket Volkswagen tuners. APR develops and sells high performance, and high performance only, leaving others to peddle air fresheners and floor mats. APR’s engineers and product developers are passionate about Volkswagen technology, and it shows in the quality and results of their contribution to the powertrain.

It all starts with Volkswagen’s 2.0-liter FSI turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant, an award-winner for its unique combination of direct injection and turbocharging. APR also replaced the turbocharger with a larger Garrett ball-bearing unit with twice the flow capacity and pumped up the boost to 21 pounds per square inch. All of the pressure-side plumbing was strengthened with silicon hose. A large-diameter cast-aluminum, black powder-coated intake pipe feeds the big turbo the cool air it needs from the larger, front-mounted intercooler, delivering twice the stock air flow. An Inconel exhaust manifold and an APR stainless steel exhaust system ensure efficient flow-through. It’s a tidy, factory-like transformation, and the result is a whopping 375 horsepower, on 93 octane pump gas. If 100-octane race fuel is used, output rises to some 400 horsepower.

Harnessing that kind of power is as important as unleashing it, of course, and Jenkins was determined to retain the stock GTI’s driver-friendly demeanor. The clutch was upgraded to handle the increased torque, and a Quaife limited slip differential was installed to make the engine’s power flow more efficiently through the tires. For the suspension Jenkins called on longtime experts H&R Tuning to supply a system that would be reasonably comfortable when the R GTI was used as daily transportation but would also deliver crisp, precise handling when the road gets twisty or for weekend track days. Replacing the stock suspension is H&R’s RSS Club Sport system of coil-over shocks and springs, augmented by a pair of adjustable sway bars. Ride height is reduced from 1.5 to 2.5 inches, but despite the ground-hugging stance and the Club Sport’s stiffer-than-stock settings, the suspension is compliant enough to comfortably dampen the rough spots in the road.

To bring deceleration into line with the improved acceleration, Jenkins selected Brembo brake components. Fitted at the front corners are Brembo’s four-piston aluminum alloy calipers, which squeeze Brembo two-piece floating cross-drilled discs with billet aluminum hats. The radial-mount design features a lightweight two-piece aluminum alloy body, quick-release pad system and sequentially sized pistons. The front calipers have even been painted with the colors of the German flag. Inside the rear wheels are disc brakes fitted with drilled rotors.

The exciting visual impact of the R GTI exterior is reflected in the interior, which is swathed in black leather complemented by red stitching. This theme runs throughout the cockpit, from the upholstery that covers the front Recaro Pole Position sports seats and rear custom-designed racing buckets, to the door panels and steering wheel, which also sports an R GTI logo. The effect is a blend of understated luxury and purposeful technology, underscored by the use of OSIR black carbon-fiber interior trim on the dash panel and in the doors.

Just aft of the front bucket seats is a clever safety belt system that was developed in the design studio. A remarkable example of the innovations that spring from Jenkins’ creative team, it’s comprised of a bar that anchors the front racing harnesses, which can swing up and out of the way to allow passengers easier access to the two rear seats. As part of the R GTI’s weight-reduction program, the stock rear seats were removed and replaced by an exceptional piece of carbon-fiber craftsmanship. The single piece of composite was fashioned into two racing buckets, each fitted with padded leather inserts. They’re a snug fit but are comfortable enough to take the in-laws on a fast lap or two. Another trick interior element is the custom aluminum billet shift knob, which Jenkins fit with a red “wheel” that can be revolved by the driver’s thumb. Look closely, and you can see that the wheel has been inscribed with the R GTI logo.

The R GTI is an uncommon and visionary blend of design talent, factory technology and aftermarket innovation, and an enticing demonstration of why Volkswagen has been a favorite of automotive enthusiasts since the GTI first hit the scene 30 years ago. It also shows that the future of the hot hatch, as demonstrated by the R GTI, is already here.