VOLKSWAGEN

2010 Volkswagen Beetle Volkswagen will launch the next generation Beetle in 2010. Built on the same platform as the Golf VI and the upcoming Scirocco, the 2010 Beetle might look the same as the current generation, but at a closer look everything is changed. It will get a more modern and aggressive look, and also for the first time it will be offered in many different versions: hatchback, soft-top convertible, a micro-van, a wagon-based crossover and even a pickup variant that will be offered in both 4x4 and a hot GTi version.
The new Beetle will gain more length in order to offer more space. The design cues will be inspired by the Up! Concept unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show. The headlights will receive a new form and LED technology. The new Beetle will be designed so it can be easily adapted for a wide variety of model variants. While plan to move away from the classic Beetle shape may end up backfiring if carried out, it’s an understandable move for Volkswagen to attempt to create a sub-brand using the Beetle name — much like what BMW is attempting with its Mini lineup.
The 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will be styled in California and engineered in Germany. The gas engine range of the 2010 Beetle will include: a new 1,4 liter engine, both naturally aspirated (80 hp) and turbocharged (TFSI, 120 hp), the 1,6 liters engine (102 hp), the 2,0 liters engine, both naturally aspirated (150 hp) and turbocharged (200 hp) and the 1,4 dual-charger TSI engine (150 hp). Next to the latest Volkswagen technology, like FSI, TSI the 2010 Beetle will also feature a TDi engine. All the engines will be mated with a DSG paddle-shift transmission.
The 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will be styled in California and engineered in Germany. The starting price for the coupe version will be $18. and $25.000 for the convertible version.
2010 Volkswagen Robust Volkswagen is preparing to take on Toyota! The company decided is about time to have a serious competitor on the market, this is why they will launch the Robust pick-up in 2010. The Robust will be the first pick-up Volkswagen ever had (not including the "Taro" that was actually a rebadged Toyota Hilux).
The 2010 will be offered on markets from Africa and South America, but no news about being sold on the North American market yet.
The Robust will be offered in a wide number of versions, both single and double cab. The top version will be a FWD version, but Volkswagen will also offer a cheaper 2WD version.
Under the hood of the new Robust there will be a wide choice of common-rail diesel engines and a V6 petrol engine.

2010 Volkswagen Polo
First launched in 1975, the Polo is now officially in its fifth generation. With the official launched made at the Geneva Motor Show, the new generation Polo will go on sale in Europe this June, with the other continents to follow shortly
For its fifth generation, Volkswagen prepared a new design, new TDI and TSI engines, new 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG), but also new technologies and standard equipments.
The seven engine develop from 60 to 105 hp. Among them the BlueMotion version delivers 90 hp and has a fuel consumption of 3,8liter/100km and a CO2 emission of 96 g/km
The new Polo will be offered in three different versions: “Trendline” continues to represent the entry-level variant, and “Comfortline” still refers to the mid equipment level. New to the lineup – and bringing the Polo in line with the Golf here – is the top version called “Highline”.
Press release after the jump.
Volkswagen is introducing the fifth generation of the Polo at the Geneva International Motor Show (March 5 to 15) – the new edition of one of the most influential German cars of our times. Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management, Volkswagen Group: “Through the combination of the car’s design and technology, aligned with forthcoming market requirements, we have repeated our achievements in the recently launched new Golf in the class below. This takes us to an entirely new level of high customer value and efficiency among small cars and indeed at prices that are still affordable.”
No other car in this class has such a mature and high-end image as the new Polo. Comfort, quality and safety have all taken a considerable leap forward. One example: the Polo was specifically designed to attain the recently established, stricter and more comprehensive, 5-star EuroNCAP rating. The higher structural rigidity of the Polo’s bodyshell contributes to these results. In the footwell area alone, intrusion – related to the car body’s deformation strength in a frontal crash – was lowered by 50 percent! In the case of a side impact, the intrusion value was reduced by 20 percent.

2010 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Barbie Edition
Fiat was the first one to launch a special edition 500 to celebrate Barbie’s 50th Birthday. Today is time for Beetle to go pink. The car was transformed by customization artists ABD Racing Werks, Katzkin Leather and Interiors and FoamMolders.
From top to bottom and interior to exterior, Barbie® doll’s New Beetle convertible has left no detail unfinished. From the white custom leather interior and convertible top to the hand stitched floor mats and pink quilted leather lined door pockets and arm rests, even the dipstick is painted to resemble her favorite lipstick.
The New Beetle convertible is equipped with a motorized vanity in the trunk and plenty of rhinestone accents and vanity mirrors. Over five shades of paint were mixed together to create the perfect pink color for Barbie doll’s car.
Press release after the jump.
Volkswagen of America, Inc. helped Mattel celebrate Barbie® doll’s 50th Birthday by transforming a New Beetle convertible into the ultimate Barbie® dream car. The life-size pink Malibu Barbie™ New Beetle convertible made its debut at Barbie® doll’s Malibu Dream House® exclusive birthday celebration. Customization artists ABD Racing Werks, Katzkin Leather and Interiors and FoamMolders fully transformed the iconic New Beetle convertible into the perfect Barbie® ride.“We are extremely proud to partner with Mattel and create a customized New Beetle convertible to celebrate Barbie’s landmark birthday,” said Laura Soave, General Manager of Marketing, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Like the New Beetle, Barbie has made a remarkable impact on pop culture history, and still remains a cultural icon today.”From top to bottom and interior to exterior, Barbie® doll’s New Beetle convertible has left no detail unfinished. From the white custom leather interior and convertible top to the hand stitched floor mats and pink quilted leather lined door pockets and arm rests, even the dipstick is painted to resemble her favorite lipstick. The New Beetle convertible is equipped with a motorized vanity in the trunk and plenty of rhinestone accents and vanity mirrors. Over five shades of paint were mixed together to create the perfect pink color for Barbie® doll’s car. The customized pink New Beetle convertible was prominently on display as the pink carpet was rolled out for the Barbie® celebration at her real-life Malibu Dream House®. Barbie® doll’s house is a 3,500-square-foot home in Malibu, CA, decorated by famed “Happy Chic” interior designer Jonathan Adler. The Barbie® birthday festivities were complete with 1,800 pairs of Barbie® sunglasses, 3,500 pairs of tiny shoes, 3,500 mini handbags and numerous Hollywood celebrity guests. Last year, Volkswagen celebrated the 10th anniversary of the introduction of the New Beetle convertible. With its distinct shape, the iconic New Beetle convertible is one of the most recognized models in the world.

2010 Volkswagen Scirocco R
Volkswagen revealed today the R version of the Scirocco sports car. Based on the Scirocco GT24, the R version adds - compared to a standard model - large air intake openings in the front bumper, integrated front spoiler, bi-xenon headlights, roof edge spoiler, a striking shining black diffuser, the chrome tailpipes of the dual exhaust system and 18" alloy wheels
Volkswagen Scirocco R is powered by a four-cylinder 2.0 l TSI engine that delivers 265 PS and 350 NM of torque. The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a DSG one. The sprint from 0 to 62 mph will be made in about 6,5 seconds, while top speed is limited to 155 mph.
The car will make its first debut during the 24- hour race at Nurburgring. Sales in Europe will begin in September.
There could not be a better time or place for a world premiere: parallel to the start of the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring, Volkswagen is presenting the new Scirocco R for the first time anywhere. A sports car without compromise and a race track that demands everything of the driver will be meeting together this weekend.
Approximately one year after the market launch of the third Scirocco generation, Volkswagen is presenting the most powerful series built Scirocco ever made at the Nürburgring. Its charged four-cylinder 2.0 l TSI is impressive with an output of 195 kW / 265 PS and 350 Newton metres of torque – the dynamic effect is just as striking as the running gear which provides optimal traction characteristics thanks to, amongst other things, the new front axle differential lock XDS
The design of the Scirocco R is largely based on the Scirocco GT24, which was designed for motor sports: there are large air intake openings in the front bumper which the engineers used to achieve optimal cooling for the engine and the brakes, and an integrated front spoiler as well as the bi-xenon headlights. At the rear end, the roof edge spoiler, which is much larger than on the standard model, a striking shining black diffuser and the chrome tailpipes of the dual exhaust system dominate the design. The side view of the vehicle is characterised by the powerful sill panels as well as the specially-designed 18" alloy wheels "Talladega".
Volkswagen will demonstrate the potential of the new Scirocco R during the 24- hour race with this racing version. With a total of five Sciroccos, driver teams including Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, member of the Volkswagen board of management for technical development, the rally world champion Carlos Sainz as well as this year’s Dakar winner Giniel de Villiers, will be at the start line.

2010 Volkswagen Amarok
No it will not be called Robust! Volkswagen has chosen for their new pick-up the Amarok name. It comes from the language of the Inuit, who live in northern Canada and Greenland, and means wolf. The Inuit, one of the Eskimo peoples, regard the wolf as the king of the wilderness, an impressive figure due its strength, robustness, endurance and superiority.
It will be launched as a double-cab pickup with four-wheel drive. The single-cab version will be available at a later date. The pickup features not only state-of-the-art, robust engineering but also efficient engines and current Volkswagen styling.
The new pick-up will be launched first in South America and Central America in Spring 2010, followed by Russia and Europe as well as Africa and Australia.
Press release after the jump.
The new Volkswagen pickup is called Amarok. In Autumn 2009, the first pickup by a European volume manufacturer in South America is to be unveiled. The South American launch is set for Spring 2010, with the Amarok coming to Europe in the summer. With the Amarok, Volkswagen is seeking to enter global pickup markets dominated for the most part by Japanese manufacturers. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles already presented an impressive concept truck at last year’s IAA Commercial Vehicles, providing a taste of the brand’s new fourth model. The Amarok will be produced in Argentina at Volkswagen’s "Pacheco" plant near Buenos Aires.
The name Amarok comes from the language of the Inuit, who live in northern Canada and Greenland, and means wolf. The Inuit, one of the Eskimo peoples, regard the wolf as the king of the wilderness, an impressive figure due its strength, robustness, endurance and superiority.This name also means "he loves stones" in the Romance languages, which are spoken in the major markets in Brazil and Argentina. In these markets, pickups are highly in demand as recreational and commercial vehicles due to their versatility. The Amarok’s reliability and suitability for off-road driving will make it a very attractive proposition.
"This name fits to a tee the characteristics of our pickup, which will set new standards in its class. We took great care selecting this name, which can be used globally. The Amarok is meant to invoke positive associations in all relevant international markets and make a more convincing argument than its established competitors right from the start," says Stephan Schaller, CEO of the brand Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.The Amarok is the first pickup of this kind from a European manufacturer and will face competition in the one-tonne class mostly from Asia. The sixth model from the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand, which follows the Caddy, Transporter (or Multivan) and Crafter as well as the Saveiro and T2, both of which are available exclusively in South America, is a significant component in the Volkswagen Group’s growth strategy and opens a new segment for Volkswagen. Schaller comments, "The Amarok lifts our brand into a new, even more international dimension. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is proud to develop, build and sell this vehicle, which is extremely important for the growth of the entire Group and constitutes a logical strategic addition to the global range."

2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Volkswagen is proving that you don’t have to purchase a hybrid in order to drive a green car. That is the idea behind the German automotive manufacturer’s alternatively fueled 2009 Jetta TDI. Our car came equipped with a 2.0 Liter turbo diesel power plant making 140 HP and 236 lb-ft of torque and still gets and EPA estimated 40 MPG on the highway when connected to our car’s DSG gearbox. Starting out at a little over $22,000 the VW Jetta TDI is an affordable alternative to other environmentally friendly vehicles. Our Reflex Silver Metallic four door medium sized sedan rode on a set of stylish 16 inch alloy wheels and aside from the TDI badge on the trunk, this Jetta looked just like any other Jetta in the VW family.
The interior was filled with goodies like CLIMATIC air conditioning, V-Tex leatherette comfort seats and a 6 disc CD changer with auxiliary input jack for all your MP3 needs. One of the nicer features that comes with our TDI, or any new Jetta for that matter, is 24 hour road side assistance for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles of ownership. Not to mention that thanks to the new common rail fuel delivery system, the Jetta TDI is the only diesel in the U.S. that meets the strict European Tier II Bin 5 emissions requirements without the aid of any additional additive, that is the equivalent of being an LEV II rating from the California Air Resources Board. Coming in at $25,070 the Volkswagen Jetta TDI is a pretty good price to pay for such a well finished, economical and fun to drive package.

Volkswagen Scirocco
UNOFFICIALLY, The coupe will be a 2+2 based on the Volkswagen Golf chassis and will use the same 1.4 liter twin-charged (SuperTurbo) engine as the Volkswagen Golf GT.
Although there have been a lot of rumours for sometime that VW is to ad a coupe model to its line-up, this is the first confirmation that the carmaker has such plans.
It will take its styling cues from VW’s 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show stunner, the Concept R. In production guise this 2+2 seater will also share its design with that of the new Eos coupe cabriolet and Passat. The new coupe will share its underpinnings with that of the Jetta and it VW will offer it with three engine choices.
The entry-level model will get the company’s new 1.4-litre Twincharger FSI unit and it will also be available with the GTI’s 147kW 2-litre turbocharged engine. Under the bonnet of the range-topping model will the new 3.2-litre V6 engine of the Golf R32.

Volkswagen Scirocco Roadster Volkswagen will bring the Scirocco Coupe version next year at the Geneva Motor Show. But the company is not happy only with one version: they want to have more to say and make more competitors fear. As a result a roadster version is also in the works and will go on sale sometime in 2009, as a competitor for models like Audi TT Roadster or Porsche Boxster
The first Scirocco was designed by Giugiaro, built by Karmann, and sold in the States between 1975 and 1981. It was a real success all over the world. And even if the second or the third generations weren’t quite a success, the company decided to revive the affordable coupe. A preview was made at the 2006 Paris Motor Show, when Volkswagen launched the Iroc concept, which is said to be closely related to the production version from 2008.
Even if it would have been easy to tap into Scirocco’s design heritage to launch this renaissance, Volkswagen instead chose a contemporary look. Though it boasts a family resemblance to the Golf, the Scirocco’s shallow side glass and wide stance are similar to the Giorgetto Giugiaro-designed original launched in 1974.
The decision of building a roadster version comes with no surprise, as the Scirocco shares its underpinnings with the attractive Eos. The Scirocco Roadster will feature a complex folding hood mechanism, but this won’t affect the car’s distinctive styling. The rear seats are ditched to accommodate the roof mechanism.

Volkswagen Jetta TDI SportWagen Volkswagen of America, Inc. showcases its commitment to clean diesel performance and unique vehicle personalization with three new concepts on display at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show.
Powered by the 2.0L Clean Diesel TDI, delivering 140 horsepower and 235 ft.-lbs. of torque, the new Jetta SportWagen does not conform to old station wagon stereotypes.
Using readily available body components and finished in custom paint and graphics, this Jetta TDI SportWagen demonstrates what can be done to personalize a Jetta. To reinforce the sportin this wagon, the Jetta’s underpinnings were upgraded by H&R Springs to lower its ride height, and make its handling razor sharp.
The Jetta TDI SportWagen remains firmly planted with 19 inch Sportec Wheels and Yokohama Tires wrapped around an upgraded Brembo brake kit, providing high performance stopping power. Hella provides up-level lighting components that add a unique flair to the styling.

Volkswagen Passat CC Volkswagen is opening the year 2008 with the world premiere of the Passat CC. Its identifying characteristics: coupé design, yet with four doors; impressive comfort, yet pure dynamics; sporty interior, yet space without compromises. The interplay of these contrasts has resulted in a car whose concept and design set a new course beyond the mainstream.
The CC features a masculine shoulder line, which visually connects the front wheel wells to the taillights, providing the emotional and expressive stance of a sports coupe with all the convenience of a sedan.
The CC Sport and Luxury models are equipped with Volkswagen’s 2.0T inline four-cylinder engine carrying a turbocharger with intercooler and double overhead camshafts. The advanced four-valve per cylinder powerplant also is equipped with variable valve timing and a direct-injection fuel delivery system, both of which contribute to optimum fuel efficiency.
Mated with either a six-speed manual (Sport only) or six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic, the 2.0T delivers 200hp at 5100 rpm, and 207 lb.- ft. of torque between 1800 and 5000 rpm. The 2.0T delivers on its promise of performance with efficiency by achieving fuel economy of 21-mpg in the city, and 31- mpg on the highway with the manual, and 19-city/29-highway with the automatic – corresponding estimated 0-to-60-mph performance is a very capable 6.9- and 7.4-seconds respectively.
The VR6 Sport and VR6 4Motion models are powered by a 3.6L V6 engine that delivers 280hp at 6200 rpm and 265 lb.-ft of torque at 2750 rpm. Zero-to-60-mph performance is estimated at an exceptional 6.6-seconds; and fuel efficiency is 18-mpg in the city and 27-mpg on the highway.

Volkswagen Scirocco Volkswagen made today official the Scirocco, a model that started its history 34 years ago. Prices will start at €27,490 for the 1.4L TSI petrol variant with 120hp.
With a length of 4.26 meters, the Scirocco is on par with the Golf. However, it is built significantly lower to the ground (1.40 meter) and is nearly as wide as the Passat (1.81 meter). Four adults can be seated with plenty of space inside. Once they are all aboard, the Scirocco provides 292 liters of cargo capacity; when the two seatbacks of the rear individual sport seats are folded down, capacity increases to a considerable 755 liters. This contemporary Scirocco demonstrates unfettered everyday utility, and it can be clearly recommended as a sports car for every day of the year.
Providing for ample power on the Scirocco – which comes with ESP and sport chassis as standard equipment – are four TDI and TSI engines, all of them charged and therefore just as torque-strong as they are economical and low in emissions. The three TSI (gasoline direct-injection) output 90 kW / 122 PS, 118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS. The Scirocco’s common rail engine (TDI) develops a power of 103 kW / 140 PS. The 122 PS TSI takes the car to a top speed of 200 km/h. This 160 PS TSI takes the Scirocco from rest to 100 km/h in 8.0 seconds; its top speed is 217 km/h. With the 200 PS engine, the Scirocco makes the 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds and hits a top speed of 235 km/h.

Volkswagen Jetta TDI
Volkswagen today released the TDI version of the 2009 Jetta. TDI is a direction-injection turbo diesel engine. This Jetta runs on high-performance, ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel. Its reduced emissions meet the most stringent fuel emissions standards in California and all 50 states. The “T” stands for turbocharged, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice power and performance to be environmentally-friendly.
For the new release, VW is assembled a one-of-a-kind TDI. The hood of a Volkswagen Jetta TDI was autographed backstage at Teen Choice Awards by attendees including Jerry O’Connell, Randy Jackson, Natasha Bedingfield, and Chris Brown, and will be donated to City of Hope, a leading research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases.
Press release after the jump.
Volkswagen of America, Inc. teamed up with FOX Television and TEEN CHOICE 2008 to support the initiative to “green” Teen Choice. Young Hollywood showed their support for the environment by arriving at the eco-friendly TEEN CHOICE 2008 in Volkswagen’s fleet of highly-anticipated 2009 Jetta TDIs - the newly released, clean diesel sedan. Over fifteen members of the elite Young Hollywood chose to be the first to ride in the new TDI’s including Chase Crawford, Leighton Meester, Ed Westwick, Drake Bell, Katharine McPhee, Brittany Snow, JoJo, James Marsden, Jerry O’Connell, Rachel Bilson and Sophia Bush among others.

Volkswagen Golf VI The new Golf inspires respect with its clear design styling – its appearance is dominated by perfect build quality and precise lines. The front end has an impressively sporty look, thanks to both the striking radiator grille and the elegant shape of the headlights. The prominent tornado line gives it a lower and more extended appearance, from the headlights to the characteristic rear lights.
The 2009 Golf VI will be offered at the launch with two 2.0 liter TDI engines; they output of 110 hp and 140 hp. The 110 hp strong entry-level diesel is satisfied with 4.5 liters of fuel (119 g/km CO2) per 100 kilometers – that represents a 0.6 liter reduction! Even the 140 hp version only requires 4.9 liters of diesel (129 g/km CO2), which is 0.6 liters less.

There will also be four gasoline versions with output 80 hp, 102 hp, 122 hp and 160 hp. Engines will be mated to either a 6-speed or 7-speed DSG transmission.
The sixth Golf has a sportier and more distinctive appearance than any previous generation of the model series. The roof section now rests – similar to the new Scirocco – on a dominant filled out shoulder section. Responsible for this is a prominent curving line that – like a muscle trained down to the last fiber – extends from the headlights back to the taillights. All body surfaces are generally more relaxed, more athletic. In front the new car takes up the horizontally aligned radiator grille trim strip between the headlights of the first Golf generation; the grille itself is high-gloss black.

Volkswagen Golf GTI more than 1.7 million GTI worldwide. Now this success history will go even further with the debut of the sixth generation GTI at the Paris Auto Show. Sales will begin in spring 2009.
With a top speed of 148 mph and 207 hp turbo engine, the new GTI offers even more fun to drive, but with a fuel consumption of only 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers.
The Golf GTI comes with an unique combination of agile and athletic engine. At 1800 rpm the engine develops a maximum torque of 280 Nm. After only 7,2 seconds the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is completed.
The GTI features an electronic limited-slip differential called XDS and the Scirocco’s adaptive chassis. At the exterior the new GTi is inspired by the Golf GTI W12 concept, there’s a wide, one-piece lower-grille which is far more aggressive than the three-piece design on the fifth-generation GTI. It features foglights, a narrow upper-grille featuring red-bandinr diffuser which features twin exhausts a reaSince the first generation was launched and until now, Volkswagen .

Volkswagen Phaeton Volkswagen revealed the 2009 Phaeton, a model that comes with new technical features and also upgraded powertrains.
New to the Phaeton engine lineup is a considerably more efficient V6 gasoline direct-injection engine (FSI) with 280 hp. Compared to the previous engine, the V6 FSI offers a performance gain of 39 hp, on the one hand, yet it consumes 0.4 liters less fuel per 100 kilometers on the other. A common feature: All four gasoline and diesel engines on the Phaeton (240 hp to 450 hp) fulfill the new Euro-5 emissions standard.
Other changes to the 2009 model year car now being launched include: three new types of alloy wheels (17, 18 and 19 inch), a slightly modified radiator grille, three new car colors ("Silver leaf metallic", "Beryllium gray metallic" and "Mocca-anthracite pearl effect"), the new leather color "Corn silk beige", the new wood accents "Poplar grain latte macchiato" and "Vavona", white switch illumination instead of red, accent and switch trim in the new "Warm gray" color, an upgraded car key, makeup mirror in the rear on the long version, dampers optimized for low-friction, ceramic brakes (front) on the Phaeton W12 as well as a rearview camera (Rear Assist).

Volkswagen Toaureg V6 TDI Volkswagen will continue the US diesel offensive with the launch of the Touareg TDI model in early 2009 (it will be available in all 50 states).
The Touareg V6 TDI clean diesel is powered by a 3.0L, turbocharged six cylinder engine capable of producing 221 hp and an impressive 407 lbs-ft. of torque. The fuel economony is: fuel economy of 18 mpg (City) and 25 mpg highway.
The Touareg V6 TDI – shifted by a six-speed automatic – accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 8.5 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph.
One of the most important technologies in the new Touareg is the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) catalytic converter. This system converts nitrogen oxides into nitrogen and water.

Volkswagen Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck Even the Germans know the best was to go 100+ mph over rough desert terrain is with a big honkin’ truck. Volkswagen unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show the Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck that will run the 41st Baja 1000 desert race in the SCORE Trophy Truck class. The racer is powered by a 5.5 liter V-12 clean diesel engine that produces 550 hp and 625 lbs.-ft. of torque.
The Race Touareg TDI Trophy Truck features a wheelbase of 125 inches, overall length of 213 inches, width of 92 inches, an overall height of 78 inches and weighs 5650 pounds. This is a specialty race car, with an entirely unique suspension set-up. VW did not just pluck a Touareg off the assembly line and put it to use at Baja. The dimensions for the Trophy Truck are 16 inches wider, 10 inches taller, and 26 inches longer (13 inches more in the wheelbase) than the standard Touareg 2 SUV.

Volkswagen Golf TwinDrive Volkswagen revealed the first details on the Golf VI TwinDrive, a concept that features the latest generation plug-in hybrid drive system. According to the company testing will begin in Berlin next year.
The TwinDrive technology was first used on the Golf V, but how this is history it was converted on the new generation. The hybrid solution features an electric engine and a internal-combustion one; the difference is that, compared to the Golf V, in the Golf VI, the internal combustion one helps the electric engine.
Golf TwinDrive produces 176 hp and it can run 50 km on electrical power.
The official debut will be made in 201

Volkswagen Scirocco Study R
Volkswagen revealed at the Bologna motor show the Scirocco Study R, a street version of the GT24 race car. This likely a preview of the rumored R20T ultra-fast version that will be the top of the line for the Scirocco.
The biggest news for the car is the engine, which should be a turbocharged four cylinder unit that makes about 266 horsepower in this show car (the GT24 racer had 320 hp). It also takes advantage of three large air inlets on the front bumper, front splitter, engine hood with its auxiliary air vents, an integrated rear wing, new side skirts and polished 19-inch alloy wheels with five sets of triple spokes.
While the red and green door mirrors may make you think this would be a great Christmas present, there are a few things to remember. First, the car is only painted that way to celebrate the Italian heritage at Bologna. Second, the R20T isn’t likely going to be available until 2010. Finally, and most importantly, The VW Scirocco isn’t sold in the U.S.
Full details in the press release after the jumP
It was a triumphant drive: in May 2008, three Scirocco GT24 cars lined up at the start of the 24- hour endurance race on the Nürburgring track. At the wheel: driving legends the likes of Hans-Joachim Stuck and Carlos Sainz. The teams drove two 238 kW / 325 PS strong race cars to a dual victory at the finish line, first and second in their class. Now Volkswagen is presenting a street version of the race car at the Bologna Motor Show: the Scirocco Studie R. A genuine Grand Tourismo with a 198 kW / 270 PS engine that delivers aggressive propulsive power. This power is distributed by a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Adapted directly from car racing are the coilovers, the four-piston brake calipers and a sound-optimized exhaust system with its oval, polished tailpipes.

Volkswagen Golf Plus
Volkswagen unveiled today at the Bologna Auto Show in Italy the new generation Golf Plus. It will be offered in three equipment lines "Trendline", "Comfortline" and "Highline" and will go on sale in March 2009.
The new Golf Plus features a more sportier look, with design elements borrowed from the new Golf VI.
The new Golf Plus is being offered with a choice of two petrol engines and two diesel engines. Base version will get a 1,4 liters engine that will develop 75 Cp and the top version will be powered by a 2,0 liter TFSI engine that will develop 150 CP. Diesel version will get 90 and 140 hp.
New Golf Plus will feature the latest technologies: Park Assist, Rearview camera, Visual Parking Assistant, Adaptive Cruise Control ACC.
Full details in the press release after the jump.
Within just three and a half years, the Golf Plus has made a name for itself as an established product in the Golf lineup. Its brand identity: clever like a van, compact like a Golf. Over this time period, more than 500,000 car drivers across Europe chose a plus in interior and seat heights, a plus in variability, and finally a plus in comfort. This is now being followed up by a Golf Plus that has been improved in many aspects.Volkswagen is presenting it as a world premiere at the Bologna Motor Show (December 03 to 14). European-wide market launch of the new generation Golf Plus will already take place in March 2009. Visually, the new “Plus” forges a link to the classic body style of the just introduced sixth Golf generation. This is especially apparent at the front end. Also redesigned are the rear bumper and the roof rails. New steel and alloy wheels in a variety of sizes round out the exterior package of visual modifications. Inside, the further improved Golf Plus sports details like new upholstery materials and details also implemented in the Golf such as its instruments, steering wheel options and user interface for the automatic climate control system (Climatronic).Technically, the Golf Plus also implements details that the new Golf introduced for the first time in this Volkswagen segment. They include the new, fuel-efficient and very quiet common rail turbodiesel engines (66 kW / 90 PS to 103 kW / 140 PS). The common rail TDIs reduce average fuel consumption by up to 0.8 liter per 100 kilometers.As on the classic Golf, the conventional automatic transmission was also eliminated on the Golf Plus and replaced by 6-speed and 7- speed dual clutch transmissions (DSG) that are as fuel efficient as they are agile. Also new aboard the Golf Plus are the optional “Adaptive Cruise Control” (ACC), “Park Assist” parking assistant and rearview camera. Last but not least, the equipment lines were restructured too (Trendline, Comfortline and Highline as top version).Visual appearance in style of the new “Volkswagen design DNA” The Golf has always exhibited an unmistakable and linear design. And this not only applies to the original form of the classic car; it is also true of the “specialists” on the Golf team – successful Volkswagens like the “GTI”, “Variant” and certainly the “Plus” as well. With the recent launch of the sixth generation of Golfs, this model series is experiencing a new level of maturity in its timeless and confident styling and design. This is based on the newly developed “Volkswagen design DNA”. A key aspect here is the car’s extremely high level of value. Key elements of the design language developed by the team led by Walter de Silva are now characteristics of the new Golf Plus too. And indeed in the car’s front area:

Volkswagen Passat CC Individual
Volkswagen unveiled today at the Bologna Motor Show the special edition Passat CC Individual, the fourth model under the "Individual" label to go into production (after the Eos, Passat and Touareg).
The four-door coupé leaves the factory on newly designed 18-inch "Chicago black" type alloy wheels as standard equipment. After its market launch, another 19-inch variant will also be available as an option. As an exclusive in this car class, the Passat CC Individual will be available in the pearl effect car color "Moonlight Blue". Another identifying exterior feature: the modest Individual logos on the front fenders.
Inside, the new Passat CC Individual features standard two-tone leather covers for the 6-way power comfort seats (with memory function). The seat surfaces are designed in a high-end soft leather called "cool leather" ("Nougat" color) with climate seat perforations; this material reflects sun rays very well and so it stays pleasantly cool.Press release after the jump.
When the Passat CC was launched in early 2008, it was the first four-door coupé from Volkswagen to go into production. The concept and design of this Volkswagen are defining fresh new accents beyond the mainstream. In a motor show premiere, Volkswagen is now presenting a new exclusive version: the Passat CC Individual. After the Eos, Passat and Touareg, this is the fourth model under the “Individual” label to go into production. Exterior characteristics: new wheel designs and color worlds. Inner strengths: the finest materials and color tones are coordinated with the exterior paint. And on the new Passat CC Individual it looks like this:

Volkswagen Golf Plus
Volkswagen seems to like to make collector editions of cars not sold in the U.S. First there was the Scirocco Collectors Edition. Now VW unveiled the Golf Plus Collectors Edition at the Bologna Auto Show (the Golf Plus is just what it sounds like: a Golf/Rabbit with a little extra room.) The Collectors Edition, a concept painted in “White pearl effect” and featuring 225/40 tires on new 18-inch “Bilbao” alloy wheels.
Inside and out, the Golf Plus Collectors Edition exudes a kind of lounge ambiance. And not only because of the espresso machine integrated in the center console. The interior is trimmed in high-end nappa leather in “Titanium black” and “St. Tropez” (cream white) – this creates a very contemporary and urbane ambiance. Perfection right down to the last detail is evident in the decorative “Viaggio” seams between the individual sections of nappa leather trim.
On a concept car based on the new Golf Plus, Volkswagen Individual is providing a demonstration of just how limitless the hidden possibilities of individualization are: the Collectors Edition.This concept car is outfitted with the exclusive “White pearl effect” body color. Providing the necessary contact to the road are size 225/40 tires on new 18-inch “Bilbao” alloy wheels. Inside and out, the Golf Plus Collectors Edition exudes a kind of lounge ambiance. And not only because of the espresso machine integrated in the center console. The interior is trimmed in high-end nappa leather in “Titanium black” and “St. Tropez” (cream white) – this creates a very contemporary and urbane ambiance. Perfection right down to the last detail is evident in the decorative “Viaggio” seams between the individual sections of nappa leather trim.Furthermore, it is the contrasts between low and high gloss surfaces that define the interior. All accents, for example, are in high-gloss black piano paint, which encounters the silky matte of the nappa leather in the instrument panel area.

Volkswagen Concept BlueSport
We did know that Volkswagen was going to unveil its new roadster in Detroit, but we didn’t know it would show up as a diesel.
The Concept BlueSport is powered by a mid-mounted 177 hp 2.0-liter Clean Diesel (TDI) with common rail injection engine. VW says that it can make the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 6.6 seconds and tops out at 140 mph, all while getting 55 mpg. The engine is mated to a a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox mounted closer to the front of the car, which gives it a 45:55 front-to-rear weight distribution.
The concept is has some fun stuff like bi-xenon LED headlights outside and a touch screen command center inside. This all comes in a package that weights only 2645 lbs.
While everything about this car seems attractive except for possible the oil-burner engine, remember this is just a concept. When the production car shows up we expect it to keep the good points such as the mid-engine layout, almost even weight distribution, and lightweight design. We also expect to see some gasoline engines from the VW parts bin available on the production roadster.
Press release after the jump.
Maximum driving fun with minimal fuel consumption: This is the standard by which Volkswagen is starting the new car year 2009 and is presenting the roadster Concept BlueSport at the North American International Auto Show. “The BlueSport proves to be a compact and passionate car with a clear Volkswagen signature. The car offers pure dynamics with a powerful 180 PS Clean Diesel engine that is combined with the characteristic Volkswagen philosophy of efficiency,” confirmed Volkswagen’s Chairman of the Board, Prof. Martin Winterkorn in Detroit.The Concept BlueSport is making its appearance at the car show in Detroit with a Flex Silver exterior and orange fabric convertible top. "It is the symbiosis of outstanding technology and timeless Volkswagen design that makes this car an exceptional sports car. Its styling is clear and is reduced to the essentials; the car body itself has a lean and linear structure", explains Volkswagen chief designer Walter de Silva. The interior shows finesse in details and conveys a high level of technological fascination. Immediately visible to the eye is the intuitive and easy to operate touchscreen. Perfectly adapted to the interior are the leather upholstered seats in lightweight construction with their single-piece seatbacks.Behind the two sport seats of the 3.99 meter long Concept BlueSport, a 132 kW / 180 PS strong Clean Diesel (TDI) with common rail injection and downstream NOx storage catalytic converter delivers dynamic performance. A 6-speed DSG dual clutch transmission – the most economical and agile transmission system in the world – transfers power to the rear wheels. In just 6.6 seconds the sports car is moving at 100 km/h; its top speed is 226 km/h. Also having a positive impact on the car’s low fuel consumption of just 4.3 l/100 km and reduced emissions are two technologies that are part of the so-called Eco mode: an automatic start-stop system and energy regeneration. Together they propel the Concept BlueSport to an additional fuel savings of up to 0.2 liter per 100 kilometers in city driving.

Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited
The special edition Touareg Lux Limited made its debut today at the Detroit Auto Show. It is limited to 1940 units and will be the first edition on the most economical and cleanest SUVs to the US market: the new Touareg V6 TDI.
It will be offered with the new V6 TDi engine, buth also with two gasoline engines: a V6 FSI 280 hp and a V8 FSI 350 PS. It comes with 20" alloy wheels, a styling package with special side skirts and customized front and rear aprons and a color lineup customized for the limited edition.
The Touareg Lux Limited may be ordered in the exterior colors “Biscay blue”, “Black magic pearl effect”, “Campanella white” and “Galapagos gray” – the “Biscay blue” color new to the product lineup.
Press release after the jump.
In just a few weeks, Volkswagen of America will be introducing one of the most economical and cleanest SUVs to the US market: the new Touareg V6 TDI with a powerful 165 kW / 225 PS Clean Diesel. In parallel to the debut of the pioneeringly efficient Touareg, Volkswagen is now presenting in Detroit an outstandingly exclusive special model of its high-end SUV: the Touareg “Lux Limited”. It will launch with the new V6 TDI and two highly advanced gasoline engines: a V6 FSI (206 kW / 280 PS) and a V8 FSI (257 kW/ 350 PS). All versions of the Touareg START share an exclusive interior that is only available on this edition that will be limited to 1,940 units.

Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion Concept Car
3.3 liters/100 km and a CO2 emission of only 87 g/km - this is how we can resume the specifications of the most fuel efficient five-seater in the world. Although only revealed as a concept at the Geneva Motor Show, the Polo BlueMotion will go into production in February 2010.
The 1,080 kg concept is powered by a brand new 1.2 liter TDI with common rail injection engine that delivers 75 hp. Volkswagen is calling upon an entire array of efficiency measures, including an aerodynamic package for the body that is lowered by 10 millimeters (including modified front end), an aerodynamically optimized underbody and low rolling resistance tires on 15-inch alloy wheels.
Press release after the jump. It is still a concept – the most fuel efficient five-seater in the world. Its name: Polo BlueMotion. Fuel consumption: 3.3 liters CO2 emissions: just 87 g/km! Likelihood of going into production: extremely high! However, before a potential production launch, development must be completed on the brand new 1.2 liter TDI with common rail injection.
And that is precisely what the team led by Development Chief Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg is working on with great emphasis. “I anticipate,” says Dr. Hackenberg, “that we will be able to go into production in February 2010. Meeting this schedule will be extremely demanding. Yet the engine and other systems of the Polo BlueMotion are already operating with such promisingperformance that we are on course to meet our goal.”

Volkswagen Golf GTD
Volkswagen revealed today at the Auto Mobil International in Leipzig the diesel brother of the Golf GTI: the GTD Golf, a car that is all about efficiency.
The GTD is powered by a 2,0 liter TDI engine that delivers 170 hp at 4,200 rpm and a peak torque of 350 NM between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. It makes the 0 to 62 mph sprint in 8.1 seconds and can hit a top speed of 137 mph. It has a fuel consumption of only 5.3 liters per 100 km and a CO2 emission of only 139 g/km. The engine comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, while the optional 6-speed DSG comes as an option.
On the exterior the GTD comes with bumper, radiator grille and headlights exactly like in the GTI, while the red horizontal stripes in the radiator grille are styled in chrome on the GTD. At the rear, the turbo-diesel sports a modified diffuser. You can recognize the GTD by the dual chrome tailpipes on the left side of the diffuser.Press release after the jump.
After the Polo, the BlueMotion offensive and the Golf GTI, Volkswagen is pulling the next arrow out of its quiver: this time it is the Golf GTD. It is extremely fuel efficient yet exceedingly sporty, and it is debuting as a world premiere at the Auto Mobil International in Leipzig (March 28 to April 05). The GTD code letters carry on a tradition: the first Golf GTD appeared back in 1982 – it was the GTI among diesels. Now Volkswagen has perfected the various aspects of sportiness. The new Golf GTD with its 125 kW / 170 PS is aimed at all diesel fans who value a maximum in dynamic performance.

Volkswagen Eos GT Sport Volkswagen has revealed a special edition Eos. Called GT Sport the new version features standard 18 inches wheels, a lowered sport chassis and a black painted roof.
The 18 inches alloy wheels are painted in silver with chrome grille slats, the LED taillights are painted in cherry red, the headlights are darkened and the black painted roof with darkened rear windows gives the car a very elegant appearance.
Other sporty equipment includes: 15 mm lower sports suspension, pedals in aluminum look, heated front seats in Alcantara leather and new three-spoke leather steering wheel with gray decorative stitching. The interior equipments include: Climatronic air conditioning, adio system RCD 510 with an internal CD changer for six CDs.
The Eos Sport GT is powered by a choice of four petrol engines with output between 122 hp and 260 hp and a a diesel engine 140 hp.
Prices for the new Eos GT Sport starts from 33,075 Euro.

Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI
Performance diesels are nothing new for the European market, across the Atlantic they love the more affordable fuel prices and longer ranges provided by the alternative fueled machines. Volkswagen has already answered this call with the high performance Golf GTD, a diesel burning alternative to the GTI. So the next step for the German automaker would be to release a diesel version of their latest sports hatch, the Scirocco.
The Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI is powered by a 2.0 Liter TDI engine that produces a maximum output of 165 HP and a potent 258 lb-ft of torque. The alternatively fueled Scirocco can sprint from a standstill to 60 MPH in about 8 seconds and will reach a top speed of 140 MPH. All while returning about 53 MPG in mixed highway and city driving.
The Scirocco GT TDI has just been released in the British market, while we here in the U.S. are still awaiting the vehicles arrival, in any way shape or form.
Press release after the jump
The new performance diesel variant of the Scirocco GT equipped with a 2.0-litre TDI 170PS engine is now available to order. Combining effortless acceleration, made possible by 258 lbs ft of torque delivered from 1,750 rpm, and the ability to return 53.3 mpg on the combined cycle, the new model mixes style, economy and sharp dynamics.
The refined and powerful 2.0-litre common rail TDI engine develops 170 PS at 4,200 rpm and is available linked to either a six-speed manual or six-speed DSG gearbox. Both gearboxes accelerate the Scirocco to 62 mph from a standstill in 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 138 mph (DSG: 136), while emitting just 139 g/km (DSG: 147) of CO2.The latest addition to the Scirocco range is available linked exclusively to the GT trim level and offers a comprehensive list of standard equipment including a six-CD autochanger, rain and dusk sensor, multifunction computer and 2 Zone air conditioning. In terms of safety, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Program) and six airbags are all standard.For the first time new 19-inch ‘Lugano’ alloy wheels are available as an option.As with all models in the Scirocco range, the new GT 2.0-litre TDI 170PS is fitted with Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) operating through pneumatic valves in the damper units. The system allows the driver to select from normal, comfort or sport modes to define the desired suspension and steering response settings for the conditions.

Volkswagen Passat R-Line
Volkswagen UK has just announced an R-Line package for their mid sized car, the Passat. Like the sister company Audi’s S-Line trim package, the R-Line treatment brings added style and comfort to the base model four-door without the extra cost. The best part about the new trim is that you can have the appearance of a high performance R model, with a smaller, more fuel efficient and more economical engine under the hood.
From the outside, the R-Line package consists of a set of 17 inch wheels, a chrome grill surround and the “R” styling pack. On the inside, the package adds creature comforts like cruise control, adjustable front buckets and a leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel. VW even adds a tire pressure monitoring system for safety.
Don’t be down just because the R-Line Passat is currently only available for the U.K. market, because Volkswagen is also considering the R models for the U.S. market as well, so the R-Line would be the next logical step.
Press release after the jump.
Volkswagen is revising its Passat saloon and Estate ranges, adding a new R Line model to give customers more equipment and value for money.The familiar Passat range line-up of S, Highline, Sport and SEL is replaced with a new streamlined selection of S, R Line and Highline. BlueMotion remains the choice for efficiency while R36 continues as the range-topping performance model.The R Line trim is based on the entry-level S model and is available with the same engine choices. It carries a premium of £600 over the S (prices for the R Line start at £17,040 RRP on the road), but comes with an additional £2,470 worth of equipment. This is equivalent to an enhancement in customer value of over 300 per cent.The key exterior changes are the addition of 17-inch ‘Monte Carlo’ alloy wheels and an ’R’styling pack designed by Volkswagen subsidiary Individual. The styling pack adds striking front, side and rear skirts as well as chrome louvres and grille surround to give a more purposeful and sporty look to the vehicle. The Passat R Line is available in a choice of eight exterior paint colors.

Volkwagen Eos White Night
If you thought that Volkswagen’s newest convertible looked good wearing the factory aerodynamic package, then you should love this stunning special edition from the German automaker. The Eos White Night, adds a Deep Black Pearlescent painted retractable hard top to the already attractive Candy White body to create an image that is absolutely astonishing.
The White Night’s body is accented by a glossy black grill and matching mirror covers as well as a pair of cherry red LED tail lamps. The Eos rides on stylish five spoke rims that measure 18 inches in diameter. The wheels give the appearance of being of the split spoke variety thanks to their two tone finish. The interior is covered in soft black nappa leather to match the roof. The special edition White Night will go on sale for 33,140 Euro when VW decides to begin shipping them to showrooms.
Press release after the jump.
The new Eos White Night embraces the contrast of black and white: the body is white, while elements such as the roof, radiator grille and mirror covers are black. This special model can be ordered starting now.
The Eos White Night provides an interesting set of contrasts, including exterior paintwork in "Candy White", a roof painted in "Deep Black Pearlescent" and cherry-red LED tail lights. A number of details in black such as the mirror covers, radiator grille and trim strips enhance the appeal of this special model. 18-inch "Budapest" wheels partially painted black with a polished finish complete the elegant appearance of the Eos White Night.

The light and dark accents continue in the interior: the black nappa leather seats, door and side trim and black steering wheel feature light-coloured seams. There are also trim strips and radio trim in "Candy White". Sill panel strips lettered with "White Night" showcase this special model.

Volkswagen CC Luxury Volkswagen recently gave their midsize model, the Passat, a bit of a face-lift. The “classic” Passat is a great car and has been a huge success for the German automaker, but the design was becoming dated, and to be honest a bit bland. So the people’s car maker decided to give their four door sedan some more attitude, what they created was the CC. Following in the footsteps of another German car builder, Volkswagen transformed the Passat into a four door comfort coupe. Powered by either a 200 HP turbocharged four cylinder, for as little as $27,000; or a modern version of the company’s VR6 making 280 HP and 4Motion all wheel drive, the CC packs a punch at any price range. Best of all, the vehicle will get as much as 29 MPG on the highway.
The German automotive conglomerate figures that they will sell more front wheel drive turbocharged four cylinder version of the CC, and that the American market would rather spend more on interior upgrades than all out performance. Inside the comfort coupe you will feel pampered due to the combination of leather wrapped surfaces and brushed aluminum trim pieces. From the outside, the CC’s modern sheet metal is a welcome upgrade over the standard version, not to mention the new panoramic sunroof. The design is one that won’t become dated; the CC will still be attractive decades from now.
Continued after the jump.
Exterior Impression:
When viewed from the exterior, the new four door coupe is easily distinguishable from the “classic” version. The comfort coupe looks like a VW Phaeton that got shrunk in the wash, and then someone from Volkswagen peeled off the body and stretched it over a sharper, more aggressive endoskeleton. Everything from the headlights to the tail lights look like they have been pulled to fit over the new jig. Due to the fact that VW decided to go down the four door coupe route, the CC’s silhouette is strikingly similar to that of the larger Mercedes Benz CLS. The rounded roof line creates an attractive curve that starts at the nose with a sloping hood, continues with the heavily raked front windshield, passes by the blacked out B pillar end and then tapers back down, ending just before the stubby trunk overhang.
Even when viewed from head on, the car’s bubble like exterior is easily recognizable, the wide stance and sharp edges set it apart from more conservatively styled automobiles. One of the more striking features of the new CC is the panoramic sunroof. The oversized pane of tinted glass stretches almost from door to door, and breaks the large Reflex Silver Metallic body.
Our CC rode on a set of aggressive 17 inch ten spoke rims wrapped in low profile 235/45 sized rubber. The wheel and tire combination only added to the CC’s aggressive style. Thanks to the rounded arc of the roof line and flat bottom, the comfort coupe gives the impression of being slammed to the ground, despite having a healthy amount of fender gap and pretty standard ground clearance.
Interior Impression:
Sitting in the driver’s seat, you get the feeling that you are behind the wheel of a much more expensive machine, like all Volkswagens, the interior is terrific. The sport buckets are heavily bolstered, giving the driver an added sense of support. The gauges are simple and straightforward, consisting of two large dials and a multifunction display in the middle. The entire cluster is framed by a very elegant brushed aluminum panel. The metal theme continues onto the center stack. Starting at the top is a pair of cup holders hidden inside the dash; directly underneath them is a large LCD screen that serves as the vehicle’s multimedia interface. Below the radio and navigation display are controls for the dual-zone CLIMATRONIC air conditioning system, and unlike the vehicle’s four ringed cousins, these controls are simple and straightforward.
Look up and you will see nothing but sky, the oversized panoramic sunroof lets in so much light that it makes the interior feel extremely spacious. However; the rear is a different story. Living space for the passengers traveling in the back seat is a little cramped, headroom is limited due to the slope of the rear glass, and because of the rounded roof line the C pillar passes a little too close for comfort to the rear passenger’s craniums.
The rear bench is exemplary of the CC’s intended attitude (putting form at the top of the list), instead of fitting 3 across, there is a large covered storage compartment in the middle which creates a pair of heavily bolstered seats on either side. They are closer to a pair of individual buckets than the large leather wrapped cushion that it really is.
The Drive:
The CC Luxury loaned to us by Volkswagen is representative of the model that the German automaker intends to sell the most of. It was a 2.0 Liter TFSI powered version cranking out 200 HP and 207 lb-ft of torque sending power to the front wheels. This engine/drive train package is more than enough to make the CC capable around town and on the highway. Volkswagen is speculating that most American new car buyers would rather sacrifice the additional power of a VR6 and instead spend their hard earned dough on creature comforts like plush leather seating and premium audio systems. The interior is comfortable and spacious, the well laid out gauges and instruments mean that the Comfort Coupe lives up to its name.
The Volkswagen engineers intended for the CC to be a performer, and the driver will feel it, the suspension is stiff enough for the vehicle to handle well, and as an added result there is a little more NVH than one would expect from a luxury vehicle. The four door sedan already feels a little heavy when going in to a turn, and although the 4Motion weighs more due to the added drive train, the added grip due to the extra drive wheels should make the addition weight negligable.
Why to buy?
The CC is the perfect vehicle for any car buyer looking to add a little more style to their personal collection, without having to take out another mortgage on their house, or if you are simply a nut for four door coupes, this vehicle is for you. The vehicle’s freshly styled good looks, excellent ergonomics and affordable price make the CC an excellent option that you will never get tired of looking at sitting in your driveway.
Why not to buy?
Although the restyled Volkswagen sedan looks like it, the CC won’t replace that sports car parked in front of your house. If you are the type of person who thinks that only a luxury brand can produce a luxury car, then you will probably never understand the CC. So if you want to pay around $60,000 for an eye-catching, stylish, full sized sedan, then just drive past the VW dealership and ask for the keys to an Audi.
If you are the type of consumer who must have the most expensive of everything, then VW has something you might consider. The CC VR6 4Motion adds all of the features from the lesser priced models but has upgraded 18 inch rims, xenon headlamps and all wheel drive. That model starts at $39,800; so after adding a few more options you shouldn’t be embarrassed to show all your friends at the country club how much you paid for your new ride.
Top Speed Final Verdict:
The Volkswagen CC is an attractive machine that will turn heads and continue to look good for as long as you own it. The CC delivers style and comfort that comes standard on vehicles that cost about twice as much.
We here at Top Speed always want more so if we had our way we would opt for the VR6 4Motion for the extra power and better handling, but those start at around $40,000. So, for the added cost, we are not sure that it’s necessary. Besides, it’s harder to notice all the people that will be stopped dead in their tracks admiring your new car when flying past them at 100 MPH. The CC is a vehicle best enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
The options on our CC were a little expensive. We would have paid almost $2000 for navigation, now that is a little pricey, especially when other automakers are offering similar systems for only half that. The Dynaudio premium sound system was easy on our ears, but at $1000 it’s a little hard on the wallet. Combining those two options with the $750 delivery fee brought the price of our 2009 CC Luxury to just over $36,000; a reasonable price to pay for so much style.

Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion UK added to its line-up the most fuel efficient Tuareg in its line-up: a BlueMotion version powered by a 3.0-litre V6 TDI common rail diesel engine which develops 225 PS and 550 Nm of torque.
The Touareg BlueMotion has a fuel economy of 34.0 mpg on the combined cycle (down from 30.4 mpg), and CO2 emissions are cut to just 219 g/km, down from 244 g/km. It sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds and has a top speed of 126 mph.
Prices start from £34,150 on the road RRP for the entry level model and rise to £37,545 for the SE.

A BlueMotion version of the Touareg is now available to order, offering improved fuel efficiency and emissions of 219 g/km, well below the tax threshold of less than 225 g/km. Prices for the most efficient version of Volkswagen’s luxury off-road vehicle start at £34,150 on the road RRP for the entry level model and rise to £37,545 for the SE.The Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion is fitted with a more efficient version of the standard car’s 3.0-litre V6 TDI common rail diesel engine which develops 225 PS and 550 Nm of torque, and drives through a six-speed automatic tiptronic gearbox. As with all models in the Volkswagen range wearing the BlueMotion badge, a number of modifications have been made to improve efficiency. Changes include revised aerodynamics, an optimised engine including a more efficient alternator, low rolling resistance tires and a ride height lowered by 25 mm to reduce drag.Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion also features a regenerative braking system which is used to charge the battery while the vehicle is in motion, reducing the workload of the engine and cutting fuel consumption further. All of these revisions help the Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion to achieve 34.0 mpg on the combined cycle (down from 30.4 mpg), and CO2 emissions are cut to just 219 g/km, down from 244 g/km, making it one of the only non-hybrid vehicles in its class to drop below the 225 g/km barrier.The reduced emissions of the Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion mean that it qualifies for band K road tax at £215 a year, saving £190 over the standard Touareg 3.0-litre V6 TDI 240 PS. With the addition of improved fuel economy, making savings of two pence per mile, or £10.99 per tank, the Touareg BlueMotion can save the average driver around £400 a year.Despite these modifications and significant gains in efficiency, the performance figures for the Volkswagen Touareg BlueMotion are only slightly affected with a 0 to 62 mph time of 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 126 mph.Equipment levels on both trim levels, BlueMotion and BlueMotion SE, remain high with cruise control, a leather multifunction steering wheel and newly designed 17-inch ‘Makalu’ alloy wheels fitted as standard on BlueMotion models. BlueMotion SE offers increased levels of comfort and equipment with the addition of 2Zone electronic climate control, touchscreen satellite navigation, heated front seats, ‘Cricket’ leather upholstery, Walnut wood interior trim and 18-inch ‘Valley’ alloys.As with all models in the Touareg range, the advanced 4XMOTION all-wheel-drive system linked to an Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), hill start and descent assist, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) and six airbags are all fitted as standard.