Volkswagen’s BlueMotion range of vehicles has added a further three awards – including overall Green Car of the Year – to its list of accolades, this time at the What Car? Green Awards 2010 which were presented last night at a ceremony at Twickenham Stadium in London.

The Golf BlueMotion was named best Green Small Family Car, and also beat eight other category winners to claim the overall Green Car of the Year title.  The Passat BlueMotion won the Green Family Car award.

Commenting on the Golf BlueMotion, Steve Fowler, What Car?’s editor-in-chief, said: ‘The Golf is a well deserved award winner: carbon dioxide emissions are a paltry 99 g/km making it exempt from road tax and its average fuel economy is 74.3 mpg.  So, as well as being impressively green, the Golf is classy, well made, practical, safe, brilliant to drive and an affordable long-term investment.  There surely aren’t many other virtues you need?’

Collecting the award on behalf of Volkswagen was Professor Dr Stefan Gies, head of chassis development.  He said: ‘Ever since the first BlueMotion model was launched in 2007 our strategy for this environmental sub-brand has been to produce class-leading vehicles which are efficient, sustainable, practical, comfortable and competitively priced.  This is what our customers want and all these values are encapsulated in the Golf.’

At the heart of the Golf BlueMotion is a 1.6-litre TDI common rail engine, producing 105 PS and 250 Nm of torque from just 1,500 rpm.  Its remarkable economy is achieved through a package of measures which includes a Start/Stop system, low rolling resistance tyres, battery regeneration, revised gearing, a multifunction computer providing visual gear change recommendation for optimum fuel consumption and aerodynamic changes.

In April this year, the Polo, Golf and Passat BlueMotion models claimed the Green Car of the Year award at the 2010 World Car of the Year awards. 

Also available from Volkswagen is a comprehensive line-up of BlueMotion Technology products which use a range of economy measures to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.  Key to all BlueMotion and BlueMotion Technology vehicles, however, is that they all remain as practical, comfortable and desirable as the standard models on which they are based and are just as easy to service, repair and maintain.

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With the new Touareg recently becoming available to order, Volkswagen Motorsport is in the final stages of developing an evolution of the double Dakar Rally winning Race Touareg in readiness for its attempt on the title in 2011.

The Race Touareg 3 features a revised exterior design with updated aerodynamics but retains proven technology that has helped Volkswagen Motorsport win back-to-back victories at the desert rally which crosses Argentina and Chile.  The changes follow the design cues of the latest production model, while also carrying forward some of the characteristics and dynamic qualities of the Race Touareg 2.

The Race Touareg 3 continues to be based on the basic engineering design of the previous generation Race Touareg 2, which has been continuously developed since its introduction in 2005.  For example, this latest version of the cross-country rally prototype features the innovative 2.5-litre four cylinder turbocharged diesel engine which develops 300 PS.  Other key areas that are carried over from the previous generation rally winner include the suspension and chassis which have also been subjected to constant developments over the past few years.

‘The evolution of the vehicle into the Race Touareg 3 represents the next logical step we’re taking towards our big aim of achieving the hat-trick at the Dakar Rally,’ says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen.  ‘With new aerodynamics, the Race Touareg 3 will look even more spectacular than before, while quoting aspects of the design language of the new production Touareg and, in addition, receiving further detailed optimisations.  Its core is well proven because we continue to bank on the consistently optimised technology package that has been giving the Race Touareg first-rate performance and maximum reliability.’

Volkswagen Motorsport will continue its rigorous development programme for the Race Touareg 3 with hot weather testing in the deserts of Morocco at the end of the month including the simulation of several rally distances. 

The Race Touareg 3 will be officially unveiled in August before making its first competitive start at the Silk Way Rally (11-18 September).  This takes place across Russia between St Petersburg and Sochi and is regarded as the dress rehearsal for the legendary Dakar Rally (1-16 January 2011) where four Race Touareg 3s will contest for Volkswagen’s third consecutive victory.

For more information about the Race Touareg or the Dakar Rally, please visit www.volkswagen-motorsport.info

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Reinforcing the ‘Unbelievable value’ message of its latest marketing campaign, Volkswagen is adding a new model to the Golf line-up.  Using the familiar Match name, the new variant replaces the SE trim level, and adds over £1,600 worth of extra equipment while costing just £300 more than the outgoing car.  The Match also comes with the newly-available option of a 140 PS BlueMotion Technology model for added economy and performance.

On top of the SE’s already generous specification which includes, among other items, ABS, ESP, seven airbags, Climatic air conditioning, alarm, cruise control and multi-device interface for connectivity to iPod or MP3 player, the Match adds unique 16-inch ‘Croft’ alloy wheels, a leather multifunction steering wheel, DAB digital radio receiver, Bluetooth system, front and rear parking sensors and an RCD 510 touchscreen stereo with six-disc CD autochanger.

The built-in Bluetooth and multifunction steering wheel ensures making and taking a call on the move is easy and safe.  The factory-fitted fully integrated system makes use of the RCD 510’s five-inch touchscreen to display information at the press of a button, while its hands-free profile compatibility means it can be twinned with more phones than previously, including Blackberry and iPhone.

The new Match model is available with the same engines as the outgoing SE trim.  This means customers can choose from a 1.4-litre TSI petrol with 122 PS, a 1.6-litre TDI 105 PS or a 2.0-litre TDI with 140 PS.  Both the petrol and the 1.6-litre TDI are offered with Volkswagen’s seven-speed DSG gearbox, while the 2.0-litre TDI can be specified with the six-speed DSG option.

An efficient BlueMotion Technology Match model is also available with the 1.6-litre TDI 105 PS returning 68.9 mpg on the combined cycle and emitting 107 g/km of carbon dioxide.  New for the Match is a BlueMotion Technology model in combination with the popular 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS unit.  This offers customers a combined fuel economy of 65.7 mpg and CO₂ emissions of only 114 g/km and, as such, is likely to appeal to fleet customers who will benefit from BIK tax advantages as well as environmentally conscious drivers who don’t want to compromise on performance.  The BlueMotion Technology models’ enhanced economy comes as a result of a Start/Stop system and battery regeneration.

Adding to the value proposition is the option of a three-year/30,000 mile £250 fixed price servicing deal which saves customers money as well as giving them peace of mind against routine servicing costs.

Ordering for the new Golf Match opens today with prices starting at £17,730 RRP OTR for the 1.4-litre TSI three-door.  The first customer deliveries will start at the end of June.

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To mark the annual Wörthersee Show in Austria, Volkswagen has honed the Golf GTI to create a new concept.

The aptly named Golf GTI Excessive is formed from a series of small but effective modifications to the vehicle’s running gear to create a sharper, more focussed iteration of the iconic GTI.

This comes as a result of firmer springs and dampers and a wider track, requiring the addition of a set of wheelarch extensions each measuring 30 mm. Uprated 370 mm diameter brake discs (310 mm rear) are fitted behind new 19-inch flow-formed BBS motorsport-derived alloy wheels complete with a 35 mm offset fitted with 235/35 ZR19 track-orientated tyres.

The 2.0-litre TSI engine is left unchanged however the addition of a free-flowing and marginally lighter exhaust system raises power from 210 PS to 214 PS while torque rises from 206 to 211 lbs ft between 1,700 and 5,200 rpm.

Aesthetic changes to the GTI Excessive include the addition of a deep front splitter and a pair of revised airdams either side of the front grille.  A set of sill extensions finished in gloss black are joined by a new rear diffuser framed by a set of titanium-tipped exhaust pipes and a redesigned wing mounted above the rear window.  Finally a set of LED rear lights, now standard equipment on all new examples of the Golf GTI, complete the changes.

Inside the GTI Excessive a set of redesigned bucket seats with integrated headrests finished in black and red are fitted along with brushed aluminium and gloss black trim.

Should there be an enthusiastic reaction to the concept at Wörthersee, the GTI Excessive may inspire an accessories pack which could be retrofitted to the MkVI Golf GTI.

The Wörthersee Show first took place in 1982 and is attended by thousands of Volkswagen enthusiasts every year.  More recently Volkswagen has established a tradition of unveiling a concept car specially commissioned for the event.  In 2007 the GTI W12 made its debut, in 2008 the Scirocco GT24 was unveiled and in 2009 the Polo ‘Wörthersee 09’ concept preceded the Polo GTI.

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Volkswagen is set to launch a new model into the Tiguan range – the Match.

Although a familiar name in the Polo, Golf and Touran model ranges, it’s the first time the Match name has been applied to the Tiguan.  Replacing the SE trim level, the new Match model promises to deliver greater value and equipment to the comprehensive list of comfort and convenience features already fitted to the Tiguan.

The new Tiguan Match will add Park Assist, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, climate control, a touchscreen DAB digital radio and a leather multifunction steering wheel.

This comes in addition to the existing standard specification which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a six-disc CD autochanger, heat insulating glass from the B-pillar back, six airbags, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) and ABS.

Despite these gains, the Tiguan Match commands a premium of only £250 over the existing SE model.

The Match is available with a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines.  The petrol engines are a 1.4-litre TSI unit developing 150 PS and a 2.0-litre TSI engine producing 170 PS.  The diesel variants are based on a 2.0-litre TDI engine with either 140 or 170 PS outputs.  Both the 170 PS petrol and the 140 PS diesel engines can now be specified with the newly introduced option of a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox.

The Tiguan Match is on sale now with a starting price of £22,110 ‘on the road’ RRP for the 1.4-litre TSI BlueMotion Technology model with two-wheel drive.  The full Match model line-up is shown below. 

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Along with the presentation of a new 3-cylinder TDI, Volkswagen will be represented by a contingent of engine experts at the 31st International Vienna Motor Symposium. Its presentations in front of an international audience of engineers will focus on top values in CO2 emissions and fuel efficiency. However, another key issue that will be addressed is what conditions are crucial to achieving market penetration of alternative drives.

Professor Dr. Wolfgang Steiger, Head of Future Technologies in Group Communications, deals with such technical, societal and political requirements. In his lecture today in Vienna, Steiger explains: "Attitudes toward mobility are changing – not least of all due to the effects of the economic crisis and climate change – and are moving toward a sustainability perspective. Political entities around the globe react very differently to these issues, but they nearly always end up focusing on the promotion of electric mobility."

Steiger adds that long distance and freight transportation will continue to rely on internal combustion engines with highly efficient drive systems in the foreseeable future, so a long period of coexistence can be expected between E-technology and classic internal combustion engines.

Proving that such internal combustion engines can meet current and future demands – with top values in reduced emissions – is the new 1.2l TDI with 3 cylinders in the Polo BlueMotion. Despite its relatively small displacement, the 1.2l 55kW / 75PS TDI engine can deliver a torque of 180 Nm at 2,000 rpm. The specification for the new 3-cylinder TDI called for the greatest possible dynamic engine performance with reduced displacement, maximum acoustic comfort and systematic weight reduction – without compromising the engine’s thermodynamic efficiency. All of the advantages of a reduced number of cylinders – primarily reduced weight and friction power loss – are being exploited as well.

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Volkswagen has unveiled the revised Phaeton at the Beijing Motor Show.

Featuring a new look and technologies, the updated Phaeton builds on what is already one of the most advanced and thoroughly engineered cars on the road today.

Built in a state of the art transparent factory in Dresden, the new Phaeton features a new face, comprising a pair of bi-xenon headlight units complete with LED running lights and a new grille featuring two pronounced horizontal bars to lend the car a more imposing stance.  Elsewhere, new front wings and a reprofiled bonnet are joined by a revised front bumper, complete with chrome strips and a set of LED foglights.

At the rear, a set of light units fitted with intricate lenses sit above a redesigned bumper.  Finally, new alloys wheels complete the changes to the outside of the car.

Inside, a new steering wheel and a colour electronic display ahead of the driver are joined by fresh trim finishes and, for the first time on a Volkswagen, the option of Google Maps on the RNS810 satellite navigation system.  Feeding power and information between these and other vehicle systems are over 2,000 separate cables measuring 3.2 km connecting to 60 control units. 

The air conditioning system on the Phaeton remains one of the most advanced in the world.  As well as featuring a humidity monitoring function to avoid the vehicle misting up in all conditions, the Phaeton W12’s 4Zone climate control system is designed to be capable of maintaining a steady interior temperature of 22 degrees Celsius while the vehicle is at a constant speed of 186 mph in an ambient temperature of 50 degrees. 

While this situation is unlikely to be encountered by the majority of motorists, the climate control systems, aerodynamics, brakes, suspension, steering system and even wipers have been designed to cope with speeds far exceeding the norm of 0-155 mph.

The new Phaeton retains a very high level of standard equipment including 4MOTION all-wheel drive, Continuous Damping Control (CDC) adjustable air suspension, leather trim, satellite navigation, 18-way adjustable electric seats, a laminated finish to all glass areas and a total of eight airbags.

Two wheelbase options will be offered (120 mm differentiating the two) and a choice of two engines – a 3.0-litre V6 TDI diesel developing 240 PS and a 6.0-litre W12 petrol engine producing 450 PS.

The new Phaeton goes on sale this August with prices and specifications set to be announced nearer this time.

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After the one-two-three finish in January this year, the Volkswagen Board of Management has decided to continue the successful commitment confirming that Volkswagen will contest the Dakar Rally again in January 2011.

Volkswagen made motorsport history back in 2009 with the diesel-powered Race Touareg, finishing the classic rally with a one-two victory on its first attempt.  This announcement means that the Wolfsburg based automobile manufacturer has the opportunity to clinch a hat-trick on one of the toughest tests in worldwide motorsport.

 
‘The Dakar Rally makes maximum demands on the vehicles and the team. This makes it the ideal terrain to present Volkswagen’s technical expertise and perfect teamwork to a large audience,’ said Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Brand for the Development Division.  ‘South America is an important growth market for Volkswagen and thus the ideal venue to continue expanding the awareness and popularity enjoyed by the Volkswagen brand.’
  
Commenting on the continued commitment to the Dakar Rally, Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen explained: ‘We now have the opportunity to achieve the diesel hat-trick and to thereby make motorsport history again.  We will again invest all our passion, heart and soul in this project at the next Dakar.’

 
The Dakar Rally remains at the forefront of Volkswagen’s motorsport involvement. With great innovative achievements and sporting exploits, the engineers from Wolfsburg have established diesel technology with its high fuel economy in top-calibre sport.
 

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The new Milano Taxi concept has made its debut at the Hanover Trade Show.

The concept, finished in the traditional green and black of Milan taxis, is presented as a study into the viability of a mass-market, emission-free taxi powered by an electric motor.

The motor, which is capable of generating a peak of 115 PS, is fed through a lithium-ion battery integrated into the underside of the vehicle with a storage capacity of 45 Kilowatt-hours.  This, combined with a kerb weight of 1,500 kg, allows the Milano Taxi concept to travel at speeds of up to 74 mph and up to 186 miles between charges.

In addition, the charging time of the lithium-ion batteries has been substantially reduced with over 80 per cent of its total capacity being reached in just over an hour.

Along with an innovative drivetrain, the Milano Taxi concept features clever packaging to make the vehicle as practical and friendly as possible for its occupants.

Despite measuring just 3.73 metres in length, 1.66 metres in width and 1.60 metres in height, making it shorter and narrower than the Fox, the Milano Taxi concept is capable of carrying two passengers in comfort with a glass panel roof creating a bright and, with 944 mm of headroom, spacious environment.  Measuring 120 mm, the rear legroom rivals that of luxury saloons.  Substantial space is also assigned at the front of the car to carry luggage while entry to the vehicle is made easier and more practical through the integration of a large door that both swivels and slides forward.   

Once aboard, the passengers can access an LCD display mounted on the reverse of the driver’s seat to see an overview of the route being taken, pay the fare or change the climate functions in the back of the vehicle.

The driver is faced by a similar screen that can be personalised to show any combination of information relating to the vehicle systems, passenger fare or navigation functions.

The Milano Taxi concept debuts a simple, clean appearance that draws inspiration from the classic Samba Bus from the 1950’s as well as the current design language established by Walter de Silva (head of design, Volkswagen Group) and Klaus Bischoff, head of design, Volkswagen.

Intricate headlights featuring integrated LED running lights frame a bonnet that, through the absence of a grille, is able to sweep down into the front bumper and create a bold, simple appearance.  At the rear, the lights fit neatly into the window panel yet sit separately from a pair of 60:40 split doors.

The Milano Taxi is presented as a concept.  Volkswagen continues to work towards its strategy to launch its first electric vehicle by 2013.  

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The Scirocco GT24-CNG will return to Germany’s ‘Green Hell’ next month as Volkswagen fields three natural gas-powered racers in the legendary Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race over the weekend 12-16 May. 

All three Scirocco GT24-CNG coupés are fitted with a 2.0-litre TSI engine powered by natural gas, reducing CO₂ emissions by 80 per cent over a conventional petrol engine.  The unit is a development of the powerplant that secured class victory last year and sees the power output increased to 330 PS. 

As in previous years, Volkswagen will draw on the expertise of experienced racers as well as fielding several promising and exciting young drivers.  Last year, Jimmy Johansson (S), Florian Gruber (D) and Nicki Thim (DK) competed in a conventional petrol-powered Scirocco GT24 and finished as the top-placed Volkswagen team in 15th and clinched the third consecutive class win for Volkswagen.  This year they are joined by touring car ace Peter Terting (D) who steered a pioneering gas-powered Scirocco GT24-CNG to victory in the alternative powertrains category last year.

The second car comprises experienced endurance racers from a variety of international disciplines.  Nasser Al-Attiyah (Q), who finished 2nd in Volkswagen’s 1-2-3 at this year’s Dakar Rally, is joined by former DTM driver Vanina Ickx (B), endurance racing legend Dieter Depping (D) and two-time winner of the Nürburgring 24-hour, Klaus Niedzwiedz (D). 

Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Management Board for Technical Development and Prof Dr Stefan Gies, Head of Chassis Development for Volkswagen are paired with journalists Bernd Ostmann (D) and Peter Wyss (CH) in the final Scirocco. 

This racer features several technological developments including an innovative active electro-hydraulic differential in place of the conventional system which is fitted to the other two cars.   The electronically controlled system will undergo the ultimate test of endurance, and is designed to combine the functionality of the conventional system with improved handling characteristics and a reduction in understeer. 

Further developments of the 2009-spec cars include a larger braking system to reduce maintenance intervals during the gruelling 24-hours, and the integration of two further light units into the front bumper to improve visibility during the hours of darkness.

Early signs for the three teams are promising with Nicki Thim posting a lap record on the Nordschleife circuit for a front-wheel drive vehicle in a time of 8m 47.337s during the latest of the preparation races.

As final preparations are made for this year’s 24-hour race, Volkswagen Motorsport will continue to extensively test the three Scirocco GT24-CNG racers, including contesting one final Endurance Championship race on the Nürburgring at the end of this month.

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The new Touran has been unveiled at the Leipzig Motor Show.  Featuring fresh styling, pioneering technology and a range of efficient new petrol and diesel engines, the new Touran is set to build on the strong reputation of the 1.13 million examples of the compact MPV sold across Europeto date.

The new Touran features styling that takes inspiration from the design direction established by the Polo, Golf and new Touareg.  The new grille features strong horizontal lines that are replicated in the new front bumper while at the rear, revised tail-lights featuring intricate LED bulbs are fitted along with a new tailgate and bumper.  Completing the revisions are a set of new alloy wheels and chrome-edged rubbing strips running down the side of the vehicle.

Inside the Touran, fresh new trim finishes are joined by a three-spoke steering wheel ahead of a new set of dials featuring subtle white backlighting and a large electronic display to relay information on the vehicle’s systems.  A revised centre console with chrome highlights houses new controls for the ventilation system.

The versatility that has led to the Touran establishing a loyal customer base has been retained in the new car.  The new Touran is fitted with seven seats as standard, the third row of which can be folded down into the floor of the vehicle to leave a 695 litre loadspace that can be increased to 1,913 litres when the centre row of seats is folded.  A total of 39 storage compartments can be found around the new Touran.

Powering the Touran is a range of highly efficient new forced induction engines that promise greater performance and economy while delivering fewer emissions.  The entry-level petrol engine is a new 1.2-litre TSI unit delivering 105 PS.  It’s joined by a 1.4-litre TSI engine developing 140 PS.

The diesel range comprises two engines with four different power outputs.  A 1.6-litreTDI engine is available with a choice of 90 or 105 PS outputs while the 2.0-litreTDI engine offers 140 or 170 PS.  In addition, the 1.2 TSI 105 PS petrol and 1.6-litre 105 PS diesel engines can be specified in BlueMotion Technology trim complete with Start/Stop and, in the case of the latter, the ability to return 61.4 mpg on the combined cycle – making the new Touran the most efficient MPV Volkswagen has ever produced.

In addition to the gains in efficiency, the Touran also breaks new ground in technology, featuring, for example, the latest generation of ParkAssist which allows the vehicle to park in not only parallel spaces but also end-on spaces.  The system operates through a single button and doesn’t require any complicated set-up procedure.

The new Touran will go on sale in the UK in September with the first models arriving in October.  Prices and specifications will be announced nearer this time.

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The Passat CC, which mixes elegant coupé styling with practicality and refinement, is set to benefit from a series of revisions to add new technologies and greater flexibility to help it represent stronger value than ever before.

For the first time the Passat CC can accommodate five adults thanks to the addition of an extra space situated between the rear seats, while up front satellite navigation is fitted as standard along with a touchscreen Bluetooth device. 

This comes on top of the already comprehensive list of standard equipment which includes 2Zone electronic climate control, a leather steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake, 17-inch ‘Phoenix’ alloy wheels and six airbags.

The GT model also benefits from the revisions plus it gains Nappa leather interior, front and rear parking sensors and cruise control. 

The GT trim level also retains 18-inch ‘Interlagos’ alloy wheels, ACC (Adaptive Chassis Control) electronically controlled pneumatic dampers and heat insulating tinted glass from the B-pillar backwards.

These changes on the entry-level model represent an extra £1,000 worth of equipment yet the revised Passat CC will cost only £515 more than the model it replaces.  On the GT model the gap is even greater with an extra £3,000 worth of equipment being fitted yet the overall price of the car rises by £1,000.

The existing line-up of powerful yet efficient 1.8-litre TSI, 2.0-litre TSI and 3.6-litre V6 petrol engines and 2.0-litre TDI diesel engines remain, as does the choice of six-speed manual or DSG gearboxes on selected models. 

The new model opens for ordering this week with prices set to start at £22,645 RRP on the road for the 1.8-litre TSI model.

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With 59 of the top automotive journalists from around the globe judging, the Polo surpassed a total of 29 other nominees. Announced this morning at the New York International Auto Show in New York City’s Jacob Javits Center, the annual World Car of the Year awards recognize the year’s most outstanding vehicles based on merit, value, safety, environmental impact, significance, and emotional appeal.

“We’re honoured that the Volkswagen Polo was chosen by this distinguished group of jurors,” said Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG. “After the great triumph of the Golf last year, we are delighted to repeat this success with the new Polo. These automobiles have reaped numerous awards, winning well-nigh every prize the automotive industry has to award. This shows that Volkswagen is on the right track and is offering arguably the best range of products in its history.”

The latest generation of the Volkswagen Polo has quickly become a favorite in the brand’s lineup to drivers and media alike, with its uncluttered, timeless design, and exceptional versatility and efficiency. More than 230,000 customers worldwide have placed orders for the newest version of Volkswagen’s popular subcompact vehicle.

Now in their seventh year, the World Car of the Year awards, have become one of the most credible and significant programs of its kind. The World Car jurors hail from 25 countries, and are appointed by the World Car Steering Committee on the basis of their expertise, experience, credibility, and influence. Each juror drives and evaluates new vehicles on a regular basis as part of his ongoing, full-time professional work, and, collectively with all the jurors, reaches millions of consumers and automotive enthusiasts across the globe.

In a separate award, the BlueMotion product brand consisting of the Golf, Passat, and Polo, was declared the 2010 World Green Car of the Year by the World Car of The Year organisation.  

The 59 member jury awarded the BlueMotion product brand over two other finalists in the 2010 World Green Car award: the Honda Insight and the Toyota Prius.

Jurors felt that: ‘It is not necessary to add an electric motor and a heavy battery pack to achieve class-leading efficiency.  Based on Volkswagen’s common rail diesel engines, the BlueMotion models are among the most fuel-efficient vehicles on the market.  In fact, the Passat BlueMotion can travel just about 1,000 miles on one tank of fuel in the European cycle. As far as internal combustion engines go today, these models are the ultimate you can get.’

‘BlueMotion is one of the most successful efficiency brands worldwide.  It stands for tremendous competence in efficient and economical drive trains at Volkswagen,’ said Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, delighted about the appreciation by the jury.

The award was received at the New York International Auto Show on Thursday morning by Walter de Silva, head of design for Volkswagen Group.

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Volkswagen is offering customers added peace of mind and the opportunity to save money with the expansion of its fixed-price service plan, which is now available on every model in the range.

Until 31 December 2010, all retail customers purchasing a new Volkswagen passenger car model, from Fox to Phaeton, can choose to pay a one-off highly competitive payment of just £250 which will cover the servicing needs for the next three years or 30,000 miles (whichever comes first).  Over this period, the plan will save customers money and guarantee that the vehicle is maintained by fully trained Volkswagen specialists within the franchised Volkswagen Retailer network.

As an additional benefit, if the vehicle is sold before the three years / 30,000 miles is reached, the remainder of the plan can be transferred to the new owner, offering an enhanced resale proposition.

Volkswagen Finance has offered a fixed-price service plan on selected models since 2007 and, as with the previous scheme, the plan is open to all retail customers whether paying by finance or not.  The highly competitive £250 plan can be purchased up to 90 days after the first registration date of the vehicle or, alternatively, it can be incorporated into selected Volkswagen Finance plans meaning peace of mind can cost just a few pounds per month.  

The fixed-price service plan is based on the Time and Distance service schedule and comprises a maximum of an oil service at 12 months / 10,000 miles; an interval service including oil change at 24 months / 20,000 miles; and an inspection service including oil and brake fluid change at 36 months / 30,000 miles.  At the same intervals, all Fox and New Beetle models receive an oil service, inspection service including oil and brake fluid change and a final oil service.

A fixed-price servicing plan is also available for buyers of used vehicles and existing Volkswagen customers for a one-off payment of just £299 under a separate plan. 

Both fixed-price servicing plans apply to routine servicing based on the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule and exclude maintenance and other items.  Full details are available on request from participating Volkswagen Retailers, and for more information or to locate your nearest Retailer visit www.volkswagen.co.uk.

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Volkswagen has won two key categories as well as the highly competitive company car title at this year’s Fleet News Awards, with the Polo being named ‘Best Supermini’ while the Golf picked up both the ‘Best Lower medium Car’ as well as the coveted ‘2010 Company Car of the Year’.

Presented at a ceremony at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel, the prestigious Fleet News Awards honoured the fleet industry’s top achievers for the past 12 months. 

On collecting the awards, Volkswagen’s Head of Fleet Services Vincent Kinner said: ‘To receive these awards from Fleet News is a great honour and they are a fantastic endorsement for two crucial models and the Volkswagen brand as a whole.  We’ve started 2010 in a very strong position, a situation we hope to build as the year progresses.’

Commenting on the Volkswagen’s success, the Fleet News judging panel added: ‘The Golf impresses fleet operators and drivers in equal measure.  It has strong residual values and a wide choice of efficient engines that lead to low operating costs.  Drivers see it as an aspirational car in its sector.’

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The all-new Volkswagen Sharan has made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Based on an advanced new platform and featuring twin sliding doors, a seven seat configuration and a range of frugal yet powerful petrol and diesel engines, the Sharan is set to establish new standards of efficiency, practicality and refinement in its class.

At 4,854 mm in length, the new Sharan is 220 mm longer than the model it replaces, 92 mm wider and 12 mm lower. Despite these gains the new Sharan weighs 30 kg less than the previous generation model.

Access to the rear seats in the new Sharan is granted via a pair of large sliding doors that can, along with the tailgate, be specified with electric motors to operate automatically. The centre row features three individual seats that can be moved by up to 160 mm back and forth if required and, when not in use, can be folded to create a flat loadspace.

The third row of seats is made easy to access through the ability of the centre row of seats to slide and pivot forwards by 20 degrees. As a result of a wheelbase extended by 75 mm over the outgoing model, the new Sharan’s third row of seats is large enough to accommodate adults as well as children. As with the second row of seats, they can also be folded flat into the floor when not required.

At the heart of the new Sharan is a range of four advanced TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines linked to six-speed manual or DSG gearboxes. A 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine developing 150 PS while returning 38.1 mpg and emitting 172 g/km of CO2 is joined by a 2.0-litre unit which is mated to a standard DSG gearbox and produces 200 PS. This engine emits 201 g/km of CO2 while returning 32.8 mpg.

The diesel range comprises two 2.0-litre common rail engines producing 140 and 170 PS. In 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS form the Sharan returns 52.3 mpg while emitting 143 g/km of CO2 to make it one of the most efficient vehicles in its class. The 170 PS model emits 152 g/km of CO2 and has a combined economy figure of 49.5 mpg. To further improve efficiency, all models except the 200 PS variant feature Stop-Start and regenerative braking systems as standard.

The new Sharan is the most advanced people carrier Volkswagen has ever produced. Available as an option for the first time on the Sharan is the Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) system featuring electronically controlled pneumatic dampers with three selectable stages – normal, comfort and sport. In addition, a new version of Park Assist makes its debut on the Sharan. The system is now capable of guiding the vehicle into parking spaces at right angles with the direction of traffic as well as parallel spaces.

Following its international debut in Geneva the new Sharan will go on sale in the UK later this year with prices and specifications due to be announced nearer this time.

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Volkswagen plans to expand its fleet of electric drive vehicles.

The use of hybrid technology in production vehicles is already being demonstrated in the Touareg Hybrid at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. In 2011, a test fleet of 500 Golfs with electric drives will follow. Starting in 2013, the high-volume Golf and Jetta models of the Volkswagen brand are expected to dominate the hybrid and electric vehicle market.

Volkswagen plans to strategically bundle its competence in electric traction and extend it step-by-step. It has now established a clear launch schedule for its E-traction products.

Prof. Dr. Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG explains: “Volkswagen will be taking E-mobility to mass production. In 2011, we are expanding our test fleet by adding 500 Golfs with electric drive. A hybrid version of the Jetta for the US market follows in 2012. Starting in 2013, the E-UP goes into production. The goal is to become the market leader in E-mobility by the year 2018. We want to attain an electric vehicle market share of three percent within our entire range of products.” He goes on to say: “We will take the hybrid out of its niche status with our high-volume models. In the future, the heart of the brand will also beat with electricity.”

Today, the electric car is already technically capable of short ranges of up to 150 kilometres. And so, the Group’s various brands will be conducting field studies in key strategic markets of Europe, North America and China in upcoming months. An important intermediate step here is Group-wide implementation of hybrid technology in production vehicles. In Geneva, Volkswagen is therefore showcasing its technological competence in hybrid development and is already introducing the new Touareg Hybrid.

“This technological competence will be advanced in Volkswagen’s modular strategy of flexibly integrating hybrid and E-drives over a wide variety of vehicle platforms in all of the Group brands”, says Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Group Chief Officer for Electric Traction. “We will continue to systematically exploit the potential of internal combustion engines with the goal of significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions. So over the mid-term, vehicles with electric drives and those with internal combustion engines will co-exist.”

The market launch schedule for purely electric cars is as ambitious as it is systematic: The E-UP will kick off the programme in 2013; the E-Golf will then be introduced, just before another crucial event of the Volkswagen Group’s E-strategy follows at the end of the year with the launch of the E-Jetta. In subsequent years, a modular E-traction approach will systematically extend electrification to other model series.

Milestones of the planned VW Group’s hybrid offensive: the Jetta Hybrid will debut in August 2012, the Passat Hybrid in August 2013 and two months later the Golf Hybrid.

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APS of Brackley, UK importer for the Swiss based Sportec range of vehicle performance enhancements, is pleased to announce the launch of a new Stage One ECU upgrade package for the new Volkswagen Golf R.

In standard form the turbocharged 2.0-litre four cylinder Golf R produces 267bhp (200KW) and 258lb.ft (354Nm) of torque.

Sportec’s careful recalibration of the fuel, ignition timing and boost pressure settings via an extensively proven ECU remap sees power output leap to 300bhp (224KW) at 6000rpm and 321lb.ft (440Nm) of torque at 2750 rpm, delivering significant performance improvements which greatly increase the driver enjoyment of the four wheel drive Golf R superhatch.

For example, the Golf R’s 0-100 kmh (0-62mph) acceleration time is reduced from 5.7 to 5.3 seconds, with the top speed increasing to 160mph (265 kmh).

Suitable for both six speed manual and DSG versions of the Golf R, the Sportec Stage One upgrade package is available now from UK Sportec importer APS of Brackley, priced at £649.00 including installation, road testing and VAT @ 17.5%.

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The new Volkswagen Scirocco R Cup will be staged as the partner series of the popular DTM during the 2010 season.  Making its debut this season, the Scirocco R Cup will feature nine races over seven weekends, including a UK round at the famous Brands Hatch circuit.

The grid will be made up of 30 racers with a wide mixture of motorsport rookies, seasoned campaigners and horsepower legends as they fight for points and silverware at a high level. Their sporting equipment will be a racing version of the recently-launched Scirocco R, powered by an innovative biogas engine that achieves an 80 per cent reduction of CO2 emissions compared with conventional engines.  This makes the Volkswagen Scirocco R Cup the most eco-conscious one-make cup racing series in the world.

‘We’re delighted about the opportunity to continue our partnership with the DTM series in 2010.  This is a relationship that we have enjoyed with the Lupo and Polo Cups ever since the comeback of this successful racing series in 2000,’ explained Volkswagen Motorsport Director, Kris Nissen. 

‘With the new Scirocco R Cup, we will continue our long-standing commitment to promoting young talent and making new marks with innovative biogas power.  The DTM with its huge popularity offers an unrivalled stage for this.’

The Scirocco R Cup will make its UK debut appearance at Brands Hatch over the weekend 3-4 September 2010.

For more information about the Scirocco R Cup or Volkswagen Motorsport, please visit www.volkswagen-motorsport.info

2010 Volkswagen Scirocco R Cup Race Calendar

* two races; all other weekends: one race on Saturday

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The new Polo BlueMotion adopts an all-new highly advanced 1.2-litre TDI three-cylinder common rail diesel engine developing 75 PS, and 133 lbs ft (180 Nm) of torque available from just 2,000 rpm.  This new engine, combined with longer gearing through the five-speed manual gearbox, regenerative braking and an automatic Start/Stop system, help the new Polo BlueMotion emit just 91 g/km of CO2 while returning an impressive 80.7 mpg on the combined cycle.  This grants the new Polo BlueMotion a theoretical range of over 800 miles on one tank of diesel.

These technological enhancements are accompanied by several cosmetic changes designed to maximise efficiency.  Comprising bespoke bumpers, side skirts and an extended roof spoiler along with 15-inch ‘Greenland’ alloy wheels fitted with low rolling resistance tyres, they contribute towards making the new Polo BlueMotion among the most efficient vehicles currently available in the UK.

The Polo BlueMotion accelerates from a standstill to 62 mph in 13.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 107 mph.

Comfort levels remain high with manual air conditioning, cruise control and leather steering wheel fitted as standard.  As with all models in the Polo range, a number of safety features are also fitted, including four airbags, ABS and ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme).

The Polo BlueMotion is available to order at Volkswagen Retailers now with the first cars expected in May. For more information visit www.volkswagen.co.uk.

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The new Polo GTI has been unveiled, promising to be the fastest, most focussed and cleanest performance Polo yet produced.

The original performance variant of the Polo was unveiled in 1986 in the form of the G40 Coupé – a car that mixed a fast-revving, 113 PS, supercharged engine with a low kerbweight and sharpened responses.

Fast forward 24 years and the new Polo GTI bears similarities with the G40.  At its heart is a 1.4-litre TSI engine that uses a supercharger from idle through to 3,000 rpm at which point the turbocharger cuts in to provide boost.  The result is an output of 180 PS at 6,200 rpm and 184 lbs ft of torque from 2,000 rpm which, when aligned with a 1,184 kg kerbweight, allows the Polo GTI to accelerate from rest to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 142 mph.

Despite a keen focus on performance, the new Polo GTI is capable of delivering 47 mpg on the combined cycle while emitting just 139 g/km of CO2.

The TSI engine is linked to a compact seven-speed, twin-clutch DSG gearbox that channels drive through the front axle.  In addition, the Polo GTI is fitted with the XDS differential, an electronic cross-axle traction control system for improved traction and handling.  The XDS system is a functional extension of the electronic limited slip differential (EDL) which is a part of the standard ESP system.

In order to sharpen responses, the Polo GTI is fitted with new springs and dampers which results in a 15 mm lower ride height than the conventional Polo.

Like its Golf GTI sibling, the Polo GTI features significant aesthetic changes.  A new front bumper featuring a deep airdam is joined by a honeycombe grille element with horizontal red strips and a simple GTI badge.  New headlight units complete with the option of LED running lights lend the Polo GTI an imposing new look.

Further back, a subtle sill extension wraps around the lower edge of the body while at the back a new rear bumper features a small diffuser and a pair of chrome-tipped exhausts.  The Polo badge is replaced by a simple ‘GTI’ version.

Finally, a set of 17-inch wheels identical to those fitted to the Golf GTI are fitted along with a set of red brake callipers.

The changes continue inside the Polo GTI with revised dials, a new, flat-bottomed GTI steering wheel complete with small gearshift paddles and contrasting red stitching, aluminium pedals and new, heavily bolstered front sports seats finished in tartan trim.  Subtle gloss black trim covers the centre console while the headlining is now finished in black.

The new Polo GTI is due to arrive in the UK in the summer at which point pricing and specification will be announced.

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The all-new Touareg has been unveiled – a car which is up to 200 kg lighter and up to 20 per cent more fuel efficient than the model it replaces. It’s sharper, cleaner and yet, in Hybrid form, able to out-accelerate many hot hatches while returning 34 mpg on the combined cycle. The new vehicle maintains all the same virtues of space, comfort, refinement and off-road and towing ability that have led the original Touareg to build up a loyal following since its launch in 2003.

Clean new styling which draws inspiration from the design direction established by the Golf Mk VI, the new Polo and the New Compact Coupé concept lends the new Touareg greater presence and a lower drag coefficient without sacrificing the functional requirements of short front and rear overhangs for off-roading.

The overall length and wheelbase of the Touareg have each grown by 40 mm to measure 4,758 mm and 2,900 mm respectively. The width of the new Touareg remains as before at 1,928 mm while overall height drops by 20 mm to 1,724 mm.

The changes over the outgoing model extend far beyond new styling. Standard examples of the new Touareg will feature an eight-speed transmission as well as, on the majority of models, Start/Stop technology, touchscreen satellite navigation and leather upholstery. In addition, a choice of advanced new options can be specified including High Beam Assist that automatically dips the headlights when it senses oncoming traffic, Side Assist to warn of vehicles occupying blind spots, adaptive roll compensation air suspension and air conditioned, massaging seats.

At the heart of the new Touareg is a range of highly efficient petrol and diesel engines and, for the first time, a Hybrid.

The new Touareg Hybrid brings together a 3.3-litre supercharged V6 petrol engine producing 333 PS and 265 lbs ft of torque and an electric motor generating 47 PS, resulting in a total output of 380 PS and 428 lbs ft of torque. The electric motor can operate independently of the combustion engine making the new Touareg a full hybrid. On electric power alone the new Touareg is capable of travelling at speeds of up to 30 mph. Alternatively the electric motor can supplement the V6 engine to provide a useful boost during overtaking manoeuvres and allows the Touareg Hybrid to accelerate from rest to 62 mph in 6.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 149 mph.

The entry-level engine and the likely volume seller is a powerful and refined 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine generating 240 PS and 405 lbs ft of torque while returning 38.1 mpg and emitting 195 g/km of CO2 to place it in VED band J.

A new 4.2-litre TDI V8 engine producing 340 PS and 590 lbs ft of torque sits at the top of the new Touareg range. Despite its substantial power and torque outputs the new engine is still capable of achieving 31 mpg on the combined cycle while emitting 239 g/km of CO2.THE NEW TOUAREG

The new Touareg range will extend to four versions in the UK: SE, Altitude, Hybrid and Escape. The Escape model, available with the V6 TDI engine, features a system called 4XMOTION which comprises reduction gearing, centre and rear differentials that can each be fully locked for off-road applications and five stage control for the four wheel drive system. The first stage is for on-road applications, the second is for off-road use and activates automatic control for the mechanical differential locks, stage three engages the low-range gearbox with revised mapping of the gearbox to raise the shift points and switches off the automatic upshift in manual mode. Stage four applies the centre differential lock, stage five adds the rear differential lock.

The greater refinement afforded by the new drivetrain is matched by an all-new interior featuring a subtle mix of leather, wood and aluminium highlights and more space than ever before thanks to the longer wheelbase on which the new Touareg sits. Though the Touareg remains a five-seater, legroom in the rear has grown significantly due to the new sliding rear bench and reclining backrests while the boot measures from 580 litres to 1,642 litres depending on the seating arrangement.

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A fleet of 35 new Volkswagen Amarok pick-ups successfully fulfilled their role as support vehicles to the winning Volkswagen motorsport team and the official organisers, ASO, in the gruelling long-distance Dakar Rally enduring extreme temperatures, altitudes and terrains with no problems at all.

Volkswagen successfully defended the Dakar title with a 1-2-3 finish at this year’s Rally, known as one of the world’s toughest endurance tests.

Alongside the successful Race Touaregs, the back-up teams travelling in the Volkswagen Amarok pick-ups completed all 14 legs of the race and reached the end of the rally in Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires, while only around half the competitors actually made it to the finishing line.

‘The event allowed the Amarok to give a clear demonstration of its abilities and robustness,’ said Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, member of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Board of Management in charge of development.  ‘It’s simple,’ he continued, ‘the Amarok is the Volkswagen of Pick-ups.’

The Volkswagen Amarok had no problem mastering the demanding challenges it was subjected to during the 5,600 mile trip from Buenos Aires across the continent to Chile’s Pacific coast and back. The Amarok motored on undeterred by the 50°C heat of Argentina’s Fiambala, by the San Francisco Pass across the Andes in Chile at an altitude of more than 4,700 metres or by the taxing terrain of the Atacama, the driest desert on the planet.

The new Volkswagen Amarok arrives in the UK this September.  For more information or to register for email updates, visit www.volkswagenamarok.co.uk.

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For the first time ever, the EuroNCAP Institute in Brussels compiled all of its crash test results for the year 2009 and named the safest car of the year: The Golf won out against the competition with a total of 103 points.

The Golf had already attained a five-star EuroNCAP rating in the year 2008. Initially, this testing programme − conducted since 1997 − only assessed frontal crashes, side crashes and pedestrian protection. After stricter criteria were introduced at the beginning of 2009, the Golf was re-tested, and it performed impressively in all four categories: Occupant protection of adults, protection of children, pedestrian protection and supporting safety and driver assistance systems.

The bestseller from Wolfsburg once again attained the coveted five star rating with the top score of 103 points, earning it the title of “Safest Car of 2009”. In total, 33 cars were tested last year under the new, stricter and more extensive EuroNCAP crash testing procedure.

Electronic safety and assistance systems that help prevent accidents and serious injuries are now also incorporated in the rating of the new, stricter assessment method. The Golf offers maximum safety with standard safety features that include ESP with counter-steer assist, ABS with braking assistance, anti-slip regulation (ASR), electronic differential lock (EDS), engine drag torque control (MSR), trailer stabilisation, Isofix mounting brackets for two child seats on the rear bench as well as airbags for driver and front passenger with passenger-side deactivation, including knee airbag for the driver and a head airbag system for front and rear passengers with side airbags.

The Golf not only fulfils European safety standards. In 2008, the compact car earned the prestigious title of “Top Safety Pick” − awarded by the independent US safety institute “Insurance Institute for Highway Safety” (IIHS). In this evaluation, vehicles were tested in a frontal crash at 40 mph (64 km/h) and in a side crash at 31 mph (50 km/h) with a movable barrier shaped like the front end of an SUV. In addition, seat behaviour was studied in a rear-end crash.

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Two motorcaravan magazines have officially recognised the Volkswagen California campervan and the Transporter van base vehicle in their annual awards.

The Which Motorcaravan Awards 2010 voted the new Volkswagen California the Best Multi-purpose Motorcaravan.  In addition, a Volkswagen campervan conversion by Bilbo’s was officially nominated in the same category, while the new Transporter van was also a runner-up in the Base Vehicle Category. 

Meanwhile, the MMM 2010 Awards from Motorcaravan Motorhome Monthly gave the California Highly Commended status in its Small Motorhome/Camper category, saying it was ‘the ultimate Volkswagen campervan’.

With its electric pop-up roof, the Volkswagen California is the perfect multi-purpose vehicle that can be used for every day commuting or for weekend breaks or longer escapes.  It is car-like to drive, yet quickly transforms from car to campervan with two double beds and fully equipped kitchen with sink, cooker and fridge.

‘It’s not just the way the California looks or drives that makes it a winner,’ said Peter Vaughan, Editor, Which Motorcaravan magazine.  ‘Much of what makes the California great will be common to any conversion of the latest T5 Transporter.  No, it’s the detailing that makes the California special.  

‘Throughout, the California feels beautifully executed – from the way the blinds are concealed to the thorough automotive trim around the windows and roof aperture.  Volkswagen even hides a couple of folding outdoor chairs on the inside of the tailgate and an outdoor table inside the sliding door which has electric latching so you don’t have to slam it like the campers of old.  Class.  Sheer class,’ he continued.

The new Volkswagen California includes new-look frontal styling and upgraded dashboard instruments, more efficient and cleaner common rail turbodiesel engines, with, for the first time, the option of a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission, and new safety features including a daytime running function for the headlights. 

The California range starts from £39,950 or from £399 a month with 4.9 per cent APR (typical) plus deposit and optional final payment.  For full details, or to find your nearest Volkswagen Van Centre, visit www.vwescape.co.uk or call 0800 717131.

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This particular award enjoys the most prestigious reputation and it was presented to Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn at a ceremony in Wolfsburg this evening. The new Polo has now therefore been officially crowned car of the year 2010.

In his acceptance speech, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, paid special tribute to the employees: “It takes a great team to build winners like the Polo. I am proud the Volkswagen Group has such a strong and motivated team that has made the Polo with its cutting-edge technology, quality and safety affordable for everyone.”

The jury comprising 59 leading motoring journalists from 23 European countries already chose the best new cars at the end of last November. 33 rivals were tested by the jury this year. Seven candidates made it to the final, and the Polo emerged as the winner.

Apart from the coveted “Car of the Year” award, the new Polo has also scooped up several other trophies since its market launch last summer: the list of successes includes the “Green” and “Golden Steering Wheel” (Springer Verlag), “Best Car of 2009” (auto motor sport) and “Auto Trophy” (Autozeitung). The Polo was also awarded the coveted five stars in the new, more stringent Euro NCAP crash test.

The Polo is currently available in a choice of seven engines – four petrol and three diesel. The Polo BlueMotion 1.2 TDI (55 kW / 75 PS) epitomizes the potential of the three new diesel engines; with an average fuel consumption of 3.3 liters per 100 kilometers and 87g CO2 per kilometer, this model is currently the world’s most economical five-seater with the lowest emissions.

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The latest Volkswagen Golf has been voted Business Car of the Year by the readers of BusinessCar magazine.

The BusinessCar Awards are the only awards in the market that are solely decided by the readership. This makes them the most influential in the business car arena.

Alongside the Golf winning Business Car of the Year, the other headline categories went to BMW, which picked up not only Manufacturer of the Year but also the Environmental Award for its market-leading Efficient Dynamics package, while Service Supplier of the Year went to leasing giant Lex Autolease. BMW also picked up five category awards, including class wins for the 3- and 5-series models, while prestige German rival Audi took three prizes.

The Volkswagen Golf has always been a favourite among business car operators thanks to a combination of brand prestige and appeal, great running costs and a good drive, and the new Golf has built handsomely on those foundations. It’s no surprise that such a desirable and popular product was voted Business Car of the Year by the people whose organisations depend on making the right choices – the BusinessCar readers,” said BusinessCar Editor Paul Barker.

“The BusinessCar Awards take the temperature of the corporate arena as they’re decided by those people experiencing and relying on the products and services on a daily basis,” said Barker. “Congratulations to all our winners on the huge endorsement from the industry that is attached to a BusinessCar Award.”

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Volkswagen has won the legendary Dakar Rally for the second time in succession. The Volkswagen duos and their TDI powered Race Touareg prototypes celebrated a one-two-three podium lockout at the finish of the toughest challenge in motorsport.

In the process, Carlos Sainz / Lucas Cruz (E/E) triumphed by only 2 minutes 12 seconds ahead of team mates Nasser Al-Attiyah / Timo Gottschalk (Q/D) in a thrilling finale on the closing 202 kilometre sprint on the 14th and final rally day.  Mark Miller / Ralph Pitchford (USA/ZA) claimed third position while last year’s winners Giniel de Villiers / Dirk von Zitzewitz (ZA/D) finished seventh.

‘I’m incredibly proud of our team.  It’s stunning what the drivers, co-drivers and the entire team have achieved on every single day of the Dakar Rally.  With this one-two-three triumph Volkswagen Motorsport even surpassed its own lofty goals,’ says Dr. rer. pol. h. c. Francisco Javier Garcia Sanz, Member of the Board of Management at Volkswagen AG for procurement, at the finish of the final stage.  

Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen explains: ‘Three weeks ago a highly motivated Volkswagen team came with the goal of successfully defending the Dakar title won last year.  Volkswagen has achieved something historical with this one-two-three.  We are not only unbeaten in South America, we are also the only manufacturer to have won the world’s hardest rally up to now with diesel technology.

The Volkswagen drivers fought amongst themselves for victory all the way to the chequered flag – sometimes by hard but fair means.  This is exactly how we imagine motorsport to be.  My congratulations therefore go to every Volkswagen duo who would all have been worthy winners.’
 
The Wolfsburg based brand remains the only manufacturer to have won the car category of the Dakar Rally with diesel power.  TDI technology was already dominant in 2009 in Argentina and Chile.  In addition to the efficiency of the Volkswagen Group’s diesel direct injection technology the Race Touareg’s reliability was the key to the 2010 Dakar victory.  Despite the extreme demands, the powerful 300 hp Race Touareg proved to be not only the most robust, but also the fastest vehicle recording seven of a 14 possible stage victories and eleven days in the lead credited to the four-wheel drive racers from Wolfsburg.
 
The result of the rally kept observers and fans alike on tenterhooks up to the finish line.  Sainz / Cruz, Al-Attiyah / Gottschalk and Miller / Pitchford led in this order since the fifth Dakar Rally stage.  However, at no point did any driver duo have an unassailable lead.  In a strong final burst Al-Attiyah / Gottschalk edged ever closer, repeatedly taking seconds from their Volkswagen team mates Sainz / Cruz and, in doing so, staged an open and hard duel for the leading position.  The Qatari / German duo made up ground specifically in the dune sections – which once again formed one of the Dakar’s core elements – while the Spanish pairing of Sainz / Cruz controlled proceedings on the fast, twisty gravel sections.
 
As varied as the fight in the overall standings was – two stage wins went to Sainz / Cruz, four to Al-Attiyah / Gottschalk, one to Miller / Pitchford – so challenging proved the 32nd running of the Dakar Rally.  In addition to the varied stages across soft, powder-like sand and through towering and endless dune fields of the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, there were also gravel sections and tracks through enormous boulder fields on the agenda.  The multi-faceted acid test with its terrain changing several times a day, two Andes crossings, passages through the world’s driest desert, as well as parts of the legendary Pampa was mastered brilliantly by the Volkswagen Race Touareg.  One Race Touareg was always found in the top-three of each stage at the finish, 27 of a possible 42 top-three positions on the 14 stages went to Wolfsburg.
 
For the new Dakar champions, Carlos Sainz and Lucas Cruz, a winning streak continued in front of millions of fans lining the daily stages in Argentina and Chile.  As newly formed duo in the Volkswagen Race Touareg the Spanish pair remained unbeaten in their third competition together and secured a new record in Dakar history.  Never before have two Spaniards won the legendary desert rally’s automobile category.  Sainz / Cruz had previously won the Rallye dos Sertões in June and July 2009 as well as the Silk Way Rally in September 2009.
 
The Volkswagen statistics in cross country rallying make for equally impressive reading – unbeaten since January 2009 and with its second Dakar triumph since 2009 continues the Volkswagen Group’s success story with TDI technology.  After Audi’s Le Mans victories between 2006 and 2008 and winning the World Touring Car Championship with SEAT in 2008 and 2009, Volkswagen has been successful at the Dakar in 2009 and 2010 thanks to TDI Power. 

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Volkswagen Canada held the North American premiere of its “Top Golf” today at the Montreal International Auto Show. Named the Golf R Concept, Volkswagen unveiled this 3-door “Hot Hatch” that produces 265 HP and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds while consuming only 8.4 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres* traveled to the automotive media.

“The new Golf R Concept is the “Top Golf” – the best in the overall combination of acceleration, top speed, fuel-economy, handling, performance, and distinctive features for a vehicle in the compact segment,” announced John White, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group Canada Inc. at today’s press conference. ”Our commitment to leadership in the environment is matched with our drive to be leaders in innovation and technology. This automotive passion, even in an era of downsizing, still has something to do with power and performance.”

On the heels of its world premiere last September at the IAA in Frankfurt, Germany, the Golf R Concept follows Volkswagen’s strategy of creating premium performance package versions of some its models as R models. Other models available in Europe include the Passat R36, Touareg R50, and the Scirocco R.

R models are packaged with substantial upgrades which include: more powerful engines, advanced powertrains, suspension and steering modifications, stronger brakes, aerodynamic improvements, special sport seating, and unique exterior and interior aesthetic upgrades. This R model was conceptualized by Volkswagen Individual, Volkswagen’s special customizing and tuning arm in Germany.

Driven by its 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder TSI direct engine gasoline engine that has a specific power of 133 HP per litre and a maximum of 258 lbs-ft of torque from 2,500 to 5,000 RPM, the Golf R Concept is capable of covering 1,000 metres (1 km) in 25.4 seconds and of reaching an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

TSI Engine of the Golf R Concept
The EA113 series direct-injection gasoline engine is used in the new Golf R, with a turbocharger that makes it very flexible and variable right up into the highest performance ranges. The engine’s power can be spontaneously summoned in the blink of an eye throughout its speed range. The engine also impressively underscores its potential acoustically, as well as visually: its two chrome tailpipes can be seen at the centre of the bumper under the diffuser integrated there – an “R trait”.
The four-cylinder engine develops its tremendous propulsive power via a turbocharger (up to 1.2 bar boost pressure) with intercooling. The engine, with a weight of just 152 kilograms, is controlled by a fully electronic engine management system with E-Gas. The cylinders of the four-cylinder engine have been equipped with reinforcing bolts. Also designed to be stronger are the connecting rods, so that they can transfer the engine’s high torque to the crankshaft. Last but not least, the cylinder block is also reinforced to handle the aggressive engine forces.

New all-wheel drive on the Golf R Concept
As standard equipment, the Golf R transfers the TSI’s power to the road via the latest generation of Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. The system underwent significant advanced development versus the previous version found in the Golf R32.

Above all, power transmission between the front and rear axles – especially the all-wheel differential that operates in an oil bath – exhibits clear advances. The most important one: Activation of the all-wheel differential no longer requires a difference in speeds between the front and rear axles.
For the first time an electric pump is used to build pressure. The electric pump supplies oil to a hydraulic reservoir whose working pressure is 30 bar. A control module computes the ideal drive torque for the rear axle and controls, via a valve, to determine how much oil pressure is applied to the working pistons of the multi-plate clutch. The contact pressure at the clutch plates rises in proportion to the desired torque at the rear axle. The amount of torque that is transferred can be varied continuously with the magnitude of the pressure applied to the clutch plates. The system operates independent of slip since the system’s working pressure is always available. When starting up and accelerating, this prevents spinning of the wheels at the front axle more effectively, since the control module regulates the torque distribution based on dynamic axle loads. In extreme cases, nearly 100 percent of the drive torque can be directed to the rear axle, resulting in further gains in active safety and dynamic performance.

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