Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible Special Edition

Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that the limited edition Triple White New Beetle convertible is now available at dealers. Only 3,000 customers will have the opportunity to own this truly special edition.

The Triple White New Beetle convertible features a unique Campanella white exterior, a white interior, and white convertible roof boot. The Triple White New Beetle convertible takes its colour palette from the original Super Beetle convertible of the late 70s. This modern day rendition includes 17-inch Oktopus alloy wheels, a three-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel, white leatherette seats and center armrest. Also included are black carpeting, floor mats and door panels along with Sirius Satellite Radio. Another distinctive feature of the Triple White New Beetle convertible is the special front seat headrests ingrained with the New Beetle convertible icon.

With the standard automatic transmission, the Triple White New Beetle convertible is priced at USD$25,990.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the worlds largest producers of passenger cars and Europes largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at VW.com.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen Golf Diesel Lineup

Volkswagen Group Australia recently launched the all-new Golf range with a choice of two turbo diesel engines, allowing Volkswagen to offer the most affordable diesel passenger vehicle in the Australian market to date.

The 2.0-litre TDI four-valve unit direct injection turbo-diesel engine provides 103kW of power at 4000 rpm and a massive 320Nm of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The other engine is the 1.9-litre TDI (77kW @ 4000 rpm / 250Nm @ 1900 rpm).

Why the option of diesel? Because simply Volkswagen excels in this area of engine technology (no better example than the V10 TDI diesel powerplant in the Touareg 4WD) – the company manufactured more than 2 million diesel-powered passenger cars last year.

2.0-litre TDI
Volkswagen’s all-new 2.0-litre TDI turbo-diesel delivers 103kW of power at 4000 rpm and maximum torque of 320Nm between just 1750 rpm and 2500 rpm.

1.9-litre TDI
Developing 77kW of power at 4000 rpm and peak torque of 250Nm from as low as 1900 rpm, the 1.9TDI is both agile and economical (average fuel consumption according to ADR 81/01 methods is 5.5l/100 kms) giving approximately 100kms between tanks.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen R GTI

Thirty years ago Volkswagen launched the GTI, the "hot hatch" that would revolutionise the concept of affordable and accessible high performance motoring. Now comes the R GTI, a look forward into the future of compact car performance.

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

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

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

Note: The article above only contains extracts from the official press release. For the complete press release visit Volkswagen.com.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen Golf R32

The new R32 is the most powerful and fastest Golf ever. Its predecessor has already become a collector's item - we sold three times as many first generation Golf R32s than we originally planned. Now the flagship Golf returns on the basis of the current version of Europe's most successful car. The combination of standard four-wheel drive (4MOTION), 184 kW / 250 hp, 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds (using DSG* gearbox) and a top speed of 250 km/h make the Golf R32 one of the best sports cars in the compact class. Ideally balanced for fast lap times on track days, the equally comfortable Golf R32 is also recommended for long trips between appointments.

Engine & chassis: The perfect way to transfer power to the road
R32 V6: At the heart of the new top of the range Golf is a four-valve six-cylinder engine, which has a displacement of 3,189 cm3 and delivers 320 Newton metres. Its sonorous tone testifies to its superior power development. The engine propels the Golf forwards from any rev range as if there was no air resistance. Power to weight ratio: 6 kg/hp.

R32 handling. The engineers have tuned the sports chassis perfectly to the V6 boost and 4MOTION grip. While the GTI chassis has been lowered by 15 millimetres compared with the series model, the new R32 has been lowered 20 millimetres. This car is therefore both comfortable and, thanks to the four-wheel drive, very agile.

A question of character: GT, GTI & R32 all feature individual design statements
R32 front section: The new model is distinguished more greatly from the other derivatives in the series than the first Golf R32 was. Customers have an excellent choice of exterior colours including the exclusive "Deep Blue Pearl Effect", which ensured the first generation of R32 could be spotted miles away. Like the current Golf GTI and Golf GT, the Golf R32 has its own special radiator grille. The design and aluminium look of the R32 grille also distinguish it from the GTI and GT front. Particularly the lower part of the grille framed by Bi-Xenon headlights shows great modulation in the style of classic sports cars. Double aluminium-look horizontal bars in the upper section of the radiator form a further R32 element. At the side of the radiator grille, two additional large intakes complete the air supply. Furthermore, in contrast to all other Golfs, the lower third of the front bumper is painted completely in the body colour and there is an airflow element on each side whose shape continues in the side skirting and the rear bumper.

R32 rear end: The rear bumper on the new Golf R32 is also painted completely in the body colour. Only the centre segment, styled to look like a diffuser, is black. The twin round polished stainless steel tail pipes have been integrated next to each other to make a striking feature.

R32 silhouette: Looking at the Golf R32 from the side, the 18-inch alloy wheels ("Zolder" model) stand out. Featuring a total of 20 spokes, they are based on the design of the first R32 wheels. The blue painted brake callipers are clearly visible behind them. They seize the 345 mm brake discs at the front and 310 mm discs at the rear whenever you hit the brake pedal. The harmoniously integrated roof spoiler uses the aerodynamic forces to push the Golf R32 down onto the road. It joins the powerful-looking C-pillar - a typical Golf feature for decades - as an extension of the roof.

Interior: A new classic is born
R32 interior: The sporty and exclusive character of the Golf R32 is also reflected in the interior. Highlights include standard sports seats with integrated R32 logo – or optional sports bucket seats exclusively developed for the Golf R32, the metal applications "Engine Spin" (with a circular pattern), a specially designed gearstick knob and a sports steering wheel (leather / perforated leather) with integrated R32 logo in metal for excellent synthesis of good grip and top-class long distance comfort.

Equipment: Standard Bi-Xenon & Climatronic
R32 standard equipment, part I: The complete standard equipment for the R32 includes automatic climate control (Climatronic), onboard computer (MFD), RCD 300 radio CD system, alarm system, rain sensor, coming home/leaving home light function, multifunction steering wheel with shift buttons (with DSG), tyre pressure monitor, blue heat-insulated glass, Bi-Xenon headlights, six airbags and ESP.

R32 standard equipment, part II: The Golf R32 is sure-footed thanks to the broad track and sports chassis that has been lowered 20 millimetres. The new 18-inch alloy wheels specially developed for the new top model make a decisive contribution. The 225/40 tyres are approved for speeds up to 300 km/h.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen IROC Concept

Comeback of a successful idea: 33 years ago at the international Motor Show in Geneva Volkswagen presented a sensational coupe. It was compact, distinctive, agile, spacious and affordable. Volkswagen called it the Scirocco. The car struck the nerve of the times: More than half a million first generation Sciroccos were produced worldwide. Turning point: In August 2006 the largest car maker in Europe is showing the reinterpretation of the successful Scirocco idea in a world premiere – the Iroc concept.

New VW sports car design: Like the first Scirocco with its visual straightforwardness the Iroc also marks a stylistic turning point through its progressively designed radiator grill and a distinctive sensuality of forms. The concept of both Volkswagens is closely related, even though the vehicles are separated by over three decades: The first generation Scirocco was an attainable dream car for many people. Because the Scirocco was an automotive superstar of the 70’s, styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro and equipped with four full-fledged seats, a proper trunk, large hatchback and a lot of self-esteem. The Iroc concept takes up this fascinating idea again.

Purebred sports car instead of a classic coupe: However, in contrast to the original Scirocco the Iroc is no classic coupe, but a progressively designed sports car with an extremely long roof and a comparatively steep rear end. This has two advantages. Firstly: The Iroc features sharp proportions. Especially when viewed from behind it becomes immediately apparent that this long roof together with side window sections is situated on very broad and powerful shoulders. The Iroc thus achieves a waist of flawless sports car theory. Secondly: The Iroc also has room in back for two adults and ample luggage. On balance the provocatively designed Iroc combines a high degree of suitability for daily use, pure driving fun and expressive design into a Volkswagen that as a possible series-production vehicle will also be very attractively positioned in terms of price.

Viper green meets dark carbon: The Iroc concept exhibits numerous subtleties in detail. Paint example: Although anything but retro styled, the green used is homage to the first generation Scirocco for which this exact shade of colour was especially typical starting with the 1976 model. Then as now it’s called “viper green metallic”. This glaring green of the Iroc is especially effective in combination with the high contrast black shades of the concept. Carbon example: The central roof element is composed of dark tinted glass; this element is supported by a structure covered with carbon. An integrated lengthwise support is also a part of these materials. The side sills of the Iroc also have a carbon surface. The structure of the sill visible from outside continues seamlessly into the interior.

Sexy dimensions: With its short overhangs the Iroc efficiently utilizes a wheelbase of 2,680 mm for the space provided inside. The concept is 1,400 mm high, 4,240 mm long and 1,800 mm wide. The light-alloy rims specially designed for the Iroc and 235 tires are implemented in 19 inch size.

Twincharger and DSG: The Iroc is powered by a TSI engine, referred to in-house as a Twincharger. Shifting tasks are handled by the DSG direct shift gearbox. About the Twincharger: First employed in the Golf GT in 2006, TSI engines are currently the most efficient four-cylinder gasoline engines in the world. The combination of compressor and turbocharger shows the path to the future. The compressor compensates for the typical powering up weaknesses of turbo-only gasoline engines at low rpms. The turbocharger in contrast packs a mighty punch at higher revs. The combination of both superchargers in large-volume production engines is the only one of its kind in the world. The TSI version used in the concept achieves 155 kW / 210 hp. In principle, a large range of supercharged engines are conceivable for the Iroc that could start significantly under 110 kW / 150 hp. But there’s one thing every engine theoretically employed in the Iroc has to guarantee: Driving fun.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen GX3 Concept

In a world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Volkswagen presents the GX3 – a completely new type of motorcycle. The GX3 was conceived by the Moonraker team and VW's Design Centre in California, exclusively with the US in mind, to bring an exciting idea to a fully functioning concept. With its three wheels and unique design, this Volkswagen opens up a new driving dimension.

What if you could carve up the back roads and cruise solo in the carpool lane?

A motorcycle with VW features: Light, fast, and environmentally friendly, the GX3 shows that conceptually it is much closer to a motorcycle than to a classic type automobile. This two-seater Volkswagen is one of a kind - bold, young, and affordable. It opens a new driving dimension, turns even the daily commute to work into a small trip to freedom, allows you to cruise in the carpool lane, even if you're driving solo (the GX3 is a motorcycle, after all!) and with its keen handling it opens up completely new horizons for recreational driving.

What if performance were affordable?
Amazing dynamics for less than USD $17,000: The GX3 will be driven by a VW 1.6 litre engine. The four-cylinder delivers 92 kW / 125 hp. So far, so good. However, the GX3 is a pure driving machine, a motorcycle with two seats positioned side-by-side. And that's why you can find 125 hp and 112.5 ft-lbs (152 Nm) in a mere 1,257 lbs (570 kg) Volkswagen. This results in a power-to-weight ratio of 10 lbs/hp (4.56 kg/PS). In just 5.7 seconds, the GX3 can reach a speed of 62.5 mph (100 km/h) and the possible lateral acceleration reaches 1.25g – values typical of sheer performance cars but delivered from a vehicle under the USD $17,000 price range. No comparable sports machine in the world, however, can come even close to the low fuel consumption of the GX3: 46 mpg (5.2 l/100 km). Fact is: a production counterpart of the GX3, could be on the market very soon. It all depends on the American driver's feedback.

Tradition of the exceptional: Conceptually and visually the Volkswagen GX3 differs from anything currently on the roads in the U.S. And that's a tradition at Volkswagen. It was with exceptional and unique products – today all of them legends – that Volkswagen propelled itself to the top in the USA during the 50's and 60's. Whether the Beetle, the Thing (Type 181), or the Microbus, all were the cult cars of their time and still are. In 2006, with the GX3, Volkswagen once again presents something totally unexpected and exceptional, a VW in every sense. VW - Being different.

Moonraker: The GX3 was designed in close collaboration between VW's Design Centre California (DCC) and an international, cross-functional group of young engineers, designers, manufacturing and marketing experts, also based in California. The team started its work in the US in early 2005. The job: To convert the wishes, dreams and needs of American drivers into mobility. The goal: highest possible customer satisfaction. Background: In addition to the models developed in Germany and sold in the US, in the future Volkswagen will be building more models catering especially to the needs and requirements of U.S. customers. One of the most dramatic and tangible early results: the GX3. Responsible for the design of the new Volkswagen is the Volkswagen Design Studio in Santa Monica. The team there will be working in the future in close cooperation with the product strategy staffs in the U.S. The GX3 offers a look into the exciting and comprehensive spectrum of totally new motor vehicles which are currently being conceptualized by Volkswagen of America for the US market.

What if authenticity had a radical edge?
Design dynamics: The focus for Volkswagen's design team in California was to create a quintessential and pure driving machine. Inspired by the minimalist design language often expressed in contemporary GP motorcycles and F1 race cars, the GX3 has a true feeling of authenticity. These influences are seen throughout the exterior with an exposed single sided swing arm, aggressive central exhaust, open front wheels and stealthy matte finishes. The progressive dynamic on the GX3 is emphasized with a strong graphic dividing the body as it wraps up to the aggressive forward leaning roll hoops. Anodized gold and black suspension components and LED lighting are further examples of track inspired designs.

The GX3 interior is all about business with nothing to distract from the absolute driving experience. The driver's cockpit is equipped with five point racing harnesses; "moto" style instruments and a GTI inspired stainless shifter. Most distinctly, the rear boasts a massive single 18"x12" back wheel dressed with a 315 rubber. The front end proudly displays a bold V graphic consistent with Volkswagen's vehicle lineup, most notably the GTI. The GX3 in no way denies that it is a motorcycle, but rather plays it up as a unique design advantage.

Space-Frame: The basic structure of this driving machine is formed by a high-density, warp-resistant, steel construction space frame. The panelling of the interior and exterior parts of the space frame is made of high density fibreglass. A 2.83 tf3 (80 litres) trunk is located behind the seats.

What if driving was redefined?
Advanced chassis: The 215/45 R17x8J front wheels are controlled by a double lateral steering axle. While the front axle resembles the layout of an automobile, the rear axle shows more parallels to a motorcycle. The right side of the vehicle also makes use of a monoswing arm. The engine's power is delivered via 6-speed transmission and chain drive to the rear wheel, which has a tyre size of 315/30 R18x12J – a new super bike dimension. And that suits the GX3. A Volkswagen that breaks away from the conventions and that redefines driving fun and freedom of mobility. Drivers wanted. Seriously!

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen Concept A

Volkswagen presents the world's first TSI engine (twincharger) powered by natural gas (CNG) as its fuel on the Geneva Auto Salon. The highly efficient 1.4 litre TSI-CNG engine drives the Concept A study. It's a cross between a sports car and SUV distinguished by a powerful and aesthetic design with excellent all round features.

The 1.4 TSI-CNG is doubled charged via compressor and turbo, performing with 110 kW / 150 hp and reaching its maximum torque at 220 Newton metres. For every hundred kilometres it averages a mere 5.0 kg of natural gas. Highly charged engines like Volkswagen's TSI generally have a very high efficiency degree. In using CNG (compressed natural gas, 130 ROZ) the efficiency improves even more. One of the positive effects: the CO2 balance of TSI-CNG engines improves by another 20 to 25 percent when compared to fuel gas driven TSIs. Furthermore the TSI+CNG presents itself as an important stepping stone towards a mobility technology en route to becoming independent from crude oil. Through conversion from natural gas to synthetic fuel (gas-to-liquids) for instance Synfuel is produced. It is environmentally benign bio-degradable fuel which – among other things – allows the mentioned CCS hybrid combustion process.

But the Concept is not only clean, sporty and economic. But more so the study manifests a new progressive design philosophy. Its front part with a new 3D crest radiator grill made out of brushed aluminium and distinguished head lights form a congenial yet confident progressive appearance. The "face" is well known, just not on an automobile, it looks like the mirror image of a cheetah. The silhouette shows the lines of a coupe. The front and rear doors open facing each other. The carriage overhangs are briskly short, the hood long, the C columns one of a kind. 20 inch alloy rims and 295 tires fill out the space in the distinctively extended wheelhouses.

On the outside the Concept A wears the intensive blue colour shade of semi transparent glacier formations – "Glacier Metallic" the name. Mixed in glass flakes increase the depth of the paint built up in the piano lacquer technique. The rear part, with its athletic flanks, imparts a strong elegance. The hatchback is made of two parts; the area under the rear lights lifts up like a pick up loading surface and thus creates a lot of room for big items. At the bottom the motor exhales via two round chrome pipes. The interior presents itself spacious and open. Light and air dominate the space's feel. If needed, a large soft top can be swerved all the way back to the C column.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen has revealed the first images of its Tiguan, the new compact 4x4 which will go on sale in the UK in February 2008, following its world public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Concept Tiguan made its debut at the Los Angeles Motor Show last year.

Slightly larger than the Volkswagen Touran compact MPV, the Tiguan is 4.4 m long, 1.8 m wide and 1.6 m in height. It has a purposeful appearance which reinforces its strong links to its 'big brother', the Touareg, with raised suspension, large tyres and true 4x4 styling cues.

In the UK, the Tiguan will initially be available with two engines – a 2.0-litre 140 PS TDI diesel which is likely to be the most popular model, and a 1.4-litre 150 PS TSI petrol unit. Later in 2008 a 170 PS TDI and two further petrol engines will become available to order. Both diesel engines meet the stringent Euro 5 emissions standard that comes into effect in 2009.

S, SE and Sport models will be offered at launch, all with 4MOTION four-wheel drive and an 18 degree angle of approach, a figure that defines the size of obstruction the vehicle can drive over. Customers requiring additional off-road capability can choose a 28 degree angle of approach front end. This model comes with a radiator protection grille, underbody protection, hill descent control and a compass.

UK pricing is expected to start at around £19,000, with Volkswagen Retailers due to start taking orders for the new car in November. Customers can keep up to date with all the latest developments by visiting the Volkswagen Tiguan web page.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen Scirocco

It is back: 34 years after the world premiere of the first Scirocco at the Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen is now presenting the Scirocco of the new era in the same venue. Now as before, the coupe embodies the fascinating strategy of putting a sports car on wheels that is fit for use every day of the year at absolutely affordable prices. That is precisely what the new Scirocco does: high-class technologies merge with low costs of ownership, dynamic driving characteristics merge with a high level of comfort, and a surprisingly spacious interior merges with an uncompromisingly sporty design.

Volkswagen Chief Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn: "In the Scirocco we will be bringing the kind of sports car into the showroom that people dream of. Yet it is a dream that an exceptionally large number of car drivers will be able to afford – despite all of the high-end technologies we have implemented." The Scirocco will already be entering the market across Europe in late summer, and other countries will follow over the course of the next year.

Avant garde design of the Scirocco
A calling card of the ambitious global concept is the new sports car's avant-garde design. The fact being that the lines of the Scirocco study presented in August 2006 have been transferred to the production car nearly unchanged. This includes the long wagon/coupe roof whose form here is unique, and which pays tribute to the C-pillar design of the first Scirocco, the car's athletic side profile, its distinctive engine hood and the entire rear end with its extremely broad shoulder sections. Only the design of the radiator grille has been changed for a more stylish and timeless solution.

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 litres of cargo capacity; when the two seatbacks of the rear individual sport seats are folded down, capacity increases to a considerable 755 litres. This contemporary Scirocco demonstrates unfettered everyday utility, and it can be clearly recommended as a sports car for every day of the year.

Avant-garde technology of the Scirocco
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 TSIs (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.

Further high-tech elements of the Scirocco: a 7-speed DSG and an "adaptive chassis control system". Meanwhile, a large panorama vent sunroof – extending from the A pillars to the B pillars – provides for plenty of light in the interior. At the press of a button the transparent panorama roof is raised up to 39 millimetres. When the sun is too intense, a sunshade may be moved into place. But that is seldom likely to be necessary, since the glass of the panorama vent roof reflects 99 percent of UV radiation, 97 percent of infrared radiation (heat) and 80 percent of visible light.

The new Scirocco is one of the most attractive sports cars in the world when it comes to pricing. Nonetheless, the standard equipment package is super. Always there, for example, are 17-inch alloy wheels, height adjustable driver and front passenger seats and steering wheel, leather parking brake grip, sport seats, split folding rear seats, power windows, air conditioning, ESP, braking assistant, six airbags, speed-dependent power steering, and of course a sport chassis.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen New Beetle

Driving off in iconic, head-turning vehicles like the 2008 New Beetle and New Beetle convertible just got easier with new option packages from Volkswagen.

The New Beetle sedan now is available in a well-equipped base model "S" as well as the "SE" model with premium sound, heated front seats and heated windshield washer nozzles.

The sedan also is available in Platinum Gray and Reflex Silver. New 16-inch alloy wheels are available on the "S," and 17-inch alloy wheels are available on the "SE."

The 2008 New Beetle and New Beetle convertible are available at Volkswagen dealers now, with a starting price of USD$17,365 for the hard-top and USD$23,125 for the soft-top.

From the sides, a character line plays off the fenders and a relatively flat mid-body and presents a "hunkered down" look. Black roof trim now frames the familiar silhouette.

As you would expect from Volkswagen, the interior of the car has been given thorough attention. The newest interpretation of the iconic interior includes a single-bezel instrument cluster housing a large, easy-to-read, 140 mile-per-hour speedometer and a smaller tachometer and fuel gauge. Chrome accents enhance the instrument cluster and the dashboard air vents.

Revised stitching on the V-Tex seating results in a new look. In a nod to the importance that New Beetle and New Beetle convertible drivers place on their music, Volkswagen designers have placed the auxiliary input jack in a more visible location in the center console.

A two-speed windshield wiper system features a four-speed intermittent wipe feature. A large assist handle across the instrument panel above the glove box and two rear-passenger assist straps located on the B-pillar on hardtop models ensure interior comfort.

The 2008 New Beetle and New Beetle convertible are offered with the advanced Volkswagen 2.5-litre, in-line, five-cylinder gasoline engine. The 2.5 L engine delivers 150 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 170 lb-ft of torque at 3,750 rpm.

With four valves per cylinder, aluminium alloy cross flow heads and double overhead camshafts, the engine is strong, quiet, and efficient. Hydraulic lifters are maintenance-free. Digital electronic ignition and Motronic sequential multi-point fuel injection help the engine to operate on regular unleaded gasoline.

Power is delivered to the front wheels with two types of transmissions. A five-speed manual transmission operates smoothly with a hydraulic clutch. An available six-speed transmission with Tiptronic® allows for both automatic and driver-selected gear changes using the gear selector. The 2008 New Beetle and New Beetle convertible with automatic transmission achieve an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of up to 29 miles per gallon in highway driving and 20 mpg in city driving. With a manual transmission, the EPA estimates are 28 mpg highway and 20 on the city cycle.

Independent front McPherson struts, a torsion beam rear axle and front and rear stabiliser bars combine for a comfortable ride and excellent handling. Power-assisted rack and pinion steering and four-wheel disc brakes increase control - not to mention pure driving pleasure.

A comprehensive package of safety features that are standard equipment includes an advanced driver and front passenger front airbag supplemental restraint system and driver and front passenger head/thorax side airbag supplemental restraint system. The latest version Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) also is standard, as is an advanced Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP) with brake assist and traction control including Anti-Slip Regulation. A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) now is standard as well.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen Scirocco GT24

Volkswagen will present the world premiere of a 239 kW (325 PS) version of the new Scirocco today at the legendary GTI Meet at Worther Lake. For two days later, a team of legendary drivers will start the 24-hour race at the Nurburgring in the sports version of the Scirocco. Thus, the new Scirocco will be in the spotlight at two cult events for car enthusiasts at the same time.

Volkswagen is presenting the racing version of the Scirocco GT24 at Worther Lake in a world premiere. "This car doesn't need to be driven to look fast. The Scirocco GT24 with the blue-white finish sits so low on its extended wheel wells that a hand will not fit between the wheel arch and the tyre. Yet the race car remains unmistakeably a Scirocco from every angle. Just even wider, even longer and even lower," says Volkswagen Chairman for Development Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, who will not be passing up the opportunity to sit behind the wheel in the race in the Eiffel. The 325 PS Scirocco will also be driven during the race by legendary drivers like rally world champion Carlos Sainz and Hans-Joachim Stuck, three-time winner of the 24-hour Nurburgring race. Incidentally, "Striezel" Stuck won the very first 24-hour race at the Nurburgring in 1970. Now, thirty-eight years later, the Scirocco GT24 is competing. It draws its power from only two litres displacement: the 16-valve direct injection engine with a turbocharger and intercooler delivers its maximum torque of 340 Newton metres beginning from only 2,100 rpm. Gear changes are executed by a dual clutch gearbox (DSG), which is also available for the production model.

The idea of an affordable dream car was born in the 70s with the first Scirocco. The success of this two-seat sport coupe continued for nearly 20 years, during which time more than 360,000 Sciroccos were built. The enthusiasm for this car has been uninterrupted since Volkswagen presented the new version of the Scirocco at this year's Geneva Motor Show. The new car appears to have struck a chord with car buyers and will pick up with the success of the original Scirocco which, in the mean time, has developed into a cult car.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen Eos V6

Following up on the introduction of the world's first four-seat, hard-top convertible, with an integrated glass sunroof, the Eos sets the standard for year-round fun.

With the push of a button the revolutionary CSC (coupe-sunroof-convertible) transforms the coupe's five-panel hard-top, with integrated sunroof and heated-glass rear window, into an open-air convertible.

The 2008 Eos (US model) comes with a choice of engines: the Volkswagen 2.0 litre turbo four-cylinder and the innovative Volkswagen 3.2 litre narrow-angle V6. Either way you get plenty of power and the innovative hard-top coupe convertible for as little as USD$28,915 for an Eos 2.0 litre turbo and USD$37,990 for the Eos 3.2 litre V6.

The 2008 Eos 2.0 litre turbo offers 200 hp (149 kW) and 207 lb-ft (280 Nm) of torque from a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. High-pressure, FSI helps with performance and efficiency. The 2008 Eos 2.0 litre turbo is EPA-rated at an estimated 23 miles per gallon in the city and an impressive 32 mpg in highway driving.

For people who need even more performance, the 2008 Eos 3.2 litre V6 cranks out 250 hp (186 kW) and 236 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque. The narrow-angle six-cylinder engine accelerates the Eos from 0-60 miles per hour in 6.9 seconds.

The Eos 3.2 litre V6 model comes standard with the double-clutch DSG six-speed transmission with Tiptronic. This transmission is available as an option for those who wish to replace the standard six-speed manual transmission with hydraulic clutch that comes standard with the Eos 2.0 litre turbo. Regardless of powertrain setup, the power transfers to where rubber meets the road via front-wheel drive in all 2008 Eos models.

Technical Specifications
Engine: 3.2 litre V6
Aspiration: Natural
Maximum Power: 186 kW (250 hp)
Maximum Torque: 320 Nm (236 lb-ft)
Transmission: Six-speed DSG with Tiptronic
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases

Volkswagen Touareg R50

In a world premiere, Volkswagen presented the Touareg R50 on October 11 at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. Its power of 258 kW / 350 PS (at 3,500 rpm) positions the new Touareg version among the most powerful SUVs in the world. The Touareg R50 can be ordered in Germany at prices starting at 88,260 Euros; it will be introduced to the market this November.

The engine characteristic of the Touareg R50 is marked by a torque level nearly unattainable by the competition: The V10 TDI of the Touareg R50 develops its enormous power of 850 Nm at a low 2,000 rpm. The turbo diesel was derived from the well-known ten cylinder with 230 kW / 313 PS. Adjustments to its turbo charging and modified engine management enabled a 28 kW / 37 PS increase in power and a considerable 100 Nm increase in maximum torque. Under these new parameters, the SUV accelerates to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds (production car: 7.4 seconds); its top speed is 235 km/h. In relation to engine power and vehicle size, the fuel consumption of the production ten-cylinder diesel equipped with a particulate filter is a moderate 9.6 litres per 100 km (highway) and 12.6 litres per 100 km (overall). Despite big gains in power and torque, its DIN fuel consumption values have remained constant compared to the Touareg V10 TDI.

In keeping with the performance potential of the R50, Volkswagen Individual designed new exterior and interior features according to the R philosophy. From the outside, the new Touareg R50 is easy to recognize with its 21-inch Omanyt type alloy wheels and size 295 tires, blue painted brake callipers, discrete wheel well flares, side skirts and distinctive bumpers (Sport Design Package), as well as a modified radiator grille (in a matte finish chrome).

Offered exclusively on the Touareg R50 is the car colour "Biscay blue". Blue hues of this type have been typical of the high-powered R models since the first Golf R32 was introduced in the year 2002. Offered as optional car colours on the Touareg R50 are "Campanella white", "Reflex silver", "Black Magic" and "Atacam gray".

The car's extensive features also include an air suspension sport chassis: The so-called "Driving dynamics package with adaptive roll compensation" and chassis lowered by twenty millimetre supplements the "Sport" mode of the manually or automatically controlled air suspension by achieving a stiffer spring rate.

On the inside, the SUV's features include a sport seating system in anthracite-coloured nappa leather with R50 logo integrated in the headrests. The logo was also integrated in the stainless steel tread plates. Also in keeping with the sporty character of the Touareg is the light-coloured "engine spin" decor of the interior – a metallic structure similar to that previously used on race cars – as well as metal worked caps for the accelerator and brake pedals. A R50 logo also decorates the gearshift lever of the six-speed automatic transmission (Tiptronic). Standard features the Touareg R50 also include a winter package (including seat heating for the rear seats), the Premium Memory Package (including electrically adjustable seats, steering column and seatbelt height), net partition behind the rear seats and a ski sack.

Source: Volkswagen Press Releases