Automobiles Review

Tag: Volks

  • 2010 VW Polo BlueMotion – the most efficient one

    The new Polo BlueMotion is available to order from Volkswagen Retailers today, with prices starting at £14,445 RRP on the road for the three-door, and £15,045 for the five-door model.

    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).

    2010 Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion

  • VW Scirocco

    Volkswagen is putting on a spectacular parade of new models in Geneva with a host of international product debuts. Taking centre stage will be the highlight of the show, the new Scirocco – a completely re-engineered all-round sports car. Another vehicle being showcased at Lake Geneva is the Golf TDI Hybrid. This concept car runs on just 3.4 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres. The 150-PS Passat Estate TSI EcoFuel, also debuting in Geneva, represents a technology leap for automobiles run on natural gas. Other Volkswagen world premieres will be the extremely fuel-efficient Sharan BlueMotion (6.0 litres per 100 km) and the four-wheel-drive Golf Estate 4Motion. The Passat CC will also be on display for the first time ever in Europe. (more…)

  • Volkswagen Rabbit Thunder Bunny

    The story began back in the early ‘80s, with a man named Bill Neumann. Bill founded the California based tuning firm Automotive Performance Systems (APS). He was frustrated with the fact that Volkswagen’s hot hatchback GTI had been sold in Germany since 1976, but hadn’t yet come to America. Bill had driven the GTI in Europe on several of his parts-searching trips, and he was convinced it would be a big hit in America. So he sent letters to the factory. He wrote to enthusiast magazines and lobbied Volkswagen dealers for support. Then, he put together the proof that a Rabbit-based performance car was capable of generating both stunning performance numbers and lots of attention from the American automotive press corp.

    Thus was born the original Thunder Bunny.

    The APS-modified Rabbit was delivered to Motor Trend magazine late in 1981. Even though its staff was use to driving the best cars in the world, they were blown away by the little Volkswagen hatchback. As it was written in the March 1982 issue: “The little white wonder packs its own kind of lightning-quick rabbit punch — one that’s guaranteed to kayo unsuspecting boulevard bullies.” And when Road & Track magazine got its hands on the car, it reported a zero to 60-mph run in the low seven-second range and slalom times that at the time had been bettered only by the Ferrari 512 Boxer, Lamborghini Countach and Renault R5 Turbo. Exalted company, indeed.

    Volkswagen Thunder Bunny
    Volkswagen Thunder Bunny
    Volkswagen Thunder Bunny

    Bill’s frustration ceased in the fall of 1982 when the GTI finally came to America, but by then Thunder Bunny had done its job. It put Neuspeed, the APS-trademarked line of parts and accessories, on the map. It also helped launch a vital North American community of specialists in watercooled Volkswagen performance. Modifying Volkswagens, of course, was not new in America — the Beetle had spawned a huge following of enthusiasts — but the new generation of Volkswagen cars hadn’t sparked much interest in the go-fast crowd before the early ‘80s.

    Neuspeed continues to be a leading force among the world’s Volkswagen tuners, and it has never stopped building special projects. The latest is also called Thunder Bunny, and it was built in commemoration of Neuspeed’s quantum leap forward all those years ago with the original rabid Rabbit. Designed in collaboration with Derek Jenkins, Chief Designer at the Volkswagen Design Center California located in Santa Monica, the new Thunder Bunny is an updated, thoroughly modern version of the original, and it debuts alongside the Concept R GTI on the Volkswagen stand at the 2006 SEMA Show.

    Today’s Thunder Bunny is a blend of subtle design massaging and tuning technology, built to show how a comfortable daily driver can also provide an exciting motoring experience. Creating the thunderous noise from under the hood is a newly developed turbocharger system, designed by Neuspeed especially for Volkswagen’s 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine. The high quality installation includes a modified intake manifold, Garrett ball-bearing turbocharger and air-to-air intercooler. A stainless exhaust and specially baffled aluminum oil pan were also sourced from APS for optimum flow and cooling. Boost is restricted to a maximum of seven lbs. in this Stage 1 kit, but it still produces 225 horsepower, 75 more than the stock 2.5 L, and a hefty dose of low-end torque. A performance clutch and Quaife differential were added to the powertrain for durability and a more efficient delivery of power to the front wheels.

    Thunder Bunny’s gleaming candy white exterior is made distinctive by several design studio touches. The concept’s body kit includes a larger central grille and a more muscular rear valance framing a twin R32-style exhaust from Neuspeed. Like the R GTI, Thunder Bunny’s paint was overlaid with graphics Jenkins calls “topographical” in pearl silver. They were meant to evoke the contours of the car’s geography or waves of air that flow over the surfaces. However they are interpreted, the pearl silver graphics make a unique visual statement as they appear to blink on and off in the changing angles of the sun.

    Like the original Thunder Bunny, the forged alloy “street” wheels are painted gold. In 19×8-inch sizing, they’re wrapped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 235/35-19 tires. Similar sized multi-spoked forged alloys were sourced from Neuspeed’s RS line of wheels for track use. Both sets are lightweight, in keeping with the core GTI quality of nimble handling. The front brakes are 328mm two-piece floating cross-drilled discs from Brembo, gripped by bunny-bedecked Brembo four-piston brake calipers. That’s right, bunnies. A veritable warren of Thunder Bunny logos dash to and fro across the surface of the white-painted caliper. At the rear, 310mm disc brakes are fitted.

    Handling prowess comes from a suspension fitted with a Bilstein coil-over shock system and APS/Neuspeed sways bars, measuring 25mm front and rear. The suspension system is adjustable for both ride height and for shock stiffness, giving the new Thunder Bunny a dual character, suitable for the street or the track. A Neuspeed short-shift kit and custom spherical aluminum shift knob, created in the design studio, put the driver in closer touch with the manual transmission. A stock GTI steering wheel was recovered in alcantara to go along with the upgraded upholstery and trim.

    Stock GTI seats were recovered in black and white checkered tweed that echoes styling trends from the early ‘80s, and the striking fabric is elegantly framed by surrounding black leather with white stitching. The color scheme is perfectly complemented by the white carbon-fiber interior trim provided by OSIR, experts in hand-laid composites and also major contributors to the design studio’s Concept R GTI.

    All those years ago, Bill Neumann asked a simple question. Volkswagen responded with the GTI, while Neuspeed became a leader in Volkswagen tuner circles…why a new Thunder Bunny? Think of it as a beautifully crafted response to another question, “What happens when you give a modern Rabbit to one of the original water-cooled Volkswagen tuners?”

  • VW Touareg

    Volkswagen is presenting in Paris the world premiere of a new generation of the Touareg luxury class SUV. The market launch of the new version of the top-seller will take place at the end of November 2006. The Touareg, equipped with over 2,300 redesigned parts, looks different from its predecessor with a completely modified front section with crest radiator grill, distinctive headlights and much more. In addition, a substantial amount of new and sometimes unique technical developments are being employed. The Touareg will also be available as the first Volkswagen with an eight cylinder direct injection gasoline-powered engine (V8 FSI, 257 kW / 350 hp).

    ABSplus

    ABSplus, developed and patented by Volkswagen, is a world first: The standard equipment system shortens the braking distance of the Touareg by up to 20% on loose driving surfaces. Before now SUVs became unstable when braking hard on surfaces such as gravel or sand and steerability and stopping distance were significantly impaired. This is where ABSplus comes in: Thanks to an innovative traction control system the Touareg pushes parts of the surface material in front of the temporarily locked-up wheels. This creates a type of braking wedge. The result: Braking action is greatly increased without impacting steerability and the stopping distance is correspondingly reduced.

    2006 Volkswagen Touareg
    2006 Volkswagen Touareg
    2006 Volkswagen Touareg
    2006 Volkswagen Touareg
    2006 Volkswagen Touareg
    2006 Volkswagen Touareg
    2006 Volkswagen Touareg

    Front Scan

    No less innovative than ABSplus is Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with a new follow-to-stop feature: in this combination the system is referred to as Front Scan. The radar-based distance control automatically slows down and accelerates the vehicle within a previously defined range of speed depending on traffic conditions. The system now employed in the Touareg slows the car down to a complete stop in emergency situations. Also new: the stopping distance control integrated into the ACC system. Ahead of certain situations it “arms” the brakes as a preventative measure.

    Side Scan

    Another assistant system in the new Touareg generation, being introduced for the first time in a Volkswagen, is the lane changing assistant (Side Scan). This system monitors the area next to and behind the Touareg and a control lamp in the exterior mirrors warns of a possible risk of collision when changing lanes.

    ESP innovations

    New features have been added to the ESP electronic stabilization program. In detail these include a now hydraulic instead of pneumatic brake assistant (optimal operational reliability), preventative brake pressure build-up when the gas pedal is released suddenly, Active Rollover Protection (ARP) to increase stability, rain brake support (windshield wiper effect for wet road surfaces), fading brake support (additional pressure build-up optimizes constant braking) and understeer control logic (improves turning behavior when understeering).

    Driving dynamics package with dynamic response

    The Touareg masters tough off-road use and extreme tours and yet offers the comfort of a sedan and remarkable sportiness. Previously, this dynamic could be increased in terms of the chassis via an optional sport chassis for Touareg models with steel suspension. A sport chassis – with dynamic response in this case – is now also being added to the models with pneumatic shock suspension. “Driving dynamics package with dynamic response” adds a hard spring rate to the already existing “Sport” mode of the manually and automatically controllable pneumatic shock absorption system. This increase in dynamics and safety is achieved, among other things, via reinforced stabilizers, absorbers regulated by steering wheel movement, a modified pneumatic shock absorption system and new software. Driving comfort remains just as good in normal suspension mode as with models without sport chassis.

    Rollover Sensor

    In the area of passive safety a new rollover sensor for sensing vehicle yaw angle and yaw speeds is also being employed. It detects whether the vehicle is getting into a rollover situation. The data from the sensor flows together with the parameters detected by the acceleration sensors built into every Volkswagen into the airbag control unit. If in a comparison of the data the risk of a rollover is determined, the side and head/thorax airbags are automatically activated to lower the risk of injury.

    Dynaudio sound system

    High-end in the entertainment area, too: The Touareg is the first SUV in the world that can be equipped with a sound system from Danish hi-fi specialist Dynaudio. Main features: Distortion free hi-fidelity sound, ten high-end speakers, ten-channel amplifier and 620 Watt total output.

    Instruments

    A new multimeter for the multifunctional display enables a detailed and now multicolor presentation of information. The display has a clear layout and now shows navigation pictograms in 3D. In addition, new features such as Front Scan can be perfectly presented on the multifunctional display.

    V8 FSI

    The new Touareg offers another innovation in terms of drive technology: the first eight cylinder direct injection gasoline-powered engine from Volkswagen. The Touareg’s new V8 FSI achieves 257 kW / 350 hp and generates maximum torque of 440 Nm. The other two gasoline engines generate 206 kW / 280 hp (V6 FSI) and 331 kW / 450 hp (W12). In addition, there are three direct injection diesel-powered engines for the Touareg, all combined with a particle filter (DPF) as standard equipment. The TDIs have output of 128 kW / 174 hp (TDI), 165 kW / 225 hp (V6 TDI) and 230 kW / 313 hp (V10 TDI).

    Front section design

    The front section of the Touareg was completely redesigned. Except for the engine hood no part remained untouched. The new Touareg is immediately recognizable as the latest generation by the typical Volkswagen crest radiator grill in chrome design. Although always individually designed for each model, it has become an unmistakable stylistic feature of the brand. The second distinctive feature of the new generation Touareg are the organically shaped headlight casings (optionally bi-xenon with cornering and turning light). Similar to the latest Volkswagens such as the Eos, the lower area features a round curvature. A single glance at the headlights and the crest radiator grill makes it evident that the front bumper has also been completely redesigned. Elegant: a chrome-plated transverse web in the outer air intakes of the bumper. Illuminating during inclement weather: the round, protectively integrated fog lights. Aerodynamic: The exterior mirrors were also redesigned and now offer and even braver face to the wind.

    Rear section design

    Modifications to the rear section, too: There’s a new hatchback spoiler that improves aerodynamics. The rear and brake lights were technically modified and the optional tinted glass of the rear lights was improved. The designers also redesigned the lower area of the bumper and exhaust pipes for a more dynamic look.

    Side section design.

    In silhouette it’s the new light alloy wheels and the aerodynamic mirrors that identify the latest generation of the Touareg. New colors are also available: “Atacama Grey Metallic”, “Mountain Grey Metallic”, “Artic Blue-Silver Metallic”, “Silver Leaf Metallic”, “Sierra Red Pearl Effect” and “Galapagos Anthracite Metallic”.

    Seating system

    A basic and a “comfort” seating system is available for the Touareg. The “comfort” seating system was redesigned for the latest Touareg. The partially leather (“Cricket”) and fully leather (“Nappa”) seats are now not just distinguishable by leather, but also by design. Both are also distinguished from the unchanged basic seating system. In general, the back seat of all versions were redesigned. It weighs eight kilos less and when folded down now offers a level surface between backrest and cargo floor.

  • VW Passat V-Line Package

    The Passat, one of Volkswagen’s most successful models, has a very distinguished reputation. Since the beginning of 2006, VW’s versatile model has won some 20 international prizes, including such renowned awards as the “iF design award”, and the “Gelber Engel” from the ADAC automobile club. With the new V-Line aerodynamic package, Volkswagen Accessories clearly demonstrates that the Passat has the makings of a true sports car. The sporty premium kit includes, front skirt, side sills, rear skirt, tailgate lip and double tail pipe trim. It upgrades the appearance and reduces the aerodynamic drag of standard vehicles. (more…)

  • VW CrossTouran

    Right before the turn of the year Volkswagen is presenting another member of the “Cross” family at the 30th Bologna Motor Show. The CrossTouran. After the start of the CrossPolo and the CrossGolf the crossover model of the successful compact van now complements the range of options. The strikingly styled, front-wheel drive Touran appears as a practical and lifestyle-oriented all-round talent. The new CrossTouran meets the demands for driving fun, a high level of product quality and an attractive price-performance ratio. For the European market launch in Spring 2007 the CrossTouran will be available with three gasoline-powered engines and three TDIs with output ranging from 75 (102 hp) to 125 kW (170 hp). The 125 kW (170 hp) TSI Twincharger with standard DSG is certainly a highlight.

    EXTERIOR

    Robust bumpers, wheel arches and side trim and more ground clearance

    On the exterior numerous modifications distinguish the CrossTouran from the classical Touran design. The interplay of all body elements visible from the outside is particularly noticeable. The silver anodized roof railing with black mount harmonizes with the “matte chrome” look of the new front spoiler. The central air inlet in the front spoiler was also given a border in “matte chrome” look. All other body features of the all-around protection (bumper lower sections, side running boards, wheel arches, side protective trim) consist of robust, high-quality black-grained carbon fiber. The CrossTouran has lettering directly above the side trims. The wing mirror casings and the hatchback handle are painted to match the body color. All of this bestows it a completely independent character.

    Fresh body colors available for the CrossTouran provide a harmonious contrast to the applications. The color palette ranges from “Candy White” to “Deep Black”. The color “Red Rock” in particular underscores the unique character of the CrossTouran: It is a flexible all-rounder that conceptually shows true can-do qualities and at the same time makes a very positive statement about life.

    One look at the silhouette also distinguishes the CrossTouran as a unique model. The mixed tire arrangement with 6.5-inch wide and 17-inch diameter alloy wheels on 215/50 tires in front and, in particular, the 8-inch wide alloy wheels on 235/45 tires in back underscore the road holding of the CrossTouran and competently fill out the wheel arches enclosed by the robust extensions. The extensions merge with the side running boards, which extend up into the doors and give the car an extremely solid and powerful character.

    Volkswagen CrossTouran
    Volkswagen CrossTouran
    Volkswagen CrossTouran

    In order to gain the extra 12 millimeters of ground clearance the CrossTouran was equipped with a modified version of the rough-track chassis that is optional for this series: it also includes a longer suspension system. The silver anodized roof railing with black mount was however not included as a component of standard equipment for visual reasons only. It is in fact a classic way to anchor the mounting system and roof boxes. The maximum permissible load is 100 kilograms.

    “Cross” is a unique product brand like “GTI” or “R”

    The name “Cross” represents an independent product brand like “GTI” or “R” with a specific design as well as an equipment range specially developed for the CrossTouran. Features include the “Climatic” air-conditioning system, power windows in the front and back as well as height-adjustable comfort seats with lumbar support in front.

    INTERIOR / LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT

    A colorful design specially developed for the CrossTouran, and great functionality make everyday driving easier

    With its functional design and especially with the “Orange/Grey” interior colors, the inside of the CrossTouran imparts a youthful and pleasant atmosphere. In particular, in conjunction with the exterior “Red Rock” color this orange-grey combination has a special charm. For those who prefer to be a bit less ostentatious the “Latte Macchiato” color scheme is the fitting counterpart.

    The matching cover fabrics (Design: “Eclypt Elon”) are not only used in the comfort seats in front and the back seats, but also in the door linings. The honeycomb structure incorporated into the seat flanks and upper rear part is something the observer notices right away. The seams of the three-spoke steering wheel covered in perforated leather are offset with lighter colored seams.

    The practical individual seating system of the CrossTouran shows the way in terms of versatility. The three lightweight seats arranged next to one another in the second row can be quickly and easily moved – lengthwise and offset diagonally, folded down or removed. The CrossTouran can be optionally equipped with a third row of seats; if desired, the two full-fledged individual seats can each be easily lowered separately into the luggage compartment floor.

    In terms of utilization, the CrossTouran is also extremely flexible when it comes to transporting luggage. In its basic configuration the luggage compartment is 695 liters. When necessary maximum storage volume can be expanded to 1,989 liters by removing the second row of seats and lowering the third row into the luggage compartment floor. Even bulky items or recreational equipment for the weekend pose no problem for the CrossTouran.

    SAFETY

    High stability passenger compartment and standard front, side and head airbags

    The CrossTouran also makes no compromises in terms of safety. The laser-welded and, thanks to high tensile steel, especially rigid Touran body offers a high level of passive safety. The extensive standard safety equipment consisting of safety-optimized headrests in front and on the outer seats of the second row, driver and passenger airbag, side airbags in the front backrests and a head airbag system for the first and second row of seats in conjunction with three-point safety belts on all seats provide optimal occupant protection.

    A high level of active safety is provided by the ESP electronic stabilization program including counter-steering feature and trailer stabilization as well as speed-regulated electro-mechanical power steering.

    ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

    Six economical engines, two transmissions and a performance range from 75 to 125 kW

    No matter if it’s a basic economical engine, dynamic alternative or high-torque and thrifty TSI or TDI, the CrossTouran offers the right engine for every use and taste. All engines comply with the Euro 4 emissions standard.

    GASOLINE ENGINES

    CrossTouran 1.6 with 75 kW / 102 hp
    The entry level is represented by the “smallest” Touran four-cylinder engine with 1.6 liters of engine space and an output of 75 kW / 102 hp. With the basic engine and five-speed manual transmission the CrossTouran is already 176 km/h fast and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 13.3 seconds. Fuel consumption is limited to 8.3 liters over 100 kilometers.

    CrossTouran 1.4 TSI with 103 kW / 140 hp
    The “small” Twincharger TSI deserves special attention. Thanks to twin charging via compressor and turbocharger it features an extremely high-torque and agile characteristic. Nevertheless, the engine is extraordinarily thrifty with 7.6 liters of fuel consumption over a distance of 100 kilometers. For those who like it extremely comfortable, the CrossTouran with this engine type can also be ordered with a DSG (direct shift gearbox).

    CrossTouran 1.4 TSI with 125 kW / 170 hp
    The most powerful direct injection gasoline engine has a sporty temperament and will be used for the first time in the CrossTouran. The gears of the Twincharger with 125 kW / 170 hp will be changed with a DSG direct shift gearbox as part of standard equipment. It also convinces with low fuel consumption with an overall average of 7.8 liters over 100 kilometers. With this engine the CrossTouran has a top speed of 208 km/h and accelerates to 100 km/h in just 8.7 seconds.

    DIESEL ENGINES

    CrossTouran 1.9 TDI with 77 kW / 105 hp
    The 1.9 TDI with pump-jet direct injection technology and turbocharger has a standard six-gear transmission, but can also be combined with the innovative DSG direct shift gearbox. The engine accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 13.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 176 km/h (DSG: 174 km/h). With average fuel consumption of only 6.2 (DSG: 6.5) liters for 100 km it is also extra thrifty.

    CrossTouran 2.0 TDI with 103 kW / 140 hp
    The pump-jet four-cylinder direct injection of the 2.0 TDI attains a full 320 Nm of torque. In combination with the standard six-gear transmission it has a top speed of 196 km/h. The 140 hp TDI can be optionally equipped with direct shift gearbox. As a TDI DSG Germany’s most popular compact van goes 194 km/h. It has average fuel consumption of only 6.2 (DSG: 6.8) liters over 100 km.

    CrossTouran 2.0 TDI with 125 kW / 170 hp
    The second 2.0 TDI provides superior driving performance: The engine is equipped with a highly innovative Piezo pump-jet high-pressure unit-injector system and two balancer shafts. This very quiet four-valve TDI has an output of 125 kW / 170 hp (4,200 rpm), developing torque of 350 Nm (1,750 to 2.500 rpm) and accelerating the CrossTouran to 100 km/h in only 9.2 seconds. Top speed is 210 km/h (208 km/h with DSG). Here too average fuel consumption is only 7 liters over 100 kilometers.

  • VW R GT Touareg

    The Touareg R GT is nothing less than the pure essence of a high-performance luxury SUV. What was formerly a 2005 model with a V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission is now a 500-horsepower road-carver that doubles as a luxurious limousine. Like the other R GT models on display at SEMA, the Touareg has an HPA-built twin-turbocharged V6 under the hood, special chassis enhancements, a KW Variant 3-way coilover suspension, and a high-performance braking system supplied by Brembo.

    The Touareg’s revised lines give it the look of a well-bred urban cruiser. A Volkswagen Individual body kit, gleaming silver paint, and 10 x 22-inch custom-built, forged-aluminum, mono-block Avus® wheels mounted with Michelin ultra-high-performance Diamaris tires lend it a commanding visual presence that matches the powertrain’s dominating performance.

    Volkswagen Touareg R GT
    Volkswagen Touareg R GT

    Front sport bucket seats, an integrated single roll hoop, and the safety systems required for a weekend at the track are complemented by the luxury of black leather upholstery with gray suede centers, a Bugatti spun-aluminum trim kit by Volkswagen Individual, a black Apple iPod module, and rear PSP system.

    Street and track performance has not yet been measured, but with its 500 horsepower and massive torque, the Touareg R GT will certainly be an extreme expression of “Fun to Drive”.

    Volkswagen Touareg R-GT
    Volkswagen Touareg R-GT