Volkswagen – Page 29 – Automobiles Review

A Trendy Seat Mii Mango Special Edition

Seat-Mii-Mango-Special-Edition-shadow What do you get when you take a Spanish fashion house and a Spanish car make (that’s actually supervised by a German company) and put mash them together. Why, the Glam Beige Seat Mii by Mango special edition of course. It’s the one car that will make its début on a fashion show rather than on a car show. That is to say, the 080 Barcelona Fashion event (27-31 January).

On the outside, the Mii special edition distinguishes itself with a special set of dark grey 15 inch alloy wheels, grey electric door mirrors and “Mii by Mango” badges at the back and on the B-pillar.

The interior is where most of the designer side of it really shines. Leathered steering wheel and gear stick, Alcantara upholstery on all seats with a beige trim and, again, “Mii by Mango” embossing. The door sills too read the same. The mirror on the driver sun visor and the glove box handbag hanger clearly hint that Seat are targeting a very specific group of people (women) with the Mii by Mango. Is that sexist?

The Mango Mii will be available in either 3 or 5-door versions and will be equipped similiarly to the Style trim line. That means ESC, ABS, front and lateral airbags for the front seats, head-thorax airbags, air conditioning, CD/MP3 audio system, hill hold control, central locking, power windows and more as standard.

Source: Seat

January 21, 2014

ABT Volkswagen Transporter T5

ABT has presented their latest project based on Volkswagen Transporter T5. The passenger van comes with both – styling and performance ugprades.

The 2.0 liter TDI is boosted to 200HP (147 kW) and 440Nm (326 lb-ft) of torque. The 2.0 liter TSI can produce 240HP (176 kW), which is an increase of 36HP over the factory power. ABT Sportsline also offers chip tuning for the less powerful variants – the TDI with 84HP, 102HP and 140HP.

The tuning company can install special suspension springs lowering the ride height or an entire sport-type suspension.

The exterior boasts a complete aerodynamics package including front and rear skirt, rear spoiler, side skirts, front grille and daytime running lights available for both the long and short wheelbase. All parts are made from PUR-RIM material guaranteeing perfect quality.

Last, but not least is the stainless steel quad-pipe sports exhaust system.

Source: ABT

January 20, 2014

Seat Leon ST 4Drive Arriving Soon

Seat-Leon-ST-4Drive-medium Today the Vienna Autoshow kicked off for a 3-day run. To be honest, there isn’t much hype around it. Seat, however, are taking the opportunity to debut and showcase their up-and-coming Leon ST 4Drive. That last bit means permanent four-wheel drive.

Seat’s 4Drive setup is pretty much identical to VW’s 4MOTION system which we discussed last week: the same Haldex 5 coupling, EDS dynamic control, and an extended differential lock (XDS without the ‘+’). It’s only natural, really. Afterall, Volkswagen is the parent company, and the Leon and Golf do share the same platform.

There are two TDI engines (and nothing else) available with the AWD ST Leons. One is a 105 PS 1.6-liter unit, while the other – a 2.0-liter – boasts 150 PS. Both are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. With start/stop systems and braking-energy regeneration both engines sip the diesel rather than guzzle it. Yet, the 2.0 has a 0 to 60 mph time of 8,7 seconds. That’s pretty impressive if we don’t forget that we are talking about a 4.5 meter long station wagon with 587-liters of luggage space (put the rear seats down and that number becomes 1,470 liters).

Standard equipment on both engine choices will include Seat’s Media System Touch, air conditioning, and power windows and power wing mirrors. The Style trim (available again with both engines) adds things like 16-inch alloy wheels, Media System Touch Colour, a leather steering wheel and cruise control. The FR trim (2.0-liter only) reinforces the sporty character of the Leon ST 4Drive with a particularly powerful front and rear design, 17-inch alloy wheels and a sporty suspension.

No picture material available yet, but the 4Drive shouldn’t look any different from the standard ST.

Source: Seat

January 16, 2014

Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept Closer To Reality At Detroit

Volkswagen-Beetle-Dune-Concept-shadow A sketch just a week ago, reality toady: the Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept reveals itself to the world in Detroit at the 2014 North American Auto Show. It’s also closer to production than ever. So get your sunscreen and prepare for the amazing sandboarding session you’ve always dreamed of.

Why do we think the Dune is close to production? Well, it’s pretty much a Beetle. A beefed up one but, nevertheless, a Beetle. It sits 50 mm higher from the ground than the standard counterparts, It has four aggressively flaring wheel arches that widen the body by 24 mm on each side (that’s a total width of 1,856 mm. Consequently, both of the Dune’s tracks get a 29 mm advantage over the standard ones. A track width, then, of 1,607 mm at the front and 1,573 mm at the rear. It sits on four 19-inch wheels wearing 255/45 tires. Main point: even more ruggedness!

There are some visual gimmicks that no concept goes without, but they are very minimal. Things like the front bumper honeycomb air intakes, LED turn indicators. Then there’s the back which hosts two spoilers that have been specially designed to accommodate a pair of skis… for sand, apparently.

A very real part of the car, however, is its turbocharged 210 hp engine, which we suspect may have been lifted from a Golf GTI and mated to a six-speed DSG gearbox. Here are some actual figures: 0 to 62 mph gets done in 7.5 seconds; a top speed of 141 mph is “feasible”; and a fuel economy of 23 mpg (city) or 29 mpg (highway). An interesting engineering choice, though, is the FWD setup. It’s called the Dune, people, how do you tackle the sandy stretches?

Also, inside things have been left production-friendly. The only Dune-specific interior bit is the additional passenger grab handle in place of the glove-box. You’ll have a hard time noticing it anyway, since there’s a 7.7-inch touchscreen display dominating the center console.

Source: Volkswagen

January 15, 2014

BBM Motorsport Volkswagen Golf VII GTI Plus

BBM Motorsport has presented their latest project based on the hot hatchback – Volkswagen Golf VII GTI. The tuning company of Senden, Germany fitted the car with both styling and performance upgrades.

The 2.0 liter four-cylinder TFSI engine is boosted to 300HP (221 kW) at 6,100RPM and 440Nm (326 lb-ft) of torque at 2,150RPM. This is an increase of 70HP and 90Nm thanks to a new sports exhaust system and an ECU-remap.

Other performance upgrades include by Stoptech braking system with 328 x 25 mm four-piston fix calipers. There are also DDC coilovers from KW with electronic hardness regulation and 20 to 55 mm lowering of the vehicle.

The styling upgrades are a set of BBS 19” CH-R type rims finished in titan gray paint and fitted with ultra-low profile tires. There is also an exhaust system with 100 mm end pipes and complete foliation by SFT Carwrap Ibbenbueren, Germany.

Source: BBM Motorsport

January 14, 2014

Volkswagen Beetle Dune Off-Roader Makes Debut In Detroit

Another concept is announced to make its official premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and it is the Volkswagen Beetle Dune. The brand has released a sketch to reveal the car ahead of debut and through it we can get the impression of Beetle’s cool and rugged offroad look.

As a matter of fact Volkswagen is taking into consideration the chance to bring in production the Dune concept, making it the sportiest Beetle ever. The details revealed are not many but say much: the body was raised by two inches and the designers bolted a pair of skis to the roof.

Another interesting fact is that the Dune Concept actually revisits an idea that was born with the New Beetle Dune concept, presented in Los Angeles in 2000. However, the latter car was unsuccessful because of its unrealistic design, interior and roof structure.

Dune is based on the production R-Line Beetle and will be equipped with 210-horsepower turbocharged TSI engine matched with a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. The concept puts its power to the ground via the front wheels and a strut-type front and multilink rear suspension, with the XDS electronic differential lock delivering additional traction.

Source: Volkswagen

January 10, 2014

US-Spec Volkswagen Golf R at NAIAS

2015-Volkswagen-Golf-R-medium So, the NAIAS draws near and so do the good news. In our case, the latest Volkswagen Golf R: it’s coming to the US market. There will be a preview at the show, but the actual sales won’t happen until 2015. What’s also interesting is that this US-spec R will be a tiny bit underpowered than its European counterpart.

Still, it will be the most powerful Golf on the market, brandishing 290 hp and 280 pound-feet of torque. The source of that power is a GTI-sourced TSI 2.0 engine. However, in order to make it meet the needs of the R, engineers had to tweak quite a few bits. the cylinder head (together with exhaust valves, valve seats, and springs), pistons, high-pressure injection system, and turbocharger have all been modified or completely redesigned. As a result, the latest flagship Golf will be the most powerful to date with 34 hp more than the previous 2013 model. Volkswagen also hail the TSI in it as one of the most powerful four-cylinder engines in the world (“one of the” being key here).

Mated to a manual six speed gear, it can propell the Golf R to 60 mph from a standstill in 5.3 seconds. Go for the DSG dual-clutch automatic and that number drops to 4.9 seconds. The same ratio is true for the combined fuel consumption. 33 mpg (manual) and 28 mpg (DSG).

The power transferred from the engine to the wheels goes through Volkswagen’s 4MOTION permanent all-wheel-drive system. Apparently not so permanent these days since a clever Haldex 5 coupling unit uses an electro-hydraulic oil pump to continuously alter the torque distribution. Under relatively light loads, the R can go all day with all the power going to the front wheels. When necessary, 100 percent of the torque can also be directed to the rear wheels. Flamboyant cornering should cause no sweats thanks to an XDS+ cross differential lock operates on both axles. The bravest of the brave can even completely switch off the electronic stability control, thus indulging in the car’s purest mode of driving.

An extra option that can come along with the R is the DCC dynamic chassis control – a state of the art software-operated system that has us confused with its many modes and settings. The gist of it, though, is the independent regulation of the damper rebound and compression on each wheel. The process is fast, adaptive and rather autonomous.

In terms of visuals, you will recognize a Golf R – granted you miss the R badges – by it’s lower stance (0.8 inches lower than any other regular golf and 0.2 inches lower than the GTI). The brake disks are also quite noticeable at a diameter of 13.4 inches at the front and 12.2-inches at the rear wheels. Distinctive body parts: the bumpers, side skirts, the rear diffuser, and two dual exhaust tips in chrome. The headlights (Bi-Xenon) get complemented by “U”-designed LED daytime running lights whatever that means. 18-inch “Cadiz” aluminum-alloy wheels shod with 225/40 tires complete the picture.

Source: Volkswagen

January 9, 2014

Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion Concept To Be Shown At NAIAS

Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion Concept is one of brand’s vehicles which are going to be presented at the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. In fact, with this car Volkswagen aims to show just how fuel-efficient a non-hybrid, gasoline-engined mid-size sedan can be.

The vehicle is based on the current Passat which was developed specifically for North America. The BlueMotion label signifies that this version has the best efficiency in the model lineup. The efficient fuel consumption can be attributed to Volkswagen’s 1.4-liter EA211 TSI engine with direct injection and turbocharging. The unit delivers 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque.

What is more, this Passat also offers Active Cylinder Management (ACT) technology, which deactivates the valvetrain on cylinders two and three. This happens in situations when the driver only applies light throttle pressure to maintain specific city speeds.

Another fuel-saving option included in this car is the DSG transmission. As soon as the driver releases the accelerator pedal, it decouples the engine. This allows the Passat to roll with the lowest possible mechanical drag from the other moving components.

Other technology which contributes for the maximum efficiency here is the stop/start system, which shuts off the engine when the car comes to a temporary stop. All in all, these technologies deliver manufacturer estimated highway fuel economy rating of 42 mpg.

At last, it is worth mentioning the striking new color, which Volkswagen has specifically developed for this model – the Reef Blue Metallic color. The latter will be also available on other Passat models on a later time.

In the interior, there are featured two-tone seats that carry blue dividing lines between the darker and lighter leather seating surfaces. The stitching shows that this car is a member of the BlueMotion family.

Source: Volkswagen

January 9, 2014

2014 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Value Edition – US Price $21,295

Volkswagen has announced the 2014 Jetta TDI Value Edition for the US. It is based on the Jetta S specification and comes with more additional equipment.

2014 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Value Edition is priced from $21,295. It is fitted with a 2.0 liter TDI Clean Diesel engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. It is able to return 42 mpg US – 5.6 liters / 100 km on the highway. For additional $1,100 USD it can be configured with a 6-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic gearbox.

The standard equipment includes 16” steel wheels, electric power steering, heated front seats, cruise control, two more speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and Media Device Interface (MDI).

Last, but not least, the 2014 Jetta has been awarded with a 5-star rating by NTHSA.

p.s. 2014 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Edition 30 pictured

Source: Volkswagen

January 8, 2014

Vauxhall Astra GTC Hitting 200 PS With Ecotec 1.6

Vauxhall-Astra-GTC-shadow Vauxhall-Astra-GTC-medium The Vauxhall Astra GTC line will now be available with a 1.6 Ecotec power plant. This engine might just be the biggest cause of headaches at Volkswagen.

That’s right, the GTC now pulls off 200 PS and 300 Nm. Yikes! That’s 30 percent more power than the previous equivalent. If we translate that to 0-to-60-time, it means 7.3 seconds or the fastest non-VXR Astra. At the same time, the GTC returns 51 mpg and 154 g/km of CO2 emissions (13 percent less).

Just because its a new model anyway, they’ve decided to throw in an optional extra as well – an Intellilink infotainment system that’s supposed to be user-friendly and intuitive. It comprises of a satelite navigation, voice control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a picture viewer some reason and Gracenote album art for some reason. All gets mediated to you through a 7-inch screen.

The new GTC hasn’t hit the streets yet, but it is available for ordering. Arrival should be around Spring this year. Your move, other companies that make really good hatchbacks and rival each other. Vauxhall-Astra-GTC-medium-2

Source: Vauxhall

January 7, 2014

2014 Volkswagen Passat Executive Style – Price £23,895

Volkswagen is now offering two new trim levels for the new 2014 Passat: Executive and Executive Style. 2014 Volkswagen Passat Executive Style is priced from £23,895 and comes with impressive standard equipment.

Executive trim level comes with 17” Michigan’ alloy wheels (a full-size alloy spare is also included), exterior chrome trim, along with matt black roof rails on the Estate. The interior boasts standard DAB radio, MDI multi-device interface with USB and iPhone cables and Bluetooth connectivity are added to with Volkswagen’s RNS 315 touchscreen SAT NAV system. The leather-trimmed multifunction wheel and gear lever are enhanced by Vienna leather upholstery, including heated front seats, and electric adjustment for the driver’s seat.

There is standard 2Zone climate control, automatic lights and wipers as well as auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror. Cruise control is also fitted, along with front and rear parking sensors, with both audible output and optical display.

The Executive Style builds on the Executive, but as the name suggests, it comes with a more distinctive look. Hunkered down on 15 mm lower sports suspension, the Executive Style comes with 18” ‘Kansas’ alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, front fog lights, and tinted rear glass.

Both trim level are now available to order.

Trim level	Engine derivative	CO₂, g/km	MPG (comb)	Price, £ RRP OTR
Passat saloon
S	1.4 TSI 122 PS 6spd man	138	47.9	20,235.00
S	1.4 TSI 122 PS 7spd DSG	138	47.1	21,750.00
S	1.6 TDI 105 PS 6spd man	114	65.7	21,000.00
S	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd man	119	61.4	22,290.00
S	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd DSG	135	54.3	23,920.00
BlueMotion	1.6 TDI 105 PS 6spd man	109	68.9	21,270.00
Executive	1.4 TSI 160 PS 6spd man	144	45.6	22,900.00
Executive	1.4 TSI 160 PS 7spd DSG	142	46.3	24,400.00
Executive	1.6 TDI 105 PS 6spd man	114	65.7	22,545.00
Executive	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd man	119	61.4	23,660.00
Executive	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd DSG	135	54.3	25,400.00
Executive	2.0 TDI 177 PS 6spd man	120	61.4	25,010.00
Executive	2.0 TDI 177 PS 6spd DSG	136	54.3	26,750.00
Executive Style	1.4 TSI 160 PS 6spd man	144	45.6	23,895.00
Executive Style	1.4 TSI 160 PS 7spd DSG	142	46.3	25,395.00
Executive Style	1.6 TDI 105 PS 6spd man	114	65.7	23,540.00
Executive Style	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd man	119	61.4	24,655.00
Executive Style	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd DSG	135	54.3	26,395.00
Executive Style	2.0 TDI 177 PS 6spd man	120	61.4	26,005.00
Executive Style	2.0 TDI 177 PS 6spd DSG	136	54.3	27,745.00

Passat Estate
S	1.4 TSI 122 PS 6spd man	142	46.3	21,585.00
S	1.4 TSI 122 PS 7spd DSG	140	46.3	23,165.00
S	1.6 TDI 105 PS 6spd man	116	64.2	22,355.00
S	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd man	120	61.4	23,705.00
S	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd DSG	135	54.3	25,335.00
BlueMotion	1.6 TDI 105 PS 6spd man	113	65.7	22,625.00
Executive	1.4 TSI 160 PS 6spd man	144	45.6	24,310.00
Executive	1.4 TSI 160 PS 7spd DSG	144	45.6	25,810.00
Executive	1.6 TDI 105 PS 6spd man	116	64.2	23,955.00
Executive	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd man	120	61.4	25,070.00
Executive	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd DSG	135	54.3	26,810.00
Executive	2.0 TDI 177 PS 6spd man	123	60.1	26,420.00
Executive	2.0 TDI 177 PS 6spd DSG	136	54.3	28,160.00
Executive Style	1.4 TSI 160 PS 6spd man	144	45.6	25,305.00
Executive Style	1.4 TSI 160 PS 7spd DSG	144	45.6	26,805.00
Executive Style	1.6 TDI 105 PS 6spd man	116	64.2	24,950.00
Executive Style	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd man	120	61.4	26,065.00
Executive Style	2.0 TDI 140 PS 6spd DSG	135	54.3	27,805.00
Executive Style	2.0 TDI 177 PS 6spd man	123	60.1	27,415.00
Executive Style	2.0 TDI 177 PS 6spd DSG	136	54.3	29,155.00

Source: Volkswagen

January 2, 2014

2014 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet Karmann Edition – Price €27,275

Volkswagen has unveiled the new 2014 Golf Cabriolet Karmann Special Edition. It is named after legendry auto manufacturer Wilhelm Karmann and features some nice stylish upgrades.

The exterior boasts several chrome elements and a set of 17” Porto-style alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

The interior boasts two-tone sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gray contrast stitching. There is also brushed aluminum / dark gray trim, more chrome accents and Karmann branded sill plates. Other highlights include a premium audio system, a wind deflector and a park distance warning system.

The Karmann Special will be available across the full engine range – from 105HP to 160HP.

2014 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet Karmann is priced at €27,275 in Germany.

Source: Volkswagen

December 20, 2013

Tag: Volkswagen