Automobiles Review

Tag: Volkswagen

A quck revision of the Golf R lineup: what makes the model so beloved?

For about 20 years, the Volkswagen Golf R and the predecessor, Golf R32 have represented the golden standard for sporty hatchback performance. When one takes a look at the history of the lineup, there’s a considerable change in the design of the models, however, the passion and precision remain the same. Let’s check out more, shall we?

2002: Volkswagen Golf R32 (Mk IV)

This is the first production Golf that wears the famous “R” badge from VW Racing and was unveiled in Madrid back in 2002, following the concept that was debuted a year earlier. The vehicle was specially created to compete in rally races.

The Golf R32 showcased numerous advanced technologies and complex design concepts. The engine is a 3.2-liter VR6 with 240hp and linked to a performance-focused 4Motion AWD system that can send power only to the rear axle when needed.

2005: Golf R32 (Mk V)

With this particular model, the power output rose to 250hp and additional changes contributed to agile performance. The R32 now accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds and is geared with a refined DSG gearbox. In terms of interior, the MK V was geared with near-luxury components and featured a neat and cozy ambiance.

2009: Golf R (Mk VI)

Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show back in 2009, the MK VI revealed an advanced 2.0-liter TSI four-cylinder engine that generates a total of 265hp, mated to an even further revised 4Motion system. Also, VW team debuted a new signature blue paint for the vehicle, known as Rising Blue Metallic. Offered in two- and four-door models, the vehicle was available with a center exhaust and 6-speed manual gearbox only.

2013: Golf R (Mk VII)

This model was again unveiled in Frankfurt and arrived in the US in 2015. The power rose to 288hp and the car was available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DSG, and later with an exclusive 7-speed DSG. Tech-wise the MK VII features a DCC adaptive damping system and many more neat functions.

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2021: Golf R (Mk VIII)

The upcoming iteration of the “R” lineup will not only be the most powerful, but also the most advanced in terms of utility systems. The heart of the beast is a 2.0-liter EA888 TSI unit that generates a total of 315hp and 310lb-ft of torque. There will also be a newly developed torque-vectoring 4Motion AWD system and Vehicle Dynamics Manager, both fine-tuned at the Nürburgring Nordshleife race track.

July 6, 2021
Volkswagen reveals further details about the new Golf GTI

The new-generation Golf GTI will take the successful hot hatch formula to the next level and will showcase a new chassis, enhanced performance rates, and tons of new advanced technologies.

The setup of the new Golf GTi features some exclusive modifications especially designed to increase precision and driving stability. let’s find out more, shall we?

Drivetrain system

First, the strut-type front suspension is fine-tuned and features redesigned wishbone bearings and revised damping hydraulics.

Furthermore, the new Golf comes with a new aluminum subframe which is nearly 7 pounds lighter than the processor. Also, there’s a multilink rear axle with a new wheel mount, wishbone bearing, and spring setup, along with reconfigured auxiliary springs.

Also, for the 8^th generation, the Volkswagen team has included the brand’s dedicated Vehicle Dynamics Manager – a new driving dynamics control system that integrates the electronic stability control with the electronic differential locks and the optional DCC adaptive damping system.

The latest Golf GTI also comes with an electronically controlled torque-sensing limited-slip differential. The system offers a variable degree of intervention depending on the actual driving situation. The system makes it possible to avoid steering instability and optimizes grip and handling when cornering.

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As it comes to driving dynamics, the vehicle comes with Driving Mode Selection via which the driver can amend the reduction of body motion as preferred. The required damping is automatically calculated for each wheel and adjusts at the front dampers within a fraction of a second.

June 15, 2021
Volkswagen presents the new Multivan

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has finally revealed the new Multivan, the vehicle with elegant design, super flexible interior, and plug-in options.

The Multivan is the current replacement of the Caravelle model, and provides customers with a total of 7 seats and ensures the perfect balance between practicality, comfort, and safety.

Exterior design

The Multivan features an elegant exterior design and pays homage to the classic 1985 Transporter T3 with its horizontal lines and full-width grille and headlights. The A-pillars have been refreshed to improve visibility, and the front and rear light signatures contribute to this contemporary look. Furthermore, the front air intakes are now smaller and they also pay tribute to the heritage of the rear air-cooled engines of the 80s.

The vehicle can also be specified with a panoramic glass roof, with LowE laminated safety glass, and numerous more custom features. Furthermore, the Multivan is fitted with LED headlights as a standard feature, but can also be geared with the optional IQ.LIGHT – LED matrix.

Interior design

Inside, the Multivan provides enhanced flexibility and space, thanks to the special seating system and the innovative table.

This multi-functional table has been specially designed for the Multivan and can be moved between any of the seating rows, and also can be used as a central console between the front seats. This is a completely removable table with adjustable height and features cup holders and a storage bin.

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Also, because of the completely flat floor, the seating setup can be amended in any way possible, which gives tons of possibilities for customization and convenient setups for any kind of job.

Drivetrain system

The drivetrain system of the new Multivan is based on the MQB platform and offers a total of 2,000kg of towing capacity.

Furthermore, the Multivan eHybrid is geared with a 1.4 TSI 150hp power unit and an 85kW electric motor that together generate a total of 218hp output.

The front-wheel-drive Multivan can also be specified with two four-cylinder turbocharged petrol units: 1.5 TSI 136 PS and a 2.0 TSI 204 PS. A four-cylinder turbo diesel, and a power output of 150 PS, will join next year. All of these are twinned with a seven-speed DSG gearbox as standard.

June 11, 2021
New Volkswagen Golf GTI takes home a prestigious award

Volkswagen of America announces that the 2021 Golf GTI has earned Good Housekeeping’s “Best Hatchback” award in the “Best New Family Cars” competition. Working with experts from Car and Driver, the Good Housekeeping team has managed to evaluate hundreds of vehicles, test drive them and narrow down the list to only the most advanced and reliable ones.

Furthermore, the Good Housekeeping team has worked with Car and Driver’s automobile experts in order to handpick the most advanced participant as the winner. Both teams have taken safety, road behavior, and technology into account when evaluating the participating vehicles.

After all exams were over, Good Housekeeping named the 2021 Golf GTI “a fun-to-drive car that’s responsive and athletic, a nimble hatchback that has good cargo space for its size,” and noting that the new 2022 model is expected to deliver “even more power and sleekness than previous models on an already attractive build.”

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The hatch managed to stand out from the crowd thanks to its advanced technology, refined drivetrain system, elegant styling, and overall fun-to-drive character. Also, for the new model year, the vehicle offers some new technologies and design changes that managed to impress the jury. Such for example is the seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox with Tiptronic strats.

Further details will be announced soon.

June 9, 2021
Volkswagen Mk 8 Golf GTI and Golf R come with an updated digital interior

Mk 8 Golf GTI and Golf R come with an entirely new electronic designed, exclusively designed for this particular model in order to enable an advanced digital network of displays and controls within the cabin.

Driver and passengers enter the digital world once the Mk 8 doors are opened. The start button pulses in red until the engine is started and the VW Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster and infotainment system screens awake. Talking about the screens, the large 10.25-inch Cockpit Pro system integrates with the infotainment system in order to allow drivers to create a customized display of relevant information – vehicle status, driving data, phone info, driver assistance, and more.

Digitalization continues with the improvement of all the buttons across the cabin and the heads-up display projects onto the windshield relevant information and virtually floats in front of the driver.

The steering wheel has also received tons of upgrades and changes. It is fully capable of operating the Digital Cockpit and has touchpads for volume and audio selection. At the same time, the Travel Assist button engages the partially automated hands-on driving system and the capacitive sensors monitor in order to ensure that the driver has their hands on it. On the Golf R lineup, the R button takes the driver to the Driving Mode Selection where they can enable the selectable driving modes.

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Also, the vehicle’s interior features ambient lighting – there are a total of 30 selectable colors and customizable lighting patterns that add a touch of customization within the cabin.

June 3, 2021
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles takes home tree prestigious awards

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has won three titles at the 2021 Trade Van Driver Awards event. Volkswagen Transporter 6.1 and Volkswagen Crafter were named Van of the Year and Best Large Van respectively while the Best Technical Innovation was won by the Volkswagen City Emergency Braking feature.

Being popular because of its advanced technology and offering excellent residual value, the Transporter 6.1 took the prestigious Van of the Year award home.

The Volkswagen Crafter was honored at the awards as the Best Large Van in 2021. The panel of expert judges concluded that the Crafter offers award-winning comfort, value, and overall performance.

Furthermore, VW Commercial Vehicles took home one more award – Best Technical Innovation for its excellent City Emergency Braking system. This is an innovative technology that helps avoid collisions under hazardous urban conditions, improving drivers’ peace of mind. Offered as standard across the van range, City Emergency Braking helps prevent crashes and improves driver safety.

Matthew Eisenegger, Editor of Trade Van Driver said: “We are delighted to be hosting the Trade Van Driver Awards in 2021, albeit virtually, celebrating the best that the commercial vehicles sector has to offer. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles deservedly took home three coveted awards from this year’s ceremony, which is a credit to the manufacturer and its best-in-class product line.”

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Kate Thompson, Head of Marketing for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, commented: “We are thrilled to have collected three sought-after accolades at this year’s Trade Van Driver awards. It is a testament to the performance, technology and reputation of our vehicle line-up as one of the best in the industry.”

May 26, 2021
Volkswagen team takes home two prestigious awards and recognitions

Volkswagen team announces that the 2021 ID.4 SUV and the 2021 Ateon have received awards from this year’s Texas Auto Roundub, the annual spring driving event of the Texas Auto Writers Association media group. Hosted at the Texas Motor Speedway, the event allows journalists to experience and compare many vehicles from different vehicle manufacturers around the globe.

For 2021, TAWA elevated the Green Vehicle of Texas category to major award status, given the growing popularity of electrified vehicle offerings. The award was won by Volkswagen’s all-new, all-electric ID.4 SUV. Named 2021 World Car of the Year, the ID.4 marks a new era for Volkswagen.

It’s a great honor that ID.4 has been named the Green Vehicle of Texas, said Matthew Renna, Vice President E-mobility and Innovation, Volkswagen of America, Having organizations like Texas Auto Writers Association educate the public on our brand’s electric future – and EVs in general – is valuable to the transition to electrification.

Also, 2021 Arteon won the award for Best Midsize Car. The advanced vehicle impressed the jury with its refined design concept and the rich standard equipment.

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An amazing accolade for our Arteon, said Hein Schafer, Senior Vice President, Product Marketing and Strategy, Volkswagen of America, Inc., This car delivers so much, and does so in such stunning fashion. It’s great to see it shine in this key automotive category.

Source: Volkswagen

May 21, 2021
Volkswagen team reveals first details for the upcoming Taos Basecamp Concept

Inspired by the mainly positive feedback of the 2019 Atlas Basecamp Concept and its accessories, Volkswagen team has created an unique concept vehicle that highlights the adaptability and the adventurous spirit of the Taos lineup.

The Concept vehicle is manufactured by Volkswagen Design Team in Oxnard, California, and adopts neat fender flares, all-terrain wheels and tires, and an exclusive color scheme.

“The Taos is a great compact SUV from the start,” says Reto Brun, Director of the Volkswagen Design Center California. “Following the design strategy we established with the 2019 Atlas Basecamp Concept, the Taos Basecamp Concept is refinished in Waimea blue paint with gloss black trim elements and a matte black hood and roof. Orange accents in the Basecamp badges, mirror caps and side decals were incorporated to punctuate the Basecamp design identity.”

Some of the mods to the Taos Basecamp Concept include a raised and fine-tuned suspension from H&R Special Springs LP, custom Traverse MX wheels wrapped in 225/65R17 Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail tires, and a custom Thule Canyon XT roof basket with integrated LED lights from Baja Design.

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In terms of interior, the exclusive interior features a custom cargo divider and tons of additional features.

VW team plans to debut the vehicle in Helen, Georgia in May this year.

Stick with us for further details.

Source: Volkswagen

May 20, 2021
New Tiguan Allspace comes with new features and tons of customization options

Tiguan has received an upgrade back in 2020 and now the lineup receives one more update – the long-wheelbase version comes with new utility systems, premium features, and new customization options.

The vehicle offers a sharper look and its whooping volumes remain unchanged: it offers a luggage compartment volume of 760 to 1,920 liters, with the seven-seater offering 700 to 1,755 liters. The optional seats in the third row can be folded like the rear bench seat and backrest in the second row. Also, they can be dropped to fit flush into the luggage compartment floor thus creating an even loading area.

However, now the vehicle can be specified with three TSI and two TDI engines. Depending on the equipment, a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox is also optional, as well as the 4MOTION AWD.

New equipment levels

VW team has reconfigured the equipment matrix of the Allspace. The vehicle will be available with Life, Elegant, and R-Line trim levels. All trim levels feature numerous chrome-plated elements and exclusive wheels, all along with sporty steering wheels, touch operation availability, and styling upgrades.

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In terms of the drivetrain system, partly automated driving is now possible, thanks to the IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist. Depending on the gearbox type, the system can take over steering, braking, and acceleration in order to prevent crashes and retain the health of the occupants.

Digital technologies in new Tiguan Allspace

In order to achieve more connectivity and utility, the vehicle boasts a number of infotainment systems, and can be purchased with an Online Connectivity Unit, We Connect Plus, MIB3, and Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Furthermore, some of the infotainment goodies include an exclusive Harman Kardon audio system with a subwoofer, 16-channel amplifier, 8 plus 1 high-performance speaker, and an amplifier with a total of 480-watt output.

Source: Volkswagen

May 13, 2021
Volkswagen showcases the first image of the new Polo GTI. Check it out!

Just in time for the traditional GTI weekend meet-up on Lake Wörthersee, VW reveals the first images of the new Polo GTI. The compact sports car is based on the last generation Polo and offers premium features and numerous customization options. Also, the vehicle showcases a dynamic and beautiful exterior design – a part of VW’s new concept approach towards the new generations of models.

The official premiere of the new Polo GTI will take place later in June 2021.

As fans will say, “Once a GTI, always a GTI”, and with a reason. The success of the GTI concept continues with VW’s latest models and now the engineering team not only focuses on retaining the strong excitement but also build on this foundation and add new tech concepts to the mix.

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As it comes to the meet-up, this is the usual spot for GTI maniacs since 1982. Over the years, the event attracted both enthusiasts and specialists and has become a soft of a dedicated festival with the simple idea of admiring the GTI lineup.

Source: Volkswagen

May 11, 2021
Volkswagen ID. lineup overview: what makes it special

The ID lineup is definitely worth checking out. Especially after receiving the “2021 World Car of the Year” award. All the vehicles in the series come with a set of cutting-edge technologies on board and adopt the latest engineering concepts in terms of drivetrain systems. These features contribute to excellent performance rates, long-range coverage, and excellent safety.

The battery technology in the ID. lineup

Batteries are definitely the central part of the drivetrain system of all ID. models. VW team has announced that it will increase the sales figures for electric vehicles by 2030 and therefore focus on developing even better battery systems.

The sizes in the lineup vary between 45kWh to 150kWh and depending on the model and other factors, an ID. model can cover up to 352km with a single charge. Furthermore, this output is enough to give a power output to the car and ensures between 150hp and 205hp.

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Furthermore, the batteries can be charged to their maximum capacity in about 30 minutes – all models allow for AC and DC charging. When using a home charging station, the capacity is 11kW, depending on the battery size.

Safety features

Depending on the battery size, up to three controllers are located in the housing which monitors the module voltage and temperature levels. These units compensate for deviations in the capacity of the individual cells. The main control unit and the connection box are mounted at the rear of the battery body – in the event of a serious accident they can instantly de-energize the vehicle.

Production and quality assurance

The battery systems are produced at the VW Components plant in Braunschweig, where they are also developed. Other sites for production are Foshan and Anting, Chattanooga and Mlada Boleslav. In addition, preparations are underway for Volkswagen to start its own battery cell production in Salzgitter.

VW team guarantees 70 percent of each battery’s capacity for a period of 8 years or 160,000km. Also, the used-up batteries can be reused under second-life schemes.

Source: Volkswagen

May 11, 2021
Volkswagen Golf eHybrid Style: a quick overview

Volkswagen now takes orders for the new Golf eHybrid Style lineup. The vehicle comes with excellent economy rates and an advanced drivetrain system.

New Golf eHybrid comes with a 1.4-liter TSI petrol unit and an electric motor with a lithium-ion battery and generates a total of 204hp and 350Nm. Also, the six-speed DSG gearbox allows for some more aggressive performance and agile accelerating – the vehicle can speed from 0 to 100km/h in mere 7.4 seconds and chase a top speed of 137mph.

Furthermore, the Golf eHybrid Style is generously equipped and comes with Digital Cockpit Pro, , DAB+, and mobile phone interface with inductive charging function, Dynamic Road Sign Display, a multifunction leather steering wheel, sports comfort seats, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist lane-keeping system, Front Assist Autonomous Emergency Braking, Air Care Climatronic automatic air conditioning, a start/stop system with brake energy recuperation, the pioneering Car2X local warning system, new Keyless Start keyless comfort start function, LED Plus headlights and LED tail light clusters, as well as smart 16-inch ‘San Antonio’ alloy wheels.

SEE ALSO: New Fiat Tipo brings sportiness and aggressiveness to the lineup

The new Golf eHybrid’s persuasive list of attributes includes pure electric zero tailpipe-emission driving; superb long-distance fuel economy; generous equipment; and a BIK rate of only 7% – all underpinned by Volkswagen’s renowned build quality and superb retailer network. Together, they result in a car that will especially appeal to company car drivers, as well as retail ones.

Source: Volkswagen

May 4, 2021