Automobiles Review

Tag: VW

Volkswagen ID.4 reaches its turnaround point after an epic tour

Long-distance driver Rainer Zietlow and photographer Derek Collins have reached an impressive milestone on their cross-country road trip in the Volkswagen ID.4 EV as the team finished at their turnaround point in Los Angeles, CA.

Two months ago, Zietlow and Collins took off from Herndon, VA with a mission to visit more than 600 Volkswagen Dealers in 48 states with Volkswagen’s first long-range EV for the U.S. market, the ID.4. When the duo reached the turnaround point in LA, they had driven 22,303 miles and visited 418 Volkswagen dealerships across 36 states. The pair also made time to stop by 6 Volkswagen Group of America offices to meet with employees and share stories of their adventure.

Throughout the journey, Zietlow and Collins have taken the ID.4 through the bustling streets of New York City, the Midwest, Oregon and many other U.S. terrains. The team has documented their stops, at peculiar destinations such as vintage diners with neon signs and larger-than-life statues.

Electrify America has been a massive support to the trip with 116 stops at Electrify America charging stations made by the time the turnaround point was reached. Electrify America has the nation’s largest open DC fast-charging network with more than 650 charging stations and more than 2,800 individual DC fast chargers. Electrify America expects to have more than 1,800 total charging stations with over 10,000 chargers in the United States and Canada by the end of 2025.

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The journey continues along the southern half of the United States as Zietlow and Collins make their way back to the East Coast. They will continue to chronicle the event at vwid4-usatour.com, where visitors to the website can also monitor the location of the ID.4 in real-time.

September 28, 2021
2022 VW ID.4 earns a TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award by the IIHS

Volkswagen of America, Inc. announces that the 2021 ID.4 has won the 2021 TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

To qualify for a 2021 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, a vehicle must earn good ratings in each of the Institute’s six crashworthiness evaluations. It must also have good or acceptable headlights and available front crash prevention that earns advanced or superior ratings in both vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 EV managed to earn an acceptable rating for the standard LED headlights, a good rating for the available premium LED projector headlights, and good ratings in the six crashworthiness evaluations. The Front Assist system—standard on all ID.4 models—receives a superior rating for vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention and an advanced rating for vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention.

The ID.4 features standard IQ.DRIVE advanced driver assistance with hands-on semi-automated capability. On the highway, IQ.DRIVE features lane centering and a capacitive steering wheel to help make driving easier. Around town, IQ.DRIVE can alert you to surprise obstacles in front of you and keeps an eye around you to help make driving safer.

SEE ALSO: Mercedes team reveals new EQS lineup

With its full equipment package, the ID.4 comes with a front radar, front camera, two rear radars and eight ultrasound sensors to collect data from the surrounding area, enabling Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance), Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring), Active Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop & Go, Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System), and Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency). In addition to IQ.DRIVE, the ID.4 includes Dynamic Road Sign Display; Park Distance Control; and Light Assist (High Beam Control for headlights).

September 22, 2021
Volkswagen Polo: the brand’s elegant car continues to impress both skeptics and enthusiasts

VW Polo is one of the most popular vehicles with its high-quality and agile spirit. Throughout the years, the model has been refreshed and updated with more and more advanced systems being incorporated within the vehicle.

The Polo is currently in its sixth generation, and about 18 million vehicles have been produced since the model’s release in 1975. Now, the latest version incorporates the model’s familiar Y-structure and an elegant contemporary design. There are a total of four engine choices and gearbox configurations – all 1.0-litre, three-cylinder petrol engines, ranging in power output from 80 PS to 110 PS.

A five-speed manual gearbox is mated to the entry-level 80 PS, 93 Nm unit, while the 95 PS, 175 Nm power plant is available with both 5-speed manual and 7-speed DSG transmissions. The range-topping 110 PS, 200 Nm engine is available exclusively with the 7-speed DSG, and ahead of the Polo GTI, is the most rapid Polo in the range, taking 10.4 seconds to reach 62 mph.

In terms of equipment, the latest generation of Polo vehicles is geared with numerous safety and utility systems such as Travel Assist, LED headlights, Adaptive Cruise Control and an 8.0-inch Digital Cockpit. There are also two front and two rear USB sockets, power-folding, adjustable and heated door mirrors, and automatic rain-sensing wipers, all included as standard.

As with any contemporary VW model, the new Polo can be further personalized with a range of exclusive options – some include vibrant colors, other exclusive alloy wheels, and all other styling goodies. Others include Assistance systems such as a rear-view camera and a pack bundling together Park Assist, Proactive Passenger Protection, and other features and a Sports Suspension Pack, which incorporates more dynamic suspension, the XDS electronic differential lock first introduced on the Golf GTI, and Driving Profile Selection.

SEE ALSO: Skoda Superb lineup turns 20!

Lisa Hartley, Polo Product Manager at Volkswagen UK, said: The Polo is a supermini with a well-earned reputation for high quality, reliability and safety, and its regular spot in the top-sellers list shows just how much UK customers love it. As it enters the second phase of its sixth generation, it brings technologies that not only add more convenience, but also boost safety, efficiency and can benefit other road users too. A great example is the IQ.Light system, which was first introduced on the latest Touareg.

September 13, 2021
Volkswagen, Argo AI and MOIA show first ID.BUZZ autonomous prototype

In black and white camouflage and with neat roof structures, the new self-driving Volkswagen machine goes fully electric. Indeed, the ID.BUZZ AD will be deployed in commercial mobility services like MOIA in 2025.

Argo AI, the global autonomous driving technology company is developing the self-driving mechanism of the vehicle and also includes all kinds of hardware, software, and cloud-support infrastructure for the ID. BUZZ AD.

Also, the Argo team is actively testing many urban areas and all the ID. BUZZ AD prototypes. The Argo self-driving system comes with sensors, software, and computer platforms that altogether ensure a 360-degree awareness of the vehicle’s movement, prediction of other drivers and moving objects, accelerating, braking, and more.

Furthermore, Argo’s patented Geiger-mode technology is especially helpful when it comes to detecting even the smallest particles of light and therefore detects the black object even in the darkest of environment.

SEE ALSO: SKODA proves that the brand’s EV range is as safe as its conventional models

While VW and Argo are developing the autonomous vehicle and its system, MOIA becomes the third component for autonomous mobility service. In 2025 MOIA is expected to become Europe’s largest all-electric ride pooling service provider. In fact, MOIA will also be the first user of the new ID.BUZZ AD lineup.

September 6, 2021
Volkswagen ID.3 makes its Chinese debut today

Volkswagen team boosts its e-offensive in China, as part of the brand’s ACCELERATE strategy. The ID.3, one of the best-selling cars in Europe, will also be available on the world’s largest market. In fact, the compact EV car celebrates its Chinese premiere today at the Chengdu Motor Show.

Volkswagen’s global electrification offensive is rapidly gaining further momentum. After the ID.43 and the ID.6, we are now launching the ID.3 as the third all-electric model series in China within a mere six months. We are thus underscoring our ambition to occupy a leading position in the market for electric vehicles in China as well as Europe, Volkswagen CEO Ralf Brandstätter said.

Following the debut, Chinese customers will be able to have their ID.3 via a pre-booking system prior to the market launch later this year. As VW witnesses a wide demand for the brand’s electric lineup of vehicles, the production is also boosted – As a result, deliveries of vehicles from the ID. family have doubled in the past three months from 1,500 units in May to some 3,000 in June and 5,800 in July. By year-end, 80,000 to 100,000 vehicles from the ID. models will be delivered to China.

SEE ALSO: SKODA Octavia celebrates its 25th anniversary

Volkswagen China CEO Stephan Wöllenstein said: With the ID.4 and ID.6 we have successfully launched two strong model series in recent months. Feedback from our customers is promising, delivery figures meet our expectations. With the ID.3, we are now offering our customers a product in the important compact segment and, in combination with the other ID. models, are able to cover a large share of the market.

September 3, 2021
Volkswagen is about to debut the SUV coupe ID.5 GTX at the IAA

Volkswagen presents the new ID.5 GTX – the vehicle is about to make its debut on the 7^th of September at the IAA Munich Motor Show. This is the brand’s first SUV to be based on the Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) and is expected to showcase some neat new technologies and features.

Exterior design

At the front, the vehicle showcases a new IQ.Light LED matrix lights design that generates an intelligently controlled beam and gives the vehicle this elegant look. Also, the flat sloping A pillars at the right and near the front give an elegant flow of the roofline and stretches over the body, and taper out in an integrated rear spoiler. At the rear, there are horizontal lines that accenturate the width of the vehicle and attract attention with the light strip. The design is completed with a set of LED rear lights with a 3D design.

A new approach with a GTX badge

GTX means enhanced athleticism and high performance. The vehicle will continue the tradition to bring electrified solutions to the GTI, GTD, and GTE models and proceed towards electrified transition.

SEE ALSO: Mitsubishi improves its ranking in top 10 for Best Car Manufacturer in 2021 Driver Power

As it seems VW aims to become the most popular brand in terms of sustainability and electrification. The goal is to increase the share of all-electric vehicles and to become a carbon-neutral brand by 2050.

August 9, 2021
Volkswagen presents details about the new 2022 Tiguan lineup

Today, Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced details for the new 2022 Tiguan compact SUV. The new model features a revised body language and tons of advanced technologies, all part of the standard equipment.

Furthermore, Tiguan can be specified with four trim levels, all geared with an efficient 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder engine that generates a total of 184hp and 221lb-ft of torque. The drivetrain system is further characterized by a front-wheel 4Motion AWD system and a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox.

In terms of exterior, the Tiguan raises the bar with a revised front-end, new LED lights, and optional updated R-Line elements. There are also new types of aluminum alloys, ranging from 17- to 20-inch variants, depending on the trim level. Also, there are eight available exterior colors and new interior color schemes.

Mentioning the interior, the vehicle boasts tons of next-gen technologies as the VW Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, Car-Net with Wi-Fi capabilities, MIB3 infotainment system and more. Part of the convenience utilities include heated front seats, heated steering wheel, -generation Climatronic® Touch interface, leatherette or leather seating surfaces, power driver and passenger seats, panoramic sunroof, Fender Premium Audio, and 15-color ambient lighting.

SEE ALSO: The first production Battista model makes its word debut at the Monterey Car Week event

As it comes to safety features, 2022 Tiguan offers Front Assist, Active Side Assist, Rear Traffic Alert, Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Stop and Go, Travel Assist, and Emergency Assist.

August 4, 2021
Volkswagen reveals new Atlas Concept vehicle

Volkswagen of America, Inc. unveiled the new 2021 Atlas Cross Sport GT Concept. The unique vehicle blends modern styling and an advanced engine system. Assembled in Chattanooga, the four-seater also demonstrates VW’s new Eisvogelblau exterior color.

Based on the 2021 Atlas Cross Sport SEL Premium R-Line, the new GT Concept showcases neat 22-inch ABT Sport HR AEROWHEELS, wrapped in Yokohama Advan Sport V105 UHP 285/35R22 tires, ST suspension XTA Plus 3 coilovers, TAROX eight-piston front brakes, and glossy black exterior trim.

Under the hood, there is a refined version of the EA888 2.0-TSI power unit found in the VW Golf R, but with an IS38 turbo as an additional front-mounted radiator from an Mk7 Golf R. This setup generates a total of 300hp and is distributed via a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox and 4Motion AWD system.

The inside is characterized by the same Eisvogelblau, bespoke RECARO Sports seats, and custom VW Accessories floor mats.

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Finishing off the interior design is a one-of-a-kind rear center console, which follows the design language of the front console. Inside the storage compartment is a Volkswagen Accessories convenience safe and additional USB charging ports.

July 23, 2021
Volkswagen ends the assembly of the Passat lienup with an exclusive Limited Edition

After a decade of success with American sedan customers, Volkswagen of America, Inc. announces that it will end the assembly of the Passat sedan in Chattanooga with the model year 2022. This approach will allow VW to focus on electrified technologies. In order to celebrate the integral role of the Passat, the Volkswagen team will reveal a special Limited Edition of the vehicle.

2022 Passat Limited Edition

The vehicle includes a unique exterior and interior design with distinctive color combinations – there are Aurora Red Metallic models with Titan Black interior, Racing Green Metallic models with Mauro Brown interior, and Pure White models with Mauro Brown interior. The final count of all the units in the lineup is 1,973 – a number that commemorates the year the first Passat was unveiled in Germany.

Additional features include distinctive 18-inch aluminum alloys, black mirror caps for the power-folding mirrors and exclusive Limited Edition LED headlights with Advanced Front-Lighting System.

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Inside, the Limited Edition features unique stitching, exclusive mat cupholders, comfort sport seats with perforated Vienna leather seating surfaces, driver seat memory, power passenger seat, heated front and rear sets, Discover Media Infotainment, Fender premium audio system, Park Assist with front and rear Park Distance Control and Light Assist.

July 20, 2021
Another two victories for Volkswagen: ID.3 and new Golf steal the awards at the New Car Awards event

VW celebrates one more double victory at the New Car Awards event with the new ID.3 and Golf picking up prestigious recognitions and awards.

The jury at the event gave the “Best Small Company Car” to the ID.3 and paid tribute to the vehicle’s advanced drivetrain system and overall futuristic design and concept.

Steve Fowler, Editorial Director at Auto Express, said: “The company car class is changing fast, and no firm has reacted faster to the upheaval than Volkswagen. Not that long ago diesel dominated this sector, but with Benefit-in-Kind bills now favoring the lowest-emissions vehicles, in particular, EVs, drivers, and fleet managers have been clamoring to make the switch to electric power – and few cars make more sense in the corporate car park than the ID.3.”

SEE ALSO: VW takes two awards at the 2021 Fleet News Awards event

At the same time, the new Golf picked up the “Best Lower Medium Car” title, fighting off aggressive competition and numerous award-worthy opponents.

July 8, 2021
VW takes two awards at the 2021 Fleet News Awards event

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has scored a double win at this year’s Fleet News Awards with the Caddy Cargo that was awarded Best Small Van, and the Transporter 6.1 named Best Medium Van.

Despite the aggressive competition, the fifth-generation Caddy Cargo has managed to impress the jury and took the Best Small Van award. The vehicle was launched in 2020 on the new MQB platform and received positive feedback from both brand enthusiasts and industry critics.

In a similar category, the Transporter 6.1 was named Best Medium Van and was praised for its safety features and advanced driver assistance technologies. Judges were impressed by the vehicle’s neat reliability and praised it for its comfort and utility capabilities.

The annual Fleet News Awards highlight the leading fleet companies, suppliers, and manufacturers. The experts that comprise the jury are editors, specialists, and segment experts.

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Stephen Briers, editor-in-chief of Fleet News, commented: “Following such a strange year in 2020, we are very pleased to have been able to host this year’s Fleet News Awards at Ascot Racecourse, recognizing the best new vehicles and manufacturers in the industry.

July 8, 2021
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