uk-mkivs News : VW

The Mk4 Golf TDIGTI Challenge

Tabs — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:48:00 GMT

The successful SuperPro VAG Trophy has broadened its appeal by creating a new class within its grid for the ever-popular VW Golf Mk4 TDI/GTI variants. The new series will be known as the Mk4 Golf TDIGTI Challenge and will be televised during 2012 on Motors TV.

The series organisers have added the new class within the series with a strict cap on potential cost, to tempt potential competitors onto the grid. Based on both the 150 BHP 1.8 T GTI and the 130 and 150 BHP TDI versions, good, historied base cars can be acquired from just £1000, and competitive cars will be able to be built from as little as £5000. It should also answer the perennial question over which engine is best. As the first series to pitch the endless torque of the diesel lump against the superior power of the petrol unit, it should make for some epic scraps in 2012. Those not keen on wielding the spanners themselves can also turn to a national network of approved specialists who will build a ‘turn-key’ car ready to race.

A tightly monitored package of control parts makes for even and competitive racing, putting the emphasis back on driving skill and set-up. Tyres, brakes, dampers, exhaust and tuning packages will all be available at a subsidised cost to ensure a level playing field, making this a real 'drivers' series, as well as superb value for all involved.

The new race cars will run in Class B of the SuperPro VAG Trophy for the first year, but within a year or two, organisers hope to have grown the grid to enable the series to stand on its own as a real crowd and driver pleasing spectacle. There has already been significant interest, with several cars already in the process of being built.

The inaugural season will feature 10 rounds, with 5 double headers at the following circuits:

•    Donington Park.
•    Silverstone National.
•    Oulton Park.
•    Brand Hatch GP.
•    Snetterton 300.

With the first race on the 28th / 29th April, there is still plenty of time to build a car and get on the grid. For more information on the series, cars specs or calendar, please visit the website www.mk4tdigtichallenge.com or email info@mk4tdigtichallenge.com

Compact Class - LED Rear Lights

Tabs — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:04:00 GMT

A Premiere in the Compact Class: LED Rear Lights on the Golf
New development in Volkswagen’s concise night design

Bi-Xenon headlights for better safety and convenience
Wolfsburg, 09 December 2009 - Trendsetter Golf: For the first time in the compact class, LED rear lights will now be offered on the Volkswagen compact: A concise night design is standard equipment on the Golf R, and on the Golf GTI and GTD it is available as an option for 350 Euros. A fitting added feature: Bi-Xenon headlights offer a significant plus in safety and convenience.

Each smoked rear light consists of two curved right angles, each angle containing eleven LEDs; each of these angles forms the outer border for a distinctive LED centre dot. With a total of 48 LEDs, this characteristic light signature makes the highest-performance Golf of all times easy to recognise in the dark. In daylight, another notable feature immediately comes into view: The low, white stripe defining the lower border of the rear light creates a very uniform visual surface. The overall impression is harmonious and high-end.

LED rear lights are more than just a clear signal of a sporty Golf. They are practically maintenance-free and impressively fast. Their response time to brake activation is 0.2 second faster than that of conventional incandescent lights. This difference can save lives: at a speed of 100 km/h it is equivalent to 5.6 meters braking distance.

Another safety and convenience feature are the Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering light that vary the lighting direction as a function of the steering angle, and dynamic headlight range adjustment. They also adapt the light distribution to their surroundings in city, highway and freeway driving depending on the car’s speed. For example, in city traffic - up to 35 km/h - the lane boundary on the driver’s side is illuminated much brighter. These headlights are standard on the Golf R

Tiguan Track & Avenue

Tabs — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:31:00 GMT

Volkswagen is extending its Tiguan model range with a special edition: the Tiguan Track & Avenue. High-end materials predominate in its interior; on the exterior subtle body modifications and 19-inch alloy wheels round out its sporty look. This new special model of the popular SUV can be ordered now.

The new Tiguan Track & Avenue rides on standard 19-inch “Savannah” alloy wheels, and it offers a price advantage of over 2,000 Euros when all of its elegant and stylish features are considered. Two special exterior colours are being offered on this very expressive off-roader: “Oryx White Pearl Effect” and “Island Grey Pearl Effect”. The package also includes a 25 degree off-road front end, modest wheel flares and a silver-coloured diffuser.

The first-class equipment continues in the interior. The new Tiguan Track & Avenue has exclusive leather upholstery - “Heavy Waxy” in Amaranth - whose softness and durability make it one of the highest grade leathers. In addition, there are sport seats, an RCD 510 radio with Dynaudio sound system, “Climatronic” climate control and a leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel with coloured seams. The package is rounded out with front fog lights and Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic curve lighting.

The Tiguan Track & Avenue can be ordered in four engine-transmission combinations, all of them with a 6-speed gearbox. For example, the 2.0 TSI engine (147 kW / 200 PS) may be combined with a manual or automatic transmission. Two diesel engines with 2.0 l displacement complete the programme: the 103 kW / 140 PS engine paired with an automatic and the more powerful variant with a manual gearbox and 125 kW / 170 PS. No details yet on the UK pricing or indeed if we'll ever see the new mule, but we'll keep you updated as and when we hear!

The New Golf R

Tabs — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:18:00 GMT

Automotive passion – even in 2009 it still has something to do with power and performance. At the IAA, however, Volkswagen is demonstrating – in the world premiere of the new Golf R – that fuel consumption values can even be corrected downward in the high-end sports car area. And indeed without even a hint of a compromise in dynamic performance. On the contrary. Traditionally each new R version of this model series bears the title “strongest Golf of all times.” With a power of 199 kW / 270 PS (at 6,000 rpm), the new Golf R is continuing in this dynamic tradition; the previous model transferred 184 kW / 250 PS to its all-wheel drive system. The highlight here: While the now retired Golf R32 processed 10.7 litres of fuel through its fuel injection system every 100 kilometres, on the new Golf R the figure is just 8.5 litres – 2.2 litres or 21 percent less! CO2 emissions were reduced from 255 to 199 g/km. Like all R models, this one was also conceptualised by Volkswagen Individual.

In parallel, its performance data advanced as well. The new Golf R sprints from 0 to 100 km/h – also via all-wheel drive – in 5.7 seconds. On the previous model, the stopwatch stopped at 6.5 seconds. The new model puts the 1,000-meter mark behind it in 25.4 seconds, while the already masterful Golf R32 shot past this mark in 26.7 seconds. The Golf R does this even better with the optional DSG gearbox, sprinting to 100 km/h in a sensational 5.5 seconds and requiring just 8.4 litres petrol per 100 kilometres (equivalent to 195 g/km CO2) at the fuel pump.

The enormous efficiency gain of the new Golf R is not based on some magical trick, rather it is the result of highly advanced downsizing. Its legendary predecessor generated its power from a displacement of 3.2 litres (“32”) and six cylinders. In the new model, this is done with four cylinders and 2.0 litres of displacement – a highly advanced direct injection petrol engine with turbocharging (TSI). At the fuel pump and on the winding mountain road, this high-tech alliance is superior to a classic six cylinder unit with multi-point injection. Proving that even the sound of a four cylinder can leave a strong impression are the fifth and sixth generations of the Golf GTI, which is also powered by a four cylinder TSI. And the Golf R exhibits an even greater “sound range.”

The TSI’s torque characteristic is just as impressive. By comparison: The six cylinder of the previous model developed a maximum torque of 320 Newton-meters at 2,500 rpm. And that was already remarkably good. The turbo four-cylinder direct injection engine of the new Golf R, on the other hand, transfers 350 Newton-meters torque to the crankshaft, which is also available starting at 2,500 rpm, but it can maintain this peak value up to 5,000 rpm. So the new car delivers a fascinatingly high level of basic dynamic performance. The Golf R32 and Golf R are really only equal in one discipline; they both have a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited on the Golf R).

TSI of the Golf R

The EA113 series direct-injection petrol engine is used in the new Golf R; its turbocharger makes it very flexible and variable right up into the highest performance ranges. The 1,984 cm3 TSI’s specific power is a respectable 100.3 kW / 136.6 PS per litre displacement, and its response is just as impressive. The engine’s power can be spontaneously summoned in the blink of an eye throughout its speed range. The engine also impressively underscores its potential acoustically. Visually too: Its two chrome tailpipes can be seen at the centre of the bumper under the diffuser integrated there – an “R trait” that the previous model also displayed.

The in-line four-cylinder engine develops its tremendous propulsive power via a turbocharger (up to 1.2 bar boost pressure) with intercooling. The engine, with a weight of just 152 kilograms, is controlled by a fully electronic engine management system with E-Gas. The cylinders of the four-cylinder engine have been equipped with reinforcing bolts, unlike less powerful TSI versions. Also designed to be stronger are the connecting rods, so that they can reliably transfer the engine’s high torque to the crankshaft. Last but not least the cylinder block was also reinforced to handle the aggressive engine forces.

New all-wheel drive on the Golf R

As standard equipment, the Golf R transfers the TSI’s power to the road via the latest generation of Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system. Compared to the version implemented in the Golf R32, the system underwent significant advanced development. Above all, power transmission between the front and rear axles – especially the all-wheel differential that operates in an oil bath – exhibits clear advances compared to the previous generation. The most important one: Activation of the all-wheel differential no longer requires a difference in speeds between the front and rear axles.

That is because, different than on the previous generation, for the first time an electric pump is used to build pressure. The electric pump supplies oil to a hydraulic reservoir whose working pressure is 30 bar. A control module computes the ideal drive torque for the rear axle and controls, via a valve, how much oil pressure is applied to the working pistons of the multi-plate clutch. The contact pressure at the clutch plates rises in proportion to the desired torque at the rear axle. The amount of torque that is transferred can be varied continuously with the magnitude of the pressure applied to the clutch plates. Compared to the previous 4Motion generation, the system operates independent of slip, since the system’s working pressure is always available. When starting up and accelerating, this prevents spinning of the wheels at the front axle more effectively, since the control module regulates the torque distribution based on dynamic axle loads. In extreme cases, nearly 100 percent of the drive torque can be directed to the rear axle. This results in further gains in active safety and dynamic performance.

Sport chassis and brakes on the Golf R

When it came to the chassis, development engineers were able to adopt the first-class system in the current production Golf. This means: In front the familiar McPherson strut suspension with helical springs and telescoping shock absorbers; and at the rear a multi-link suspension ensures that the standard ESP seldom needs to intervene. Nonetheless, the basic layout was transformed into a sport chassis with ride-height lowered 25 millimetres, and the springs, dampers and stabilisers were completely retuned to match.

The brake system was also modified for the higher level of driving performance on the Golf R. In place of a 16-inch system, a 17-inch brake system is used with internally ventilated discs all around and R-specific brake calipers painted a high-gloss black with R logo. In front the discs are 345 millimetres in diameter, and 310 millimetres at the rear. The electronic stabilisation program (ESP) was also modified. It can be switched to a new Sport mode via the ESP button. During very fast and curve-filled drives – as on a motorsport race course – the ESP system delays intervention, enabling even more responsive handling properties. The electro-mechanical power-assist steering of the Golf R was also given a sportier characteristic. If the sports car is ordered with the optional DCC dynamic chassis control option, the power-assist steering even assumes a specially tuned characteristic for each of the system’s driving modes (Sport, Normal, Comfort).

The chassis maintains contact with the road through its standard newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels (“Talladega” type) with 225/40 tyres. As an option, the same wheels are available in a 19-inch version with 235/35 tyres.

Exterior features of the Golf R

Like the first two generations of the Super Golf (I starting in 2002, II in 2005) and the new sister model, the Scirocco R, the new Golf R too sports a completely modified set of exterior and interior features. Volkswagen designers, led by Klaus Bischoff, have given the Golf R an independent image with a bundle of well-coordinated refinements. The Golf R unmistakably marks the peak of the model series, and the quality of its styling follows the basic postulate of “La Semplicità” set forth by the Head of Group Design, Walter de Silva.

Outside, the customisation includes new wheels and brakes as well as new bumper designs. In front, three very large air intakes characterise the Golf R in the bumper area; the louvres on the intakes are painted in high-gloss black, and standard LED strips that serves as daytime running lights are integrated in the two outer air intakes. Also painted in high-gloss black are the two louvres of the radiator grille. Placed on the right side of the grille is the newly designed R logo in chrome. Bi-Xenon headlights, included without surcharge, illuminate the way through the night. On its sides, the Golf R is identified by its Talladega wheels, side skirt extensions in car colour and mirror housings painted in high-gloss black.

It is also possible to recognise the Golf R as an independent top model at the rear. Along with the bumper with diffuser and tailpipes, R logo and larger roof edge spoiler, the newly developed taillights stand out. They operate with standard, distinctive LED technology. The taillight covers are also smoked.

Interior features of the Golf R

The sixth generation Golf, with its high-end interior materials, breaks through boundaries to the next higher class. The Golf R also benefits from this quality image; it is in a league of its own based on its power reserves. Additional special upgrades developed by Volkswagen Individual underscore the car’s high-class positioning.

A key equipment option here is the newly designed “Top Sport seat system” with its excellent ergonomic properties. The driver just sits down, adjusts the seat longitudinally and in height, adjusts the steering wheel, buckles up, and is ready to go. The seat fits as though tailor-made. Together with the similarly customised Golf GTI and Golf GTD, the Golf R sets standards here among the international competition. The centre panels of the sport seats are upholstered in the honeycomb textured grey-black “Kyalami” design – named after the race course by the same name in South Africa. The front edge of the seat is upholstered in Titan Black fabric, while the inside panels of the side supports are upholstered with crystal-grey “San Remo” micro-fibres. The rest of the seat components and the roofliner are coloured black. The new R logo is embroidered in the front head restraints as well. Motorsport shell seats for driver and front passenger are also available as an option. In this case, the centre seat panels are upholstered in the “San Remo” micro-fibre fabric. On the outside, the shell seats are covered with black leather.

All seams of the interior are in “Art Grey”; this is also true of the decorative seams on the three-spoke leather steering wheel. Perforated leather is used at the top and bottom of the steering wheel, ensuring maximum hand grip. The sides of the steering wheel featuring ergonomic motorsport attributes are covered by continuous leather. Spokes in fine black piano paint add an elegant aspect to complete the sporty image. The centre steering wheel spoke bears the new R logo. The fascinating material contrast of piano paint and chrome conveys an image of the passion for finesse and precision in every detail.

Other new design features include the R gearshift knob, carpet floor mats, aluminium door tread plates with R logo and the instruments with their blue pointers. Stainless steel sport pedals and R-specific instrument and door accents in “Silver Lane” style complete the customisation. Another standard feature on the Golf R is an automatic climate control system (“Climatronic”), “RCD 310” radio-CD system (4 x 20 Watt) including MP3 player plus dual tuners.

Wimmer RS Golf GTI Punches 386HP

Tabs — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 09:59:00 GMT

Wimmer RS from Solingen has for a long time established its reputation by spectacular car conversions. Nevertheless, strict appropriateness for daily use is also programmed by Wimmer RS. VW Golf VI GTI 2.0 TFSI with its powerful 211 hp engine is a thoroughbred sports car already ex works. After a kind of fitness cure at Wimmer RS tuning forgery, the little sports car will definitely become a weapon.

Now, GTI turbo engine generates full 386 hp with the torque of 455 Nm. This is due to an optimized turbo loader with manifold, the use of a sports CAT, the adaptation of the intake system, the modified fuel pump, innovative injection valves, piston rod and intercooler as well as high grade steel sports exhaust system. Don’t forget the proprietary engine electronics and the modification of the TSI-unit. All this provides for the maximum speed of 267 km/h or 166 mph respectively. For safety reasons Solingen has furthermore installed a sports clutch that guarantees better power transmission and very high driving stability.

Concerning the wheels, Wimmer RS gives the choice of 18-, 19- and 20″ rims. As top of the pops the Solinger car tuner offers a complete wheel set of Motec „Antares” in 8×20 inches with Dunlop Sport Maxx GT 235/30 ZR 20 high performance tyres.

The GTI handling has been moreover optimized by the height-adjustable HR sports coilover suspension system.

ABT Tackles The New Golf GTI

Tabs — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 15:37:00 GMT

ABT Sportsline has now been customising vehicles for five decades – and right on time for the Anniversary, the Allgau Company is presenting the new, sixth Golf GTI. Sporty and fast “Golfs” in particular have carried these three letters since 1976. ABT was the place to go for everyone who wanted even more dynamic and driving fun from the very beginning. The latest generation of the compact sports car also bears the magic abbreviation, and of course it is now available in a breathtaking ABT version.

The engine output is impressive, because due to optimized engine management (ABT POWER), the standard 210 HP (154 kW) become a dynamic 260 HP (191 kW). ABT POWER S makes the GTI even hotter: a new turbocharger, „Made in Kempten“, is used additionally in this case. The 2.0 TSI then has an output of a sporty 300 HP (221 kW) and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in around six seconds. Thanks to ABT chassis springs, the GTI’s centre of gravity is located a good 30 mm lower, so the uber-Golf can be driven even more sportily. The chassis setting, which was designed by Christian Abt, is especially good fun on winding roads. And in the extreme case, the powerful ABT braking system also kicks in.

But an ABT Golf GTI is not only a hot piece of sports equipment for the road, it also looks like one: the bodywork package that designers have created underlines the car’s pure dynamics: no matter how you look at the GTI, it is always impressive. Rear spoiler and rear apron superstructure, side mouldings, front grill and apron as well as the diagonal 4-pipe exhaust system form one unit. ABT engineers also designed a front lip, which provide s a power-performance in combination with the front apron and the new ABT Daytime Running Lamp. The equally elegant as expressive colouring matches this: the paintwork in carbon steel grey metallic harmonises perfectly with side mouldings and front lip in the contrast colour red. The design also continues consistently in the interior, for all screens, the ornamental rings of the combination instrument and the steering wheel panels are painted in the signal tone. One look at the car will tell you that it’s more than a “normal” Golf GTI – and consequently the sixth variation of the fast compact car with the large tailgate is steeped in the best tradition. Namely, its five predecessors also became powerful Golfs at ABT. ABT and GTI: these six letters have simply belonged together for 33 years.

The new GTI introduced

Tabs — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 09:33:00 GMT

All the excitement wasn't expected in 1975 at the Frankfurt Motor Show when a Golf with a few little additions was introduced to the public. It took until 1979 for the steering wheel to be available on the right but, by then, the recipe had been perfected and the seed sown; the GTI was born.

Success was unexpected, and since then the UK has always been one of the most important areas for the Golf GTI outside of the German home market. Regardless of this, the design did differ from the original a little too much in the 1990s - perhaps as people grew up and the market briefly thought it wanted comfort and the red grill disappeared.

But the red grill is back. uk-mkivs.net went to see what else this youngster had to offer.

Invited to Millbrook, one of Europe's premier automotive test facilities, we intended to give the New Golf GTI a good looking at and perhaps a quick drive about to get a feel for it; take some photos and look under the bonnet and see how comfy the seats were. Volkswagen UK had differing plans. We got to experience the car through some amazing test areas such as the high speed bowl and the Alpine circuit with a professional driver.

The car has evolved once again - rather being a radical rebuild - the changes are purposeful and give the right results. The interior in the Golf V always came to blows with opinion because of its perceived quality and this has been addressed with a new interior which is a much nicer, quieter place to be. Comfortable and supportive seats carry the distinctive GTI cloth design thats been slightly modified this time round and the blue dials have been replaced with white. Also the trademark features of the black headlining and leather steering wheel remain.

Under the bonnet the traditional four cylinder petrol sits but now the engine is a new 2.0-litre turbo unit that's got 208bhp (11bhp more than the last GTI) and is cleaner and more economical and can now do 38mpg instead of 35.

The new GTI does 0-62mph in 6.9sec and normally this can be beat if you opt for the DSG 'box instead of the six-speed manual

Our test car was a manual with ACC- adaptive chassis control. We headed straight out onto the high speed bowl at Millbrook for out first taste. A perfect circle, it was designed to test high speed capability but it was a perfect test for the ACC. The instant the button is pressed to change the setting the results are felt in the ride. Comfort is perfect for the motorway and this kind of controlled straight line environment and was utterly smooth. Press for the sport setting and rather than it solidifying the ride, it firms it and remains tolerable.

Sport still selected we headed to the Alpine circuit to test how the chassis had been developed for the corners. And developed it is; the previous model was an excellent cross country car but it's been improved - I expect minor adjustments rather than vast re-designs. High levels of grip and even when being aggressive and allowing for weight transference through corners it grips and carries on.

As a performance based Golf forum the introduction of a new GTI is always a big thing but time is always needed to allow it to settle in. The initial rejection wains and the criticism fade. Its may look like a V, but I can assure you it really is number six- the red grill is back.

by Gary Cundliffe

Discuss this article in our MKVI Forum

Volkswagen aims for a second successive year in Nurburgring 24H

Tabs — Wed, 13 May 2009 12:25:00 GMT

Wolfsburg (13 May 2009). A genuine sportscar, two engine alternatives, a 24-hour endurance test: The Volkswagen Scirocco will tackle the 24-hour race on the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife on 23 and 24 May. Two Scirocco GT24-CNG cars with natural gas engines as well as three Scirocco GT24 vehicles using conventional petrol fuel will take on strong rivals in the "Green Hell”. The aim is to add another victory to those clinched in the highly competitive class for two-litre turbo engines in 2007 and 2008 and, in addition, to be successful in the class for alternative powertrains, thanks to EcoFuel natural gas technology.

"The 24-hour race is a very special challenge. The Nürburgring-Nordschleife is more difficult than any other track, the field is huge and the race a real marathon,” says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "Volkswagen sets standards on the road with its EcoFuel natural gas models and we want to show that alternative powertrains like CNG technology can be successful in motorsport as well. In addition, we want to achieve the hat-trick with our petrol-powered Scirocco GT24 in the class of vehicles with two-litre turbo engines.”

Volkswagen EcoFuel: additional powertrain concept for the proven Scirocco GT24

The five Scirocco GT24 cars are powered by proven as well as by innovative technology. The two-litre turbo engine used in the three petrol-powered Scirocco cars is almost identical to last year’s version, with one exception. An air restrictor with a smaller cross-section prescribed by the regulations reduces the engine’s power output from 325 to 315 hp. The EcoFuel engine in the two natural gas-powered Scirocco vehicles generates 282 hp from the gaseous CNG (compressed natural gas) fuel. The engineers primarily focused on the mixture formation of the engine fitted with a turbocharger as well as the balance between maximum exhaust gas temperature and full usage of the turbocharger’s potential in order to match the "sister car’s” good driveability, high performance and high reliability.

The further development of the chassis and bodywork was focused on detailed aspects as well. Improved weight distribution, an optimised gearbox and aerodynamic fine-tuning characterise the sport coupe for the 2009 endurance classic. "The objective was to reduce overall weight, lower the centre of gravity and, as a result, improve the car’s handling,” says Andreas Lautner, Technical Director at Volkswagen Motorsport. "We achieved this goal and are now at the minimum weight of 1,100 kilograms.” In addition, tests on the Nordschleife as well as three races in the Endurance Championship Nürburgring served to systematically prepare for the 24-hour marathon.

The New Polo Unveiled

Tabs — Tue, 12 May 2009 10:22:00 GMT

At the Geneva Motor Show at the beginning of March, the Polo debuted with a completely new look and technology. After its celebrated world premiere, this latest Volkswagen is now entering the market. Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn: "The new Polo fulfills the highest standards of the automotive present and goes a step further. Its extremely efficient drive technologies, best possible active and passive safety systems, a level of quality never before attained in this car class and impressive design all set new benchmarks in the fifth generation of this bestseller that has sold over 10.6 million units." The Chairman of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Group continues: "The Polo is clearly the right car at the right time, and that is born out by the latest advance sales figures. Here we have created a Volkswagen that takes the unparalleled success of the Golf concept and effectively transfers it to an independent segment – the Polo class."

"It is already clear that the Polo will redefine the benchmarks in its class, especially when it comes to preserving natural resources," says Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management, Volkswagen Brand, and responsible for technical development. Dr. Hackenberg continues: "As a 90-PS TDI with a BlueMotionTechnology package, the new Polo moves with 3.6 liter fuel consumption. Even our new 105-PS TSI only consumes 5.5 liters per 100 kilometers. We have succeeded in improving fuel economy between 8 and 20 percent over the entire gasoline engine lineup, and between 5 and 15 percent among the diesels. And that is really good."

Another key fact: No other car in its class has such a mature and high-end image as the new Polo. Comfort, quality and safety have all taken a considerable leap forward. One example: among other things, the Polo was specifically designed to attain the recently established, stricter and more comprehensive, 5-star EuroNCAP rating. The greater structural rigidity of the Polo’s bodyshell contributes to these results. In the footwell area alone, intrusion – related to the car body’s resistance to deformation in a frontal crash – was lowered by 50 percent! In the case of a side impact, the intrusion value was reduced by 20 percent.

In addition, the European version of the Polo now being presented is equipped with standard ESP electronic stabilization program with Hill Hold Control, and it has a highly effective network of airbags on board, including combined head-thorax airbags (integrated in the front seatbacks), belt tensioners and belt force limiters plus seatbelt warning indicator and head restraints that counteract the risk of whiplash injury (both front seats), three rear head restraints and Isofix preparation for child seats.

Volkswagen has rearranged the line structure of its equipment lines since the previous model: "Trendline" still represents the entry-level variant, and "Comfortline" still refers to the mid equipment level. New to the lineup – and bringing the Polo in line with the Golf here – is the top version called "Highline". Convenience features that are already standard features of the Polo Trendline include: electro-hydraulic power steering, power windows in front, central locking, cargo area lighting and tie-down points, warning buzzer if lights are left on, height adjustment for driver’s seat, illuminated make-up mirrors in the sun visors and green tinted windows. Meanwhile, "Titanium black" trim and "Metric" fabric give the interior a perceptibly high-end ambiance.

Facts Summary

Equipment lines

Polo Trendline
Polo Comfortline
Polo Highline

Engines offered at sales launch in June 2009

1.2 MPI with 44 kW / 60 PS
1.2 MPI with 51 kW / 70 PS
1.4 MPI with 63 kW / 85 PS
1.6 TDI with 55 kW / 75 PS
1.6 TDI with 66 kW / 90 PS
1.6 TDI with 77 kW / 105 PS

Gasoline engine-transmission pairings and equipment lines they may be combined with over the long-term

1.2 MPI with 44 kW / 60 PS, SG-5* / Trendline
1.2 MPI with 51 kW / 70 PS, SG-5 / Trendline, Comfortline
1.4 MPI with 63 kW / 86 PS, SG-5, DSG-7* / Comfortline, Highline
1.2 TSI with 77 kW / 105 PS, SG-6, DSG-7 /Comfortline, Highline

Diesel engine-transmission pairings and equipment lines they may be combined with over the long-term

1.6 TDI with 55 kW / 75 PS, SG-5* / Trendline
1.6 TDI with 66 kW / 90 PS, SG-5, DSG-7* / Comfortline, Highline
1.6 TDI with 66 kW / 90 PS at 96 g/km CO2, SG-5 /
BlueMotionTechnology package for Comfortline, Highline
1.6 TDI with 77 kW / 105 PS, SG-5 / Comfortline, Highline

Key changes compared to the previous generation

New TSI and Common Rail TDI engines
All engines fulfill the Euro-5 emissions standard
Up to 20 percent improvement in fuel economy
BlueMotionTechnology version sets standards with 3.6 liter fuel economy
Innovative 7-speed DSG appears in the Polo for first time
First vehicle in the A0 class that should fulfill the new, more stringent EuroNCAP 5-Star standard
Body weight reduced by 7.5 percent; gross weight reduced by 2.5 percent
ABS is standard – worldwide
ESP is standard – on all major European markets
Head-thorax airbags are standard – on all major European markets
Static turning light, integrated in the front fog lights
Audio and navigation systems from higher vehicle classes (Golf, Passat)
Completely new level of quality in the A0 class
Best insurance ratings in the A0 class

Volkswagens GTI Project Game

Tabs — Tue, 12 May 2009 09:58:00 GMT

Ahead of the UK launch of the new Golf GTI on May 22, Volkswagen has constructed a Scalextric track on an epic scale inside a hangar to lend armchair (or office chair) enthusiasts the chance to race the new hot hatch online and against the clock.

The track is the work of a team of 60 modellers and features over 200 scale buildings in a space occuping 25ft by 30ft. It forms the basis for the GTI Project, a new online game through which you can control the 1:43 scale Golf GTI as it negotiates the hairpins, straights and narrow bridges that make up the track. Theres no need to spend hours setting it up on the living room floor, no potential damage to furniture (and family pets) should you crash at high speed. Simply log onto www.gtiproject.com and youll be guided to the virtual workshops of the GTI Project and the track itself.

As with the real thing, too much enthusiasm leads to crashes and lost time. A delicate approach and a little perseverance lead to quick times and your chance to appear on the online global leader board, possibly resulting in universal acclaim from friends and colleagues.

Along the way you can learn more about the new Golf GTI, from its new 2.0-litre TSI engine to the advanced six-speed DSG gearbox, colours, trims and performance information. In addition you can order a brochure or even book a test drive.

Set a particularly quick time and youll be entered into the prize draw to stand the chance of winning the opportunity to drive a new Golf GTI for three months.

The order books are now open for the full-scale Golf GTI. Prices for the three-door model start at £22,410 and rise to £22,995 for the five-door model. More information on the new Golf GTI can be found at www.volkswagen.co.uk or at any Volkswagen Retailer.

Members of uk-mkivs have been busy setting times on the track and to check out their results see this forum topic for details.

The MKVI Golf GTD Hits The Road

Tabs — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 10:51:00 GMT

As the new GTI hits the road for the first time its sister car has been unveiled at the Leipzig Motor Show: the new diesel-powered Golf GTD.

The ability to accelerate to 62 mph in 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 136 mph are combined with average fuel consumption of 53.3 mpg and a range in excess of 650 miles on a single tank of fuel to create a hot hatch of the moment.

Lessons learned through the creation of the sixth generation GTI are applied to the new GTD. Sharp responses and an agile chassis complement the car’s substantial torque which is available from as low as 1,750 rpm.

Powering the new GTD is a refined 2.0-litre (1,968 cc) common rail TDI engine, producing 170 PS and 258 lbs ft of torque. Driving through a six-speed manual or automatic DSG gearbox, this translates to effortless performance with CO₂ emissions of just 139 g/km.

Maintaining the sharp responses expected of the GTD is suspension lowered by 15 mm when compared to the standard Golf. In addition, Volkswagen’s innovative Adaptive Chassis Control system (ACC), featuring pneumatically controlled damper units, can be specified on the GTD. This allows the driver to select from normal, comfort or sport modes to define the desired suspension, steering and accelerator response settings for any particular journey.

The Golf GTD’s appearance will differ significantly from that of the standard Golf’s. It gains the GTI’s honeycomb grille, badge-style and front-end design, though with the addition of chrome rather than red highlights. At the back, full body-coloured bumpers make the GTD appear lower and wider than it really is, while the Golf’s standard wheels are replaced with unique 17-inch ‘Seattle Black’ alloys. Inside, the main contact points are unique to the Golf GTD – a flat-bottomed steering wheel, a GTD gearshift and a standard tartan interior. The tartan finish is subtly different from that in the GTI, being grey, white and black, rather than red, white and black.

As with the entire Golf range, the new GTD will feature class-leading levels of safety with ABS, ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) and seven airbags, including for the first time a knee airbag, all standard. The Golf was recently awarded a maximum five-star rating by the EuroNCAP crash testing agency.

UK buyers will be able to order a Golf GTD from the end of April. Prices are yet to be confirmed but will start at under £22,000. The car will go on sale on 22 June – exactly one month after the first GTIs hit UK roads.

Sportec SC 350 Scirocco

Tabs — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 11:57:00 GMT

Like its predecessors, the new VW Scirocco is once again becoming an object of great fascination for car tuners. The most recent version is now presented by Swiss HighEnd Tuner Sportec: Among other things, the program consists of a performance optimisation, a sports suspension, elegant rims and other generally enhancing engineering components.

For the 200hp and 2 litre gasoline engine, various performance optimisations are available - from 240hp to 350hp. In the top version, the maximum torque takes a giant leap from 280 to 480 newton metres. The gained performance is achieved by the interaction between the engine electronics and a stainless steel exhaust system, a Sportec turbocharger, a charge-air intercooler and the modified fuel system.

A carbon engine cover is the precious gift package for this technical delicacy.

The Sportec suspension springs permit significantly improved handling characteristics and transverse dynamics. They not only lower the coupé by 35 millimetres, but are also in perfect harmony with the electronically adjustable shock-absorber system DCC.

The differential lock Sportec has added further enhances the Scirocco's grip by several degrees during racier trip sequences.

Another highlight: a 20" Sportec Mono/10 wheelset. An extremely light 9x20" spoke rim has been chosen and equipped with 245/30 tyres.

On the inside, passengers may enjoy a 4-part floor mat set made of soft velour and a multi-part carbon interior with Sportec logo.

Therefore, the Sportec SC 350 is not only quick and sporty, but also a seductively sensuous experience.

Fifth Gear Review the Golf MKVI

Tabs — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 12:41:00 GMT

Johnny Smith, from channel Fives Fifth Gear, reviewing the 2.0L 110PS Golf MKVI TDI. I think they like it.,

[Go to the site to view embedded media]

Discuss this post in our MKVI Golf Forum....

The Golf Plus Returns

Tabs — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:44:00 GMT

Within just three and a half years, the Golf Plus has made a name for itself as an established product in the Golf lineup. Its brand identity: clever like a van, compact like a Golf. Over this time period, more than 500,000 car drivers across Europe chose a plus in interior and seat heights, a plus in variability, and finally a plus in comfort. This is now being followed up by a Golf Plus that has been improved in many aspects. Volkswagen is presenting it as a world premiere at the Bologna Motor Show (December 03 to 14). European-wide market launch of the new generation Golf Plus will already take place in March 2009.

Visually, the new “Plus” forges a link to the classic body style of the just introduced sixth Golf generation. This is especially apparent at the front end. Also redesigned are the rear bumper and the roof rails. New steel and alloy wheels in a variety of sizes round out the exterior package of visual modifications. Inside, the further improved Golf Plus sports details like new upholstery materials and details also implemented in the Golf such as its instruments, steering wheel options and user interface for the automatic climate control system (Climatronic).

Technically, the Golf Plus also implements details that the new Golf introduced for the first time in this Volkswagen segment. They include the new, fuel-efficient and very quiet common rail turbo-diesel engines (66 kW / 90 PS to 103 kW / 140 PS). The common rail TDIs reduce average fuel consumption by up to 0.8 liter per 100 kilometers.

As on the classic Golf, the conventional automatic transmission was also eliminated on the Golf Plus and replaced by 6-speed and 7-speed dual clutch transmissions (DSG) that are as fuel efficient as they are agile. Also new aboard the Golf Plus are the optional “Adaptive Cruise Control” (ACC), “Park Assist” parking assistant and rearview camera. Last but not least, the equipment lines were restructured too (Trendline, Comfortline and Highline as top version).

The Golf has always exhibited an unmistakable and linear design. And this not only applies to the original form of the classic car; it is also true of the “specialists” on the Golf team – successful Volkswagens like the “GTI”, “Variant” and certainly the “Plus” as well. With the recent launch of the sixth generation of Golfs, this model series is experiencing a new level of maturity in its timeless and confident styling and design. This is based on the newly developed “Volkswagen design DNA”. A key aspect here is the car’s extremely high level of value. Key elements of the design language developed by the team led by Walter de Silva are now characteristics of the new Golf Plus too.

New front end

Dominant here is the horizontally aligned band of the radiator grille between the new headlight design (with standard daytime running lights); it consists of two high-gloss black cross-bars in which the VW logo is integrated. On the Highline version, each of these bars has a narrow strip of chrome at its upper end. The lines of the new bumper match those of the radiator grille. In the space below the bumper, designed in black, there is another air inlet and the fog lights that are worked into the outer areas as well as a chrome surround around the inlet screen. The fog lights also assume the new function of static turning lights being introduced on this model. This much is certain: the new front end design and distinctive headlights give the Golf Plus a significantly more dynamic and high-end appearance.

Modified rear end

In the rear, designers have restyled the bumper. The results: a plus in dynamics and precision. The bumper is now completely painted in car color. The only exception is the lower area, where there is a high-gloss black segment in the center giving the visual effect of a diffuser. High-visibility reflectors were also integrated in the lower section of the bumper. The taillights with their LED technology were styled in a new dark red (“Cherry red”).

Side profile with new roof rails

The side profile of the Golf Plus has remained largely unchanged. However, new roof rails were integrated more harmoniously into the car’s overall line. Compared to its predecessor, this car is lower in profile, more refined, and it is painted silver starting with the Highline (Trendline and Comfortline: black). In its side profile, the new wheel designs are also conspicuous. Even the base version gets new full wheel covers. In the upscale direction, the lineup of wheel-tire combinations is rounded out by the new 18-inch “Bilbao” alloy wheel design from Volkswagen Individual.

Interior

The Golf Plus, always offered as a four-door with a large hatch is one of the most variable and practical vehicles of its class. Some ways in which these qualities are realized: the slightly elevated and very upright seating position, rear bench seat (split 40:60 and folding, seatback split 40:20:40) with 160 millimeters of longitudinal adjustment, optional folding front passenger seat, variable cargo floor, a storage concept that has been thought through to the last detail and ample space for passengers and their luggage.

New instruments and automatic climate control

The instruments now have the same look as those in the new Golf, Passat and Passat CC. Dominant here are the two round instruments in brushed chrome surrounds that are even supplied in the base equipment version. Instrument scaling is backlit in white (regardless of whether the headlights are on or off); pointer gauges are designed in red. Also configured in white are the graphics of the multifunctional display (MFA) located between the tachometer and speedometer – standard in all equipment versions effective immediately. Analogous to the Golf and Passat, a new generation of steering wheel is making its way onto the Golf Plus, perfected in touch and appearance.

If the Volkswagen is ordered with automatic climate control (Climatronic), a new user interface developed for control of temperature and ventilation is included.

New technologies I – innovative engines

The new Golf Plus will be offered with five gasoline engines (59 kW / 80 PS to 118 kW / 160 PS) and four new turbo-diesel engines (66 kW / 90 PS to 103 kW / 140 PS). All engines are four-cylinder, all engines are charged starting at 90 PS, all engines fulfill the Euro-5 emissions standard. And with the exception of the base variants, any of the gasoline and diesel engines may be paired with a 6-speed or 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG) – this signifies the retirement of the classic automatic with torque-converter lockup clutch in the Golf Plus and its replacement by DSG technology.

For a better understanding of just how efficiently the DSGs work, consider the 90 kW / 122 PS strong Golf Plus TSI (1.4 liter displacement) with 7-speed DSG: This 200 km/h fast Volkswagen is satisfied with just 6.3 liters fuel per 100 kilometers (146 g/km CO2).

New Common Rail TDI

After the Golf, in early 2009 Volkswagen will also fully convert the Golf Plus over to common rail engines with four valves per cylinder. The TDIs output 66 kW / 90 PS, 77 kW / 105 PS, 81 kW / 110 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS. Right at the car’s market launch, TDIs will be available with 110 PS and 140 PS. Always on board with all diesels: a diesel particulate filter (DPF). Besides being fuel efficient and dynamic, the new TDI engines are also characterized by noticeably good low-noise properties.

Also pioneering are the car’s low fuel consumption values: the 189 km/h fast Golf Plus TDI with 110 PS consumes just 5.1 liters fuel per 100 kilometers on average. CO2 emissions of the 2.0 liter TDI are just 134 g/km.

Running at an equally excellent level underway is the Golf Plus TDI with 140 PS. In this 2.0 liter version, exactly 5.1 liters of diesel flow to the common rail injection per 100 kilometers on average: that is 0.8 liter less than on the TDI with pump-nozzle technology, which was already very efficient. In parallel, Volkswagen has reduced CO2 emissions on the 204 km/h fast Golf Plus TDI from 153 to 135 g/km!

New technologies II – Park Assist

For the first time on the Golf Plus, the updated model generation offers the parking assistant “Park Assist”. The system enables nearly automatic reverse parking parallel to the roadway. The driver only needs to actuate the gas pedal, brake and clutch. Meanwhile, the Golf Plus steers into the premeasured parking space, controlled by sensors.

New technologies III – Rearview camera

Also new aboard the Golf Plus is the optional rearview camera – “Rear Assist”. The camera is located in the VW emblem in the hatch. As soon as reverse gear is engaged, the VW logo swivels upward, together with the camera, to scan the space behind the Golf Plus from this position. The system may be ordered in combination with the RCD 510 and RNS 510 touchscreen radio and radio-navigation systems. Camera images are transferred directly to the touchscreen.

New technologies IV – Visual Parking Assistant

If the Golf Plus is ordered with “ParkPilot” or “Park Assist” – together with one of the radio or radio-navigation systems RCD 310, RNS 310, RCD 510 or RNS 510 – a new visual display may be accessed as an alternative to the rearview camera. The “Visual Parking Assistant” shows a bird’s eye view of the vehicle in the display and symbolically represents potential obstacles in the front and rear areas, precisely where they are actually located.

New technologies V – Adaptive Cruise Control ACC

Another new assistance system on the Golf Plus is “Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)”. When “ACC” is activated, the Golf Plus automatically brakes and accelerates based on laser measurements. The driver preselects a speed between 30 and 210 km/h. Important: “Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)” not only maintains the preselected speed, but also the preselected distance to the next vehicle in traffic.

Golf Plus Trendline

Volkswagen will offer this high-roof version of the Golf in the three equipment lines “Trendline”, “Comfortline” and “Highline”. “Highline” replaces the previous top version “Sportline”.

The entry-level “Trendline” is anything but a spartan version. Standard equipment includes safety features such as six airbags, crash-active head restraints, and ESP on board. Comfort is perfected by such details as a climate control system (Climatic), power windows, height-adjustable driver’s seat, new and appealing fabric seat covers (“Flow”), longitudinal adjustment of the rear bench seat, multifunctional display (MFA), a rear window antenna, chrome bezels on the air vents, power steering with speed-dependent control, green tinted glass and central locking. The outside mirrors, door handles and bumpers are also painted in car color. The standard roof rails are kept in black.

Golf Plus Comfortline

The Golf Plus Comfortline is equipped with even more features. Standard equipment supplemental to the Trendline version includes 16-inch wheels with size 205 tires, side guard strips also in car color, chrome accents on the radiator grille, a storage compartment in the roofliner, folding tables and pockets on the seatbacks of the front seats, special seat covers (“Porch Studio F”), comfort seats and height adjustable front passenger’s seat, bag hooks in the cargo area, center armrest in front, cruise control (GRA), ParkPilot in front and rear, leather steering wheel, gearshift knob and parking brake lever, dual cargo floor and the new RCD 210 radio-CD system.

Golf Plus Highline

“Highline” – the top version of a model series – is an equipment designation with a great tradition at Volkswagen. Similar to the Golf, it was adopted again for this model series, to retire the previous “Sportline” versions in parallel with a restructuring of equipment lines. The Golf Plus Highline furnishes additional details such as sport seats (center panels in Alcantara), fog lights with static turn lighting, center armrest in front, Multifunctional Display Plus, automatic climate control (Climatronic), silver painted roof rails, winter package (including heated seats, headlight cleaning system), RCD 210 radio-CD system, multifunctional steering wheel and 17-inch alloy wheels (“Porto” type).

Also available as options on all versions are details such as bi-xenon headlights with curve lighting, multifunctional steering wheels, eight different types of alloy wheels (15 to 18 inch), a sport package (including sport chassis, tire pressure monitoring and tinted side windows), nine metallic and pearl effect colors, three radio-CD and two radio-navigation systems, several hands-free systems, a sound system, Mobile Device Interface (MDI) as an interface for audio devices with USB connector and a digital receiver module (DAB) for the radio systems. So this all-around car not only offers a plus in space, but also a plus when it comes to individualization.

Golf Plus Collectors Edition

On a concept car based on the new Golf Plus, Volkswagen Individual is providing a demonstration of just how limitless the hidden possibilities of individualization are: the Collectors Edition.

This concept car is outfitted with the exclusive “White pearl effect” body color. Providing the necessary contact to the road are size 225/40 tires on new 18-inch “Bilbao” alloy wheels. Inside and out, the Golf Plus Collectors Edition exudes a kind of lounge ambiance. And not only because of the espresso machine integrated in the center console. The interior is trimmed in high-end nappa leather in “Titanium black” and “St. Tropez” (cream white) – this creates a very contemporary and urbane ambiance. Perfection right down to the last detail is evident in the decorative “Viaggio” seams between the individual sections of nappa leather trim.

Furthermore, it is the contrasts between low and high gloss surfaces that define the interior. All accents, for example, are in high-gloss black piano paint, which encounters the silky matte of the nappa leather in the instrument panel area.

Volkswagen Scirocco Studie R

Tabs — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:22:00 GMT

It was a triumphant drive: in May 2008, three Scirocco GT24 cars lined up at the start of the 24-hour endurance race on the Nürburgring track. At the wheel: driving legends the likes of Hans-Joachim Stuck and Carlos Sainz. The teams drove two 238 kW / 325 PS strong race cars to a dual victory at the finish line, first and second in their class. Now Volkswagen is presenting a street version of the race car at the Bologna Motor Show: the Scirocco Studie R. A genuine Grand Tourismo with a 198 kW / 270 PS engine that delivers aggressive propulsive power. This power is distributed by a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Adapted directly from car racing are the coilovers, the four-piston brake calipers and a sound-optimized exhaust system with its oval, polished tailpipes.

Visually, in many respects the concept emulates the race car version. Take the front end, for example: here the design adheres to the motto “Form follows function”; it features three large air inlet openings that guarantee optimal cooling of the brakes and engine. The front splitter that was added minimizes aerodynamic lift of the front axle. Also adopted from the racing version is the engine hood with its auxiliary air vents.

The rear end is dominated by an integrated rear wing and distinctive diffuser in the lower section of the bumper. These two components reduce lift at the rear axle substantially. Despite the aerodynamic design derived from car racing, a clear stylistic resemblance to the production Scirocco was preserved. Identifying characteristics of its side profile are the new side skirts and polished 19-inch alloy wheels with five sets of triple spokes. The wheels were specially developed for the Scirocco Studie R.

The radiator screen, diffuser and underside of the rear spoiler are treated in high-gloss black, and this provides a strong contrast to the white exterior paint. Supplemented by a “Bologna 08” badge, red and green stylistic elements on a white background create an Italian tricolor. The outside mirrors are also coordinated with this color scheme.

Interior

Italy’s national colors are also represented in the interior. White and black create the basic theme, similar to the exterior car color. The seams of the Recaro racing shell seats, steering wheel, front armrest, gearshift lever trim and floor mat edging are designed in the colors of the tricolor. Inside, nappa leather in “Deep black” and “Berry white” is applied to the uncompromisingly designed racing shell seat. The shell seats are upholstered with a deep black leather in carbon look. An eye-catching feature here is the conspicuous yet refined contrast of low and high-gloss elements of the carbon structure. Interior accents also consist of genuine carbon composites. The footwell features aluminum pedals specially designed for this vehicle.

Discuss this article in our Scirocco Forums