Volkswagen
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Volkswagen's reputation has been taking a number of big hits due to the cheating software they used in a number of their diesel models to pass EPA regulations. But a new report says the company is planning to regain the trust of some of their owners. The Truth About Cars learned from a source that Volkswagen will be announcing a program that offers owners of affected TDI models (new and used) to recive a prepaid card. Two cards will be available to owners; the first will be a $500 card that can be used anywhere, while a second card - expected to be around $500 to $750 - can only be used at Volkswagen dealers. Details of this program are expected to be announced th…
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During the reign of former Volkswagen Chairman Ferdinand Piëch, the company was arranged in such a way where each of the twelve brands were given autonomy to encourage competition between them. Many believed this arrangement made controlling almost impossible and was slow to react to changes in the marketplace. But with Piëch out the company, there appears to be a change incoming in how the company is structured. German publication Handelsblatt reports that Volkswagen will restructure the decentralized system into four holding companies for the 12 brands. Here's how it will break down, Holding Company 1: Volkswagen, Skoda, and Seat to be under the leadership of Form…
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It seems Volkswagen has entered the megalomaniac stage. According to German publication Autobild, Volkswagen is planning a new premium midsize model to take on the likes of the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This new model is expected to come in the form hatchback sedan (think Audi A7) and a station wagon. The U.S. and China will get the sedan only, while everywhere else will have both options. As for what will underpin the new model, Volkswagen is debating whether to use its own MQB architecture or use Audi's MLB platform. Power will come from a range of four and six-cylinder diesel and gas engines. This new model is expected to go on sale towards the end of…
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 5, 2013 Volkswagen has reportedly begun planning a competitor to the Subaru Outback. According to Automotive News, Volkswagen has given a green light to an AWD version of the next-gen Golf-based Jetta SportWagon. Sources say the company is deciding whether to make into Outback competitor with a higher ground clearance and body-cladding. Now Volkswagen currently sells something like this in parts of the world. The Passat Alltrack takes a Passat wagon and raises the ride height and adds body cladding. Volkswagen showed a concept version of the Passat Alltrack at the 2012 New York Auto Show. Source: Automotive News …
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Volkswagen may have put the Phaeton redesign on the back burner to improve profitability. Bloomberg has learned from sources that the German automaker is looking at ways of lowering the costs of materials and production, despite a new version of the Phaeton is ready to go. The Phaeton was never a big seller for Volkswagen. However, the model seemed to find a foothold in Asian markets - notably China and South Korea - in 2010 and 2011. But the fallout of the Chinese automaker and the age of the Phaeton has caused sales to drop. With the possibility of Volkswagen reworking the Phaeton, this could signal a change at the German automaker from the Piech era where …
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Since Volkswagen launched the Amarok pickup in 2009 in certain parts of the world, it has become a success for the company. It has also made many people in the U.S. clamor Volkswagen to bring the Amarok here. Before the model was launched, Volkswagen was considering selling it in the U.S. However the decision was made that the Amarok wouldn't be a good fit. But Volkswagen appears to be reconsidering their decision. "It's a question mark, but it starts to be discussed. Let's put it this way: we start to discuss it again and whether it's attractive for us," said Volkswagen North American CEO Michael Horn to Autoblog. But don't think the current Amarok will be coming to th…
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It seems every year or so, a rumor comes out that Volkswagen is bringing back the Microbus. The past couple of years have seen rumors talking about the Microbus returning as an electric vehicle. This is the case with the latest Microbus rumor. Autocar has learned from sources at Volkswagen that the van is part of a possible five electric vehicle lineup that German automaker wants to launch by 2020. The model is said to carry some of the design cues of the original model with a flat front end and curbside sliding door. Max seating is said to be for seven people. In terms of platform, the van will use Volkswagen's upcoming MEB platform that debuted on the iD conce…
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Next year will see Volkswagen unveil the next-generation Golf GTI. It was reported that the model would utilize a mild-hybrid setup to boost fuel economy and improve low-end response. This decision was made under the leadership of former Volkswagen chairman Matthias Müller and would have become the flagship model for a new range of mild-hybrid models badged as IQ. But a new report from Autocar says the new chairman, Herbert Diess has canned the powertrain. No reason was given as to why this decision was reversed. Volkswagen is still planning to do mild-hybrid versions of the standard Golf that will utilize a 48-Volt electrical system. Autocar says the next-gener…
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By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com January 10, 2013 Back in March, we reported on a rumor that Volkswagen would be planning a smaller four-door coupe as a way to grow their market share in the U.S. and China. Codenamed SC (short for Sport Coupe), the model would be based on Volkswagen's MQB platform and come out sometime in 2015. Now in the new year, Auto Express has some new information on the SC. Auto Express' report says the SC would be called the Golf CC and use the MQB platform that will underpin the next generation Golf Wagon (Jetta Wagon for us in the states) and the Audi A3 sedan. The European market would get a 1.4L turbo four-cylinder and …
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Last week, we reported on comments made by Volkswagen NA CEO Hinrich Woebcken on wanting to expand the number of crossovers in their lineup. It seems there is another crossover possible destined for the U.S. According to a source, Volkswagen is planning to launch the T-Roc compact crossover for the U.S. beginning in 2019. First shown as a concept back at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, the production model will launch this summer in Europe. The decision was made by Volkswagen once dealers in the U.S. gave a firm commitment to the company they would be able to sell enough T-Rocs to make a profit. It also appears this decision was made only last week judging from a comment…
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While Volkswagen and the U.S. Government are finishing negotiating the final agreement over the diesel emission scandal, some interesting bits of the agreement have leaked out. The Associated Press and Bloomberg have learned from sources that Volkswagen will pay $10.2 billion as part of a settlement over the scandal. As part of the settlement, Volkswagen will compensate owners of affected TDI models between $1,000 to $7,000. The payment amount will vary on a number of factors such as the age of the vehicle. Volkswagen will also offer owners the choice having their vehicles fixed for free or buying them back at the value before the scandal came to light (September 18, …
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William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com May 30, 2012 Volkswagen appears to be spreading the Alltrack love. Autocar reports that Volkswagen is mulling over whether to do a a lifted version of its next Golf and Jetta wagon. The Golf would be for Europe while the Jetta would be for North America. The reason is due to the next generation Tiguan, due out in 2014, will be growing in size and offer a third row of seats. Volkswagen still wants a player in the small crossover market. The Alltrack will include a raised ride height, uniquely styled bumpers and light graphics, additional wheel arch cladding, and unique interior trims. The Golf and Jetta Alltrack will …
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 27, 2013 Before too long, the current-generation VR6 motor that currently powers the CC will be retired. But a new report says Volkswagen is working on a successor. According to Autoweek, Volkswagen is developing a new VR6 motor with forced induction. The engine is likely to be a 3.0L, feature twin-turbos, and developed for transverse mounting. Sources say the new engine can produce somewhere in the range of 340 to 450 horsepower, dependent on the tune. There is no word on when this engine will be revealed, but the report says certain vehicles like the CC, Passat, and a production version of the CrossBlue con…
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Yesterday, we reported that Volkswagen CEO Herbert Diess got a safe-passage deal from the U.S. Justice Department. This type of deal is very unusual and it was speculated that U.S. wasn't planning to charge Diess over the diesel emission scandal, or that he provided some sort of testimony. We might have an answer to how Diess got this deal. German tabloid Bild reports that Diess traveled to the U.S. last week to testify about the diesel emission scandal. Representatives from the FBI and Justice Department were present, as was Larry Thompson, the U.S. monitor appointed last year to oversee reforms at the company. Unfortunately, Bild doesn't mention any sources. R…
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Volkswagen is planning a lineup of electric vehicles which include a hatchback, crossover, and small van. But a new report says the German automaker has ambitions to launch an electric vehicle with a pricetag of about 18,000 euros (about $21,000). Sources tell Bloomberg the model in question will be a subcompact crossover and begin selling sometime after 2020. According to Reuters, the model is currently known as "MEB entry". Volkswagen is planning a production volume of 200,000 vehicles that will take place at three factories. This vehicle hasn't been approved by Volkswagen's supervisory board. According to sources, a discussion on the vehicle is expected to take pl…
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For the past few months, we have been reporting that Teramont was the possible name for Volkswagen's upcoming three-row crossover. But it seems the model will be named something else. Automobilwoche reports that the new crossover will wear the 'Atlas' nameplate. Volkswagen filed trademark applications for the name with the U.S. Government back in April. According to Automotive News, the Atlas name shows that VW Group of America CEO Hinrich Woebcken made good on a promise back in July that the crossover “much easier to pronounce, American-style name”. A Volkswagen spokeswoman declined to comment on the 'Atlas' name. Volkswagen is planning to show the new t…
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The decision on where Volkswagen's upcoming crossover should be built has ended up becoming a tug-of-war between Mexico and Tennessee. Reuters reports that Volkswagen has delayed a decision that was expected this month on where the crossover will be built after the respective governments negotiating with VW over incentive deals. "VW is taking way too long again to tackle another pressing U.S. problem. The crossover will be a gainful addition to their portfolio, VW has got no time to waste," said Arndt Ellinghorst, London-based analyst at ISI Group. Two sources tell Reuters that the company is planning to make a final decision at the end of the month. In other Volkswage…
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William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 26, 2012 With a new Volkswagen Golf on the way, that means right behind it is a new GTI. Car Magazine has unearthed some information about the seventh generation GTI due out sometime next year. The next GTI will be on VW's new MQB platform, like the next Golf. MQB will bring a weight loss of 90 lbs to the GTI. The next GTI will be lower (about 30mm (1.2 inches)) than the current model and use a longer wheelbase (about 50mm). The current GTI's powertrain, a 2.0L turbo-4 will carry over to the new model, albeit with a bit more oomph; 217 HP and 251lb-ft of torque. Also, the GTI will get a limited slip diff, not a…
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Volkswagen's emission scandal will not be an easy or quick problem to fix. Along with fixing a number of vehicles, the automaker will be facing a large amount of fines from various governments and possibly payouts from lawsuits. To make sure they have enough money to cover all of this, Volkswagen is reportedly is taking out some short-term loans. Bloomberg has learned from two sources that the German automaker will meet with a number of banks tomorrow to apply for 20 billion euros (about $21.5 billion) in short-term loans to act as a buffer for upcoming fines. The hope is to have the loans by the end of this year. “It makes perfect sense” to shore up financing, sa…
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Scott Keogh, Audi of America's president will soon have a new job come November 1st. He will become CEO of Volkswagen Group's North American operations, taking over Hinrich Woebcken who held the position since April 2016. This is a big deal since Keogh will be the first American to hold the top position for Volkswagen's North America branch in 25 years. Keogh has an impressive track record at Audi when he joined in 2006 as their chief marking officer. He would play a key role in boosting the awareness of the brand. In 2012, he was named president and would preside over one of the longest sales streaks that continues to this day. His new assignment is going to be t…
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 16, 2012 The seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf that was originally due out in the U.S. next fall has been pushed back to 2014. Rainer Michel, Volkswagen of America’s vice president of product marketing and strategy told Car & Driver about the delay. The reason is due to Volkswagen wanting to avoid unnecessary manufacturing complications at launch since the Golf is the key vehicle in Europe. Volkswagen officials are saying that North America market planning is ongoing.That includes where the Golf and GTI will be assembled. Currently, the Golf and GTI are built at the Wolfsburg plant. Speculation also has som…
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The U.S. Security and Exchange Commission has filed suit in San Francisco on Thursday alleging that from April 2014 through May 2015, Volkswagen fraudulently issued more than $13 Billion in bonds and securities in the U.S. market. During that time, the SEC alleges that Winterkorn and other senior management knew about the problem with over 500,000 diesel vehicles that exceeded legal emissions limits. The suit says: Winterkorn resigned within days of the scandal braking in 2015. Volkswagen said in a statement that the lawsuit is "legally and facturally flawed" and "the company will contest it vigorously". Volkswagen has already agreed to pay more …
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Last summer, Skoda CEO Bernhard Maier said a decision on whether or not the brand would come to the U.S. would be made sometime next year. But it seems that decision has been put on the back burner. Autocar reports that Skoda is taking the lead on developing a new low-cost vehicle for emerging markets. Earlier this year, Volkswagen had entered a partnership with Indian automaker Tata Motors to do the same. However, this would be dissolved as cost targets were not met. “We will need more time to work on the US plans now. The Group has asked us to lead development of a platform with a strong focus on India and to investigate building that business sustainably and …
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Skoda has been cagey with saying when a possible decision of selling vehicles in U.S. will come. Ask anyone at the Czech automaker and they'll say there isn't a timeframe. It seems now there is a timeframe. German business daily Handelsblatt recently talked with Skoda CEO Bernhard Maier. During their talk, Maier revealed a decision for the U.S. will happen sometime next year. “In the course of the coming year, we want to decide on the question of North America,” said Maier. “When we talk about our plans until 2025, then you cannot leave out one of the most important car markets in the world. Therefore, we examine under what conditions and with what cars the…
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You might think the vehicle caught by a spy photographer is a Volkswagen Tiguan mule. But you would be incorrect. What you're looking at is the next-generation Volkswagen Touareg. While Volkswagen has been clever with applying camouflage strategic points, the longer length and taller body give away its true identity. Is it expected that the Touareg will be similar in design to the Tiguan. Car and Driver reports the next Touareg will transition to the MLB Evo platform that currently underpins the Audi Q7. Unlike the Q7, the Touareg will cut a few inches out of the wheelbase as it will only come with two rows of seating. V6 power is expected, though it is unclear …
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We know a fair amount of Volkswagen's upcoming three-row crossover, It will be built in Chattanooga, TN Engines will include a 3.6L V6, 2.0L Turbo-four, and Hybrid. (No diesel) Using the MQB platform Possibly named Teramont But we don't know much about how it looks. Yes, we have seen spy shots that tell us it will possibly look like the CrossBlue concept from a few years back. That doesn't mean there are still some surprises in store. We now have the full picture thanks to some leaked shots. Chinese outlet Auto Sina got their hands on photos showing Volkswagen's new crossover in an engineering garage. The production model matches up wit…
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We've been hearing about Volkswagen's three-row crossover for the U.S. for the past few years. Spy shots have been coming out about this vehicle, but there wasn't much you could tell about them. The only thing you could was the test mules having a similar shape to the CrossBlue concept from 2013. But a new set of spy shots give us an idea of what the production model will look like. The front end seems to be lining up with the upcoming Volkswagen Tiguan with a larger grille and slim headlights. AutoGuide says the design of the back is similar to the Passat, although we can't see that. Expect a V6 along with a 2.0L turbo-four. Front-wheel drive will come standard a…
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Last year, Volkswagen made an announcement that shocked many of us. The Golf GTD, a GTI with a diesel was slated to come to the U.S. within the next couple years. But news coming out of New York may dash those dreams many of us had. Volkswagen of America's CEO, Michael Horn told reporters that the 2.0L turbodiesel engine used in the GTD cannot be built at company's engine plant in Silao, Mexico, and that the engine would have to be imported from Germany, rasing the cost. “The GTD would be a great car,” said Horn, but with that added cost, “the price point is not really attractive. So the probability is sort of diminishing.” Horn didn't say why the engine couldn't be bu…
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Former Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn has been indicted for his involvement in the diesel emission scandal. The indictment, which was filed under seal at the U.S. District Court in Detroit back in March, was unsealed yesterday. U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider said in court filings the reason for unsealing is "because there is no longer a belief that unsealing these documents will compromise an ongoing investigation." Winterkorn has been charged with four felony counts, including wire fraud and violating the clean air act. In the indictment, it is alleged that Winterkorn was told about the efforts to manipulate U.S. emission tests with their TDI vehicles in May 2014…
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The Volkswagen emblem is easily one of the most recognizable emblems in the auto world, next to Chevrolet's bowtie and Mercedes-Benz's three-pointed star. But the German automaker is planning to make some tweaks for a new future. At a press briefing in Berlin, Volkswagen's chief marketing officer Jochen Sengpiehl said the new logo would debut next year. Details about what the emblem will look like are being kept close to the chest, but Sengpiehl did say it would be updated to look good on their vehicles and smartphone screens. “The brand is not in good shape compared to previous years,” as the marque lost some of its emotional appeal by trying to be “too German.…
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Rumors about the demise of the Volkswagen Beetle have been flying around for the past few years, but we finally have confirmation that it is ending. Volkswagen's R&D boss, Frank Welsch tells Autocar that there will not be a replacement for the Beetle. Welsch said "two or three generations is enough now" for the model and that the upcoming I.D. Buzz will take the place of the Beetle. No timeframe was given as to when Beetle production would end. The news isn't so shocking when you take a look at the Beetle's sales numbers which have been in freefall since 2013, 2013: 43,134 2014: 29,182 2015: 22,667 2016: 15,667 2017: 15,166 …
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Do you remember the Volkswagen Kübelwagen? You might know it better as the Thing sold in 1970s. Volkswagen could be bringing it back as an electric vehicle. Speaking with Car and Driver, Volkswagen brand boss Herbert Diess said the upcoming MEB (Modular Electrification Toolkit) architecture might be the perfect platform to bring back some of the company's iconic vehicles like the Thing. “MEB is flexible—rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive—and we have so many emotional concepts. I don’t know if you remember the Kübelwagen. This Thing is a nice car. Then there are all the buggies, the kit cars. We have the bus. We have the various derivatives of t…
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The last thing Volkswagen wants is another issue on its plate. But this week, the UAW has filed an unfair labor practices charge in Tennessee against the automaker. The filing states that Volkswagen declined to negotiate on a contract with the newly formed collective bargaining unit at the Chattanooga, TN plant. Earlier this month, a group of 152 skilled tradesmen voted at the plant voted on whether or not to form a UAW bargaining unit at the plant. With 71 percent votes saying yes, the unit was formed. At the time, Volkswagen said it would appeal the vote to the National Labor Relations Board. The Wall Street Journal reports that the German automaker hasn't done that…
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There is talk happening at one of Volkswagen's brands of possibly entering the U.S. marketplace. What brand would that be? Skoda, the Czech brand known for building some impressive cars at surprising prices. A spokesman tells Automotive News Europe that the brand is examining potential markets to introduce the brand. "That includes North America," the spokesman said. A decision on which markets will see Skoda entering is not expected anytime soon. Rumblings of Skoda possibly coming to the U.S. started last week when AutoGuide found trademark applications filed by Skoda for a number of their models, Octavia (Hatchback and Wagon, Golf-Sized) Yeti (Crossov…
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Finally, some good news in terms of the Volkswagen diesel scandal. According to German newspaper Die Welt, Volkswagen has reached a deal with U.S. authorities over its cheating of EPA emission tests. Not much is known about the deal, but sources tell Die Welt that key part of the deal will see Volkswagen paying owners in the U.S. $5,000 in compensation. This deal will be presented tomorrow to U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer at a hearing. We'll likely learn more about the agreement and what else it entails. UPDATE: Reuters has learned from their sources that Volkswagen has agreed to buy back up to 500,000 2.0L diesel vehicles in the U.S. Volkswagen may also offe…
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William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 16, 2012 The Volkswagen/Suzuki partnership had so much going for it back in 2009. Two years later, the two are fighting and lobbing cheap shots. Suzuki wants out of it, while Volkswagen wants to work it out. Last November, Suzuki asked for arbitration in London to make Volkswagen return the 19.89% interest it had taken and to pay an unspecified amount of damages. Suzuki in their filing claims that Volkswagen didn’t keep its promise of providing Suzuki with access to technology and that Volkswagen refused several times to settle the matter out of court. Volkswagen however is refuting Suzuki’s claims in the suit. …
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Volkswagen is making some big changes for the future. In a statement released today, the company announced that it would cut 1 Billion Euros (about $1.1 billion) in investments. The statement didn't say would be part of the cuts. Volkswagen also announced that it would be fitting diesel models sold in Europe and U.S. with SCR and AdBlue technology 'as soon as possible'. Further down in the statement, Volkswagen announced that it would put more of a focus on battery and plug-in powertrains for its MQB architecture (what underpins the Golf and the upcoming Tiguan. Along with this, the company is working on a new modular electric “toolkit” that could deliver around 1…
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 8, 2013 Volkswagen announced this week that the 2015 Beetle, Golf, Jetta, and Passat will come with a new turbodiesel engine. The aptly named EA288 TDI Clean Diesel will take the place of the current 2.0L TDI engine. Performance specs are 150 horsepower (up ten horsepower from the current engine) and 236 pound-feet of torque. Volkswagen made a number of changes to the engine that improves throttle response and lower emissions thanks to a complex exhaust-gas recirculation system and integrating the intercooler and the EGR valve with the intake manifold. The engine will arrive in the second half of 2014. Source: V…
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After a meeting of Volkswagen's Supervisory Board today, Porsche CEO Matthias Müller has been named as the CEO of Volkswagen. Rumors of Müller's appointment have been swirling around for the past week. "My most urgent task is to win back trust for the Volkswagen Group – by leaving no stone unturned and with maximum transparency, as well as drawing the right conclusions from the current situation," said Müller in statement. Müller has a difficult task ahead of him as he'll need to right the ship at Volkswagen due to the ongoing crisis. He will also oversee a massive reorganization of the company. This begins with newly formed North American region structure which c…
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 3, 2012 Volkswagen made some big announcements today concerning a new model that will be premiering at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show and pricing for another model. We'll start with the new model first. Volkswagen revealed the new Beetle convertible a month ahead of its official unveiling at the L.A. Auto Show. The soft-top has a similar roofline to the normal Beetle when its up. Want to put the top down, it will only take about ten seconds. Also, Volkswagen engineered a system that will pop two computer-actuated bars behind the rear seat within four milliseconds in the event of a rollover. The engine lineup…
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This morning, Volkswagen announced that it will build the upcoming seven-seat crossover at its Chattanooga, Tennessee plant starting in 2016. The seven-seat crossover will see Volkswagen investing $900 million into the plant and add 2,000 jobs. The investment will also include retooling for the plant so it can build vehicles based on the MQB platform. “The Chattanooga-built midsize SUV will allow us to fulfill the wishes of our dealer network, bringing new customers to our showrooms and additional growth for the brand. We are eager to be entering this growing vehicle segment with a world-class, seven-passenger SUV from Volkswagen,” said Michael Horn, President and CEO Vo…
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We know that the current Volkswagen Beetle will soon be heading off to the great parking lot in the sky sometime next year, and that a direct replacement will not happen. But there is talk about bringing back the Beetle as an electric vehicle. Volkswagen's design chief Klaus Bischoff revealed to Autocar that he has already made a sketch of a possible Beetle EV, but it will be some time before the automaker makes a decision whether to move forward with this or not. Some of this comes down Volkswagen wanting to get the bigger-selling electric cars into production first (see I.D. hatchback and I.D. Crozz) before moving onto the 'emotional' models. “Our duty is to …
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Last month, we reported that Volkswagen could be cutting the Polo 3-Door and Beetle as a way to save costs. But Autoblog reports that the Beetle will live on. Dr. Heinz-Jakob Neusser, member of the board of management responsible for development at Volkswagen said that the Beetle will continue, with a new model coming sometime in the next 3 years. The next-generation Beetle will move to the MQB platform which allows such options as a hybrid and a electric version. Neusser also went onto say that the Beetle "will remain an emotional design." But that it would be shaped with a new design language. Source: Autoblog View full article
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Automakers have been downsizing their engines and adding turbochargers to improve fuel economy while retaining power from larger displacement engines. But is there a point where this trend doesn't make sense anymore? Volkswagen believes that time is coming very soon. "The trend of downsizing is over," said Herbert Diess, Volkswagen's chairman. "Emissions tend to go up as engines get smaller." This is due to smaller engines needing to work much harder to produce the power figures of higher displacement engines, which in turns causes more fuel to be used. Currently, small displacement engines do very well in the European fuel economy and emission tests. But t…
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Automakers have been bailing out of various auto shows for the past few years. Case in point, a number of German automakers pulling out of the Detroit show for 2019. Volkswagen is the latest one to announce that it will not be showing up to a major auto show. Reuters reports that the German automaker will be skipping this year's Paris Motor Show. “The Volkswagen brand is continually reviewing its participation in international motor shows,” the company said in a statement. Instead, Volkswagen could host “various communications activities” in the city, including test drives. Volkswagen joins other automakers including Ford, Mazda, Nissan, Opel, and Volvo th…
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William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 14, 2012 The Volkswagen BlueSport concept, a mid-engine diesel powered concept shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show has been hitting some bumps in the road to production. According to Autocar, the future of the BlueSport is in danger due to the company not finding enough sales to justify it. The biggest problem lies with Volkswagen of America, which believes having a sports car in its U.S. lineup is low-priority at the moment, even though Volkswagen has a plan to sell 800,000 vehicles in the U.S. by 2018 and the U.S. being the world’s largest market for sports cars. “To get to 800k units, w…
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As we have been reporting since this summer, Skoda is putting serious consideration into entering the U.S. market. Currently, a decision is expected sometime next year. But ask their parent company, Volkswagen what they think of the idea of Skoda entering the U.S. and they would likely say something to the effect of this, “We may be crazy, but we’re not mad. Entering this huge market with an unknown brand, a model range focused on Europe, and a non-existent dealer network is pure suicide. Furthermore, the last thing Volkswagen of America needs now is in-house cannibalization,” said an unnamed Volkswagen board member to Automobile Magazine. Without having any sup…
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It seems Volkswagen is going forward with sending the I.D. Buzz concept into production. "Emotional cars are very important for the brand. We are selling loads of Beetles still, particularly in US markets. But we will also have the Microbus that we showed, which we have recently decided we will build," said Herbert Diess, head of Volkswagen to Auto Express. It confirms a report back in February where a source revealed that the I.D. Buzz would go into production in 2022. Diess was a big fan of the concept in part due to the design being similar to the Microbus. As we reported, the I.D. Buzz "is a feel-good throwback to the days when VW stood for flower power, not…
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After an emergency meeting held today, Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn announced his resignation amid allegations that the automaker manipulated their diesel vehicles to meet emissions regulations around the world. "As CEO I accept responsibility for the irregularities that have been found in diesel engines and have therefore requested the Supervisory Board to agree on terminating my function as CEO of the Volkswagen Group. I am doing this in the interests of the company even though I am not aware of any wrongdoing on my part," said Winterkorn in a statement. "Volkswagen needs a fresh start - also in terms of personnel. I am clearing the way for this fresh start …
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Diesel is quite popular in Europe partly due to subsidies provided by governments - in this case, a lower tax rate on diesel fuel than gasoline. The thinking at the time was diesel engines burn their fuel more efficiently than gas engines, thus they contribute less to global warming. But as the Volkswagen diesel emission scandal would reveal, diesel vehicles aren't that much cleaner, producing more nitrogen oxide emissions than their gas counterparts. Now, one CEO from a German automaker is saying that maybe it is time to end the subsidies. “We should question the logic and purpose of diesel subsidies. The money can be invested more sensibly to promote more environme…
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 26, 2012 The Detroit News reports that Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn said the company expects to build an all-new SUV in the U.S. for the U.S. This confirms a long standing rumor that Volkswagen would build a three-seat crossover for the states. Now, a final decision on whether this goes through or not will take place sometime next year, From what we had know, the three-row crossover will slot between the Tiguan and Touareg and be built at Volkswagen’s plant in Tennessee. No name has been given at this time. Car & Driver says the new three-row crossover will be based on Volkswagen’s new MQB platform (the s…
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Breaking news coming out of Germany today as Volkswagen Chairman and grandson of the company's founder, Ferdinand Piëch announced his resignation after losing a public battle to try an oust Volkswagen's chief executive, Martin Winterkorn. "The members of the Executive Committee have unanimously determined that in view of the background of the last weeks the mutual trust necessary for successful cooperation no longer exists," said Volkswagen's Supervisory Board in a statement today. "For this reason Professor Dr. Ferdinand K. Piëch has resigned with immediate effect from his position as Chairman of the Supervisory Board and from all his mandates as a Supervisory Board me…
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The workers Volkswagen's Chattanooga assembly plant in Tennessee have made their decision on union representation. On Friday night, retired Tennessee Circuit Court Judge Sam Payne released the results of the three day vote which saw workers say no to UAW representation by a vote of 712 people opposed to 626 people in favor. "On behalf of Volkswagen Group of America, I want to thank all of our Chattanooga production and maintenance employees for their participation in this week's vote. They have spoken, and Volkswagen will respect the decision of the majority," said Frank Fischer, CEO and Chairman of Volkswagen Chattanooga. The decision makes the Chattanooga plant an out…
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William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com May 18, 2012 Despite the large amount of complaints from the automotive media about the Volkswagen Jetta and Passat's interior quality, Volkswagen is standing behind them, stating that interior quality hasn't been compromised. We didn’t take (cost) out. We just rebalanced where (the money was spent). We moved it from here to there. Whatever was taken out went right back in,” said Jae Min, chief designer-group interior at VW’s Design Center California. Min credits a new, more flexible architecture and a shift in manufacturing from Germany to VW’s new Chattanooga, TN, plant as to the cost savings. We're finding it har…
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 11, 2013 With Volkswagen still trying to work on taking over the world, sorry I mean become the number one automaker in the world, their chief executive of America says the company is considering selling commercial vehicles in the U.S. Jonathan Browning, chief executive of VW Group of America told Reuters that vehicles such as the Caddy and Transporter vans "certainly represent an opportunity" for the United States. "There are preliminary discussions (with VW's Wolfsburg-based management) but no definitive plans at the moment," said Browning. If Volkswagen gives the green light for commercial vehicles to be s…
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William Maley Editor/Reporter – CheersandGears.com March 28, 2012 Volkswagen has a lot riding on their new MQB platform. It cost the company $79 billion to develop and will underpin a vast majority of the brand’s upcoming cars, as well as a slew of new models. Speaking at the VW Group profits announcement, Michael Macht, the board member in charge of group production, said the company could sell the platform to other companies. “The next two to three years are exciting for us, and during this time we intend to keep the technology to ourselves. We do not wish to share our excellence. But in the medium to long term we could sell the technology. We would have to look at…
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Volkswagen unveiled their new CrossCoupe concept at the Tokyo Motor Show today. The concept gives us a glimpse of what the future of Volkswagen's crossovers will look like. The design of the CrossCoupe features a low window line and a simplistic style bolstered by frameless windows and flared fenders. The CrossCoupe length is 171.1 inches, which puts it between the Volkswagen Golf (165.4 in) and Tiguan (174.5 in). Power comes from a 148 HP TSI engine and a 54 HP electric motor for the front axle while the back axle has a 114 HP electric motor. The power goes through VW's seven-speed DSG to all four wheels. Volkswagen says the 3,854 lbs CrossCoupe can run up to 60 MPH a…
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If you're planning on picking up a 2019 Volkswagen Passat, then you might be disappointed by the limited amount on configurations on offer. The Car Connection reports that Volkswagen will be cutting down the 2019 Passat lineup to just two models - the Wolfsburg Edition and SE R-Line. Wolfsburg Edition: 17-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring as standard. A sunroof and 18-inch wheels are optional. SE R-Line: LED lighting, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, lane keep assist, navigation, and Fender audio system. Along with the drop in trims, the 280 horsepower V6 will be going away in 2019. This …
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The compact crossover arena has become highly competitive in the past couple of years and automakers are pulling all of the stops to draw customers into their showroom. Volkswagen is no exception. According to Automotive News, Volkswagen told its dealers that it would be cutting the price on several trims of Tiguan effective immediately. The price cuts are as followed, Tiguan S: $600 Tiguan SE: $2,180 Tiguan SEL: $1,460 This brings the base prices down to $25,495 for the S, $27,650 for the SE, and $31,990 for the SEL. Note: These prices are for the FWD models, AWD models will see the same price cut. Hinrich Woebcken, CEO of Volkswagen of …
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Imagine getting into a new vehicle with a payment that could range $39 to $99 per month. Seem like a fantasy? Well that is what a number of Volkswagen dealers across the U.S. are doing. An example is a Volkswagen dealer offering an $89 36 month lease on Jetta, after you hand over $2,500 as a down-payment. It's part of an effort by Volkswagen to bring customers in now at a loss to have hopefully return in three years when the automaker will have a brand new lineup. 2018 will see Volkswagen in the beginning stages of their plans to introducing new products every five years - a seven-seat crossover is the first - and refreshing their product lineup every three years. …
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William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 19, 2012 Volkswagen currently sells four diesel models in the U.S.; the Golf, Jetta, Passat, and Touareg. Now, there’s word that a fifth diesel is joining the lineup. Autoblog has been told by Volkswagen that a diesel Beetle will premiere at next month’s Chicago Auto Show. No details about the diesel engine in the Beetle have been release, but bet on the 2.0L engine in the Golf, Jetta, and Passat ending up in the car also. More interesting is Volkswagen could offer the diesel engine in the upcoming Beetle convertible. We won’t know if this will actually happen or not until the drop-top Beetle is shown. Sourc…
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Volkswagen was originally planning to roll out the Arteon in the U.S. towards the end of this year. But complications stemming from the European Union's Worldwide Harmonized Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) has caused the German automaker to push back the launch to early 2019. Automotive News reports that the first hint of the delay came when Volkswagen cancelled a media drive event in California that was scheduled for next month. A spokesman told the outlet the delay comes down to delays in the certification process caused by a backlog in meeting [new] WLTP worldwide emissions testing." Beginning this month, all new vehicles sold in the European Union …
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In a month's time, Europe will be switching from much maligned New European Drive Cycle (NEDC) to the Worldwide Harmonized Light Duty Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP). Automakers are scrambling to get models certified under this new procedure. This presents a big problem for Volkswagen as they don't have enough engineers to make sure their vehicles to meet the new standards. According to Reuters, Volkswagen lost a number of engineers that specialized in engine calibration ever since the company revealed they were using illegal software on their diesel vehicles to cheat emission tests. “Engine development expertise has been lost,” said Volkswagen Group CEO Herbert …
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Volkswagen has broken ground on an $800 million expansion of their plant in Chattanooga, TN. The expansion is for additional capacity to build electric vehicles for North America. The body shop will increase by 564,000 square feet and a new 198,000 square foot battery assembly center will be constructed. Overall the expansion will add about 1,000 permanent jobs. Production of a long range vehicle, the ID. Crozz / ID. 4 is expected to begin in the expanded plant in 2022. Chattanooga currently builds the Passat, Atlas, and Atlas Cross Sport. View full article
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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We're coming up on three years since the Volkswagen diesel scandal came to light. It caused the German automaker to spiral downward with various fines, lawsuits, people either stepping down or being arrested, and sales tanking. By now, you would think that the pain is done and over. But you would be wrong. Reuters reports today that prosecutors in Germany have fined Volkswagen a billion euros ($1.18 billion) over diesel emission cheating. In a statement, Volkswagen will accept the fine, therefore admitting responsibility for the cheating. "Following thorough examination, Volkswagen AG accepted the fine and it will not lodge an appeal against it. Volkswagen AG, b…
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William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com December 21, 2011 Volkswagen's plan for world domination is now entering it's next stage. Starting with the next Audi A3, Volkswagen will begin to standardize components and technologies across forty different models. Volkswagen says the plan will help it lower production costs by 20%, cut assembly times by 30%, and save the company up to $6.5 billion per year. The plan will also let Volkswagen to build cars from different brands at the same plant. However, not everyone likes the idea of standardization. “If something goes wrong, then one may get hit by an epidemic plague. The more connected the structures, the hig…
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Volkswagen is turning towards plug-in hybrid technology for the majority of its models till longer range batteries become a reality. This was announced at Volkswagen's annual media conference yesterday by Volkswagen Group CEO Martin Winterkorn. Why plug-in hybrid tech? Winterkorn explained that plug-in hybrids are the best stop-gap technology with reducing emissions without sacrificing range. Now that doesn't mean Volkswagen isn't stopping work on electric vehicles. The automaker is currently working on electric systems that will have a range of more than 300 miles. One other note; the Volkswagen Golf GTE plug-in hybrid will be coming to the U.S. next year. This news wa…
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As we reported in May, Volkswagen is making big cuts to the Golf lineup in the US. Already announced for end of production in 2019 are the Golf Sportwagen and Golf Alltrack. For 2020, the current base Mk7 Golf returns and will be offered in just one trim, called the Value Edition that includes features like Keyless entry, Wifi, heated seats, and 16-Inch alloy wheels while the GTI will come in S and SE trims. Missing from the 2020 lineup is the Golf R. Volkswagen has confirmed to Motor Authority that the Golf R has reached end of production for the current generation. The Mk8 generation will likely see the base Golf removed from the US lineup and the GTI and …
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 22, 2013 Volkswagen has officially pulled back the curtain on the next-generation Golf R, making its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month. The new Golf R packs the same 2.0L turbo-four found under the new Audi S3 with 296 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Impressive numbers when compared to the outgoing Golf R which packed 256 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. Power is channeled to all four wheels via Haldex system and the choice of either a six-speed manual or dual-clutch transmission. Other changes to the Golf R include a 0.78 inch drop to the suspension, aggressive body kit, dual exhaust …
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The march towards majority SUVs continues on and the two newest casualties are the Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen and the Golf Alltrack. As we predicted a month ago, Volkswagen will end production of the two vehicles in the 2019 model year, though in the case of the Alltrack, production will be extended to December. Volkswagen says that with 50 percent of their sales being SUVs, consumer tastes have shifted strongly to SUVs, and VW is responding by releasing three new SUVs over the next 2 years. First up, will be a 5-seater Atlas Cross Sport being unveiled later this year, then the ID.CROZZ electric SUV early next year, and a just announced SUV to slot below the Tiguan…
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One of the safety issues surrounding electric vehicles is that they are nearly silent at low speeds with only limited tire noise emanating from them. This is a hazardous situation for pedestrians who may not hear an EV creeping up being them. Volkswagen is working on a solution to the issue by hiring composer and music producer Leslie Mandoki to produce a sound for the upcoming ID series of cars to make when operating at low speeds. One advantage of this is that brands, including Volkswagen, can craft their own voice for their cars to have. The Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System operates both inside and outside of the car and fades away when the car reaches cruising…
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When the Volkswagen ID.3 debuted this week at the Frankfurt Auto Show we reported that the ID.3 would not be coming to the U.S.. That is still true, however we got a tease of the ID.4, which will be the next iteration of the ID family from Volkswagen during the ID.3 intro. The ID.4 is based on the ID Crozz concept from the 2017 Frankfurt Auto Show and it is this model that will be VW's first ID model in the US. While no details have been released, expect the ID.4 to follow the ID.3 mechanical specs pretty closely with 3 different battery options available and a rear axle mounted electric motor. There is the possibility of a dual motor variant coming as well as the …
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Volkswagen has been teasing us with the I.D. Buzz for 6-years when they made the announcement back in 2017 that they would bring the I.D. Buzz to market. The standard wheelbase model has been on sale in Europe since May of last year, and today, Volkswagen is officially announcing the long-wheelbase version for sale in the U.S. starting next year. The ID.Buzz will not, as previously reported, be built at VW's Chatanooga plant alongside the ID.4, instead being built in VW's Hanover Germany plant. Powering the LWB ID.Buzz is a new 210 kW (286 hp) electric drive motor and a newer, larger 85 kWh battery, an increase over the standard length model of 201 kW and …
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Ford's decision to drop most of their passenger car lineup last week is still sending shockwaves, and likely causing various automakers to have discussions about if they should follow in their footsteps. One automaker that will not be following Ford is Volkswagen. “We are intending to be a full line car manufacturer,” said Volkswagen of America CEO Hinrich Woebcken. The reason as to why? Electric Vehicles. “The question of whether electric mobility will favor sedans or SUVs hasn’t been answered yet. When you’re talking about electric cars, sedans have more advantages. The shape and the [drag coefficient] has a high effect on range. Therefore, we’ll maybe se…
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There was talk a few years back about Volkswagen possibly sending over the next-generation Polo over to the U.S. But it seems those plans have been scrapped. Speaking with Automotive News at the launch of the sixth-generation Polo, Volkswagen global sales boss, Juergen Stackmann said it doesn't make sense for the automaker to bring it over. "It doesn't make too much sense for us to bring a car like this, which has the substance of a class higher, into a segment that is so price driven in America," said Stackmann. Subcompacts are sold in North America mostly on price and high fuel economy figures. In Europe, it is a different story. While price is one key fa…
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In light of the announcement made by the EPA on Friday about certain Volkswagen vehicles equipped with the diesel engine violating emission standards, the German automaker has been at work on damage control. The Detroit News reported on Saturday that the company had pulled all of their ads and videos promoting the diesel engines on their YouTube page and asked dealers to put a stop-sale on Beetle, Jetta, and Passat models equipped with TDI engines. No word on how many vehicles are affected by this. Yesterday, Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn issued a statement apologizing for violating emission standards in the U.S. and said the company would launch an internal invest…
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We have been talking about the next-generation Jetta GLI for almost a year. The next-generation model is expected to get some infusion from the GTI with the same turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder producing 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It will also swap the torsion-beam rear suspension for a multi-link setup. The one item we have been wondering is where Volkswagen is planning on debuting it. For some time, we thought the Detroit Auto Show in January would be the place. But Autoblog reports that the Windy City will be the place for the GLI. A Volkswagen representative told the outlet the next GLI would be premiering during the Chicago Auto Show's Press Da…
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Remember the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid? Most likely not as it made up a sliver of overall Jetta sales - about one percent according to Volkswagen spokesman. For the 2017 model year, the Jetta Hybrid will dropped from the lineup. Some of reason as to why the Jetta Hybrid wasn't a big seller was the high price. According to Automotive News, the Jetta Hybrid only came in the top SEL Premium trim that starts at $31,940. This is slightly hard to ask when the base starts at $18,500. Also, hybrid and electric vehicles have been taking tumble due to low gas prices and consumers drifting towards SUVs and crossovers. But the big reason we believe is that like most other hybri…
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William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 14, 2012 Volkswagen is planning on bringing a electric vehicle over to the states sometime late next year. Volkswagen of America President, Jonathan Browning told Automotive News the company is planning on bringing a electric version of the Golf. Volkswagen will follow the same path as other automakers wherein they will only sell the Golf electric in certain markets before rolling it out nationwide. Browning says Volkswagen wants to offer a variety of alternatives for buyers, including diesels, compressed natural gas, and hybrids. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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Volkswagen is looking towards vans and a possible pickup as way to bolster its U.S. lineup and become something other than a niche player in the marketplace. Bloomberg reports that Volkswagen's head of the light commercial vehicle unit, Eckhard Scholz said the company is investigating whether or not to send some of their vans and possibly the Amarok - the only pickup VW builds at the moment - to the U.S. “Pickup trucks are a dominating segment,” while there’s also a trend in the U.S. toward compact European vans, Scholz said. “We’re looking at both options intensively.” Now if this sounds familiar, Volkswagen of America CEO said something similar back in January. Micha…
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Ever since the Volkswagen Buzz I.D. concept made its debut, rumors have been flying as to whether or not the German automaker would go forward with it. Yesterday at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, Volkswagen finally put the rumors to rest. "After the presentations at the global motor shows in Detroit and Geneva, we received a large number of letters and emails from customers who said, 'please build this car’,” said Volkswagen CEO Herbert Diess. "The Microbus has long been part of the California lifestyle. Now we're bringing it back by reinventing it as an electric vehicle." Before you start lining up at your Volkswagen dealer, the company says the mod…
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As more manufacturers begin to add more technologies (keyless entry, advanced infotainment system, and online connectivity), the danger of having a vehicle hacked increases. We saw this first-hand last year as two security researchers revealed a number of security holes in FCA's UConnect system that allowed them to access critical vehicle functions such as braking and steering. Now a new research paper reveals 100 million Volkswagen Group vehicles going back to 1995 have a serious security issue that can allow someone to unlock the vehicle without a key. Wired reports a group of researchers at the University of Birmingham and a German engineering firm were able to int…
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Volkswagen sees crossovers as its savior in the U.S. marketplace. Speaking with Wards Auto, Volkswagen North America CEO Hinrich Woebcken said their model mix would change from 10 to 12 percent crossovers to 40 percent in the next few years. “We are shifting the brand into a position where we will enjoy more business volume because we were not present in those segments. We’re currently at 12% and the industry is nearly 60% light trucks and SUVs, so we are severely underrepresented,” said Woebcken. To accomplish this, Volkswagen will be launching the brand-new Altas and redesign Tiguan later this year. Interestingly, Volkswagen will keep the current Tiguan for a…
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The Volkswagen Passat isn't the most exciting sedan to look at. But the German automaker injected some style and sport with the Passat GT Concept at last year's LA Auto Show. It took some design ideas from the Golf GTI - black grille with red accent lines and a more aggressive body kit - along with new wheels. Volkswagen also lowered the suspension and added a sport exhaust system. Volkswagen didn't go crazy with the engine - it is the same 3.6L VR6 found in the standard Passat. According to a new report from Digital Trends, Volkswagen is bringing the Passat GT into production. A spokesperson tells the outlet the production GT will closely resemble the 2016 concept.…
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Johan De Nysschen has landed on his feet after being abruptly fired as President of Cadillac in April of 2018. JDN will take over as Chief Operating Officer of Volkswagen of America starting October 1st. This is not JDN's first experience with Volkswagen Automotive Grou (VAG), he was once a star executive in the Audi organization. He later moved on to Infiniti where he moved the headquarters to Hong Kong and renamed all the vehicles to the Q or QX designation. Infiniti has since moved back to Japan. Once his time at Infiniti was up, he moved on to become President of Cadillac. There, he moved Cadillac's headquarters to New York City for a time before being abruptly…
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Volkswagen's Chattanooga, TN plant will soon have two more vehicles rolling off the line. Hinrich Woebcken, VW's North American CEO told Autocar that the upcoming I.D. Buzz and Crozz EVs for the region will be built at Chattanooga. “For strong product momentum, they need to be produced in the USA. It’s not possible to come into a high-volume scenario with imported cars. We want to localise electric mobility in the US,” said Woebcken. Woebcken also revealed that the models would be 'Americanized'. Source: Autocar View full article
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Blake Noble Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com May 7th, 2012 At the moment, Volkswagen builds only two different flavors of sports-utility vehicles. On one hand you have the small highway-oriented Golf-based Tiguan, and on the other you have the larger off-road capable Touraeg. However, that stage may be preparing to change as VW could be planning to expand their portfolio of SUVs in the near future. According to a recent report sourced from German business newspaper Handelsblatt, Volkswagen is planning to introduce two new car-based SUVs that will slot in below the compact Tiguan. In the report, Handelsblatt claims that VW is seeing a strong, growing demand for sm…
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 18, 2013 Volkswagen is planning to shutter all of its naturally-aspirated engines within the next three to four years. This news came from Volkswagen’s executive vice president for group quality, Mark Trahan. “You have to have a turbo these days. We only have one normally aspirated gas engine, and when we go to the next generation vehicle that it’s in, it will be replaced. So three, four years maximum.” That engine is the 3.6L VR6 that is found in the Passat, CC, and Touareg. Source: The Detroit News William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected]…
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Volkswagen has outlined new plans to bring new and updated models to the U.S. on a shorter timeframe. Michael Horn, head of VW’s U.S. operations told Bloomberg that the company is planning to introduce new models every five years, down from the current seven years. As for refreshes, Volkswagen wants cut that down from four to three years. “Customers want quicker change. We’re working to shorten the life cycle of the products to bring more new features and design elements, in terms of face-lifts, to the market quicker. We believe we have a positive business case. It commercially makes sense that we move,” said Horn. Now Volkswagen's management board needs to sign off on …
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We know that Volkswagen is in the midst of readying a seven-seat crossover and a long-wheelbase Tiguan as a part of a new product offensive for the U.S., but that may not be the only vehicle in the plans. Automotive News reports that Volkswagen is considering two other vehicles for the U.S. The first is the production version of the Golf R-400 concept. The concept which made its North American debut at the LA Auto Show in November packs 395 horsepower version of the Golf R's turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder. Hans-Jakob Neusser, Volkswagen’s development chief tells Automotive News the company is close to making a decision on whether the model should go into production. “W…
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If you had the chance to read a review or opinion on the Volkswagen Jetta or Passat, then you'll notice a reoccurring theme - they are boring to look at. Volkswagen is getting tired of this complaint and has decided to make a change. Automotive News reports that next-generation of Volkswagen vehicles for the U.S. will "bare their teeth and flex their muscles to convey a more aggressive design message". This was said during a tour of Volkswagen's design studio. "This has to be bold. It has to be a statement," said Klaus Bischoff, chief designer for Volkswagen. So what kind of boldness can we expect from Volkswagen? Well Automotive News says the upcoming seven-seat cross…
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The Volkswagen Golf is one of the German automaker's most important vehicles - currently is the best-selling vehicle in Europe. To keep this title, the automaker is planning a refresh for 2017. According to Autocar, Volkswagen isn't making any major changes to the exterior. There will be reshaped bumpers and revised head and taillights. The big changes are inside as Volkswagen is planning to implement its own version of Audi's virtual cockpit - 12.5-inch to display gauges along with the ability to display a map. Higher-end Golfs will be available with a large 9.5-inch touchscreen with the ability to use gesture controls. Engines are expected to include a turboch…
Last reply by Stew, -
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With the new Golf coming to the U.S. later this year, Volkswagen decided it would be a good time to give the Jetta a bit of a refresh. Vinay Shahani, Volkswagen's vice president of marketing tells Autoblog that the company is planning a refreshed Jetta that will arrive later this year. Expect subtle tweaks to the exterior and interior, and maybe some new features. Shahani also revealed that the next-generation Jetta SportWagen would be arriving early, however it will not have the Jetta nameplate. When the model arrives, it will be wearing the Golf nameplate. Shahani explained that ays this will better position a "Golf family" of vehicles. It makes sense considering the n…
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 23, 2012 Volkswagen has released some details about the next Golf, which will have its official debut in Berlin next month. The new Golf will be larger than the outgoing model. The overall length will now be 167.5 inches, and it will be 57.2 inches tall and 70.8 inches wide. Volkswagen says the Golf is larger due to increased safety and giving passengers more space. Despite the added size, Volkwagen cut close to 220 lbs out of the new Golf thanks to high-strength steel, aluminum suspension components, new electronics, and lighter seats. The Golf will be riding on Volkswagen's new MQB FWD platform, which can be …
Last reply by regfootball, -
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When we drove the Volkswagen Atlas back in the summer, we liked the base turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder for the most part. Aside from noticeable turbo-lag, the engine provided decent oomph. But for 2019, Volkswagen is quietly reducing the number of models you can order with the turbo 2.0L. CarsDirect recently obtained the order guide for the 2019 Atlas and reports that the base S trim will be the only model available with the 2.0T. Previously, the SE and SEL could be ordered with the 2.0T. Volkswagen has also decided to drop V6 FWD configuration for the S. This means the mid-level SE is now the cheapest way to get the V6 FWD configuration - $36,490 vs. $35,090 for t…
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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Volkswagen ID.7 is the brands first upper mid-size electric sedan. This is their first EV with the companies' new display and operating system. The ID.7 also delivers an excellent aerodynamics with a more efficient powertrain that ensures long range operation. The ID.7 offers exceptional comfort through features such as new AC system, seat Climatronic with massage function and a panoramic sunroof with switchable smart glass. The ID.7 will launch autumn 2023 in Europe and China and North America in 2024. The superior powertrain, spacious interior and premium technologies make the ID.7 a comfortable limousine like EV for long distance travel with a battery range …
Last reply by G. David Felt, -
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With automakers building/bringing over subcompact cars to the US, one automaker is missing in the action. That automaker is Volkswagen which built it’s empire on small vehicles (Beetle and Golf). When asked if the company would bring over any subcompact vehicles, like the Polo or new UP!, Volkswagen said no. Volkswagen cites the traditional argument of small cars having a small profit margin, especially when they have to be imported like the Polo and UP! Futhermore, Volkswagen recently re-established a production facility in the US and plans to expand capacity in an effort to become a true volume player over here. Because of their plans, Volkswagen will be expanding the…
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 20, 2012 Earlier this week, General Motors announced that it sold 9.03 million vehicles in 2011, making it the world’s largest automaker by volume. However, Volkswagen is challenging the claim, stating GM included sales of automakers it doesn’t even fully own. Volkswagen's beef with GM's claim is that it includes sales of Chinese automakers SAIC Motor Corp. and Wuling Motors Co. GM has stakes in both companies, but not a majority stake in either. Some analysts exculde Wuling and SAIC in their sales report. Wulling accounted for 1.29 million vehicles, while SAIC accounted for 1.2 million. Remove those two out …
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 5, 2013 When Volkswagen pulled the covers off the new Golf GTD at the Geneva Motor Show this year, questions arose whether or not the model would arrive in the U.S. Answers were mixed between yes and no. But we now have an answer. The GTD will be coming. Volkswagen made the announcement this week, saying the GTD will be here in 2015 as a 2016 model. The model will use a 2.0L TDI engine with 184 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. "We see it as a very important part of our full range of offerings, a technology halo for our diesel technology," said Andreas Valbuena, VW's product manager for the Golf. Source: Au…
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Volkswagen is introducing a new generation of diesel engines with the 2.0 TDI Evo. This new engine is said to greatly undercut the limits of the tough new Euro 6d-Temp emissions standards. Volkwagen posted an interview with Sebastian Willmann, the Head of Diesel Engine Development at Volkswagen. In that interview he says that VW was able to reduce fuel consumption by 0.4 L/100km compared to the previous engine and reduce CO2 emissions by 10g/km. They did both of these things while also increasing power output. He further went on to explain that while there is a stigma surrounding diesel engines because of dieselgate, the diesel is still quite popular for its effici…
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