William Maley

Oh Volkswagen, why must you tease us? You have done it before with the Passat Alltrack concept and Golf GTD. Why must you try to break our hearts? Such is the case of the Golf R Variant (Wagon or Sportwagen to you or I) that will be debuting at the LA Auto Show this week. The Golf R Variant takes the standard Golf R and makes it a bit more practical. It still uses a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four with 296 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. With Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel drive system, the Golf R Variant can hit 60 MPH in 5.1 seconds. Other features that carry over for the Golf R Variant include the ESC Sport stability control system and DCC adaptive damping system. As for making it a bit more practical, the Golf R Variant boasts 21.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, and 57.2 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. So does the mean we can expect a Volkswagen Golf R Variant at our local dealership in near future. Don't hold your breath. Volkswagen isn't saying whether or not Golf R Variant will be coming to the U.S. but considering their track record of previous models (i.e. Passat Alltrack and Golf GTD), we're not betting on it. Source: Volkswagen Press Release is on Page 2 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R VARIANT MAKES ITS WORLD DEBUT AT THE LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW Wagon version of the Golf R sports 300 PS, 4MOTION all-wheel-drive, and a winning combination of practicality and performance - Shares the same high output 2.0-liter TSI® engine as the Golf R, with 300 PS - Drivetrain consists of 6-speed DSG® automatic transmission and 4MOTION® all-wheel-drive system - Car has top track speed of 155 mph, accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 5.1 seconds - Capable of seating five, with comparable cargo space to compact SUVs - Car goes on sale in Europe in Spring of 2015 Wolfsburg / Los Angeles - Volkswagen will debut one of the sportiest compact all-rounders at the Los Angeles Auto Show: the new Golf R Variant. For the first time in the history of the Golf R, this iconic all-wheel-drive compact sports car will be produced as a station wagon. The exclusive model has 221 kW / 300 PS (296 horsepower) and 280 pound-feet of torque. The power is transmitted to the pavement via a standard 6-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission and permanent 4MOTION® all-wheel-drive system. The chassis features a lowered sport suspension-0.8 inches lower than a stock Golf-the innovative progressive steering system and a stability control system, "ESC Sport", which can be deactivated for use on a racetrack. Optional highlights include the newest generation of the DCC adaptive damping system with a driving profile selector that features a Race mode. The Golf R Variant accelerates from a standstill to 80 km/h (50 mph) in only 3.8 seconds and to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.1 seconds. This sports car in a station wagon body is electronically limited to a top track speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The turbocharged four-cylinder engine is very fuel efficient: in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), the sportiest Golf wagon of all time only consumes 7.0 liters/100 km (34 mpg); this equates to CO2 emissions of 163 g/km. The Golf R Variant is one of very few sports cars that can't fully support an owner's lifestyle: it can take a whole family and all their belongings if needed. This Volkswagen offers an impressively large trunk, even with five people on board, and has cargo capacity comparable to many compact SUVs if the rear seats are folded flat. Exterior The Golf R Variant is distinguished from other Golf wagon models in a number of areas. At the rear, it has a new R design bumper, a high-gloss black diffuser, four chrome exhaust tips, so-called "aero flaps" on the D-pillars, cherry-red taillights and LED license plate lighting. At the front, the Golf R Variant also has an R-specific bumper with particularly large air intakes, a distinctive radiator grille (with "R" logo) as well as Bi-Xenon headlights with integrated daytime running lights. The LED DRLs form a distinctive dual "U" design beneath the headlights. From the side, the Golf R Variant is characterized by body-color, "R" style sills, "R" logos on the front fenders and "matt chrome" door mirror caps. The 18-inch Cadiz aluminum-alloy wheels have been specially designed for the R models and are fitted with 225/40 tires; clearly discernible behind them are the black-painted brake calipers that also sport "R" logos. The car can also be ordered with optional 19-inch Cadiz and Pretoria aluminum-alloy wheels. Interior The Golf R Variant is equipped with sport seats with a fabric and Alcantara® material mix. The look is finished off with decorative stitching in crystal gray and an "R" logo on the seat backrest. Other interior features include blue ambient lighting, automatic air conditioning, and the Composition Touch infotainment system. As an option, Volkswagen also offers a Nappa Carbon leather package for the Golf R Variant. Here, the outer seat surfaces, inner side support panels and head restraints are all upholstered in dark Carbon Nappa leather. Meanwhile, the middle seat panels may be ordered in either dark or light Nappa leather (anthracite or modern gray). Leather is also used to trim the "R" design three-spoke sport steering wheel that has another "R" logo integrated in the lower cross bar. All the leather elements are highlighted by decorative stitching in contrasting crystal gray. The rear seats have the same appearance as those in the front. With five people on board, the car has 605 liters (21.4 cubic feet) of cargo space, loaded up to the back of the rear seats. Up to the front seats and up to the roof, there is 1,620 liters (57.2 cu ft) of luggage room. The cargo area up to the rear seat is 1,055 mm (41.5 inches) long; up to the backs of the front seats, it's 1,831 mm (72.1 in) in length. The cargo floor in the luggage compartment can be varied in height or completely removed in just a few movements. Another standard feature is the cargo space cover that's designed as a roller blind and can be stored, along with the rear net partition, under the cargo floor. The 60:40 split rear bench can be released via levers in the side of the trunk; the seat backs automatically fold forward, creating a nearly level surface with the cargo floor. The Carbon Race design is used to decorate the instrument panel and door trims. The standard ambient lighting is also integrated in the door trim panels, while the sill kickplates are also illuminated in blue. The pedals and footrest on the driver's side are designed in a stainless steel look and the floormats have upgraded piping in a contrasting color. The instruments and the touchscreen's start menu were also modified. When the ignition is switched on, the illuminated light-blue tachometer and speedometer needles sweep once around the entire gauge to the end pin-in the speedometer's case, to the 320 km/h (199 mph) mark. The instrument pointers are also automatically illuminated as soon as the driver's door is opened. The infotainment system's touchscreen shows the animated "R" logo as a default. High-tech turbocharged engine. Like the 2- or 4-door hatchback versions, the new Golf R Variant is powered by an advanced four-cylinder EA888 engine. One of the most powerful four-cylinder engines on the market, it delivers 221 kW / 300 PS (296 hp) from 5,500 to 6,200 rpm, and its maximum torque of 380 Newton meters (280 lb-ft) is available over a broad speed range from 1,800 to 5,500 rpm. The turbocharged and direct injection engine has sophisticated features such as water-cooled exhaust gas being fed to the turbocharger through the cylinder head (to efficiently reduce full- load fuel consumption) and a dual injection system with direct and port injection. Thanks to its fully-electronic coolant control system, the TSI engine offers particularly efficient thermal management with a short warm-up phase, which reduces friction losses and fuel consumption. The engine also has variable valve timing on the intake and exhaust side, along with variable exhaust valve lift. This enables optimal control of the charge exchange process for better performance, fuel economy and low emissions. Drivetrain The Golf R has always featured permanent 4MOTION all-wheel drive and the R Variant follows that lead. The latest generation 4MOTION system is coupled to an automatic 6-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, which has a manual shifting option. The 4MOTION system is equipped with a Haldex®5 coupling that is activated by an electro-hydraulic oil pump. The system can shift drive torque almost instantaneously. When operating under a relatively low load or during coastdown, the R Variant acts like a front-wheel-drive car, with the rear wheels disengaged in order to save fuel. However, the rear axle of the Golf R can be engaged in fractions of a second whenever necessary. In addition to the Haldex coupling that acts as a center differential, there are four electronic differential locks (EDL) integrated in the stability control system (ESC) that act laterally. In addition, the Golf R Variant is equipped with XDS+® at the front and rear axles, which brakes the wheels on the inside of a curve during fast cornering, thus reducing understeer. Like the Golf R, the R Variant is equipped with the "ESC Sport" stability control system as standard. The system is activated by a two-stage switch on the center console. When the driver presses this switch briefly, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) switches to the "ESC Sport" mode. In very fast driving on a racetrack, the ESC system has a higher threshold in this mode. When the ESC button is pressed for longer than three seconds, the system is fully deactivated for high-performance track driving, a feature that is available only on the Golf R. The Golf R Variant has progressive variable-ratio electric power assisted rack-and-pinion steering. This is an elegant solution to a common problem with steering systems, which is that different speeds and maneuvers ideally require different steering rates. In this case, Volkswagen has spaced the teeth on the steering gear's rack more tightly towards the center. The lower steering ratio in the center means that the car responds more quickly when entering a turn, while the higher ratio at the ends of the rack reduces the amount of effort needed near full steering lock, such as when parking. The steering wheel needs just 2.1 turns from lock to lock, whereas the standard Golf needs 2.76 turns. Another exclusive feature on the Golf R Variant is the Driving Profile Selector, which is normally optional but is standard in conjunction with DCC adaptive damping. The feature has four programs in the Golf R Variant, and five in conjunction with DCC: "Eco", "Normal", "Individual", and a "Race" mode that has been specially designed for the Golf R. In combination with DCC, "Comfort" mode is also available. In "Race" mode, which is designed for high-speed track driving, damping is increased and engine response and the shift points of the DSG transmission are configured to be even sportier. In the "Individual" driving profile, the driver can combine mode settings for various individual parameters. In "Eco" mode, the engine, the air conditioning unit and other auxiliary systems are controlled for optimal fuel-efficiency. There is also a coasting function in Eco mode; when the driver releases the accelerator pedal, such as slowing down when approaching a traffic light or when descending a hill, the DSG disengages and the engine idles.

Lexus' showing for the LA Auto Show this week is something very appropriate for the California weather. The luxury automaker released a teaser for the LF-C2 concept. Its obvious that the concept is a convertible, but for what? Speculation ranges from a convertible version of the RC to a topless version of the LF-LC. Whatever the concept may be, we won't have to wait much longer. Lexus is planning to reveal the concept tomorrow. Source: Lexus William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Lexus LF-C2 Concept to Make its World Premiere at 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show TORRANCE, Calif. (Nov. 11, 2014) – On November 19, at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Lexus LF-C2 Concept will make its global debut. This exciting new open-air concept will be revealed at a press conference scheduled for 1:40 p.m. in the brand’s display located in the South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center. The concept will also be simultaneously revealed through a 72 hour online social media campaign that can be seen at: http://lexus-int.com/motorshow/72-hour-eclipse-reveal.html The press conference will also be streamed live at http://new.livestream.com/LexusInternational

Whenever an automaker announces a fuel cell vehicle, one of two things happen: It will be near future (which it doesn't) It goes on sale (only in California since it has the infastructure) Well Toyota's fuel cell vehicle will attempt to buck both of those trends. Meet the 2016 Mirai, Toyota's first fuel cell vehicle that will go on sale starting next year in California. The Mirai is the production version of the FCV concept that has been making the rounds for the past couple of year. The shape looks to be a mix of Prius and Corolla (we'll let you decide if that's a good thing or not). Inside, the Mirai features more influences from the Prius with a digital gauge cluster in the center of the dash and a angular center stack. Power comes from electric motor producing 151 horsepower and peak torque of 247 pound-feet. A proprietary fuel stack combines hydrogen in tanks with oxygen to generate the electricity for the motor. Toyota claims a 0-60 MPH time of 9 seconds and travel up to 300 Miles on tank of hydrogen. Toyota also claims the Mirai can be refueled in five minutes. The Mirai will be available with a power take off (PTO) device which allows the vehicle to act as a generator if you lose power at your house. “For us, this isn’t just another car. This is an opportunity to really make a difference. And making a difference is what Toyota is all about. The future has arrived. And it’s called Mirai,”said Toyota Global CEO Akio Toyoda. While California will be the first market in the U.S. to get Mirai, Toyota says the Northeast (New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island) will follow a year after. But the Northeast doesn't have the infrastructure to support Mirai you may say. Well as part of the Mirai's rollout in the Northeast, fuel cell pumps will be going up thanks to a partnership between Toyota and Air Liquide. Pricing for the 2016 Mirai starts at $57,500. Toyota says purchase price could potentially fall to under $45,000 thanks to state and federal incentives worth a total of $13,000 - though as Autoblog points out, the $8,000 federal incentive could be gone by the time the Mirai goes on sale. If you're interested in leasing, Toyota says you can lease one for $499 a month for 36 months (with $3,649 due at signing). Both options come with free hydrogen fuel for "up to three years." Source: Toyota William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 The Toyota Mirai Brings the Future to Your Driveway Fuel Cell Electric Sedan Marks Turning Point for Zero-Emission Vehicles Range and Refuel Time Compete with Traditional Internal Combustion Engines World-Class, 360 Degree Ownership Experience Available for Sale or Lease in California Beginning Fall 2015 TORRANCE, Calif., (Nov. 17, 2014) – For the second time in a generation, Toyota has re-imagined the future of mobility. The Toyota Mirai is a four-door, mid-size sedan with performance that fully competes with traditional internal combustion engines – but it uses no gasoline and emits nothing but water vapor. The groundbreaking fuel cell electric vehicle is powered by hydrogen, re-fuels in about five minutes, and travels up to 300 miles on a full tank. Mirai will be available to customers in California beginning in fall 2015, with additional markets tracking the expansion of a convenient hydrogen refueling infrastructure. Powered by an industry-leading fuel cell electric drivetrain and supported by an exceptional 360-degree ownership experience, Mirai marks a turning point for consumer expectations for a zero-emission vehicle. Making its Mark with Performance In its basic operation, a fuel cell vehicle works much like a battery electric vehicle. But instead of the large drive battery, Mirai’s fuel cell stack combines hydrogen gas from tanks with oxygen to produce electricity that powers the electric motor. Toyota’s proprietary fuel cell stack represents a major leap forward in performance, delivering one of the world’s best power outputs of 3.1 kW/L at a dramatically reduced size that fits under the front driver and passenger seats. The system provides Mirai with a maximum output of 153hp, accelerating from 0-60 in 9.0 seconds and delivering a passing time of 3 seconds from 25-40 mph. What’s more, thanks to fuel cell technology’s versatility and adaptability, the Mirai offers performance options that go well beyond a traditional automobile. In fact, the vehicle will be offered with an optional power take off (PTO) device that enables Mirai to serve as a mobile generator in case of emergency. With the PTO accessory, Mirai is capable of powering home essentials in an average house for up to a week in an emergency – while emitting only water in the process. Safe and Reliable Transportation Toyota began fuel cell development in Japan in the early 90s and have developed a series of fuel cell vehicles, subjecting them to more than a million miles of road testing. In the last two years alone, fuel cell test vehicles have logged thousands of miles on North American roads. This includes hot testing in Death Valley, cold testing in Yellowknife, Canada, steep grade hill climbs in San Francisco and high altitude trips in Colorado. The Toyota-designed carbon fiber hydrogen tanks have also undergone extreme testing to ensure their strength and durability in a crash. This extended legacy of research and development is reflected in Mirai’s safety and reliability. At Toyota’s advanced Higashifuji Safety Center, the vehicle has been subjected to extensive crash testing to evaluate a design specifically intended to address frontal, side and rear impacts and to provide excellent protection of vehicle occupants. A high level of collision safety has also been achieved to help protect the fuel cell stack and high-pressure tanks against body deformation. Mirai will also feature a broad range of standard onboard safety technologies, including vehicle pre-collision, blind spot monitor, lane departure alert, drive start control and automatic high beams. Focused on the Consumer Toyota believes that outstanding vehicle performance must be matched by an exceptional ownership experience. And Toyota is committed to delivering on that promise. When it hits the market in 2015, customers can take advantage of Mirai’s $499 per month/36 month lease option, with $3649 due at lease signing, or purchase the vehicle for $57,500. With combined state and federal incentives of $13,000 available to many customers, the purchase price could potentially fall to under $45,000. The vehicle will be matched by a comprehensive, 360-degree Ownership Experience offering a range of services, including: 24/7 concierge service, with calls answered by a dedicated fuel cell representative; 24/7 enhanced roadside assistance, including towing, battery, flat tire assistance, trip interruption reimbursement, and loaner vehicle; Three years of Toyota Care maintenance, which covers all recommended factory maintenance, up to 12,000 miles annually; Eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on fuel cell components; Entune and three years of complimentary Safety Connect, including hydrogen station map app; and, Complimentary hydrogen fuel for up to three years. Building a Convenient Refueling Infrastructure In addition, Toyota continues to support the development of a convenient and reliable hydrogen refueling infrastructure. Research at the University of California Irvine’s Advanced Power and Energy Program (APEP) has found that 68 stations, located at the proper sites, could handle a FCV population of at least 10,000 vehicles. Those stations are on their way to becoming a reality. By the end of 2015, 3 of California’s 9 active hydrogen stations and 17 newly-constructed stations are scheduled to be opened to the general public, with 28 additional stations set to come online by the end of 2016, bringing the near-term total to 48 stations. Nineteen of those 48 stations will be built by FirstElement Fuels, supported by a $7.3 million loan from Toyota. The company has also announced additional efforts to develop infrastructure in the country’s Northeast region. In 2016, Air Liquide, in collaboration with Toyota, is targeting construction of 12 stations in five states – New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.