Category: VW

Volkswagen revealed an astonishing Golf V GTI powered by a W12 one month ago. This Golf inherited its engine from the Phaeton at which engineers added two turbo. The potion produced 650 bhp at 6000 rpm. Unfortunately we only had pictures … Until yesterday. There is now a video in which we can listen to the W12 at small speed. It is not like a circuit but it is still enjoyable.

As odd as it may seem, not only is the Jetta VW’s best seller in the USA, but it’s also the best selling European car there. Besides, the Golf-based saloon has always been tagged Jetta there, while in old Europe, it was successively called Jetta, Vento and Bora. The latter’s successor, first launched in America, now arrives in Europe. Stretched to 455cm, and widened to 178, the Jetta has been sized up, following the example of the Golf V. As a consequence, it offers better accommodation and boot space, with 527 litres. 7 engines are available, with power outputs varying from 102 (1.6 FSI) to 200bhp (2.0 T-FSI ). Of course, this range includes TDI engines, which can be coupled with the DSG robotized gearbox. Anyway, even if 6.5 million Jettas have been built since 1979, it’s not thanks to the European Market where it is challenged by the Passat. VW expects to see it sold in the US mostly, which explains why it’s built in Mexico.
The new Jetta will reach the British shores early 2006.

VW has just unveiled the Passat Estate, whose sales will debut on August 18 in Germany. The rear of the car has been totally redesigned, doors included. Thus, the stowage space totals 1,731 litres or 603 if the rear bench is not folded. It’s less than the Vauxhall Vectra’s, which offers up to 1,850 litres though. As it is possible to load up to 638kgs in the boot, a hydraulic self-levelling system is available for the rear suspension.
The front passenger seat backrest can fold and a cargo rail system can take place in the floor. In addition to this, you get an electric opening system for the tailgate.

Besides, the length remains identical to that of the Sedan, and so is the engine range. Prices will debut at 22,300€ in Germany.

After 4.3 million copies produced so far, the Passat Estate seems likely to meet success again, especially as the number of its direct rivals has shrunk. Contrary to Peugeot, with the 407 SW, and Renault, with the Laguna Estate, VW continues to make a high-capacity executive Estate.

The face-lifted New Beetle will be launched next September at the Frankfurt Motorshow.

Externally, we notice new lamps and bumpers as well as redesigned wings, conferring the car a more aggressive look.

In the cockpit, there are minor changes only: a new trim, a new console and a few aluminium-like ornaments.

Sadly enough, the new 2.5-liter five-in-line engine delivering 150bhp as well as the DSG transmission should be reserved to the American market.

Indeed, VW has noticed European customers prefer cheaper New Beetles with smaller engines.

As a consequence, 1.4, 1.6, 2.0 and turbocharged 1.8 units will be offered in Europe, along with a 1.9 TDI 105.

Fortunately, prices should remain more or less steady.

Renewing the myth of the legendary Beetle, the New Beetle, launched in 1998, has been far more successful in the US than in Europe.

Volkswagen intends to replace it in 2008, as the Ragster concept-car shown in Detroit last January lets us guess what it’s going to look like.

Built on the same platform as the Golf V’s, the 2008 New Beetle should also be fitted with the same engines, including the powerful 2.0 TDI 140 and petrol FSI units.

It should also remedy his predecessor’s biggest drawback: the lack of rear and boot space.

Still built in Mexico, it’s not sure it’ll be more affordable than the actual New Beetle, especially if it still has no direct opponent, unless the new Mini – which is expected in 2006 – significantly grows…