The Golf is celebrating its 50th birthday. With more than 37 million units sold, the Volkswagen is one of the most successful cars in the world. It all started in 1974. Just in time for the birthday of this compact class icon, pre-sales of the latest evolutionary stage of the bestseller are now starting in Europe. In addition to numerous intricate enhancements, all the new Golf (from 27,180 euros) and Golf Variant (from 28,280 euros) models feature a next-generation, intuitive-to-use infotainment system. Volkswagen is also celebrating the 50th anniversary of the compact car icon with an exclusive special-edition model: the Golf Edition 50.

New front end and light design. The new Golf and Golf Variant models can be recognised by their modified front end. The newly designed LED headlights are now even more visually striking. As the top-of-the-range version, the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights04 incorporate a new high-performance main beam with a very long range. For the first time in a European Volkswagen, the Volkswagen logo in the radiator grille is also illuminated. The IQ.LIGHT 3D LED tail light clusters in both body versions have also received a new design.

New infotainment system and ChatGPT. The interior features a brand new generation of infotainment system with an even faster processor, a free-standing touchscreen (diagonal: 32.2 cm/12.9 inches) and an intuitive menu structure.

In addition, the touch sliders for temperature and volume control are now illuminated. The latest digital instruments (Digital Cockpit Pro) are also always on board as standard. Also new is the multifunction steering wheel with easy-to-use buttons and the IDA voice assistant. The IDA allows natural language to be used not only to control functions such as the air conditioning system, telephone or navigation system3, but also to access online information on practically any topic – from flight details to general knowledge questions. As a new feature, ChatGPT is integrated into the IDA voice assistant for the first time; the AI (artificial intelligence) system means questions can now be asked on an almost infinite range of subjects.

Five equipment and four drive system variants initially available. In the pre-sales phase, the Golf and Golf Variant will be launched in an entry-level version (Golf), the Life specification building on this and the Style top-of-the line version. The classic five-door Golf will also be offered as an exclusive Edition 50 model. Four drive variants are available immediately: two manual turbocharged petrol engines (TSI) with 85 kW (115 PS) and 110 kW (150 PS), and two 48 V mild hybrid turbocharged petrol engines (eTSI) with a 7-speed direct shift gearbox (DSG) that also have outputs of 85 kW (115 PS) and 110 kW (150 PS). The 48 V system uses brake energy recuperation to store electrical energy that is used for the drive system. When moving off, this additional power noticeably improves performance. At the same time, the efficient 48 V technology and the temporary shutdown of the 1.5 TSI evo2 enable very low consumption. All four drive systems are state-of-the-art four-cylinder engines with a VTG (variable turbine geometry) turbocharger and Active Cylinder Management (ACTplus). Further derivatives and drive systems will follow shortly.

The special Golf Edition 50 model. Half a century of the Golf – as a tribute to millions of Golf models sold, Volkswagen has developed an attractive special-edition model to mark the birthday of the world’s best-selling model, the Golf Edition 50. The basis for this is the high-quality Golf Style, which is customised with numerous additional features. The exterior includes 18-inch alloy wheels “Leeds”, tinted rear windows, an illuminated horizontal radiator grille strip, the illuminated Volkswagen logo as well as the 3D ‘50’ badge on the B-pillars. In the interior, the exclusivity of this model is underlined by details such as Edition 50 logos in the front sill panel mouldings and bottom steering wheel trim, pedal caps in brushed stainless steel and a black headliner. In addition, the new top-of-the-range “Discover” infotainment system with navigation function, the keyless start and locking system Keyless Access, the IDA voice assistant, driving profile selection and an anti-theft alarm are part of the extended equipment. The special-edition model will be available with different drive versions. These start with the Golf Edition 50 1.5 TSI with 110 kW (150 PS) and a manual gearbox at a price of 36,820 euros. An optional Plus package is also available, it includes a tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, IQ. LIGHT matrix LED headlights and a head-up display.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

The ID.7 is the flagship among electric Volkswagen models – a progressive fastback saloon with a long range. Volkswagen is now expanding the ID.7 portfolio in Europe with an estate car: the all-new ID.7 Tourer. It is one of the first all-electric estate cars in the upper mid-sized class. Volkswagen is also represented in this class with the new Passat Variant. Both product lines complement each other and together cover all relevant drive types – from highly efficient petrol and diesel engines to plug-in hybrids with a predicted electric range of more than 100 kilometres (WLTP) and all-electric vehicles. The new ID.7 Tourer combines the emissions advantages of electric mobility with long WLTP ranges (up to 685 km), a high-quality cockpit landscape, outstanding travel comfort and superior spaciousness – making it an ideal business car. Europe-wide presales are scheduled to start in the first quarter of this year.

Strong upper mid-sized class. Imelda Labbé, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management, responsible for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, says: “The new ID.7 Tourer is a perfect estate model, especially for families and long-distance drivers. With plenty of space and a high level of comfort, it impresses fully electrically with long ranges!" The ID.7 Tourer will be produced together with the ID.7 fastback saloon and the ID.4 SUV at the electric mobility plant in Emden, Germany.

Electric all-rounder. The ID.7 Tourer differs significantly from the fastback saloon at the rear. The long roof line and its elegant transition to the boot lid in particular are striking design features of the electric estate. In terms of style, the Tourer is a fusion of a classic estate in the format of the Passat, and a dynamic shooting brake such as the Arteon. Thanks to the increased height at the rear, the luggage compartment volume is even larger than that of the fastback saloon: with five people on board, the ID.7 Tourer has a luggage capacity of up to 605 litres (rear seat backrest in cargo position). When loaded up to the backrests of the front seats and up to the roof, this figure rises to up to 1,714 litres.

Up to 685 km WLTP range. The new ID.7 Tourer is equipped with the latest-generation electric drive system. Volkswagen will offer two different battery sizes for the ID.7 Tourer. Depending on the battery energy content, the electric touring car is expected to achieve WLTP ranges of up to 685 km. The largest battery is designed for a maximum charging capacity of up to 200 kW at DC quick-charging stations. At this power level, the battery can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent in significantly less than 30 minutes.

AR head-up display as standard. The new ID.7 Tourer will be launched with innovative technological features, including an augmented-reality (AR) head-up display equipped as standard. This projects information relevant to the journey into the driver’s field of vision, so their eyes can stay focused on the road. At the same time, the AR head-up display changes the cockpit architecture because it allows classic instruments to become compact.

New Wellness In-Car app. In the new ID.7 Tourer Volkswagen is implementing premium-class comfort. This is made possible with details such as vents that are automatically operated by small control motors, and ergoActive seats with a new pressure-point massage function and automatic air conditioning. Another innovation on board is the panoramic sunroof with smart glass – here, the glass layers can be electronically switched to be either opaque or clear. The Wellness In-Car app is also completely new. This allows various vehicle functions to be adjusted by means of three preconfigured programmes (Fresh Up, Calm Down and Power Break) which can help to enhance wellbeing during the journey or breaks. Depending on the vehicle equipment, the app accesses the background lighting, sound, air conditioning, smart glass function, seat air conditioning and seat massage as well as the ID.LIGHT and the infotainment screen.

Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

The ID.7 is the flagship among electric Volkswagen models – a progressive fastback saloon with a long range. Volkswagen is now expanding the ID.7 portfolio in Europe with an estate car: the all-new ID.7 Tourer. It is one of the first all-electric estate cars in the upper mid-sized class. Volkswagen is also represented in this class with the new Passat Variant. Both product lines complement each other and together cover all relevant drive types – from highly efficient petrol and diesel engines to plug-in hybrids with a predicted electric range of more than 100 kilometres (WLTP) and all-electric vehicles. The new ID.7 Tourer combines the emissions advantages of electric mobility with long WLTP ranges (up to 685 km), a high-quality cockpit landscape, outstanding travel comfort and superior spaciousness – making it an ideal business car. Europe-wide presales are scheduled to start in the first quarter of this year.

Strong upper mid-sized class. Imelda Labbé, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management, responsible for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, says: “The new ID.7 Tourer is a perfect estate model, especially for families and long-distance drivers. With plenty of space and a high level of comfort, it impresses fully electrically with long ranges!" The ID.7 Tourer will be produced together with the ID.7 fastback saloon and the ID.4 SUV at the electric mobility plant in Emden, Germany.

Electric all-rounder. The ID.7 Tourer differs significantly from the fastback saloon at the rear. The long roof line and its elegant transition to the boot lid in particular are striking design features of the electric estate. In terms of style, the Tourer is a fusion of a classic estate in the format of the Passat, and a dynamic shooting brake such as the Arteon. Thanks to the increased height at the rear, the luggage compartment volume is even larger than that of the fastback saloon: with five people on board, the ID.7 Tourer has a luggage capacity of up to 605 litres (rear seat backrest in cargo position). When loaded up to the backrests of the front seats and up to the roof, this figure rises to up to 1,714 litres.

Up to 685 km WLTP range. The new ID.7 Tourer is equipped with the latest-generation electric drive system. Volkswagen will offer two different battery sizes for the ID.7 Tourer. Depending on the battery energy content, the electric touring car is expected to achieve WLTP ranges of up to 685 km. The largest battery is designed for a maximum charging capacity of up to 200 kW at DC quick-charging stations. At this power level, the battery can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent in significantly less than 30 minutes.

AR head-up display as standard. The new ID.7 Tourer will be launched with innovative technological features, including an augmented-reality (AR) head-up display equipped as standard. This projects information relevant to the journey into the driver’s field of vision, so their eyes can stay focused on the road. At the same time, the AR head-up display changes the cockpit architecture because it allows classic instruments to become compact.

New Wellness In-Car app. In the new ID.7 Tourer Volkswagen is implementing premium-class comfort. This is made possible with details such as vents that are automatically operated by small control motors, and ergoActive seats with a new pressure-point massage function and automatic air conditioning. Another innovation on board is the panoramic sunroof with smart glass – here, the glass layers can be electronically switched to be either opaque or clear. The Wellness In-Car app is also completely new. This allows various vehicle functions to be adjusted by means of three preconfigured programmes (Fresh Up, Calm Down and Power Break) which can help to enhance wellbeing during the journey or breaks. Depending on the vehicle equipment, the app accesses the background lighting, sound, air conditioning, smart glass function, seat air conditioning and seat massage as well as the ID.LIGHT and the infotainment screen.

Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

The Tiguan is currently the most successful Volkswagen with annual production of well over half a million units – now the new Tiguan is coming to the VW dealers. To coincide with its European market launch, the plug-in hybrid drives (eHybrid) are now available with two outputs (150 kW and 200 kW). Tiguan models with efficient 48 V mild hybrid drives (eTSI) and turbodiesel engines (TDI) have already been available since 2023 September.

Pre-sales of the Tiguan eHybrid have now started. The plug-in hybrid drives of the Tiguan have been completely newly designed by Volkswagen and deliver a system power of 150 kW (204 PS) and 200 kW (272 PS). Thanks to a battery that now offers a capacity of 19.7 kWh (net), the electric range has practically doubled compared with the predecessor. With electric ranges of up to approx. 120 km on a single battery charge, the Tiguan eHybrid models practically become electric cars in everyday life. With the combination of an 85 kW electric drive motor and the new 1.5-litre TSI engine (110 kW or 130 kW), the hybrid model is also impressive on long journeys with low consumption values and combined ranges of more than 900 km. The battery of both models can be charged with up to 11 kW (previously 3.6 kW) at a domestic socket or wall box and with up to 50 kW) at DC quick-charging stations when out and about.

Mid-sized class with premium-class technologies. The new digital cockpit in the high-quality Tiguan interior stands out thanks to its intuitive operation. The IDA voice assistant is also new. It allows numerous vehicle and infotainment functions to be controlled using natural language. In addition, IDA answers questions on all conceivable topics. To do this, the system accesses online databases and – for the first time – the artificial intelligence of ChatGPT. The assist systems have also been further developed: for the first time in the Tiguan, the latest Park Assist systems enable fully automatic driving into and out of parking spaces over a distance of up to 50 metres (memory function) and remote-controlled parking using a smartphone. New adaptive running gear (DCC Pro) optimises comfort and dynamics. New features such as a pneumatic massage function for the front seats and the also new IQ.LIGHT HD matrix headlights have been derived from the Touareg premium-class model.

Tiguan standard equipment* – not basic in any way. The entry-level Tiguan version* is equipped as standard with a range of features such as digital instruments (Digital Cockpit), a 32.8-cm (12.9-inch) infotainment system, a driving experience control (for the driving profiles, for example), Car2X warning system, an additional centre airbag (front) and side airbags at the rear, one-zone Climatronic (automatic air conditioner), USB-C ports, roof rails and assist systems such as Side Assist (lane change assist), Front Assist (emergency braking system), Lane Assist (lane departure warning), Rear View (rear view camera system) and Dynamic Road Sign Display. Also standard are LED headlights and 17-inch alloy wheels. In addition, three further equipment lines are available with the Life, Elegance and R-Line specifications.

Prices start from 36,600 euros. The new Tiguan is available as an eTSI variant with 96 kW from 36,600 euros. The Tiguan eHybrid with 150 kW plug-in hybrid drive (from the Life version upwards) can be configured at prices from 48,655 euros. Standard in all models is an automatic gearbox (DSG). The most powerful towing vehicle is the 142 kW Tiguan TDI 4Motion. With its all-wheel drive system, it has a towing capacity of up to 2,300 kg. This is available in the Life equipment line from 49,055 euros.

*All equipment details, prices (incl. 19% VAT) and power specifications apply to the model range offered in Germany. Please contact the press spokesperson in your country for the specific equipment, prices and drive systems in your market.

* *All-electric range determined on the rolling road test bed in accordance with the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) in the most range-favourable equipment variant of the Tiguan eHybrid. The actual WLTP-based all-electric range value can vary due to the equipment. The actual all-electric range achieved under real conditions varies depending on the driving style, speed, use of comfort features or auxiliary equipment, outside temperature, number of passengers/load, topography and the ageing and wear process of the battery.

Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Volkswagen is driving forward its major product offensive in the mid-sized class with pre-sales of the new ID.7 Tourer. Following the new ID.7 fastback saloon, new Passat and new Tiguan, the first all-electric Volkswagen estate-car is already the fourth new mid-sized model in just a few months. The business and leisure all-rounder can now be configured and ordered at prices starting at 54,795 euros. As one of just a few manufacturers, Volkswagen is present on the European market with three estate models in the important upper mid-sized class: the sporty Arteon Shooting Brake, the completely newly developed Passat Variant and the ID.7 Tourer. With this model range, Volkswagen offers all relevant drive types in the mid-sized class and thus a particularly large choice for customers.

Range of up to 607 km. The ID.7 Tourer was designed specifically for the European market. At the start of pre-sales, the electric Volkswagen can be configured as the ID.7 Tourer Pro with a 210 kW (286 PS) electric drive and a battery with an energy content of 77 kWh (net). The WLTP range is up to 607 km. The ID.7 Tourer Pro has a top speed of up to 180 km/h and can take new energy on board with a capacity up to 175 kW at DC quick-charging stations. With this power, the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in about 28 minutes. 

Maximum use of space. With a load capacity of up to 1,714 litres, the new ID.7 Tourer is one of the most spacious electric cars on the market. Even with five people on board, a luggage compartment volume of up to 605 litres is available (rear bench seat backrest in cargo position). As the large wheelbase of 2,971 mm almost completely benefits the interior, the overall length of the ID.7 Tourer of 4,961 mm means there is above-average legroom in the rear.

Extensive standard equipment. The base price of 54,795 euros includes a two-zone automatic air conditioner with intelligent vents, the infotainment system with touchscreen in tablet format (diagonal: 38 cm, 15 inches) including App-Connect Wireless for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an augmented reality head-up display, the IDA voice assistant, mobile phone interface, four USB-C interfaces, background lighting (10 colours), anti-theft alarm, seat heating in the front, luggage compartment partition net, LED headlights and LED tail light clusters, electrically folding exterior mirrors, surround lighting including logo projection via exterior mirror housings and illuminated door handle recesses, the keyless locking and starting system Keyless Access, rain sensor, black roof rails (75 kg roof load) and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Assist systems on board as standard. All versions of the ID.7 Tourer are equipped with assist systems such as the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) including Lane Assist (lane keeping system), Side Assist (lane change system), the Car2X hazard warning system, Dynamic Road Sign Display, Rear View (rear view camera system) and Light Assist (main-beam control).

Simple individualisation by means of equipment packages. The ID.7 Tourer can be customised in just a few steps by means of optional equipment packages.

An example is the Comfort package: this combines features such as a three-zone automatic air conditioner (Air Care Climatronic), navigation system, inductive charging interface for smartphones and windscreen heating.

The Assist System package additionally includes Connected Travel Assist (assisted driving) and innovative systems for assisted parking.

The Interior package Plus includes, among other things, 30-colour background lighting, electrically adjustable ergoActive comfort seats in the front (with massage programmes and active air conditioning), seat centre panels in ArtVelours Eco microfleece in the front and on the outer rear seats, as well as a Harman Kardon sound system with a total output of 700 watts.

The Exterior package Plus with Smart Glass offers a large panoramic sunroof as an innovative detail. The glass layers of this smart glass can be electronically switched between opaque or clear. Among other things, this package also includes DCC adaptive chassis control, IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, Dynamic Light Assist (main-beam control) and LED tail light clusters with dynamic turn signals. Optionally illuminated Volkswagen badges on the front and rear round off the appearance of the ID.7 Tourer.

New Wellness In-Car App. The Wellness In-Car App is also completely new. This allows synchronised adjustment of various vehicle functions by means of three preconfigured programmes (Fresh Up, Calm Down and Power Break) to enhance well-being on board. Depending on the vehicle equipment, the app accesses the background lighting, sound, air conditioning, Smart Glass function, seat heating, automatic seat air conditioning and seat massage function.

Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Volkswagen is expanding its range of sporty GTX models. As a double world premiere, the new ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer models are now the first to make their debut. The two highly dynamic Volkswagen models will be launched soon with an individual exterior design, including their own front and rear light signatures, sporty design details in the interior and powerful performance drives. The sportiest models from the all-electric ID. product line have already borne the GTX label since 2021 – based on the dynamic Volkswagen models with the designations GTI, GTD or GTE.

GTX success story. The sporty and dynamic GTX models offer a completely unique and particularly fascinating type of electric mobility. The fact that every fifth newly registered ID.4 and ID.5 in Europe is already a GTX model shows just how popular this is with customers. Volkswagen has now transferred the successful driving dynamics to the ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer – with an individual technical setup in each case.

The character of the ID.3 GTX. Volkswagen will launch the rear-wheel drive ID.3 GTX in two variants. The top-of-the-line model is the ID.3 GTX Performance – a snappy, compact sports car. Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development, says: “With its spontaneous and superior power delivery, the new ID.3 GTX Performance is for me the electric counterpart to our sporty compact icon, the Golf GTI Clubsport. Of course, an electric drive and a turbocharged petrol engine each have their own unique character. Yet the ID.3 GTX Performance and the Golf GTI Clubsport share the same fascinating lightness when they accelerate.” Grünitz continues: “With the ID.3 GTX, Volkswagen is transferring the almost 50-year tradition of its compact GT models into the world of electric mobility. Driving pleasure is guaranteed.”

The design and equipment of the ID.3 GTX. The ID.3 GTX stands out from all other models in the product line thanks to its individualised exterior design. The GTX-specific front bumper features a new independent black air intake in a diamond-style design and has new daytime running lights on the left and right. The black elements of the body have a high-gloss finish. This additionally applies to the newly designed side sills and the new lower area of the rear end with diffuser.

Also new are the 20-inch Skagen alloy wheels fitted as standard. A host of GTX-specific features customise the vehicle interior. With their ergonomic design, premium sports seats (in fabric and leatherette) equipped as standard underline the sporty character of the most powerful ID.3 models. Another classic GTX design element: red decorative stitching on the seats and multifunction steering wheel. The high-quality cockpit surface is also GTX-specific. The more powerful ID.3 GTX Performance comes with DCC adaptive chassis control.

The character of the ID.7 GTX Tourer. Pre-sales of the new ID.7 Tourer started only last week – and now the new ID.7 GTX Tourer is already making its debut as the most powerful model in the product line. Like the ID.4 GTX and ID.5 GTX, it has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that can drive the front axle in parallel with the rear axle. Kai Grünitz: “The ID.7 GTX Tourer paves the way for a new type of sporty mobility by combining the spaciousness of a large estate with the performance of a sports car. What is fascinating here is the instantaneous punch with which the electric motors provide their maximum output and torque in fractions of a second.”

The design and equipment of the ID.7 GTX Tourer. The front of the ID.7 GTX Tourer is distinguished from the other models in the product line by a distinctive bumper with honeycomb grille and GTX-specific light graphics including illuminated badges. As with the ID.3 GTX, all black elements have a high-gloss finish. This additionally applies to the side sills and the lower area of the rear bumper in GTX design. As on the ID.3 GTX, 20-inch Skagen alloy wheels are fitted as standard on the ID.7 GTX Tourer. The interior is refined by features such as individualised seats (heated in the front) with perforated GTX lettering in the backrests, red piping on the seats, red seams on the dash panel and door trims as well as a GTX-specific multifunction steering wheel with red decorative stitching. The luggage compartment capacity of up to 1,714 litres is just as large as for the rear-wheel drive variants.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Volkswagen is significantly expanding the range of drive systems that are available for the new Passat: pre-sales of two new plug-in hybrid drives are now starting. The eHybrid models have outputs of 150 kW (204 PS) and 200 kW (272 PS). Electric ranges of up to 120 km mean they become electric cars in everyday life. Two further turbodiesel (TDI) versions are also being launched: the Passat TDI with 90 kW (122 PS) will be the entry-level version in future. The most powerful TDI engine in the Passat will now deliver 142 kW (193 PS) and is coupled to the 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard. The new Passat has already been available for configuration with a mild hybrid drive (eTSI) and a TDI with 110 kW (150 PS) since autumn last year.

Four lines. The Passat is generally offered as a Variant as well as in the equipment lines Passat (entry-level version), Business, Elegance and R-Line. The Business version is geared to frequent business drivers, while the Elegance and R-Line versions offer the top-of-the-line specification packages. The different drive variants are linked to specific equipment lines:

Plug-in hybrid drive with 150 kW and 200 kW. The two Passat eHybrid models have one of the world’s most modern plug-in hybrid drive systems on board. An 85 kW electric motor is combined with a 110 kW (150 PS) or 130 kW (177 PS) high-tech turbocharged petrol engine (1.5 TSI evo2). As both Passat eHybrids permit an electric range of up to 120 km, they often become electric cars in everyday life. This is all the more true as their 19.7 kWh battery takes on new energy with a charging capacity of 11 kW at an AC wall box and up to 50 kW at DC quick-charging stations. Both eHybrid models are also ideal long-distance vehicles thanks to their long combined ranges. The Passat eHybrid with 150 kW (204 PS) system power (350 Nm system torque) can be configured at prices from 50,320 euros and in the Passat, Business and Elegance equipment lines. The 200 kW (272 PS) version has a system torque of 400 Nm, starts at 62,330 euros and can be ordered together with the Elegance and R-Line specifications.

TDI with 90 kW. The new Passat TDI with 90 kW (122 PS) is one of the most economical estate models in the mid-sized class. With a maximum torque of 320 Nm, even the smallest turbodiesel engine in the Passat range offers superior power delivery. The Passat can be ordered with this drive system at prices from 41,745 euros; the 90 kW TDI is offered for the Passat and Business equipment lines.

TDI 4MOTION with 142 kW. The Passat is one of Europe’s most successful business vehicles. The powerful turbodiesel engines are particularly popular with frequent drivers. The reason for this is that they offer large power reserves with the lowest consumption values. A prime example of this is the Passat TDI 4MOTION with 142 kW (193 PS) and all-wheel drive as standard. Other advantages of the powerful Passat TDI 4MOTION drive include optimum traction on any terrain and a maximum trailer weight of 2,200 kg. The Passat TDI 4MOTION can now be ordered at prices from 57,335 euros; it is exclusively reserved for the two top versions Elegance and R-Line.

TDI and eTSI with 110 kW. It has already been possible to configure the Passat models with 110 kW (150 PS) TDI and eTSI engines since November last year. The Passat eTSI (mild hybrid) is equipped with a 48 V belt-driven starter alternator and can be ordered at prices starting from 39,995 euros; the eTSI is available for the Passat and Business equipment lines. The 110 kW TDI starts at 48,495 euros and can be configured in the Business, Elegance and R-Line equipment lines.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Volkswagen presents the new ID. Buzz GTX: The electric Bulli equipped with a powerful performance drive system will in future be available with two wheelbases, two battery sizes and a choice of 5-, 6- or 7-seater. It also comes with standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive for optimum pulling power and traction in every driving situation. In addition, both GTX models share an individualized design. Pre-sales of the ID. Buzz GTX will start in the summer. This year, Volkswagen is once again expanding its range of sporty GTX models alongside the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 Tourer.

Electric all-wheel drive: The new ID. Buzz GTX is equipped with two electric motors – both together form all-wheel drive. The top speed of the GTX models is electronically limited to 160 km/h. The electric motors are supplied with energy by batteries in two sizes, which can be recharged from 10 to 80 percent in 26 minutes at DC fast charging stations with up to 185 kW or 200 kW (maximum charging capacity).

GTX towing capacity: Thanks to an extra power and the 4MOTION drive system, the ID. Buzz GTX offers a higher maximum trailer weight: the version with normal wheelbase can effortlessly pull up to 1,800 kg (braked, 8 per cent gradient), while the ID. Buzz GTX with long wheelbase has a maximum towing capacity of 1,600 kg. The maximum trailer weight was thus increased by 800 kg and 600 kg respectively. The 4MOTION system offers great traction advantages when towing a trailer on wet or loose surfaces in particular. The new ID. Buzz GTX is therefore an ideal towing vehicle – for example, for boat or horse trailers, which are often moved on slippery ground.

GTX exterior: The ID. Buzz GTX is characterised by an individualised front end. A bumper in GTX styling with a black air intake grille in honeycomb design and new side air guide elements also ensure a dynamic, distinctive appearance. New daytime running lights are integrated into the bumper on the left and right. All black body elements such as the new air intake grille, air guide elements, GTX lettering and the exterior mirror housings are finished in high-gloss black. In addition, the Solna 20-inch alloy wheel is standard equipment for the ID. Buzz GTX. The range of GTX wheel rims is supplemented by two new 21-inch alloy wheels. Always fitted as standard are IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. A new paint finish in the colour Cherry Red is offered exclusively for the ID. Buzz GTX. This red will be configurable as a solid paint finish and optionally in combination with Mono Silver metallic as a two-tone paint finish.

GTX interior: Volkswagen has also customised the interior equipment. Dark tones underline the sporty character of the most powerful ID. Buzz. For example, both ID. Buzz GTX versions are the only models in the product line to be equipped with a black headliner. The seats also feature the specific GTX design. Electrically adjustable comfort seats with memory function are used in the front. The seats are enhanced by covers in black ArtVelours Eco microfleece with a new diamond pattern as well as red contrasting seams and red piping. Red cross-stitching is a distinctive feature on the multifunction steering wheel, which is refined by a red application on the centre trim and the GTX lettering integrated there in chrome.

GTX passenger compartment: The ID. Buzz GTX with standard wheelbase is available as a five-seater with a 40:60 split three-seat bench in the second row (2/3) or as a six-seater with two individual seats each in the second and third rows (2/2/2). The long-wheelbase ID. Buzz GTX will also launch as a five-seater with a three-seat bench (2/3) and as a six-seater (2/2/2). This version will additionally be offered as a seven-seater with a three-seat bench in the second row and two individual seats in the third row (2/3/2). Depending on the model, the seats in the second row can be moved longitudinally by 150 mm (standard wheelbase) or 200 mm (long wheelbase).

GTX luggage compartment: The luggage compartment volume of the ID. Buzz GTX (standard wheelbase) as a five-seater is between 1,121 litres (loaded to the upper edge of the rear seat backrests) and 2,123 litres (rear bench seat folded down, loaded up to the upper edge of the front seat backrests). The extended ID. Buzz GTX is even more spacious: when loaded up to the upper edge of the backrests of the second row of seats, a capacity of 1,340 litres is available. If the large ID. Buzz GTX is loaded right up to the first row of seats, the volume increases to 2,469 litres. Even when occupied by seven people, there is still 306 litres of load space available behind the third row of seats in the long GTX. Depending on the seat configuration, both ID. Buzz GTX models can be equipped with a long or short Multiflex board (including two folding boxes). The Multiflex board creates a second loading level and – when the rear seats are folded down – a flat load area.

New hardware and software plus ChatGPT: A major hardware and software update for the product line will be incorporated into the GTX models. New on board are a head-up display (optional) and the next generation of infotainment systems (standard) with new menu navigation and graphics as well as fast processor power. The system’s touchscreen is now 12.9 inches in size instead of 12.0 inches (33 cm diagonal instead of 30 cm). Also new are the illuminated touch bar for temperature and volume control. The new IDA voice assistant is operated with natural voice commands. It not only allows control of numerous vehicle functions, but also provides answers to general knowledge questions using the online connection to databases such as Wikipedia. The innovative IDA voice assistant additionally features ChatGPT integration (AI/artificial intelligence). Another new feature is a Wellness app that uses preconfigured programmes to adjust various vehicle functions to improve well-being while driving or charging. The exit warning system is another new addition. This warns of motorised vehicles and bicycles approaching from the rear when a door is opened.

Samba bus of a new era: From now on, the ID. Buzz with long wheelbase will be available with the panoramic sunroof with smart glass as an option. The multi-layered smart glass has an integrated liquid crystal film and can be electronically switched so that it is transparent or opaque. The largest panoramic sunroof ever used in a Volkswagen evokes memories of the legendary "Samba Bus" and transfers the typical roof windows of the classic car into the present.

GTX concept: Since 2021, the sportiest models of the all-electric ID. series have carried the GTX label – in reference to the dynamic VW models with the designations GTI, GTD or GTE. Including the new ID. Buzz GTX, a total of five ID. models will be available to the GTX range soon. 

Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

On 29 March exactly 50 years ago, Volkswagen started series production of the Golf in Wolfsburg. Nobody knew on that day in March that this compact car – the successor to the legendary Beetle – would become the most successful Volkswagen and best-selling European car of all time. It reflected the spirit of the times, gave its name to its own vehicle class, and has accompanied generations of people around the world. To date, more than 37 million units have followed 1974’s first series-production Golf. Purely in mathematical terms, this means that over 2,000 people around the world have opted to buy a new Golf every single day over the last 50 years. Today, Volkswagen is celebrating the Golf’s birthday – and also the start of this world bestseller’s future thanks to a comprehensive technical and visual update.

Volkswagen – from the round Beetle to the angular Golf. The first new Golf models could be seen in dealers’ showrooms in July 1974. Where the Beetle and thus rear-mounted engines had previously dominated the scene for many decades, a new era now finally began: that of the front-mounted transverse engine. Volkswagen had already initiated this transition shortly before with the Scirocco and Passat. With the Golf, the highest-volume class now also used this new technology.

Volkswagen reinvents itself. As the successor to the legendary Beetle that had been produced more than 21.5 million times, the Golf developed by Giorgio Giugiaro and Volkswagen Design had to live up to high expectations in order to continue the success story of the most successful car of all time up to that point. And it did so in every way: customers were so impressed by the modern drive concept, variable interior and new design that the Golf had already hit the one million mark by October 1976.

The Golf principle. In 1974, Volkswagen wrote the following about the new vehicle with its large tailgate: “The Golf offers maximum space and safety. It is uncompromisingly geared towards practicality. The low beltline gives drivers a clear overview, and the sloping bonnet ensures that the road right in front of the vehicle is visible. The rear window extends well down, making reversing much easier.” And this all still applies up to the present day for every Golf ever built.

The Golf and the factory. From the very beginning, the Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg and its employees also benefited from the successful start of the Golf I. To date, more than 20 million Golfs have been built in Wolfsburg alone. The 17 million Golfs built so far outside Wolfsburg have been produced in other German plants as well as in Belgium, Brazil, China, Malaysia, Mexico, Slovakia and South Africa. In this sense too, the Golf is a world car. However, its technologies have always been typical examples of progressive German engineering.

Golf I – A reflection of progress. Just like all following Golf generations, the first generation was also a reflection of the technical state-of-the-art and current automotive trends. And that was not just true of the ingenious use of space for the time and the vehicle’s front-wheel drive.With the first Golf GTI (1976), Volkswagen initiated the dynamic development of the compact class. The Golf D (1976) and the later Golf GTD (1982) ensured the breakthrough of diesel in the compact segment. In 1979, Volkswagen launched the Golf Cabriolet – for a time the best-selling convertible car in the world. This was like a breath of fresh air for this vehicle class, which had by then already long been known as the Golf class. A total of 6.9 million units of the first generation of the Golf, including all derivatives, were sold on all continents by 1983 – the Golf I thus proved itself to be a worthy successor to the Beetle.

Golf II – The milestone. Today’s Volkswagen Chief Designer, Andreas Mindt, sums up the most important moment in the history of the Golf: “It was the switch from Golf I to Golf II. Volkswagen’s then Chief Designer Herbert Schäfer did everything right there. He modernised the second Golf but kept the DNA of the first generation. This bridge is extremely important for the Golf’s history. The Golf has always remained a further development of this original model. That is the special thing about the Golf, and the credit for this belongs to Herbert Schäfer.” Technologies such as the controlled catalytic converter, ABS and all-wheel drive made their debut in the Golf II. A total of 6.3 million Golf II cars were built between 1983 and 1991.

Golf III – Safety first. From August 1991, Volkswagen kick-started a new era of safety with the Golf III. This was the product line’s first model available with front airbags from 1992, and great progress in the area of body design also led to significant improvements in its crash properties. A number of the product line’s other milestones are associated with the Golf III, which had been built 4.8 million times by 1997: for example, the first six-cylinder engine (VR6), cruise control system and the first side airbags. For the first time, this Golf was also available as an estate model.

Golf IV – The style icon The Golf IV presented in 1997 is today considered to be a style icon – no doubt also due to the fact that it bridged the gap to the Golf I from 1974 with its clear features and the striking C-pillar design of the product line. With the Golf IV, Volkswagen achieved a new standard of quality within the segment. In parallel, the debut of ESP made a further contribution to making safety available to the masses. In 2002, Volkswagen also presented the sportiest Golf to date on the basis of the fourth generation: the R32 with a top speed of 250 km/h. In 2003, this was the first Volkswagen to receive a direct shift gearbox (DSG). The Golf IV was replaced in the same year after 4.9 million units built.

Golf V – Class limits abolished. With its outstanding comfort, the fifth Golf – which was launched in 2003 – was miles ahead of many competitors in the upper mid-sized class. The same was true for quality. A value that underlined the stability of the laser-welded body was the 35-per-cent increase in torsional rigidity. For the first time, up to eight protective airbags were also on board. In addition, the Golf V, which had been built 3.4 million times by 2008, impressed with a new four-link rear suspension, bi-xenon headlights and the first 7-speed DSG.

Golf VI – High-tech compact class. By the end of July 2012, a further 3.6 million Golfs had been produced in only four years on the basis of the sixth generation that was introduced in 2008. And safety once again took a great leap forward: the again laser-welded body was so stable that it scored the maximum of five stars with flying colours in the Euro NCAP crash test. New technologies such as Light Assist (advanced main-beam control), Park Assist, Hill Start Assist and adaptive chassis control (DCC) made the 2009 ‘World Car of the Year’ one of the most advanced compact cars of its time.

Golf VII – Less weight, less consumption. In September 2012, Volkswagen celebrated the world premiere of the seventh Golf. Its weight was reduced by up to 100 kg compared with its predecessor, which meant that fuel consumption was also reduced by up to 23 per cent. New technologies such as the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control and Front Assist including City Emergency Braking System rounded off the range of assist systems. In 2014, Volkswagen set its course for the era of electric mobility with the new e-Golf. A total of 6.3 million Golf VII cars were produced up to 2019.

Golf VIII – The progressive modern era. Volkswagen presented the Golf VIII in October 2019. With its new mild and plug-in hybrid drives, it electrified the compact class. And as one of the first compact cars, it enabled assisted driving by means of Travel Assist. Even the entry-level version today has features such as Lane Assist, Front Assist, LED headlights, LED tail light clusters and automatic air conditioner on board as standard. In combination with the optional adaptive chassis control DCC and the vehicle dynamics manager, the Golf VIII also achieves an unprecedented spread between comfort and dynamics in this class. More than one million units have been sold so far.

Now – in 2024 – the new evolutionary stage of the eighth generation has arrived. The new Golf impresses with a next-generation infotainment system, a more intuitive operating concept, a sharper front and rear end design as well as efficient drive systems. These include plug-in hybrid drives with an increased all-electric range of significantly more than 100 kilometres. An illuminated Volkswagen logo02 also adorns the front for the first time in a Golf. In addition, the new Golf with voice control and the AI-based chatbot ChatGPT once again makes technical innovations available to the masses.

Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com