Today, the Touareg is taking free parking to a whole new level. If you’re in the Queen and Soho area of Toronto this afternoon, come check it out!

The iBeetle is first Volkswagen with newly developed docking station and a special iPhone® application

Wolfsburg / Shanghai – Two iconic products will form an alliance later this year: the iPhone from Apple, and the Beetle from Volkswagen. The iPhone will interface with the Beetle and Beetle Convertible via a specially developed app and a docking station. The iBeetle is the first model line from the Volkswagen Group in which the iPhone will become an integrated component. Volkswagen offers two different ways to acquire the innovative interface between iPhone and Beetle: as an app or as a standard feature of the new iBeetle and iBeetle Convertible. Both special models will be launched at the beginning of 2014. The app, docking station and iBeetle will make their world debut at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show (20th to 29th of April).

The interface

The newly designed docking station is located centrally on the dashboard of the Beetle: the iPhone simply snaps in to integrate it with the car. Essentially, all iPhone functions can be used in the Beetle; the iPhone can be used to navigate, make calls hands-free, listen to music, and much more.

The Beetle app

When this special app is launched on an iPhone, it can either connect the phone to the Beetle via the docking station or wirelessly. Each option allows for different app functions to be accessed:

• Spotify: lets users stream media such as new songs, customized playlists or online radio stations into the Beetle. Those who wish can post their favorite music directly to friends. In addition, users in the Beetle can switch between “Spotify” and “iTunes” at any time.
• Expert: offers five functions which make the iPhone an extended on-board instrument of the Beetle, such as a G-Meter (for measuring lateral acceleration), oil and coolant temperature gauges for the engine, a chronometer, and a compass.
• Trainer: can be used to compare driving times, distances, and fuel economy values for different routes between any two destinations. Here, too, tips can be posted via social networks like Twitter and Facebook—such as which route is faster to the office.
• Reader: lists the latest messages from social networks like Facebook, and reads iPhone messages aloud.
• Postcard: Sends the current location of the Beetle to friends as a digital postcard with a map motif.
• Photo: Sends photos taken inside the car to numerous social networks. Simply activate it, and the app does the rest.
• Milestones: Available when the smartphone is undocked. Rewards its users with virtual “milestone stickers” for the Beetle when certain tasks have been completed.

The iBeetle

The iBeetle is one of the first cars in the world to have a genuine integrative interface for the iPhone that was coordinated with Apple. As mentioned, the special model will be available as a Coupe and Convertible. The colors and equipment features of the iBeetle are stylistically linked to the Cupertino-based US company, bringing its iconic smartphones into harmony with what is certainly one of the world’s most iconic automotive designs.

The iBeetle, which will be available in early 2014 [no word yet on whether it will be available in North America], will come with other customized features in addition to the standard iPhone interface. On the exterior, they include standard features such as 18-inch “Disc” alloy wheels (painted in “Galvano Grey” with chrome wheel covers), door mirror housings and side trim panels (above the sill) in “Galvano Grey”, black door sill plates with the “iBeetle” signature, “iBeetle” chrome badges (on the front fender) and a “Chrome pack” (includes chrome trim strips on the sides). In a nod to the iPhone’s color scheme, the new iBeetle can be ordered in “Candy White”, “Oryx White Mother of Pearl Effect”, “Black Monochrome”, “Deep Black Pearl Effect”, “Platinum Grey”, or “Reflex Silver”.

Inside, steering wheel accents and the dash pad are executed in “Galvano Grey”. The iBeetle is also upgraded by a customized shift lever grip, black sport seats in “Vienna” leather, and contrasting seams in light “Ceramique”.

Via: http://media.vw.com/newsrelease.do;jsessionid=B21B2FCE45A2B6ACACDC7A41B53B1C21?&id=1382&allImage=1&teaser=volkswagen-debuts-ibeetle-shanghai-auto-show&mid

By Jamie Vondruska, VWVortex

• Europe’s best-selling car also a big success globally
• Four overall titles in five years: Volkswagen model again voted world’s best car

Wolfsburg, 28 March 2013 – The new Golf just keeps on winning: an international expert jury today named the bestseller from Wolfsburg ‘World Car of the Year 2013’. The globally sought-after prize was awarded at the New York International Auto Show. The ‘World Car of the Year’ title is a further milestone in the growing list of awards for the Golf.

Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, explained: “We at Volkswagen are all delighted that the Golf has been named ‘World Car of the Year’. To win this award again shows that the Golf is and remains in a class of its own all around the world. This car sets new benchmarks again and again, not least in terms of efficiency and environmental credentials. Soon, for instance, the Golf will also be launched as a plug-in hybrid and as a 100% electric car.”

For over 30 years, the Golf has been an established feature of the motoring scene around the globe. For the seventh generation of the bestseller today’s prize represented its 17th award since being launched in November 2012 [in Europe]. In giving their reasons for the award, the jury said: “The Golf is just the right size – it’s spacious, practical and comfortable. It has got a fresh, progressive design, a new range of engines, plus an impressive list of equipment and safety systems. If there is a car for everyone, the Golf is it.”

It was only three weeks ago that the compact car from Wolfsburg was crowned European Car of the Year. Further accolades from home and abroad, such as ‘The Best Cars of 2013’, ‘Auto Trophy 2012’ and the ‘Top Gear – All the car you’ll ever need’ award, round off the list of successes.

The ‘World Car of the Year’ jury consists of 66 motoring journalists from 23 countries, who rate new cars appearing on the world market not only for the award, but also in their daily reporting work for millions of drivers and car enthusiasts. Volkswagen has for a long time been a firm fixture in the ‘World Car of the Year’ awards: the model before the current Golf for instance, won the renowned prize back in 2009. In 2012, the cherished international trophy went to the company’s smallest car, the up! And 2010 was also dominated by Volkswagen: the Polo was crowned overall winner and the BlueMotion models of the Polo, Golf and Passat took the title ‘World Green Car of the Year’.

Over the coming months, further models will be added to the Golf range: the Golf GTI and Golf GTD [most likely not available in N.A.], two sportier versions, are being launched in the spring. From the middle of April customers will also be able to order the new, dynamic and spacious Golf Estate [Golf Wagon]. Following this in the second half of the year comes the new Golf TDI BlueMotion, which sets new standards in terms of fuel consumption and environmental compatibility: just 3.2 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 85 g/km are impressive figures in the compact class.

Go to post: http://www.vwvortex.com/news/volkswagen-news/golf-7-world-car-of-the-year/

By Paul Horrell, Top Gear

The BMW 3-Series wasn’t the first sports saloon of its size; there were Alfas and others. The Range Rover wasn’t the first luxury SUV – go look up the Jeep Wagoneer. And the Golf wasn’t the first compact hatchback, because the Simca 1100 did it years earlier. But BMW, Land Rover and VW, with complete dedication and unwavering direction, waxed and polished their respective templates over generations. They’ve reached the point where they define their classes and make all their rivals seem like mere impersonations.

So even though this year VW entirely rebuilt the Golf, the character of the thing hardly altered at all. It simply got better. The ride is far smoother now, and it was already pretty much class-leading. It’s even quieter, though again it already was almost as good as it got. The interior quality, which was itself for many people reason enough to buy a Golf, has advanced another increment. There’s a smidge more agility in the handling. The torquey and economical new 140bhp turbo petrol engine, which when going gently can imperceptibly switch to just two cylinders to save fuel, makes you wonder why people bother with noisy, expensive diesels.

It’s subtle to look at. Come closer, admire the details and the finesse of the surfaces and the lines. Stopped or on the move, it feels like it’s made of stronger materials than the hatches of other nations.

So why is this the year of the Golf? Because it really is all new. The ambition of the VW Group’s fresh components kit is Olympian. It’s more flexible, so all the different variants across brands will be more diverse than the ‘platform cars’ of old. The new engineering has also rationalised production, so that over time it’ll save the company billions. That means the Golf is better value than ever. Just try configuring a Mercedes A-Class to match your chosen Golf. Then drive them, and it’s the Mercedes that feels like the imposter.

And if it still looks a bit dear, remember that – because everywhere you look there are people who want one – it’s the 24-carat used car. Other mass-brand hatches depreciate faster, eroding their new-price advantage. See? We can do sensible advice here at TG.

Sometimes, it can be hard to find a question for which Golf isn’t the answer. It’s right-sized for the city and nimble in the country. Yet at normal motorway speed, a Golf is more relaxed than many big-tyred luxury barges. By plundering the options list, you can spec up all manner of big-car technologies and aids. Even so it carries the advantages of compactness: less fuel, lower costs.

Top and bottom: a Golf is no more car than you need, yet it can be all the car you want.

Read post: http://www.topgear.com/uk/car-news/top-gear-awards-all-the-car-youll-ever-need-award-2012-12-19

By: Jamie Vondruska

16 stage wins and a lead of three and a half minutes: Sébastien Ogier (F), at the wheel of the Volkswagen Polo R WRC, won the third round of the 2013 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). Altitude, heat, hundreds of thousands of fans – alongside co-driver Julien Ingrassia (F), Ogier dominated the Rally Mexico from start to finish to claim his second win of the season, following the duo’s success at the Rally Sweden. The Volkswagen pairing won all but seven of the 23 special stages and demonstrated remarkably consistent speed: thanks in no small part to the Ogier factor, the number 8 Polo R WRC was among the fastest four cars on every stage. The icing on the cake was Ogier’s victory on the Power Stage, which earned him a further three points towards the World Rally Championship.

Jari-Matti Latvala and Miikka Anttila (FIN/FIN) in the second Polo R WRC also proved their undoubted driving prowess. After incredible misfortune forced the Finns to retire from day two’s action just metres into the first special stage of the day, they took advantage of the Rally 2 regulation to rejoin the rally with a bang on Saturday and Sunday. The duo finished in the top three on six of the ten special stages held on days three and four in their number 7 Polo R WRC. Latvala’s tour de force came on the Power Stage: despite having to clear the route for everyone else, as the first man out onto the dirty route, he still managed to clock the third-fastest time to earn himself a bonus point towards the World Rally Championship.

Read more at: http://www.vwvortex.com/news/volkswagen-news/volkswagen-wins-2013-wrc-rally-mexico/

Written by: Edward A. Sanchez, MotorTrend

As is often the case with highly-anticipated vehicles before a major reveal, some outlets simply can’t contain themselves and abide by embargo agreements. We’ve had these photos for a while, but were prepared to abide by Volkswagen’s  agreed-to embargo time. But once the pics are out on the interwebs, it’s free game, so with that being the case, here are the official photos of the 2014 Volkswagen Golf Wagon or “Variant” in Euro-speak.

Why does this matter for U.S. customers? Because the vehicle we’ve known and loved as the Jetta SportWagen is sold in Europe as the Golf Variant, so what you’re beholding here is for all intents and purposes the next-gen Jetta SportWagen [or Golf Wagon in Canada]. To nobody’s surprise, the Golf Variant shows the crisper lines of the recently-unveiled seventh-generation Golf and GTI, with a longer roofline and extended length for the wagon.

We are privy to some other information on the Golf Variant in regard to its dimensions, powertrains and equipment, but embargo has not broken on those specs yet, and we don’t want to be the miscreants blamed with that leak. The one tidbit we feel fairly confident in sharing is that the TDI engine option naturally will continue to be offered on the European model (duh) and will almost certainly continue to be offered on the U.S. Jetta SportWagen once it’s officially confirmed for the U.S.

The long-running joke at press dinners for various models of any make is that if auto journalists ran the car companies, they’d all be making and selling compact, turbodiesel wagons with manual transmissions. We’ve got to give Volkswagen kudos for actually making good on that promise.

Source: Volkswagen

Read more: http://wot.motortrend.com/2014-volkswagen-golf-wagon-photos-here-they-are-336261.html#ixzz2MaLpwzYC

EXCITING NEWS!

Volkswagen Canada JUST dropped the MSRP of the Tiguan by up to $2,885*. This is HUGE. Here are the details, straight from VW:

“It is with great pleasure that we announce price reductions on all 2013 Tiguan with immediate effect. As of today, the 2013 Tiguan Trendline FWD has a new entry price of $24,990. This represents a full 10% price reduction of $2,885 and the first time that Tiguan has ever been available for under $25,000. All other Tiguan trim levels will benefit from MSRP reductions from $935 to $2,635. As a result of these price improvements, residual values also increase by up to 4% over a 48 month term, as listed in the Volkswagen Finance bulletin issued this morning. This, combined with a continuation of great lease and finance rates allow for greatly reduced monthly payments, making the Tiguan more affordable than ever.”

Come see us today for more details on this amazing price reduction, or contact us for a quote. We’re always happy to help!

* Price reduction for the 2013 Tiguan Trendline FWD

By Andrew Tsaousis, Car Scoop

It’s been a year since the Volkswagen Group revealed its brand-new MQB platform (“Modularer Querbaukasten”, which is German for Modular Transverse Matrix) to the world.

This new architecture, which debuted on the third-gen Audi A3, will not be used only for the group’s C-segment cars, like the VW Golf, Seat Leon, Skoda Octavia etc. but in other categories as well. In fact, it may be the German group’s biggest weapon in achieving its goal to become the number one manufacturer globally, outselling current leader Toyota, by 2018 – or even sooner.

The “global car”, i.e. the same design that can be sold, with minor modifications, in all world markets is something touted from time to time by many manufacturers. Yet, VW is the first automaker that may actually achieve it thanks to Ulrich Hackenberg, an auto engineer who had reportedly pitched his idea to other manufacturers until VW eventually bought it.

The basic principle is simple: build an architecture that’s flexible enough to accommodate anything, from a supermini like the Polo to a seven-seat SUV like the one VW will introduce in the U.S. market in 2015. This is more than just the chassis, though, as it concerns a common component strategy far beyond anything ever implemented until now.

IHS Consulting managing director Michael Robinet says that the MQB platform “could be the single most important automotive initiative of the past 25 years. It really changes the game.”

Robinet’s company estimates that VW’s plan is to increase its global sales to 10 million units or more, with nearly two out of three cars sold (6.3 billion) being built on the MQB platform.

Rivals have certainly taken notice of this new strategy. “We’d be crazy not to”, a senior Ford official told Reuters, while a Toyota executive conceded that “there’s no doubt we’ve fallen behind. We have not even begun to make the fundamental structural changes that VW has”. Both spoke on anonymity terms due to the sensitive nature of the subject.

Both analysts and the auto industry believe that the MQB could prove to be as revolutionary as Henry Ford’s production line or Toyota’s “just-in-time” system. VW has been working on it since 2007 and, along with its implementation over the next four years, its investment will reach nearly US$70 billion. Considering that Morgan Stanley estimates it will result in annual gross savings of US$19 billion by 2019, that’s money well spent.

Since the MQB is designed for models with a transversely-mounted engine, VW also has two other aces up its sleeve: the MLB platform, for models with longitudinally-mounted engines, and the MSB, for premium rear- and all-wheel drive models from Porsche, Lamborghini, Bentley and, probably, Audi too.

So that makes a total of three modular platforms, each designed from the outset to use a huge set of common components and be able to accommodate gasoline, diesel and even hybrid powertrains.

“Modular platforms have grown beyond the technology (alone) to become a management tool which helps support the brands’ development. The toolkits help the brands to preserve their character and sharpen their individuality”, said Hackenberg, who is now the development chief for the Volkswagen brand.

There’s only one risk: the huge volumes of common components also mean that, if there is a fault in a certain part, it will result in a huge global recall campaign; one that may make even the one implemented by Toyota look tame in comparison.

Via: http://carscoop.blogspot.ca/2013/02/vw-group-mqb-mega-platform-is-huge-game.html

By Chris Paukert

This was bound to happen. Volkswagen’s relentless drive for big volume has the brand mining seemingly every niche it can find for additional sales worldwide. And with its CLS Shooting Brake, fellow countryman Mercedes-Benz has already shown that a wagon based off of a “four-door coupe” can look dead sexy and command extra dollars. So it follows that the Volkswagen CC (whose existence is all but directly attributable to the success of the original CLS sedan) will also get a load-lugging variant. That’s according to the UK’s Autocar, which notes that the five-door will come in the CC’s next generation.

According to the report, the next CC will be available in front and all-wheel drive variants with the usual assortment of gas and diesel four-cylinders found in the Wolfsburg empire, with the possibility of a gas plug-in hybrid model, too. The rakish estate will ride atop VW’s MQB architecture, a shorter variant of which is also found underneath the new Golf. The scalable chassis is set to spread like kudzu throughout the company’s lineup, but the CC probably won’t happen until after the launch of the next European-market Passat in 2015.

Will we get it in North America? Hard to say. Volkswagen sells the standard CC saloon here, but not in particularly large numbers, and when the company moved to a North American-specific Passat, it dumped the wagon variant. The traditional VW estate apparently continues to pick up sales momentum abroad, however, making the CC Shooting Brake a seemingly natural fit for buyers who still want the utility of a two-box form but can afford to sacrifice a bit of cargo room in the name of style.

Via: http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/vw-readying-cc-shooting-brake/