Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Camaro exterior designer Sang Yup Lee moves to VW/Audi]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/25/camaro-exterior-designer-sang-yup-lee-moves-to-vw-audi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/25/camaro-exterior-designer-sang-yup-lee-moves-to-vw-audi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/25/camaro-exterior-designer-sang-yup-lee-moves-to-vw-audi/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Sang Yup Lee

GM designer Sang Yup Lee has left for the enormous and vast wilds of the VW empire. Lee was the exterior designer of the 2010 Camaro, 50th Anniversary Stingray Concept, Buick Velite, and he worked on the C6 Corvette. Having spent time with him on a few occasions, we can also say he's an all-around great guy.

His new position, as chief exterior designer at the Volkswagen/Audi Advanced studio in California, will begin next month. Lee will report to Executive Design Director Jens Manske, and is apparently is charged with 'inspiring' the merged design divisions. We look forward to a future of brawny, haunchy, badass VWs, even if only in concept form.

[Source: Car Design News]

Camaro exterior designer Sang Yup Lee moves to VW/Audi originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Dec 2009 17:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audidesigngeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmsang yup leeSangYupLeevolkswagenvw Fri, 25 Dec 2009 17:17:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: VW finished eating companies, will now focus on digestion]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/report-vw-finished-eating-companies-will-now-focus-on-digestio/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/report-vw-finished-eating-companies-will-now-focus-on-digestio/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/report-vw-finished-eating-companies-will-now-focus-on-digestio/#comments Filed under: ,



We have a feeling historians will spending a fair portion of next few years finding new words to describe just how bad this year was for the auto industry. And then, at some point, they'll get around to Volkswagen, a company that has been zagging while almost all others zigged. Over the last twelve months, VW has taken a stake in Suzuki, bought Karmann, won European Car of the Year, won the Dakar Rally, turned its eye to F1, released a litter of well received cars, put autonomous cars everywhere, thrown huge money at hybrids and electric cars, and made recycling fun. And it's building a $125 million dealership in Manhattan. And then there was that whole Porsche thing. And it took the crown of No. 1 automaker. We could continue, but there's a post to finish...

When it comes to mergers and acquisitions, remarks from company CEO Martin Winterkorn suggest that VW is finished doing its impression of 18th century England. "We are satisfied with the current line-up," he has told Automotive News. "I don't see any need (for further M&A activity)." That, in spite of his assertion that other companies "want to come under our roof."

VW will focus on what is sure to be a busy year ahead, integrating Porsche and its interest in Suzuki, at the same time as it gears up Karmann's factory for the Boxster, and builds its U.S. plant and prepares its new NMS model. Winterkorn is expecting VW's market share to increase in 2010, which might solidify a place at the top position; although after the shellacking General Motors and Toyota took while they wore the crowns, we don't know why VW would want the attention. And as for the end of M&A, perhaps Winterkorn hasn't heard the rumor about Piech's eyes on Ducati...

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

REPORT: VW finished eating companies, will now focus on digestion originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> MAmartin winterkornMartinWinterkornmergersmergers and acquisitionsMergersAndAcquisitionstakeoverVeedubvolkswagenvwwinterkorn Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:31:00 EST <![CDATA[Honda wins Commercial of the Decade, but not for the ad you think [w/VIDEO]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/honda-wins-commercial-of-the-decade-but-not-for-the-ad-you-thin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/honda-wins-commercial-of-the-decade-but-not-for-the-ad-you-thin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/honda-wins-commercial-of-the-decade-but-not-for-the-ad-you-thin/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Honda's Commercial of the Decade: "Grrr" - Click above to watch video

The mad men at Adweek recently voted for the Commercial of the Decade (Super Bowl commercials not included) and Honda took top honors over memorable ads from the last ten years by companies like Nike, Budweiser and Sony. That's not a big surprise considering Honda often puts a huge amount of effort into its on-air spots. However, the Japanese automaker didn't win for the commercial you might have expected: "Cog." Though Honda's famous commercial that breaks down a European Accord Tourer into a Rube Goldberg-esque machine was also a finalist, it was beaten by another Honda commercial called "Grrr" that's narrated by Garrison Keillor of all people. You've probably never seen it, but you can after the jump.

Volkswagen also made the list of finalists, but the particular ad chosen out of all the comical VW ads we've seen was unexpected as well. Most surprising carmaker with a commercial in the finals: Saturn. Who knew...

Just for fun we've put all 27 commercials after the break with the auto-related ones at the top, so you can enjoy the swear jar, the creepy-funky Philips clowns, a "rabbit panther thingy with turbines on ice," and the most sad-but-hilarious IKEA commercial we've ever seen. As a bonus we included the Gears of War commercial since we think it deserves a mention, and because it's almost the weekend and it doesn't always have to be about cars, does it? Follow the jump for the ad-fest.

[Source: Adweek]

Continue reading Honda wins Commercial of the Decade, but not for the ad you think [w/VIDEO]

Honda wins Commercial of the Decade, but not for the ad you think [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> advertisingadweekcommercialhondahonda commercialHondaCommercialsaturnsaturn commercialSaturnCommercialvolkswagenvolkswagen commercialVolkswagenCommercialvwvw commercialVwCommercial Fri, 18 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Suzuki CEO indicates joint projects with VW to start in January]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/report-suzuki-ceo-indicates-joint-projects-with-vw-to-start-in/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/report-suzuki-ceo-indicates-joint-projects-with-vw-to-start-in/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/report-suzuki-ceo-indicates-joint-projects-with-vw-to-start-in/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Volkswagen and Suzuki won't waste anytime at all in getting started on their assorted joint projects. Well, unless you count the holidays, which we'll let slide. At the launch of the new Suzuki Alto, CEO Osama Suzuki told reporters that the newly tied-at-the-hip automakers will begin "Actual, detailed execution - with our people going there and their people coming here... after January."

That first project will be a new small car that will be sold in developing countries, which may or may not be outsourced from Suzuki's Indian Maruti operations and is rumored to cost between $4,300 and $5,400.

Volkswagen has much less experience in building small cars than Suzuki, which is a leader in Japan's tiny Kei car class, and in making money with such low prices.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Suzuki CEO indicates joint projects with VW to start in January originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> emerging marketemerging marketsEmergingMarketEmergingMarketssmall suzukismall volkswagenSmallSuzukiSmallVolkswagensuzukisuzuki volkswagenSuzukiVolkswagenvolkswagen Thu, 17 Dec 2009 09:00:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: VW would have to shift 100,000 Amarok pickups to justify bringing them to North America]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/report-vw-would-have-to-shift-100-000-amarok-pickups-to-justify/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/report-vw-would-have-to-shift-100-000-amarok-pickups-to-justify/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/report-vw-would-have-to-shift-100-000-amarok-pickups-to-justify/#comments Filed under: , ,


Volkswagen Amarok - Click above for high-res image gallery

Want a new Volkswagen Amarok pickup truck? Well then, now would be the time to let VW know about your interest. Speaking to our man Mike Levine at PickupTrucks.com, Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volkswagen of America, says that the automaker would need 100,000 takers per year in order to make any money on the Amarok here in the States.

That would be a daunting task for the automaker as the only non full-sized truck that sold that many units last year was the Toyota Tacoma (102,327 units), and the next highest seller was the the Great Grandaddy of the Compact Truck Segment, the Ford Ranger (just 51,097 units).

What's more, the compact truck market is declining, VW doesn't have many dealerships in truck-happy areas of the nation and the so-called "chicken tax" would add a 25% tariff to the Argentina-built Amarok. Add in the fact that Jacoby says there are more pressing vehicular needs that the German automaker needs to concentrate on. In other words... don't get your hopes up.


Gallery: Volkswagen Amarok


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

REPORT: VW would have to shift 100,000 Amarok pickups to justify bringing them to North America originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Volkswagen Amarok2010VolkswagenAmarokamarokamarok americaamarok usAmarokAmericaAmarokUspickupvolkswagenvolkswagen amarokvolkswagen pickupVolkswagenAmarokVolkswagenPickupvwVW Amarokvw pickupVwAmarokVwPickup Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:20:00 EST <![CDATA[Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line now on sale - in Europe]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/volkswagen-passat-cc-r-line-now-on-sale-in-europe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/volkswagen-passat-cc-r-line-now-on-sale-in-europe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/volkswagen-passat-cc-r-line-now-on-sale-in-europe/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,


2010 Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line - Click above for high-res image gallery

Volkswagen just opened the order book on the Passat CC with the R-Line package in Europe. We saw this car at the Frankfurt Motor Show and were completely smitten with it. Taking the regular CC's swoopy coupedan shape and adding the R-Line package makes it just about perfect. What stops it from being perfect is the fact that the R-Line package doesn't add any oomph. Just like Audi's S-Line, its alterations are mainly cosmetic.

The R-Line package adds an aero kit, surprisingly modest "Mallory" pattern 17-inch wheels, R-Line emblems, smoked taillights, R-Line aluminum sill plates, a unique three-spoke multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel, front foglamps, and the Park Pilot system.

It becomes the eighth R-Line model in Volkswagen's lineup and will add 2,200 euro to the price of your CC - about $3,200 in Yankee bucks. Full press release after the jump and plenty of live and press pics below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Volkswagen CC R


Photos by Jonny Lieberman / Copyright (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.

Gallery: 2010 Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line now on sale - in Europe

Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line now on sale - in Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Volkswagen CC2010 Volkswagen CC R2010 Volkswagen CC R-line2010VolkswagenCc2010VolkswagenCcR2010VolkswagenCcR-lineCCcc r-lineCcR-linepassatpassat ccpassat cc r-linePassatCcPassatCcR-lineR-LineVeedubvolkswagenVolkswagen CCVolkswagen CC R-LineVolkswagen Passatvolkswagen passat cc r-lineVolkswagenCcVolkswagenCcR-lineVolkswagenPassatVolkswagenPassatCcR-lineVWvw ccvw cc r-lineVW passatvw passat ccvw passat cc rvw passat cc r-lineVwCcVwCcR-lineVwPassatVwPassatCcVwPassatCcRVwPassatCcR-line Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:28:00 EST <![CDATA[North American Car and Truck of the Year awards get shortlisted - Who are your winners?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/north-american-car-and-truck-of-the-year-awards-get-shortlisted/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/north-american-car-and-truck-of-the-year-awards-get-shortlisted/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/north-american-car-and-truck-of-the-year-awards-get-shortlisted/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

The finalists for the coveted 2010 North American Car and Truck of the Year awards have just been released ahead of next month's ceremony in Detroit.

Slated to be unveiled on the floor of the Detroit Auto Show on January 11, the nominees have been whittled down from 25 contenders to the following vehicles: In the car category, the Buick LaCrosse, Ford Fusion Hybrid and Volkswagen Golf will be waiting nervously in the wings, and in the truck category, the Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Transit Connect, and Subaru Outback will vie for the title.

The awards are the result of the deliberations of 49 North American automotive journalists and the winners will succeed last year's winners, the Hyundai Genesis sedan and Ford F-150 pickup. Check out a high-res gallery of this year's finalists below, peruse the official press release after the jump, and then let us know which vehicles you think deserve to take home the hardware in Comments.


Gallery: 2010 North American Car & Truck of the Year finalists


[Source: North American Car & Truck of the Year]

Continue reading North American Car and Truck of the Year awards get shortlisted - Who are your winners?

North American Car and Truck of the Year awards get shortlisted - Who are your winners? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST <![CDATA[(More) Pics Aplenty: VW plays up Scirocco R with new pics, details]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/more-pics-aplenty-vw-plays-up-scirocco-r-with-new-pics-detai/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/more-pics-aplenty-vw-plays-up-scirocco-r-with-new-pics-detai/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/more-pics-aplenty-vw-plays-up-scirocco-r-with-new-pics-detai/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2010 VW Scirocco R -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The Volkswagen Scirocco R was recently introduced to the European motoring press, and all of its details have been delivered unto the people. The 2.0-liter, 265-horsepower front-wheel-drive hot hatch comes in two versions: six-speed manual and six-speed DSG, either of which will get you to 60 mph in six seconds or less.

The R is loaded with tech and mods: XDS electronic transverse differential lock to combat understeer, Dynamic Chassis Control for variable damping, Anti-Slip Regulation, and massive 17-inch brakes among other features. If that makes you want to see what one can do in the corners, VW's already found out: two slightly more powerful Sciroccos won the 2.0-liter turbo class at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring earlier this year.

There's an exhaustive press release after the jump that will tell you all about it, and a high-res gallery of photos below if you like your stories in pictures.


Gallery: 2010 Volkswagen Scirocco R


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading (More) Pics Aplenty: VW plays up Scirocco R with new pics, details

(More) Pics Aplenty: VW plays up Scirocco R with new pics, details originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 scirocco r2010 volkswagen scirocco r2010 vw scirocco r2010SciroccoR2010VolkswagenSciroccoR2010VwSciroccoRcoupeperformancesciroccoscirocco rSciroccoRvolkswagen scirocco rVolkswagenSciroccoRvw scirocco rVwSciroccoR Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:56:00 EST <![CDATA[Forbidden T&A: Volkswagen introduces Tiguan Track and Avenue for U.K.]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/forbidden-tanda-volkswagen-introduces-tiguan-track-and-avenue-for/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/forbidden-tanda-volkswagen-introduces-tiguan-track-and-avenue-for/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/forbidden-tanda-volkswagen-introduces-tiguan-track-and-avenue-for/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2010 VW Tiguan Track & Avenue - Click above for high-res image gallery

Another dressed up offering has landed on that island haven for special editions, the UK. This time, it's the Volkswagen Tiguan Track & Avenue. Called a "very expressive off-roader," English types will be able to buy it in either "Oryx White Pearl Effect" or "Island Grey Pearl Effect." Not that you'd take those pretty 19-inch Savannah alloys off-road, but there's a specially angled front end with a silver skid plate so you can look like you would.

Inside is lots of amaranth-colored leather in "Heavy Waxy" grade (it looks better than it sounds), along with sport seats and a high-end stereo. Engine choices number four, in both petrol and diesel, topping out at the 200 horsepower 2.0-liter gasoline variant. It will start at €38,225 (a princely $56k USD, but remember - U.K. prices are still higher than that of their U.S. counterparts) for the 2.0-liter TSI diesel with a manual transmission and 170 hp. Read about it in the press release after the jump, and have a look at our gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: VW Tiguan Track & Avenue


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Forbidden T&A: Volkswagen introduces Tiguan Track and Avenue for U.K.

Forbidden T&A: Volkswagen introduces Tiguan Track and Avenue for U.K. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 volkswagen2010 volkswagen tiguan2010 volkswagen tiguan track avenue2010 vw2010 vw tiguan2010 vw tiguan track avenue2010Volkswagen2010VolkswagenTiguan2010VolkswagenTiguanTrackAvenue2010Vw2010VwTiguan2010VwTiguanTrackAvenuecuvtiguantiguan track avenueTiguanTrackAvenuevolkswagenvw Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:01:00 EST <![CDATA[Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/officially-official-vw-and-suzuki-tie-the-knot/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/officially-official-vw-and-suzuki-tie-the-knot/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/officially-official-vw-and-suzuki-tie-the-knot/#comments Filed under: , ,



As you can see from the image above depicting Osamu Suzuki, chairman and CEO of Suzuki Motor Corp. and Martin Winterkorn, his counterpart at Volkswagen AG, the two auto companies have agreed to link arms. Volkswagen has properly announced that it has "reached a common understanding to establish a close longterm strategic partnership" with Suzuki Motor Corporation. The union means VW will buy 19.9% of Suzuki, then Suzuki will spend half the money they just received from Volkswagen reciprocating by buying VW shares.

Beyond that, Suzuki gains access to VW technology and the comforting warmth of a hugely profitable big brother. Volkswagen gets a nearly turn-key solution to boosting its small car development and piggybacks on Suzuki's presence in India and Southeast Asia. Suzuki, and of course, VW, will remain independent, but unofficial word suggests that VW might increase its stake to 33% or more at some point down the road, which could shift the balance of power.

VW's press release is after the jump, and there will be a press conference and webcast (you'll need a user name and password to watch) at 5 p.m. with more details.

[Source: Volkswagen | Image: Kazuhiro Nogi/AFP/Getty]

Continue reading Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot

Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> breakingOsaumu SuzukiOsaumuSuzukishare exchangeShareExchangesuzukisuzuki motor corporationsuzuki volkswagenSuzukiMotorCorporationSuzukiVolkswagentechnology exchangeTechnologyExchangetie uptie-upTieUpvolkswagenvolkswagen AGVolkswagenAgvwvw suzukiVwSuzukiwinterkorn Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:32:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Volkswagen to take 20% stake in Suzuki]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/report-volkswagen-to-take-20-stake-in-suzuki/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/report-volkswagen-to-take-20-stake-in-suzuki/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/report-volkswagen-to-take-20-stake-in-suzuki/#comments Filed under: , ,

Where there's smoke, there's fire. Though Suzuki CEO Osamu Suzuki would beg to differ, it seems that the old saying has once again been proven prescient. After a ton of rumor, innuendo and speculation on the matter along with the subsequent denials, a fresh report from Reuters indicates that Volkswagen is indeed on the verge of announcing that it's procuring a 20% stake in Suzuki.

Assuming that the news is accurate, it will cost VW roughly $2.8 billion (250 billion yen) to purchase a fifth of Suzuki. Anonymous sources (aren't they all these days) suggest that the German automaker's share in Suzuki could easily rise to a controlling thirty-percent-plus stake.

[Source: Reuters | Image: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty]

REPORT: Volkswagen to take 20% stake in Suzuki originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> suzukivolkswagenvolkswagen suzukiVolkswagenSuzukivwvw suzukiVwSuzuki Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:39:00 EST <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #156]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/autoblog-podcast-156/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/autoblog-podcast-156/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/autoblog-podcast-156/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Editor Chris Paukert has apparently been bitten by the podcasting bug, and he once again joins Shunk and Roth for Episode #156 of the Autoblog Podcast. We dive right in to reminiscence about the recently finished Los Angeles Auto Show. Moving on from there, we talk about Audi's new A7 Sportback and its extreme gorgeousness, as well as the new A8 and all its massive awesomeness. Speaking of awesomeness, Shunk thinks that the $199,950 Aston Martin Rapide is one very attractive four-place supercar. Going to the other end of the spectrum, rumors about Volkswagen's upcoming Jetta replacement gets some head scratches from us before we moved on to prognosticating about a unibody Dodge Dakota replacement. We wrap up a chewy hour-and-forty-five minutes by addressing some of your questions and calling it a night.

Don't forget to check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget, and let us know what you think of our podcast by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #156

Autoblog Podcast #156 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> a7 sportbackaston martinaston martin rapideAstonMartinAstonMartinRapideaudiaudi a7audi a8audi s8AudiS8autoblogautoblog podcastchryslerdakotadodgedodge dakotaDodgeDakotafeaturedjettaLA 2009LA Auto showla auto show 2009la show 2009La2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShow2009los angeles auto showlos angeles auto show 2009los angeles autoshow 2009los angeles autoshow2009LosAngelesAutoShowLosAngelesAutoshow2009podcastsportbackunibody dakotaunit body dakotavolkswagenvolkswagen jettavwvw jetta Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:40:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #156Autoblog01:41:22la auto show; aston martin; aston martin rapide; rapide; audi a7; sportback; a8; audi; volkswagen; jetta; dakota; dodge dakota; podcast; autoblog podcast <![CDATA[Volkswagen takes 49.9 percent stake in Porsche AG]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/volkswagen-takes-49-9-percent-stake-in-porsche-ag/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/volkswagen-takes-49-9-percent-stake-in-porsche-ag/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/volkswagen-takes-49-9-percent-stake-in-porsche-ag/#comments Filed under: ,

Cue Ennio Morricone and the symphonic accompaniment to the endgame: VW has officially taken a 49.9% stake in Porsche. VW paid €3.9 billion ($5.75B U.S.) for its cut, "based on the enterprise value for Porsche AG calculated under a careful due diligence and valuation procedure." That's a few shades more than the €3.3 billion amount VW was saying it would pay a few months ago.

In acquiring Porsche, VW not only gains a premium brand that is still among the most profitable in the business, but VW expects its operating profit to jump by €700 million ($1.03B U.S.) over time due to cost-saving synergies. The purchase won't be finalized until 2011, though, when VW will incorporate Porsche Holding Salzburg, Europe's largest car dealer which also happens to be owned by Porsche.

You can read VW's press release - which has an air of something from Napoleon's PR department after the Battle of Austerlitz - after the jump.

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Volkswagen takes 49.9 percent stake in Porsche AG

Volkswagen takes 49.9 percent stake in Porsche AG originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> porscheporsche volkswagenporsche vwporsche vw mergerPorscheVolkswagenPorscheVwPorscheVwMergervolkswagenvwVW porscheVwPorsche Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:32:00 EST <![CDATA[Germany's Wimmer RS unveils stonking 386 HP Volkswagen GTI]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/germanys-wimmer-rs-unveils-stonking-386-hp-volkswagen-gti/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/germanys-wimmer-rs-unveils-stonking-386-hp-volkswagen-gti/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/germanys-wimmer-rs-unveils-stonking-386-hp-volkswagen-gti/#comments Filed under: , ,

Wimmer RS 386-hp GTI -- Click above for image gallery

Wimmer RS played around with a VW GTI, and this is the result: nothing too much on the outside and terror under the hood. The exterior, especially for a German tuner, is admirably untouched: just a set of 20-inch Motec Antares wheels, and a lower stance with height-adjustable coilovers.

Up front, though, the revisions take the 211-hp, 2.0-liter TFSI up to 386 hp and 336 ft-lb of torque. The upgraded grunt is courtesy of a new turbo and a thorough rework of the intake and manifold, injection valves, piston rods, fuel pump, and other sundries, along with a new software flash. Top speed is 166 mph, which just might be fast enough to outrun those graphics. Follow the jump for the press release, or have a look at it in the gallery of photos below.


Gallery: Wimmer RS 386-hp GTI


[Source: Wimmer RS]

Continue reading Germany's Wimmer RS unveils stonking 386 HP Volkswagen GTI

Germany's Wimmer RS unveils stonking 386 HP Volkswagen GTI originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> giveawayturbinevolkswagenvolkswagen GTIVolkswagenGtiwimmer rswimmer rs gtiWimmerRsWimmerRsGti Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Diesel Beetle, electric Up! coming from Volkswagen]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-diesel-beetle-electric-up-coming-from-volkswagen/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-diesel-beetle-electric-up-coming-from-volkswagen/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-diesel-beetle-electric-up-coming-from-volkswagen/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Volkswagen Up! Lite concept - Click above for high-res gallery

Volkswagen Group of America President, Stefan Jacoby, has confirmed that the next-gen New Beetle, due to hit North American as a 2012 model, will be offered with a clean diesel engine. The current New Beetle was last offered with a 1.9-liter TDI in 2006, but was discontinued the following year due to tougher emissions requirements.

In addition, the U.S. market will reportedly get an electrified version of the Up! hatchback in 2014, but it will not be the gasoline version (the diesel/electric Up! Lite concept debuted at the LA Auto Show last week). Ulrich Hackenberg, head of technical development for Volkswagen AG, says the car will be manufactured in Germany and sold in the European marketplace before it makes its way across the Atlantic.

The complete Up! lineup -- including a hatchback, minivan, and sedan -- all are slated to go on sale in Europe during 2011. but still no word on which models will make it to the U.S.


Gallery: LA 2009: Volkswagen Up! Lite


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

REPORT: Diesel Beetle, electric Up! coming from Volkswagen originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> LA Auto ShowLaAutoShowProduction newsProductionNewsStefan JacobyStefanJacobyUlrich HackenbergUlrichHackenbergUpUp conceptUp HatchbackUp minivanUpConceptUpHatchbackUpMinivanvolkswagenVolkswagen MinivanVolkswagenMinivan Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: VW confirms Jetta name for small sedan, upcoming coupe concept could enter production]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/report-vw-confirms-jetta-name-for-small-sedan-upcoming-coupe-c/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/report-vw-confirms-jetta-name-for-small-sedan-upcoming-coupe-c/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/report-vw-confirms-jetta-name-for-small-sedan-upcoming-coupe-c/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

VW Jetta

It seems that we'll be getting a new Jetta sedan next June, and it apparently won't be a slightly restyled Golf with a trunk grafted to the rear end. According to Car and Driver, VW's so-called New Compact Sedan, which will be built at the same Mexican plant that assembles the current Jetta, will indeed retain the Jetta nameplate.

Following its June debut here in the States, Volkswagen will prep the car for its European launch later in the year, and it may or may not be called Jetta overseas. A sportier GLI variant will continue to be offered on the new model. Looking farther down the model-range totem pole, there's a decent chance that VW will bring the Polo to the U.S. market to rival the new Ford Fiesta, possibly as both a sedan and a hatchback.

Lastly, we're told that we should expect to see a new U.S.market-tailored two-door notchback coupe concept on the show circuit in short order. If public reaction to it is positive, there's a good chance VW will greenlight the car for series production.

[Source: Car and Driver]

REPORT: VW confirms Jetta name for small sedan, upcoming coupe concept could enter production originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 10:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 jetta2011 volkswagen jetta2011 vw jetta2011Jetta2011VolkswagenJetta2011VwJettajettanew compact sedanNewCompactSedanpolovolkswagen coupevolkswagen jettavolkswagen new compact sedanvolkswagen poloVolkswagenCoupeVolkswagenJettaVolkswagenNewCompactSedanVolkswagenPolovwvw coupevw jettavw new compact sedanvw poloVwCoupeVwJettaVwNewCompactSedanVwPolo Sat, 05 Dec 2009 10:47:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Volkswagen shows off "Final Edition" New Beetle models]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-new-beetle-final-edition-los-angeles-2009/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-new-beetle-final-edition-los-angeles-2009/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-new-beetle-final-edition-los-angeles-2009/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2010 Volkswagen New Beetle - Click above for high-res image gallery

Signifying the end of what has been a long run, Volkswagen has introduced "Final Edition" models of the New Beetle coupe and convertible. Each will be limited to a run of just 1,500 units. Under the hood is VW's familiar 2.5-liter inline-fine (rated at 150 horsepower) sending power to the front wheels through a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission - nothing new there. However, the German automaker has fitted a full sport suspension and unique 17-inch alloy wheels to each of the New Beetles to add a touch more driving excitement.

Cosmetically, the Final Edition models feature Aquarius Blue paint. The hardtop version breaks up the color with a black roof and integrated fog lights, while the convertible model has a two-tone Aquarius Blue/Campanella White paint scheme and a white top. Special badging is found on the front quarter panel and on the steering wheel. The hatchback version hits showrooms with a base MSRP of $20,240 and the convertible starts at $27,170. Press release after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Volkswagen Beetle


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading LA 2009: Volkswagen shows off "Final Edition" New Beetle models

LA 2009: Volkswagen shows off "Final Edition" New Beetle models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bugconverible bugConveribleBugfinal editionFinalEditionlala2009laautoshowlast yearLastYearlimited editionLimitedEditionlos angelesLosAngeleslosangelesautoshownew beetlenew beetle convertibleNew Beetle CoupeNewBeetleNewBeetleConvertibleNewBeetleCoupe Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:58:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Volkswagen Up! Lite Concept teases with practical, lightweight innovation]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-up-lite-concept-at-2009-la-auto-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-up-lite-concept-at-2009-la-auto-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-up-lite-concept-at-2009-la-auto-show/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Volkswagen Up! Lite Concept - click above for high-res image gallery

Volkswagen has just taken the cover off an all-new concept called the Up! Lite, a sinister looking diesel hybrid that gets (according to VW) 70 mpg combined. As in both City and Highway. Impressive, even if that only ends up being 90 percent accurate. In fact, should Volkswagen decide to green light the unfortunately named Up! Lite, it would be the most fuel efficient and environmentally friendly four seat vehicle on the planet. Again, if the Up! Lite comes to fruition, we'll all be impressed. Interestingly, this concept isn't the most fuel efficient and environmentally friendly car on earth is because another Volkswagen -- the L1 from Frankfurt - is. But it only seats two.

Ready for the good parts? The aptly titled Up! Lite barely tips the scales at 1,530 pounds. There are Honda Goldwings flirting with that weight class. This svelteness is achieved via a mix of aluminum, lightweight steel and carbon fiber. For instance, the roof is made entirely from the expensive weave. And those amazing wheels consist of ten carbon-fiber spokes and an aluminum fairing. Nifty, no? The tiny, stylized winglettes replace conventional rearview mirrors and contain cameras instead of reflective glass. The same holds true for the interior mounted mirror, as has been replaced by a camera.

Up front, there's an active air dam that opens up as needed. The extra cooling will help out the TDI hybrid drive lifted from the two-seater L1. This 800cc powerplant transmits power to the wheels using a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox. Even though the diesel engine is teeny, when coupled to the electric motor, the Up! Lite can reach 100 mph and hit 60 mph in 12 seconds. Not fast by any means, but good enough - especially for an ultra-high mileage vehicle. And it can haul stuff, too - including humans. Unlike the Up! Concept we saw in Frankfurt, the Up! Lite seats four people, and with the rear seats folded, it can haul 30 cubic feet of stuff. Not bad at all.

Overall, we're pretty impressed by the looks and promise of the Up! Lite. In our estimation, there's absolutely nothing wrong with blending a Honda CRX with a Volvo C30. Will the Up! Lite ever make it to production? Who knows. VW claims the first Up!s(?) will go on sale in 2011. We get the sense that any future decision will be based on how the two-door Up! does. But we get the feeling the Up! Lite might give the people more of what they want. Official press release after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: Volkswagen Up! Lite


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Jonny Lieberman / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source:Volkswagen]

Continue reading LA 2009: Volkswagen Up! Lite Concept teases with practical, lightweight innovation

LA 2009: Volkswagen Up! Lite Concept teases with practical, lightweight innovation originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dieseldiesel hybridDieselHybridLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowlaautoshow2009LaShowUpUp LiteUp Lite ConceptUpLiteUpLiteConceptVolkswagenVolkswagen UpVolkswagen Up LiteVolkswagen Up Lite ConceptVolkswagenUpVolkswagenUpLiteVolkswagenUpLiteConcept Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST <![CDATA[Officially Official: Volkswagen Amarok pickup makes the scene]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/officially-official-volkswagen-amarok-pickup-makes-the-scene/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/officially-official-volkswagen-amarok-pickup-makes-the-scene/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/officially-official-volkswagen-amarok-pickup-makes-the-scene/#comments Filed under: , , ,


Volkswagen Amarok - Click above for high-res image gallery

Well looky here - it's the latest in a long line of oddly named trucks from Volkswagen. This time, the Amarok refers to a cryptozoological Inuit giant wolf-creature that eats those who dares to hunt alone. No really. Regardless, the Amarok is VW's first pickup truck since the Caddy, aka the Rabbitamino first released in 1980. Aside from being thirty-years more new, the Amarok looks to be a bit, well, more stout.

Spartan, too - especially the no frills interior. And here's the really good part for you truck dudes - it's a real-deal, honest-to-goodness body-on-frame worker bee. Meaning it can haul 2,300 pounds and tow nearly three tons (5,600 pounds) when equipped with VW's 2.0-liter common-rail turbo diesel four-cylinder that's good for 163 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

A smaller diesel motor with 122 hp and 250 torques will be an option, as well as a direct-injected gasoline engine. True, it's not a Ford F-450 Super Duty. But then again, what is? And really, if hauling a couple of jet skis or a track car are your thing (as opposed to say a yacht), the Amarok could be your truck. If you live in Europe, South America, Asia, Africa or Australia. Predictably we can't get the Argentinian-built Amarok here. But feel free to inflame your trucky jealousy by reading the full press release, after the jump. Hat tips to Carlos and Doug!


Gallery: Volkswagen Amarok


[Source: Pickuptrucks.com via Argentina Auto Blog]

Continue reading Officially Official: Volkswagen Amarok pickup makes the scene

Officially Official: Volkswagen Amarok pickup makes the scene originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> AmarokVolkswagenVolkswagen AmarokVolkswagen PickupVolkswagen Pickup TruckVolkswagenAmarokVolkswagenPickupVolkswagenPickupTruckVWVW AmarokVwAmarok Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST <![CDATA[Volkswagen Polo named 2010 European Car of the Year]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/volkswagen-polo-named-2010-european-car-of-the-year/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/volkswagen-polo-named-2010-european-car-of-the-year/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/volkswagen-polo-named-2010-european-car-of-the-year/#comments Filed under: , ,


2010 Volkswagen Polo - Click above for high-res image gallery

It can be a bit overwhelming when every magazine and their various editions pick their own Car of the Year each annum. Fortunately, the Europeans have it together. Literally.

Every year, seven of the continent's biggest car mags - each from a different country and in a different language - get together and jointly choose the European Car of the Year. The process is exhaustive, first identifying the candidates in the summer, then whittling it down to a shortlist of nominees in the fall before selecting their one winner for the year in the winter. And with temperatures dropping everywhere on this side of the equator and the new year fast approaching, the time has come once again.

For 2010, the jurists have selected the new Volkswagen Polo as their Car of the Year. The fifth-gen VW hatch beat out some stiff competition from the Citroen C3 Picaso, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Peugeot 3008, Skoda Yeti and Toyota iQ. It was a close race, the Toyota coming in a narrow second with 337 points to the Polo's 347. The Astra took third place by a wide margin at 221 points.

It's the first time a Volkswagen has won the award in some 17 years and only the second time Wolfsburg's taken the prize home in the forty-five years since the jury first sat. Sister company Audi has also won the award twice (for the 1973 Audi 80 and 1983 Audi 100), and Porsche once (for the 1978 Porsche 928).


Gallery: 2010 Volkswagen Polo


[Source: CarOfTheYear.org]

Volkswagen Polo named 2010 European Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 european car of the year2010 european coty2010EuropeanCarOfTheYear2010EuropeanCotycar of the yearCarOfTheYearcotycoty 2010Coty2010ecotyeuro cotyEuroCotyeuropean car of the yeareuropean cotyEuropeanCarOfTheYearEuropeanCoty Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST