Today we featured a couple of good commercials, and this one is possibly the best of the lot! This very simple ad for the 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI delivers the message that you can cover such long distances on one tank that between the trips to the pumps you can learn a new language! When it comes to commercials, VW’s still got it.

Volkswagen announced details and pricing of the latest BlueMotion Passat, based on the seventh-generation model, for the British market.

The Passat BlueMotion has a modified version of Volkswagen’s efficient 1.6-litre common rail TDI engine developing 105 PS, coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox. This eco-minded sedan features a number of fuel saving technologies that make it capable of 68.9 mpg for the saloon and 65.7 mpg for the Estate, while CO₂ emissions of 109 g/km for the Passat, and 113 g/km for the Passat Estate.

Here’s the eco features of the car to give you a clearer view of how serious it is about its business:

“In addition to the Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems which already feature on the BlueMotion Technology models, the latest addition to the BlueMotion range includes further modifications to improve aerodynamics and reduce drag.  These include low rolling resistance tyres, suspension lowered by 15 mm at the front and 7.5 mm at the rear, plus a revised radiator grille and underbody panel to minimise drag.  The saloon is also fitted with a compact rear spoiler.Lightweight and aerodynamic 16-inch steel rims are fitted as standard, while exclusive 17-inch ‘Buenos Aires’ alloy wheels are also available as an option.”

Being n eco car does not mean they’ve skimped on equipments. BlueMotion Passat comes with curtain airbags, ESP, ‘Climatic’ air conditioning, electric windows, electronic parking brake, RCD 310 radio / CD player and Multi Device Interface (MDI) with iPod connectivity.  Items such as the fatigue detection system with cruise control, Park Assist II and High Beam Assist are also available as options.

As for the price, it starts at £19,875 for the saloon and rise to £21,180 for the Estate. The car can be ordered now, with first examples arriving in showrooms towards the end of July. VW Passat BlueMotion also comes with free servicing for three years or 30,000 miles.

With the new generation of Volkswagen Passat gearing up to hit the US market, guys at Motor Trend takes the car for a spin to see what’s what. Some people say that the Passat is not a very interesting car compared to the other offerings in this segment. But you cannot forget the fact that it’s now offered with a 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel in the US which is capable of an astonishing 43 mpg. This German sedan is priced at $19,995 for the base model and $32,950 for the fully loaded model with the big 3.6 liter engine. It is very competitive.

The latest generation VW Passat , made famous by the little Darth Vader commercial, is now on sale in America starting at $19,995.

Considering the fact that the Passat is a well-built, well-equipped refined and cool German saloon, that price makes it good value. But you better wait a couple of month for Consumer Reports verdict on it. Passat’s little brother Jetta also had the same qualities, but CR named it a great disappointment after they tested it. So be careful.

On the paper every thing looks good about the new Passat. It comes with premium features, class-leading room inside the cabin and luggage space, and a range of four and six cylinder engines including the 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel model that averages 43 mpg and has a range of 800 miles on one tank.

Pricing details and options of each trim level:

Volkswagen had promised two spots for this year’s Super Bowl, and here’s the first called ‘Force’ promoting the new 2012 Passat. To be honest we’re Star Wars fan, but we found this ad really cool! It’s a bout kid pretending to be Darth Vader, who fails to ‘Force’ his evil will. Until he come across Daddy’s new Passat, and with a bit of help from the car’s auto-start system, succeeds! Big thumps up for VW.

Just as promised Volkswagen revealed the highly anticipated New Midsize Sedan at the Detroit motor show, and it’s a Passat for North America. To be honest after going through all those NMS teasers, we wasn’t expecting it to be called a Passat, as it was supposed to replace the Passat, but maybe they couldn’t find a better name!

The American VW Passat, or Passat US, is a significantly different than its European brother. Being a product for the US, it is larger and more comfortable. This Chattanooga-build VW is set to become one of the most fuel efficient cars of this segment with its frugal engines including 125 kW / 170 PS 31 MPG five-cylinder petrol, 102 kW / 140 PS 43 MPG Clean Diesel,  and VR6 with 206 kW / 280 PS, which is paired with a standard dual clutch transmission (DSG) and does 28 MPG.

At 2,803 mm, the VW Passat’s wheelbase has been extended by 91 mm, while overall length grows to 4,868 mm (a gain of 99 mm) and the width is increased by 13 mm to total 1,833 mm when compared to the European version. In spite of its larger size and upgraded equipments, VW Passat US undercuts the price of the old model by a few thousand dollars. It has a base of price in the 20,000 US dollar range which is astonishing, but it can very well upset the market for the car’s smaller brother the new Jetta!

Volkswagen of America will offer the Passat in three equipment lines: S, SE and SEL. Even the base version (S) is very well equipped. A tyre pressure monitoring system, ESP electronic stabilisation programme, ABS with braking assistant, Hill Climb Assist (with manual transmission and DSG), six airbags and an extremely safe body structure combine to form an effective occupant protection system. Other standard features include electric windows all round, air conditioning, insulating glass, a distinctive analogue clock in the centre of the instrument panel, cruise control, outside temperature display with frost warning, radio-CD system (MP3-capable, plus external audio input) and a Bluetooth hands-free mobile phone system (with voice activation).

The car also has two new and amazing features, Valet Parking and Remote Start. f the car is to be driven by a third party, a press of the Valet Parking button in the glove compartment is all it takes to secure the boot and the compartment itself. Then they can only be opened with the special Valet Parking Key accessible only to the vehicle owner. Second: “Remote Start.” In extreme weather conditions, the driver can start the engine (automatic or DSG transmission) by remote control (maximum ten minutes running time) to have the climate control system either cool down or heat the car’s interior to a preset temperature before driving off.

The new Volkswagen Passat US version will be built in the new US plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The company wants to triple the total annual volume of all of its models in the USA to about 800,000 units by 2018.

You might think that the EuroNCAP tests are pointless now that all cars are made up to the highest standards, but it’s always good to know for sure! Also, recently in a NHTSA test the 2011 Honda Civic achieved only two stars, so… In the case of 2011 VW Passat though, the car achieved 5 stars with strong scores for adult and child occupant protection and pedestrian safety. The other model based on the same platform, the Sharan minivan also got five-star rating.

The new Passat offers new levels of safety with two pioneering assistance systems making a debut which are completely new to the segment.  An automatic fatigue detection system monitors driver inputs and emits an audible and visual warning automatically to recommend a break if required, and the new city emergency braking function which is a development of the Automatic Distance Control (ADC) system.

If an unavoidable collision is sensed by the vehicle, the brakes are automatically engaged at speeds below 18 mph.  The system is also able to accelerate the vehicle automatically should an imminent rear end collision be detected, providing the road ahead is clear.

Both Sharan and Passat share a comprehensive range of safety equipment as standard with optimised body-shell rigidity and highly effective airbag and driver assistance systems including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist) and ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme).

The Volkswagen Scirocco and Passat CC are, without a shadow of doubt, the most interesting cars with VW badge! Now the Germans have added yet another great quality to the list of features for these models, and that’s superb efficiency. And this being Volkswagen means they get the BlueMotion technology for better fuel consumption with the least compromise on performance.

The Scirocco BlueMotion is based on the 2.0-litre 140 PS engine and comes with Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems to help to create the cleanest and most fuel efficient Scirocco to date.  It can be had with a six-speed manual or optional six-speed DSG gearbox.

The fuel economy for this model is significantly improved from 55.4 mpg to 62.8 mpg on the combined cycle (51.4 to 57.6 DSG), while the emissions are also reduced accordingly, down from 134 g/km to 118 g/km (145 to 129 DSG). The 2.0-litre TDI 170 PS engine fitted to the Scirocco GT is also tweaked recently to deliver 1 mpg better fuel economy!

The Passat CC also benefits from a BlueMotion engine, and that makes it one of the most interesting options for those looking for an exceedingly stylish four-door sedan with a super economical engine, lots of equipment and a fair price.

The 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS Passat CC models achieve a combined 60.1 mpg, up from 50.4, and CO₂ emissions are cut to just 125 g/km, down from 146 g/km.  The more powerful 2.0-litre diesel engine in the range producing 170 PS also boasts improved figures with economy up to 57.6 mpg (51.4 DSG) and emissions down to 129 g/km (144 DSG).

Scirocco and Passat CC pricing

]]> http://www.motorward.com/2010/11/vw-scirocco-and-passat-cc-get-bluemotion/feed/ 0 http://www.motorward.com/2010/10/2011-vw-passat-uk-pricing-announced/ http://www.motorward.com/2010/10/2011-vw-passat-uk-pricing-announced/#comments Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:41:26 +0000 Arman Barari http://www.motorward.com/?p=16542

Volkswagen announced official pricing details of both Sedan and Estate variants of the all-new 2011 Passat model. Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show last month, the new model can be ordered from tomorrow with a starting price of £18,470 for the saloon and £19,745 for the Estate.

2011 Passat features fresh appearance both inside and out with every panel and glass surface apart from the roof being new. It also hosts a range of new and amazing technologies and efficiency measures to make it among the most advanced and economical cars in its class. Needless to say the car’s unmatched quality is further enhanced with this model, giving it the edge over the competition.

Here’s pricing of each variant with all the available engines and transmissions:

*BMT denotes BlueMotion Technology

New Passat Estate pricing

VW Passat, the symbol of quality and value in the mid-size sedan segment, will start the new year with a whole new model. And as you expect everything is upgraded with this new one, from design, to comfort, luxury and efficiency. Available in both sedan and estate versions, the 2011 Passat can be had with six different engines, three petrol and three diesel, and comes with a number of new technologies, some of which a first for a car in this class.

All the details and new pictures of the car after the jump…

Press Release:

With over 15 million cars sold, the Passat by Volkswagen is one of the most successful automobiles in the world. Now there is a new Passat. It is the seventh generation since 1973. The styling of the bestseller was completely re-interpreted, and its front end shows parallels to the Phaeton and is more impressive than ever. Furthermore, the Passat has always mirrored the course of technological progress.

And this applies unreservedly to the seventh Passat, which will launch simultaneously as a saloon and estate car. The overall range of technological innovatio¬ns now implemented in the Passat Trendline (entry-level), Passat Comfortline (mid-level) and Passat Highline (top model) has reached a scale previously found only in upper and luxury class cars.

More innovation: A world’s first in this class is the fatigue detection system that is offered on the Passat. The system is a standard feature from the Comfortline equipment line. The Passat is also the first Volkswagen ever to have a city emergency braking function. The assistance system is part of the further refined ACC adaptive cruise control plus Front Assist. The city emergency braking function, active below a speed of 30 km/h, also reacts to stationary vehicles; if necessary, it automatically initiates a braking manoeuvre, thereby contributing toward avoidance of an impending front end collision or at least minimising the resulting damage.

More comfort: Yet, the new Passat offers even more finesses. All it takes is a specific foot movement behind the car to open the saloon’s boot lid (Easy Open). At the press of a button, the Passat “sees” parking spaces parallel and perpendicular to the carriageway, and upon request it can automatically steer the car into the space with centimetre precision (Park Assist II).

Seeing more: The driver does not need to be concerned about controlling the main beam light switch any longer; it is always there as long as traffic allows. The reason: In conjunction with the standard H7 headlights, the Passat automatically switches the main beam on and off as a function of oncoming traffic and traffic ahead of the Passat. This optional main beam assistant is called Light Assist. If the car is equipped with bi-xenon headlights that come with cornering lights, the main beam remains continually active and is only masked where other traffic participants could be disturbed by glare; this main beam headlight assistant is called Dynamic Light Assist. Both systems become active as soon as vehicle speed exceeds 60 km/h.

As on the Phaeton and Touareg, the Passat also warns the driver of vehicles in the blind spot (Side Assist). The new Volkswagen utilises images from a front camera to detect speed limit signs, and it displays them in the cockpit. This traffic sign detection system also “sees” no-passing zones when technically possible, and it calls the driver’s attention to them.

More quality: The technologies and the further improved workmanship and material quality is differentiating the Passat from its competitors more than ever. This quality is perceptible in the interior with its high-end materials, new seats and door trims and ambience lighting. An especially elegant effect is produced by the modified centre console and redesigned accents in the instruments that are visually appealing and pleasing to the touch.

More quiet: The new Passat is extremely quiet. The reason: Insulating materials specifically integrated in the dashboard area and doors filter out exterior and engine noises. In addition, a new acoustic film is embedded in the front windscreen and is available as an option for the front side windows; this film blocks out additional noise.

More safety: Progress has been made in the area of safety as well. The previous model already attained an impressive 5 stars in Euro-NCAP crash testing. Further advances include features such as seatbelt fastening detection for the rear seats and head restraints that now also adjust horizontally on the front seats (standard from Comfortline). The new head restraints for driver and front passenger reduce the risk of whiplash injury in a traffic accident. Moreover, new assistance systems such as Side Assist optimize safety in the Passat.

More sustainable: Last but not least, the new Passat sets standards when it comes to sustainability. All ten engines (77 kW / 105 PS to 220 kW / 300 PS) are more fuel efficient – by up to 18 percent! The “smallest” turbodiesel (1.6 TDI with 105 PS) now only consumes 4.2 l/100 km; that is equivalent to 109 g/km CO2. The Passat BlueTDI (103 kW / 140 PS / fuel consumption: 4.6 l/100 km) already meets limits of the Euro-6 emissions standard (Category N). Downsizing and technologies such as the Stop/Start system also ensure the best fuel economy among the petrol engines. Another pioneering engine: the 1.4 TSI (90 kW / 122 PS). In the BlueMotion Technology version it is satisfied with just 5.9 l/100 km. All values for the Passat Estate lie on the same good level (maximum of +0.1 litre compared to the saloon). It is worth noting that each of these models is a safe, comfortable and powerful touring vehicle. Only, they are also very low emitting, fuel efficient and blessed with extremely long driving ranges. In the case of the Passat 1.6 TDI with BlueMotion Technology, its 70 litre fuel tank capacity and 4.2 litre fuel consumption yield a driving range of 1,666 kilometres – on one tank of fuel.

So, it is good that there is fatigue detection to remind the driver to take a break from driving after at most four hours.

Key Aspects in Alphabetical Order

Assistance and driving dynamics systems: DCC adaptive chassis control, ACC adaptive cruise control, Easy Open, Front Assist with city emergency braking function, Dynamic Light Assist, Keyless Access, Lane Assist, Light Assist, fatigue detection, Park Assist, Park Pilot with visual display, Rear Assist rearview camera, Side Assist, traffic sign detection

Automatic gearbox: 6-speed DSG, 7-speed DSG

Cargo capacity, Estate: 603 litres to 1,731 litres

Cargo capacity, saloon: 565 litres

Character: Long-distance touring car for business and private use

Colours: Uni (standard): “Candy White,” “Uran Grey.” Uni (optional): “Tornado Red.” Metallic (optional): “Cashmere Brown,” “Night Blue,” “Reflex Silver.” Pearl effect (optional): “Deep Black,” “Iceland Grey,” “Mocca Anthracite.” Standard colours for Passat BlueMotion, 77 kW: “Glacier Blue,” “Iron Grey”

Debut Generation I: 1973

Debut Generation II: 1980

Debut Generation III: 1988

Debut Generation IV: 1993

Debut Generation V: 1996

Debut Generation VI: 2005

Debut Generation VII: 2010

Design: Walter de Silva (Group), Klaus Bischoff (Brand)

Dimensions, Estate: 4,771 mm length, 2,062 mm width (including mirror), 1,481 mm height, 2,712 mm wheelbase

Dimensions, Saloon: 4,769 mm length, 2,062 mm width (including mirrors), 1,472 mm height, 2,712 mm wheelbase

Drive type: Standard front-wheel drive,
optional all-wheel drive (4MOTION)

Engines – diesel: Launching with 77 kW / 105 PS (TDI), 103 kW / 140 PS (TDI), 125 kW / 170 PS (TDI)

Engines – petrol / natural gas (EcoFuel): Launching with
90 kW / 122 PS (TSI), 110 kW / 150 PS (TSI EcoFuel),
118 kW / 160 PS (TSI), 155 kW / 211 PS (TSI)

Equipment lines: Trendline, Comfortline, Highline

Fuel economy range: 4.2 l/100 km to 9.3 l/100 km

Infotainment: Radio-CD systems: RCD 210, RCD 310, RCD 510. Radio-navigation systems: RNS 315 and RNS 510 (optional TV module). Peripherals: MEDIA-IN port, AUX-IN port, Dynaudio sound system (600 Watt), Volkswagen Sound system (300 Watt), hands-free telephone

Market launch, Europe: End of November 2010

Market launch, Germany: Mid-November 2010

Passats produced to date: over 15 million

Production sites: Emden and Zwickau, Germany

Running gear: MacPherson-type suspension in front, four-link suspension in rear, standard ESP. Optional DCC adaptive chassis control, sport chassis, ride levelling for Estate

Standard features (Trendline): include ESP, 6 airbags, air conditioning, electromechanical power-assisted steering, electric windows, multifunctional display, central locking, height-adjustable driver’s seat, RCD 210 audio system

Standard gearbox: 6-speed manual

At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, VW unveiled the seventh generation of the one of the most recognized mid-size sedans in the world, the Passat. The car has always been a benchmark in quality, design, economy and comfort, no wonder that since its launch 37 years ago more than 15 million units have been sold! The 2011 model tries to raise the bar even further.

The looks of the car is totally revamped to create a fresh design, while retaining the VW character in it. The front of the car, dominated by a new grille element with prominent horizontal chrome fins, features striking heavily contoured headlight units, set into which are LED running lights.  At the rear a set of distinctive tail lights is joined by subtle chrome highlights that extend down the side of the car.  Every body panel apart from the roof is new.

Measuring 4,769 mm in length (Estate 4,771 mm) the new Passat is marginally longer than the car it replaces (+4 mm) and at 1,820 mm wide and 1,474 mm tall (Estate 1,519 mm) it retains the same proportions.

Same story goes inside the car where you will find a fresh look and new amazing features. For example you get seats that can be specified to both heat and cool their occupants and even feature a massage function for the driver and front seat passenger. Now that’s unexpected in a car of this class!

You also get revised dashboard with new dials, trim finishes and an analogue clock are joined by subtle chrome inserts and the option of ambience lighting similar to that found in the Phaeton.  The centre console has also been uprated with revisions to the minor controls as well as new door trims.

As for the engines, you get lots of options, diesel and petrol. The petrol line-up comprises a 1.4-litre TSI engine developing 122 PS, a 1.8-litre TSI unit with 160 PS, a 2.0-litre TSI 210 PS engine and a range-topping 3.6-litre V6 producing 300 PS. But if you like economy more than speed, then consider on the diesel units.

They include a 1.6-litre TDI unit producing 105 PS which is equipped with the BlueMotion package of changes including aerodynamic modifications, Stop/Start and battery regeneration, to be able to deliver a combined 68.8 mpg while emitting just 109 g/km of CO₂. The other option is a 2.0-litre TDI engine available in two power outputs – 140 PS and 170 PS.  Each of the engine ranges can be specified with a choice of manual or DSG gearboxes.

Some of the other new and innovative features of the 2011 Passat include City emergency braking function, a part of the Automatic Distance Control (ADC) system, automatic fatigue detection system, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) incorporating Trailer Stabilisation, XDS electronic transverse differential and…

Other new optional convenience systems include an innovative boot opening system for the saloon model: on vehicles specified with keyless entry, so long as you’re carrying the key fob on your person a simple foot motion at the back of the car is enough to activate sensors that open the boot automatically.

You can expect the new Passat to hit the market in a couple of months.

VW has come with a new value-added trim level for their stunning Passat CC. It’s called the Exclusive and can be had with all of the engine in the range. As for the styling, you get two new black and blue body colors, some ambient lighting and more chrome detailing plus 18-inch Chicago wheels. But the cabin has become more luxurious thanks to the new materials.

The interior is garnished with two-tone leather upholstery with visible stitching. You also get piano black accents for the dashboard. The new door panels also benefit from leather and piano black trims. These new stuff along with the aluminum consoles and the incredible build quality of the cabin, makes it such a nice place to be in!

So you get all this plus that magnificent looks for as low as €35,225 for the base model. Honestly, the only reason you should buy Mercedes CLS over the Passat CC, is that the CLS comes with a Mercedes badge while the Passat comes with a VW one!

After Mercedes CLS, many cars tried to copy its celestial styling but failed. There’s one car however which which not only manages to be just as good-looking, it also offers much better value for money. Unfortunately  though, it comes with a VW badge! We’re talking about the Passat CC which has been revised and updated recently for the British market.

The UK-special Passat CC features a new rear seat which can accommodate five people rather than four in the early models. Other nice interior equipments include the satellite navigation which now comes standard with a touchscreen Bluetooth device, 2-zone electronic climate control, a leather steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake and six airbags. The GT model also benefits from the revisions plus it gains Nappa leather interior, front and rear parking sensors and cruise control.

On the outside, you get 17-inch ‘Phoenix’ alloy wheels on normal models and 18-inch ‘Interlagos’ alloys with the GT trim level. THe GT also comes with ACC (Adaptive Chassis Control) electronically controlled pneumatic dampers and heat insulating tinted glass from the B-pillar backwards.

The existing line-up of powerful yet efficient 1.8-litre TSI, 2.0-litre TSI and 3.6-litre V6 petrol engines and 2.0-litre TDI diesel engines remain, as does the choice of six-speed manual or DSG gearboxes on selected models.

Pricing starts form £22,645 for the 1.8 model. The revised CC costs £515 more than the old model, but it’s worth it because you the extra kit you get worth well over £1,000 in the normal models and £3,000 in the GTs.

VW is treating its American customers specially as they launches three all-new special editions for them! These models include Passat CC R-Line, Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition, and the New Beetle Red Rock Edition. All of them come with unique styling features and special equipments. Available to order now, pricing starts at $29,590 fro the CC, $24,990 for the Jetta and $20,390 for the Beetle.

The 2010 CC R-Line

Volkswagen’s CC is one of the most stylish and sporty coupe sedans currently available in the market today. For drivers who want a more aggressive look to match, the new CC R-Line comes outfitted with a number of visual enhancements for a decidedly sporty look. A body kit with side skirts and a new front bumper, including an integrated chin spoiler, give a more aggressive appearance. Special 18-inch “Mallory” wheels, R-Line badges on the front fenders, and smoked taillamps complete the exterior upgrades. Brushed aluminum door sills are added to the interior. The CC R-Line is powered by the highly acclaimed, performance-bred 2.0T engine, mated to either a six-speed manual transmission, or a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG®) equipped with paddle shifters.

The 2010 Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition

Born from the popularity of Volkswagen’s groundbreaking Jetta TDI Cup race series – now entering its 3rd season – and enthusiast demand for a race-inspired version of the popular Jetta TDI, comes the 2010 Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition. Various modifications inside and out ensure the Street Edition is instantly connected to the TDI Cup cars racing on tracks throughout North America. The Street Edition offers the same full body kit found on the TDI Cup race cars with an aerodynamic front bumper, side skirts, and rear valance. Also included are 18-inch “Charleston” wheels with high-performance tires, larger GLI brakes with red painted calipers, and the European-tuned sport suspension from the GLI. Sport seats with Interlagos cloth, a leather-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel, and brushed aluminum door sills mark the interior. Volkswagen’s proven 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel engine makes 140 horsepower and 236 lbs.-ft. of torque, sent through either a six-speed manual, or a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG®) transmission.

The 2010 New Beetle Red Rock Edition

The charm and passion of Volkswagen’s iconic New Beetle, which was unveiled at the 1998 North American International Auto Show, continues with the 2010 New Beetle Red Rock Edition. Only 750 of the custom coupes will be available, each with a unique, two-toned exterior comprised of Red Rock metallic paint and a painted black roof. An all black interior complements the overall color scheme, while select 17-inch wheels and a full sport suspension improve driving excitement out on the open road.

Volkswagen Passat CC is one of the most gorgeous four-door saloons money can buy today and if it wasn’t for the VW badge, I’d rather have this over Mercedes CLS! Now the company is making this car even sweeter by offering a new option which wasn’t available before, not in this nor in any other four-door coupe. And that’s the optional rear bench which makes it a five-seater!

Volkswagen is adding this new product feature in response to requests by many customers to give the Passat CC even greater everyday utility by adding a seating position. The new rear bench fulfils all necessary safety aspects with its third head restraint and three-point seat belt at the centre position. In addition, the folding backrest is asymmetrically split, so that even larger objects can be transported effortlessly. The 3-seat rear bench system is available as an option for 100 euros.

The Passat CC  is a very fine car. Just a quick tip, if you want to buy one, don’t choose the diesel engine as it’ll ruin the whole package due to its dullness. Go for the most powerful variant with a 3.6 liter 280 hp V6 and enjoy it!

A lot of people believe that the Passat CC is the most beautiful car VW has ever made. And now it’s getting a whole lot better as the company is offering its exclusive R-Line sport package for it. The Passat CC features a four-door coupe body which is inspired by Mercedes CLS and honestly it is just as good. With the R-line package, you will get a new front spoiler, side sills, smoked rear lights and distinctive logos, as well as a new set of wheels.

The car gets 17-inch (optional 18-inch) R-Line “Mallory” alloy wheels with 235/45 tires, which enhance the looks of the cars and improves its road behaviors. Inside the car, you get a new sporty steering wheel with three-spoke design covered in leather, sport seats, aluminium tread plates and park pilot system.

VW Passat CC also offers great value for money, even with this R-Line package. It can be had on all models while prices start at 2,200 Euros for the Passat CC 2.0 TDI. VW already offers this treatment for Golf, Scirocco, Touran, Tiguan, Passat, Passat Variant and Touareg.

VW has released new sketches of their all-new mid-size sedan which will make its debut sometime in 2010. Codenamed NMS, the new sedan is a bit larger than the current Passat and according to VW officials “It’s a really, really nice car,”! The NMS will be built in the company’s new $1 billion assembly plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. No more detail is published for the time being, but stay tuned as VW may preview the car before it appears in a major Auto Show.

Audi has some ambitious projects in mind and apparently this is one of latest ones! They are planning a 4-door coupe based on the A3 as a little brother for the A7 Sportback.

The A7 itself is an extremely ambitious project aiming a market dominated by the Mercedes CLS. Of course nothing is official yet, and it won’t be until at least 2013, but ,by imagine, this A3 may fit within the same category as the VW Passat CC. VW is shooting one of its legs again!!

source: Germancarzone

Rendering from Autobild

Audi’s most anticipated Detroit launch finally broke cover. Sportback or A7, is a coupe-styled 4door saloon which is supposed to go head to head with Mercedes CLS and VW Passat CC. The car looks fine from back, partly because it copies the roofline directly from CLS, but in front things are not that nice. The car looks stupid and that new Audi grille does not work at all ! LED lamps also, might be very advanced but they’re ugly. It is not horrible, but I don’t think anyone look at this car and the CLS and say I’ll buy the Audi. Worst than that, this concept has a diesel engine! a 3.0-liter V6 TDI with 225hp which needs only 5.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. It also features some of the most advanced techs developed by Audi like electromechanical steering, ceramic brakes on all four wheels and CDC (continuous damping control) shock absorbers.

PRESS RELEASE

Debut in Detroit: Audi is unveiling the Sportback concept show car at the 2009 North American International Automobile Show. With systematic refinements to the brand’s characteristic design elements, the five-door model offers a glimpse at the Audi’s future design vocabulary. With its pronounced coupé-like silhouette and large rear hatch, the 4.95 m long
(16.24 ft), 1.93 m wide (6.33 ft) and only 1.40 m high (4.59 ft) vehicle is boldly progressive for the luxury class.

The technology of the Audi Sportback concept is markedly futuristic. Power is provided by the world’s cleanest diesel technology: the 3.0-liter V6 TDI clean diesel almost completely eliminates nitrogen oxides. This engine already meets the emissions limits of all 50 U.S. states and the EU6 standard scheduled to take effect in 2014. And numerous measures to ensure top efficiency mean that the Audi Sportback concept is expected to achieve impressive fuel consumption figures of 5.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (39.87 US mpg).

Driving dynamics in a new guise – the idea

Since its introduction in 2004, the concept of the Sportback has established itself in the compact class. The success of the A3 Sportback has exceeded even the expectations of its makers – far more customers choose the four-door model with the large rear hatch than its three-door sibling.

But it is far more than two additional doors that sets the A3 Sportback apart from the base model. It is characterized by the sporting elegance of a coupe, the versatility of a five-door model, sophisticated technology and pronounced sportiness – driving dynamics in a new guise.

It also offers even more space and variability thanks to a tail end that is a total of 54 millimeters (2.13 in) longer that of the three-door model.

The launch of the first production Sportback marked the second time that Audi started a new trend in the automobile market. The development of the first Avant models in the seventies laid the foundation for a new class of automobiles far beyond the matter-of-fact utility of the classic station wagon. The marked accentuation of a futuristic and dynamic design, high-quality equipment and extreme variability have been the distinguishing features of every Audi Avant from the very beginning.

The Audi Sportback concept show car is now rolling up to the starting line with a dual mission: As suggested by the name, it symbolizes the Sportback principle in its purest form in the combination of elegance, sportiness and variability.

And the show car also signals the company’s determination not to limit Sportback versions to the compact segment. As previously indicated by the Audi A1 Sportback concept – the star of the 2008 Paris Motor Show – the brand with the four rings is going to dramatically expand the number of Sportback models on the market.

Design

The design of the Audi Sportback concept is characterized by an almost monolithic clarity and a vast reduction of the number of lines. The roof, shoulder and sill lines appear to have been drawn with a single stroke. The window strip of the coupé with its four frameless doors was kept pronouncedly flat. Viewed from the side, the softly contoured wheel wells over the 10-spoke, 21-inch wheels reinforce the impression of the precisely defined surfaces of the body.

One feature familiar from the two-door Audi A5 coupé is even more boldly accentuated here: The markedly horizontal shoulder area emphasizes the orientation of the vehicle body to the road. This effect is further reinforced at the front and rear by the broad, flat LED light units. The shape of the almost fragile-looking side mirrors is inspired by the upturned tips – the “winglets” – of modern jet wings.

The show car also offers a new interpretation of the single-frame grille. The decision not to use vertical struts and the low overall height emphasize the sporty basic proportions of the vehicle front. Also particularly striking is the modified outer contour of the single-frame grille as also featured on the A1 Sportback show car. The flattened top edges lower the visual center of gravity and provide a striking look for the front end.

The aerodynamically designed air intakes under the headlights function as air deflectors which guide the required cooling air precisely into an intake duct. They have the stylistic effect of accentuating the impression of width.

The tail of the show car is also evidently related to the A5 coupé. The high top edge of the rear hatch gives rise to a strikingly clear surface below the rear lights.

The low separating edge and the horizontal lines – another characteristic feature – underscore the width and therefore the sporty nature of the Audi Sportback concept. The four tailpipes integrated into the body and an air deflector in the diffuser insert are cues borrowed from the sportscar sector.

The interior design is tidy and downright purist yet elegant at the same time. The large glass roof underscores the width and feeling of spaciousness. In the driver-oriented cockpit, the air vents, instrument cluster and retracting MMI monitor are outlined by a filigree aluminum border.

As with the exterior, the interior is characterized by the emphasis on horizontal lines and large surfaces. Especially the wide center console – stretching from the dashboard to the back – seems to be a pure expression of function.

The flat display of the MMI system is realized as a retractable system in the show car. When the ignition is activated, it extends horizontally from a slot above the central air register before moving in an elegant arc into a vertical, easy-to-read position.

The high quality of the materials and manufacturing-level fit and finish are obvious when looking around the interior of the Audi Sportback concept and when touching the surfaces. The interior trim is almost completely in leather: from the headlining, dashboard, doors and the entire seat upholstery all the way through to the trunk, with the leather stitching underscoring the vehicle’s design language. The large wood trim strips on the instrument panel, center console and doors are machined from oak blockboard and sport a delicate horizontal pattern of light and dark lines.

With its surfaces of piano lacquer and brushed aluminum, the MMI control unit also adds to the exceptional exclusivity of the interior. The attention to detail even extends to the door opener: Its shape is a nearly perfect reflection of the distinctive lines of the small rear side window – giving the interior and exterior formal unity.

Four sporty seats await the driver and passengers. The diamond-shaped stitching of the leather surface is reminiscent of a classic GT tradition. Shoulder, head and leg room are reminiscent of a premium-class touring car. With a volume of
500 liters (17.66 cubic feet), the trunk is generously sized and is also appointed with high-quality materials.

Drivetrain

The developers at Audi chose the world’s cleanest diesel technology as the unit best befitting the Audi Sportback concept show car. The six-cylinder 3.0 TDI clean diesel is equipped with a system for the effective reduction of nitrogen oxides. The diesel engine development engineers at Audi have combined an entire package of innovative measures for this latest TDI generation: The piezo common rail system with an injection pressure of 2,000 bar, highly efficient exhaust gas recirculation and optimized turbocharging result in significantly reduced raw engine emissions. One of the highlights are the combustion chamber sensors that enable even more precise regulation of the combustion processes in the engine – this is the first time that such sensors have been installed on any engine in the world, marking yet another Audi innovation.

The status of the new-generation TDI as the definitive clean-running, high-tech diesel is sealed by the downstream exhaust emission control system, which reduces emissions by up to 90 percent. The system uses AdBlue, a biologically degradable, waterborne additive that is injected in small amounts upstream of the DeNOx catalytic converter. In addition to the catalytic converter, the exhaust emission control system comprises the metering module, the AdBlue tank and heated lines, as well as an extensive system of sensors. The additional oxidizing catalytic converter and the highly efficient, regulated diesel particulate filter round off the comprehensive emission control system.

Thanks to their extremely low emission levels, these modern direct-injection diesel engines can be put into service anywhere in the world, even in the U.S. state of California, which has the world’s most stringent emissions limits. Compared with the fleet average of the gasoline engines typically found in the U.S., the TDI boasts a fuel-efficiency advantage of up to 40 percent. The diesel technology thus makes a greater contribution than any other type of engine to reducing the consumption of fossil fuels. Audi will offer this engine in the U.S. and Europe beginning in 2009.

As in the U.S. version of the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI, the V6 also produces 165 kW (225 hp) and 550 Nm (405.66 lb-ft) of torque in the Audi Sportback concept. Power is transferred to the wheels via Audi’s most modern transmission: the new 7-speed tiptronic. The quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system ensures that the torque generated by the powerful TDI is also converted effectively into propulsion and dynamism under any conditions.

Weighing just 1,800 kilograms (3,968.32 lb) and with a drag coefficient of 0.30, the coupe will accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in less than seven seconds and reach a top speed of 245 km/h (152.24 mph).

The Audi Sportback concept’s average fuel economy according to the European ECE standard is only 5.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (39.87 US mpg), and its CO2 emissions no more than 156 g/km (251.06 g/mile). These sensationally low figures for a large model have been achieved by extensive efficiency-optimizing measures.

For example, this model’s electromechanical power steering only consumes energy when the steering is turned, not when driving in a straight line.

The TDI engine features an innovative temperature management system. When the engine is warming up, part of the coolant flow is diverted – another way to improve efficiency, since it helps the engine to warm up quicker. This means significant practical savings, because many journeys are fairly short. The fuel pump also runs only when there is a demand for fuel, and therefore uses less energy.

The 7-speed S tronic transmission is a very efficient unit with a wide spread of gear ratios. For the first time, it has been equipped with transmission oil heating, so that it reaches its intended operating temperature much earlier and therefore has a lower level of internal friction.

When coasting, the Audi Sportback concept – like the Audi A4 and Audi Q5 production models – recuperates energy. This boosts the output of the alternator and is used to charge the battery. This energy, which in effect costs nothing to recover, is fed back into the vehicle’s electrical system when needed. An automatic start-stop system shuts the TDI engine down to save energy, for instance when waiting at a traffic signal.

And when it is on the move, tires optimized for low roll resistance cut fuel consumption significantly without incurring any disadvantages in the performance area.

Driving dynamics

The Audi Sportback concept show car took the basic architecture and many components of its suspension from the brand’s latest and most successful model family: the very dynamic A4/A5 model series. The dynamic suspension sets standards here, as well, combining precision and dynamism with high stability and superior poise. The suspension mountings, steering, wheels and brakes have been developed for top performance and numerous aluminum components are used to keep unsprung masses to a minimum.

The new five-link front suspension makes a major contribution to the car’s dynamic character. By moving the differential further forward and the clutch further back, the design engineers were able to reposition the front axle 154 millimeters (6.06 inches) further forward. The result is an optimal distribution of weight between the front and rear axles.

The front suspension is made up of five links per wheel – a support link and a control arm at the bottom and two control arms at the top. The fifth link – the track rod – connects the steering box and the pivot bearing. All these links are made of forged aluminum, ensuring low unsprung masses, ultra-precise wheel control and a high level of crash safety. The anti-roll bar fabricated from a high-strength tube saves additional weight. The backbone of the rear axle is a subframe with high flexural and torsional rigidity.

If sporty handling is to be combined with a high standard of ride comfort, the unsprung masses must be kept as low as possible. Audi has pursued this approach for all the rear-axle components. The upper control arms and the track rods are of forged aluminum. Their high rigidity ensures that toe and camber angles change very little when dynamic forces act on the wheels.

The CDC (continuous damping control) shock absorbers, similar to those that Audi already uses on the luxury Q7 SUV with air suspension, are twin-tube, gas-filled hydraulic units with an additional external valve and connecting pipe. Their operation can be continuously varied.

An electromagnetically energized, proportional-action valve regulates the flow of hydraulic fluid between the inner and outer damper tubes. A smaller flow cross-section makes the damping characteristic firmer, a larger one makes it softer.

The control unit applies adaptive operating characteristics within the mode the driver has chosen via Audi drive select. It adapts to match the driver’s driving style and the road conditions. Even from the comfort mode, the shock absorbers can be switched in an instant to a firm setting if desired, though not to the absolute limit. They are fitted in conjunction with sports suspension springs, which still provide a good level of ride comfort, even off-road.

The control unit selects the optimum damping force for the current driving situation, for instance firmer damping to prevent body roll and pitch when cornering fast or braking, or lower damping force where the surface under the wheels is hard and uneven.

The show car marks the first time that Audi has used electromechanical steering in a car with a longitudinal engine. Its primary advantage is that, unlike conventional power steering systems, it only consumes energy when actually steering. On average, this means a fuel saving of 0.2 liters per 100 kilometers, depending on driving conditions.

The electromechanical steering of the Audi Sportback concept also enables the coupling with the parking steering assistant for fully automatic steering when parallel parking.

The Audi Sportback concept is equipped with ceramic brakes on all four wheels for effective deceleration even under the most demanding conditions. Compared with conventional steel disks, ceramic brakes not only last four times longer, up to 300,000 kilometers (186,411 miles), but also offer high resistance to fading. The significant reduction in weight also leads to advantages in terms of comfort and handling, thanks to reduced unsprung masses.

On the front axle, 380-millimeter (14.96-inch) ceramic disks are fitted in combination with 21-inch wheels. The rear disks have a diameter of 356 millimeters (14.02 inches). The elaborate cooling duct geometry of the ventilated brake disks ensures optimal cooling of the brake disks. Firm grip on the brake disk is guaranteed at the front by 6-piston monobloc aluminum brake calipers, and at the rear by floating-caliper brakes.

VW revealed another upgrade to its handsome CC model at SEMA, following the CC performance Concept. while the latter is supposed to be a sporty hardcore version of CC, Gold Coast has a luxurious character like its name . Needless to say this car comes in Gold-themed paint job with beige leather interior with a lot of high quality brown wood. This is definitely aiming for an older market than the normal CC (It’s a show car for SEMA, not sure if they actually gonna make it) . It’s like a Gold Rolex watch, Perfect for a Gentleman but looking ridiculous on a teenager wrist!

CC Gold Coast features a 3.6 liter FSI engine with 280 hp and 360 Nm torque, and uses a 6-speed DSG twin-clutch transmission. it rides on 19″ Lugano polished propeller styled wheels .

source : worldcarfans