With 235 kW (320 PS), the new Golf R Estate is the most powerful and dynamic Golf Estate to date. More power and driving dynamics, numerous innovations, more space and strong emotions: this is what makes the new Golf R Estate better than ever before. The standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive with R Performance Torque Vectoring is powered by a 2.0 TSI engine with a maximum torque of 420 Nm.
Power is transmitted via an R-specific 7-speed dual clutch gearbox. It sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. With the optional R Performance package, a top speed of 270 km/h is possible. The package also includes 19-inch wheels and the additional driving modes Special (Nürburgring mode) and Drift (for power slides). A host of assist systems and the latest-generation Infotainment system guarantee even more safety, comfort and convenience.

The Golf R Estate may be exceptionally sporty, but it also retains all the characteristics you’d expect from a Golf estate: this is a versatile all-rounder, a comfortable leisure-oriented and family-friendly estate car for all walks of life. Its suitability for everyday use is in no way compromised by the R-specific sports running gear (lower by 20 mm) and the fact that it is designed with motor racing in mind. “The Golf R Estate is the perfect combination of a compact Golf R and an estate. Sportiness, performance and emotions meet space, versatility and innovation,” says Sven Smeets, Head of R Business Unit. The interior of the R Estate fully benefits from the 66 mm longer wheelbase of the Golf Estate compared with the Golf. Especially passengers in the back profit from the generous proportions: The maximum legroom expands from 903 mm to 941 mm. The vehicle has a luggage compartment volume of 611 litres, which increases to a maximum of 1,642 litres if loaded up to the roof and with the second row of seats folded down. For the first time, the Golf R Estate is available with an optional ball coupling with a permitted maximum trailer weight (braked) of up to 1.9 tonnes and a drawbar load of 80 kilograms.

Sportiest Golf Estate ever with a number of R-specific elements

The R-typical insignia such as the front bumper with splitter and side wings as air deflectors dominate the powerful exterior of the new Golf R Estate. From the side, the striking wider side members in the body colour catch the eye. Completely new are the R-specific rear bumper with the diffuser painted in high gloss black as well as the sports exhaust system built according to Volkswagen R specifications and boasting two chrome-plated twin tailpipes. There are three colours to choose from: the R-typical Lapiz Blue Metallic, Pure White and Deep Black Pearl Effect.

And the Golf R Estate, just like the compact Golf R, features the newly developed 4MOTION all-wheel drive with R Performance Torque Vectoring with selective wheel torque control on the rear axle. Here, a new rear final drive distributes the drive power not just between the front and rear axles as needed, but also between the rear wheels. This innovative drive significantly increases the agility of the new Golf R Estate, particularly when cornering. The all-wheel drive is also networked via the Vehicle Dynamics Manager with other running gear systems such as the electronic differential locks (XDS) and adaptive chassis control DCC. The result: very precise and neutral handling, optimum traction characteristics and exceptional agility. In other words: maximum driving pleasure. The Golf R Estate was fine-tuned on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring.

Two new driving profiles increase the fun factor and enhance safety aspects

In the optional R Performance package, the powerful estate car has two additional driving profiles. In the Special profile, all key drive system parameters have been configured for demanding race tracks such as the Nordschleife. Away from public roads, the driving profile Drift opens up a whole new level of driving dynamics and makes drifting much safer and more fun.

The four driving profiles Comfort, Sport, Race and Individual come as standard. Drivers can use a button to adjust the ESC to their requirements by selecting one of two settings. ESC can also be switched off completely for all driving situations (ESC off mode), however, the Autonomous Emergency Braking and the Swerve Support reactivate the full ESC system in an emergency.

The 1,984 cc four-cylinder turbocharged engine of the EA888 product line now develops an output of 235 kW (320 PS) in its fourth development stage. That’s 14 kW (20 PS) more than its predecessor. The maximum torque has increased from 400 Nm to 420 Nm. This is available even at low engine speeds of just 2,100 rpm and remains constant at this high level up to speeds of 5,350 rpm. Of course, the new engine fulfils the current EU6 AP emission standard. A new brake system with 18-inch brake discs is fitted on the front axle. This means they are one inch (25.4 millimetres) larger than the predecessor’s. The new brake is built with pin discs and a brake pot made of aluminium, which reduces the weight by 600 grams on each side. A speed-dependent map in the electromechanical brake servo ensures precise brake control. The visible components of the brake system are in striking blue with the R logo on top as a kind of optical exclamation mark.

The Golf R Estate is a true R model inside too

Fitted as standard in the new Golf R Estate are the new multifunction sports leather steering wheel and premium sports seats at the front, among other things. These have integrated head restraints sporting blue R logos. The seat centre panels are covered with the fabric seat covers “R” in black-blue. The inner side of the seat cushion bolsters is made of ArtVelours microfleece in Flint Grey. The optional Nappa leather package can also be ordered. It includes active climate control for the front seats and, on the insides of the doors, carbon-look elements with blue applications.

Compared to those in its predecessor, the driver’s controls have been almost completely redesigned. Touch buttons, touch sliders and touch screens substitute the functions of classic controls and analogue displays. The R-specific Digital Cockpit Pro offers exclusive features such as a new, horizontal engine speed display at the upper edge of the fully digital display as well as a lap timer for keeping time on the race track. And you can operate the vehicle with the new, natural, learning voice control, if you wish.

As with all Volkswagens, the new Infotainment system MIB3 provides modern connectivity. It is networked with the various online services of the brand’s own Volkswagen We ecosystem and enables Cloud-based personalisation by means of the Volkswagen ID. The Digital Cockpit Pro and the Infotainment system are arranged in the driver’s line of sight and easy to see and operate at all times.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

In April, Volkswagen presented the latest evolutionary stage of the sixth generation of Polo. Now comes its sportiest version: the new Polo GTI. The bearer of the legendary acronym spearheads the Polo segment in terms of performance, technology and sportiness. The powerful TSI engine and sports chassis, tailored specifically to the Polo GTI, transform the best-selling compact car into a dynamic, four-door sports car, which also allows semi-automated driving as an option for the first time in a Polo GTI. A host of the latest generation of assistance systems guarantee even greater comfort and safety for all passengers.

In the automobile world, there are three letters that have had a magic sound to them for approaching five decades now: GTI. Since the original GTI in 1976, Volkswagen has ensured that this code is synonymous with outstanding driving pleasure in the compact segment. The Polo has borne the acronym GTI since 1998 – the third model to do so, after the Golf and the Scirocco. The latest generation seamlessly continues the illustrious GTI tradition and sets new benchmarks for compact cars. The technical basis for this is provided by Volkswagen’s Modular Transverse Toolkit (MQB). Across all the model lines, MQB stands for technological progress, high body rigidity, an exemplary low weight, and very good crash properties.

IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist, used for the first time in a Polo GTI, enables semi-automated driving. The system can take over the steering, braking and accelerating of the new Polo GTI from 0 km/h to the control limit of Travel Assist (210 km/h). For longitudinal guidance, IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist calls upon familiar systems like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Latitudinal guidance is supported by Lane Assist, which comes as standard. The driver can activate the system via the Travel Assist button in the redesigned, multifunctional, leather sports steering wheel. The driver’s hands must remain on the steering wheel whilst using this system, meaning the driver is always responsible for the car.

Many new infotainment systems (the latest generation of MIB3.1), which are connected to various services online, ensure state-of-the-art connectivity in the new Polo GTI. An Online Connectivity Unit (OCU) with integrated eSIM makes it possible to use online services from We Connect (prepared for a limited time) and We Connect Plus (prepared for free use in Europe for one or three years). Features like natural voice control, access to streaming services and a cloud-based personalisation using “Volkswagen ID” enhance the latest MIB3.1 system, depending on the equipment line. The integration of such apps as App-Connect Wireless for Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ is now wireless. As in the Polo, instruments and the infotainment system are arranged on a visual axis, ensuring they can be viewed and operated easily in any driving situation. The Digital Cockpit Pro impresses with a higher pixel density, an improved contrast ratio and intense colours, as well as it sheer size – the screen measures 10.25 inches or 26 centimetres diagonally.

Sportiness coupled with efficiency and moderate consumptionThe heart of a GTI is always its engine. Like all its predecessors, the new Polo GTI is also front-wheel drive. The turbo-charged, direct petrol injector changes gear via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), which comes as standard. Among the highlights of the turbo engine in the new Polo GTI, which is installed transversely at the front of the car, are such features as a dual injection system with combined direct and intake-manifold fuel injection, an engine control unit with four core processors, and an electronic valve-lift system on the inlet side. Despite the high output, the engine is impressively efficient with moderate fuel consumption levels. This is aided by the low weight of the new Polo GTI when empty.

As you would expect from a genuine Volkswagen GTI, the new Polo GTI also comes with a sports chassis, tailored specially to the car, as standard. It lowers the chassis by 15 millimetres and guarantees the typical GTI synthesis of driving dynamics, safe neutrality and a high degree of driving comfort.

The new Polo GTI now comes as standard with the new IQ.Light – LED matrix headlights and an illuminated radiator grille bar as a distinctive enhancement to the daytime running light. This sees the sporty new Polo form a stylistic bridge to Volkswagen’s fully-electric ID. models and the new generation of successful models like the Golf, Arteon and Tiguan, which also come with this striking LED light strip, which is typical of new Volkswagens, as an option or depending on the equipment line.

The most striking visual change to the rear of the new Polo GTI is the newly-designed LED rear lights with animated brake light and integrated dynamic indicators, which indicate a change in direction with flowing light movements. The new, GTI-specific bumper gives the compact sports car an even more commanding and broader visual presence on the roads. The Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), which is integrated in the side of the bumper and controlled via the main headlights, has been redesigned and now gives an even more concise lighting effect. In combination with the IQ.Light – LED matrix headlights, it provides a very homogenous illumination of the road and surroundings. The striking red GTI logo on the radiator grille, the honeycomb-shaped ventilation grilles, and the continuous red trim strip above the LED daytime running light strip remain the characteristic GTI insignia at the sharper front of the car. To the right and left, it flows into the IQ.Light – LED matrix headlights with red winglets.

The new Polo GTI is available in five colours: Deep Black Pearl Effect, Smoke Grey Metallic, Kings Red Metallic, Pure White Uni, and Reef Blue Metallic. The latter three chassis colours can be combined with a contrasting black roof as an option (Roof Pack). The car comes with 17-inch alloy wheels as standard. The Polo GTI can also be ordered with optional 18-inch alloys.

On the interior, black, red, grey and chrome are the dominant colours. 
The roof pillars and roof liner are always retained in the Titanium Black trim colour, which is typical of the GTI. Red contrast stitching is also always a typical characteristic of a GTI. It adorns the multifunctional, leather sports steering wheel, which comes as standard, the gear lever trim and the seat surfaces. The optional beats sound system, with 300 watts and six speakers, make for a captivating accoustic experience. The amplifier is located under the floor in the variable cargo area to save space. The luggage capacity of the new Polo GTI is 351 litres.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Volkswagen is taking the next big step towards becoming a software-oriented mobility provider: from this summer, the brand will regularly send software updates “Over-the-Air” to models in its ID. family. This makes Volkswagen the first and only high-volume manufacturer to make this innovative technology available to its customers on a broad basis. The first model to benefit is the ID.3: the latest software version “ID.Software2.3” will be delivered to “First Movers Club” customers via mobile data transfer in July 2021. The update includes adjustments and improvements to operations, performance and comfort. Updates for all ID.3, ID.4 and ID.4 GTX customers will follow gradually. In the future, Volkswagen will update the software in its ID. cars every twelve weeks.

Ralf Brandstätter, CEO of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand: “Volkswagen is moving up a gear when it comes to digitalisation. After the successful roll-out of our all-electric ID. family, the brand is once again leading the movement: we are creating a totally new, digital customer experience with new functions and greater comfort – every twelve weeks. This makes us the first high-volume manufacturer to regularly deliver extensive Over-the-Air Updates. This is an important milestone in the implementation of our ACCELERATE strategy, which is preparing Volkswagen for the connected, digital mobility of the future.”

Extensive improvements thanks to Over-the-Air Updates 

The first update for the all-electric ID. models comes with many functional improvements: these include enhanced ID. Light functionalities, optimised surroundings recognition and dynamic main beam control, improved operability and design modifications for the infotainment system, as well as performance and stability improvements.

The software updates are delivered via mobile data transfer, straight to the central high-performance computers in the ID. models (In Car Application Server, ICAS for short). In the case of cars based on the modern MEB platform, these take on functions that were previously distributed across a host of control units in earlier vehicle generations. The new electronics architecture is not only more powerful and intelligent, it also simplifies the exchange of data and functions between systems in the car. This makes it possible to reach and update up to 35 control units via the Over-the-Air Updates.

Focus is always on customers with ID. Digital

“Cars that always have the latest software on board and offer an excellent digital customer experience are extremely important for the future success of the Volkswagen brand,” said Thomas Ulbrich, member of the Board of Management for Development at Volkswagen. “We established the agile project unit ID. Digital specifically to enable us to continuously update software in the car. As such, we are able to quickly gather customer feedback and react flexibly to customer requirements. This means the ID. models remain constantly up to date after delivery, and customer cars retain their value better.”

The driving force behind the digitalisation of the brand is the close cooperation between ID. Digital and CARIAD, the Volkswagen Group’s car software organisation. This collaboration makes for a wealth of software expertise. The brand benefits from the company’s clout, whilst at the same time using the speed of the agile software company CARIAD. “Over-the-Air Updates are a central functionality of the digital, connected car,” said CARIAD CEO Dirk Hilgenberg. “They will become the norm for customers – just like downloading the latest operating system or apps on your smartphone.”

Business model 2.0: the future of mobility

With Over-the-Air Updates of the software, the Volkswagen brand is laying the foundations for new business models – as laid out in the ACCELERATE strategy. In the future, customers will no longer need to decide on functions for their car when purchasing the car – or which configuration will make for a higher resale value. This is because the hardware will be standardised to a great extent. In the future, additional functions and innovative technology can be added later via software updates.

Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Open or closed, daily journeys to work and to kindergarten, weekends away with a motorcycle trailer or caravan: The T-Roc Cabriolet is full of possibilities, not restrictions. We went camping at the coast – and chasing bends in the Harz. The open crossover was the ideal choice for the journey in every situation!

Summer, Sun, Freedom – Cabriolet!

Even though it’s taken slightly longer than usual for the days to get warmer this year, the time has finally come: It’s now convertible season! And those who drive with the top down are connoisseurs, but often have to make some compromises.

But there aren’t many restrictions with the T-Roc Cabriolet: The high seat position of the crossover, the extensive range of features with digital services and the 400-watt BeatsAudio™ loudspeaker system and the chassis that is as comfortable as it is dynamic all make for an unrivalled driving experience – especially on the winding roads in the Harz. And the electrobeats of Daft Punk’s “Instant Crush” blend incomparibly with the impressive mountain panorama and the agile steering of the T-Roc Cabriolet.

And it seems like “spring awakening” is also the mountain region’s latest motto. Sun and rain alternate at what feels like 30-minute intervals in a combined effort to banish the last traces of the harsh winter. Good that we have a soft top that can be opened and closed quickly while driving, enabling endless spontaneous drives in the open air.

But only a few cumulus clouds are hiding the direct source of vitamin B at the moment. The perfect weather for enjoying the route through the romantic Oker Valley with the top down and letting the cool spring wind ruffle through the tips of your hair.

The journey is the destination

Passing Adlerklippe (Eagle’s Crag) and Verlobungsinsel (Engagement Island), we eventually reach the Oker reservoir, which thanks to a 75-metre high dam wall at the Oker dam is used to produce drinking water. Up here it feels like the heavens are within even closer reach, the air is even fresher – and the motorcycle in the rear-view mirror even closer.

A motorcycle in the rear-view mirror? While driving along the reservoir and eventually crossing the poker straight Weißwasser bridge, the glances behind get more and more frequent, building the excitement. Even though we hardly noticed it while driving, we have the new Desert Sled by Scrambler Ducati on a trailer behind us. For an even more intense cornering experience – thanks to the design. So: lower the trailer, unload the motorcylce and away you go!

To the sea with the caravan

Change of scene – the next day: We are at dizzying heights, looking out over the biggest seaport in Germany, the Hamburg port. The Köhlbrand Bridge has long been one of the city’s landmarks and is the ideal backdrop. Fun fact: The bridge’s suspension ropes have been cushioned with Volkswagen shock absorbers for decades, to counterbalance the oscillations triggered by the wind and cars.

On our way to the Baltic Sea we have a small caravan by T@B with room for two attached to the back of the car, after yesterday’s jaunt with the motorcycle. Our destination: A spot right by the sea. And we find one on the coast between Wismar and Rostock – for a few hours at least.

The T-Roc Cabriolet as an all-rounder

Motorcycle or caravan: The T-Roc Cabriolet opens up new possibilities and imparts pure joy in driving – even as a towing vehicle. After all, the journey to the destination is part of a holiday or time off, so why not enjoy that as well? It’s definitely possible with the open crossover with a trailer loda of up to 1,500 kilograms.

• Emotional design. With its snappy proportions, the exterior reflects the car’s strong character
• Room for four. The T-Roc Cabriolet accommodates 2+2 persons. They sit higher up and enjoy a good view
• Lightweight and fast. The soft top has electrohydraulic drive. It opens and closes fully automatically in nine and eleven seconds respectively, even at speeds of up to 30 km/h
• High level of safety. If a rollover looks imminent, a safety system extends behind the rear seats
• Digital operating concept. The Digital Cockpit and the infotainment system Discover Media are available on request
• Always on. The infotainment hardware and the Volkswagen We services connect the car with its surroundings, improving navigation and entertainment, and making them even more attractive
• Two specifications. The Style line appeals to design fans, while the R-Line for the 1.5 TSI is a sporty number 
• Generous standard features. Front Assist and Lane Assist come as standard in the T-Roc Cabriolet, as do 17-inch alloy wheels
• Two TSI engines. The 1.0 TSI has an output of 85 kW / 115 PS, the 1.5 TSI delivers 110 kW / 150 PS. It is also available with DSG. Both motorisations are coupled with the front-wheel drive.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com