Volkswagen’s GTX brand stands for the sporty top-of-the-line models of the ID. family. The ID.4 GTX and ID.5 GTX models with dual-motor all-wheel drive – presented just last year – will now be equipped with even more comprehensive standard equipment to emphasise this claim. In addition, they provide a glimpse of the look of other GTX models with new design accents in black and red. In future, every ID. series will have its own GTX model. The ID.4 GTX from 53,255 euros and ID.5 GTX from 56,455 euros are already available for order.

Volkswagen has further enhanced the sporty GTX models. The previously optional equipment packages known as Design and Comfort have become standard equipment. They include a climate comfort windscreen, darkened side and rear windows, heated front seats, two USB-C interfaces, a variable centre console, the Air Care Climatronic air-conditioning system with active combination filter, stationary air conditioning and two-zone temperature control.

Black and red stand for GTX. The interior is also sporting some new features:The dash panel and door trim are now black. Red decorative seams throughout the interior visually emphasise its sportiness and can be found on the black leather steering wheel, among other places. The optional premium sports seats are also decorated with red seams, piping and logo, as well as a felled seam all the way around. But on the outside, black sets the accents: roof frame strip, C-pillar, exterior mirrors and diffuser now shine in glossy black. Glossy 21-inch rims in a black design are available on request. Together with the standard black roof paint and the darkened windows, this results in a progressive and at the same time elegant appearance.

GTX formula for success. The sporty GTX brand with its all-electric performance models has been part of Volkswagen’s portfolio for over a year. The dynamic vehicles combine electromobility, sustainability and intelligent sportiness. Their dynamic design also emphasises the special character and recognition value of high-quality GTX models.

“The success of the ID.4 GTX and ID.5 GTX confirms our strategy of positioning the GTX brand independently. Both models in their respective series have installation rates of almost 40 percent,” says Silke Bagschik, Head of Sales and Marketing for the ID. family. “We will continuously expand this brand and offer a GTX variant for every ID. model in future – from the ID.3 to the ID. Buzz.”

Performance and everyday suitability thanks to the 4MOTION dual-motor all-wheel drive. The GTX models use two electric motors: one on the front axle and one on the rear axle. They have system power of 220 kW (299PS), offer a total torque of 460 Nm and work together as an electric drive. A permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM) with 150 kW (204 PS) of power and a torque of 310 Nm is active on the rear axle. An additional asynchronous motor (ASM) with 80 kW (109 PS) and 162 Nm is installed on the front axle. This is particularly compact and light, can be overloaded on a temporary basis and only produces minimal drag losses when it runs without being supplied with current. The vehicle’s top speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h. The maximum trailer weight of both GTX models is 1,400 kilograms (for an 8 percent gradient), which is 200 kilograms more than the model versions with rear-wheel drive.

Vehicle dynamics manager with specially developed software. The intelligent control of the dual-motor drive of the ID.4 GTX and ID.5 GTX is handled by the vehicle dynamics manager. This software, developed in-house by Volkswagen, always aims to achieve the optimum combination of efficiency, dynamics and driving stability. The drive motor on the rear axle is often able to power the vehicle all by itself. As soon as the driver wants to shift to a sportier style or needs more traction, the asynchronous machine on the front axle is activated. This takes place in just a few fractions of a second and so smoothly that it is unnoticeable for the driver. Not only the powertrain, but also all braking, steering and chassis control systems are controlled by the vehicle dynamics manager, depending on the selected driving profile.

Electric mobility that’s even more customer-friendly. The ID.4 GTX offers a range of up to 500 kilometres (WLTP); the ID.5 GTX, on the other hand, 512 kilometres (WLTP). The maximum charging capacity of both models is 135 kW. The 77 kWh high-voltage battery can be charged from 5% to 80% in up to 36 minutes and then offers a range of 337 kilometres for the ID.4 GTX and 376 kilometres for the ID.5 GTX (both WLTP values). The intelligent Electric Vehicle Route Planner provides support for long journeys as the navigation system creates clever multi-stop route planning to get the car to its destination as quickly as possible. This is continuously adjusted while the vehicle is in motion – for example, there is no need for a short charging stop if the driver drives very efficiently.

Latest software generation and Plug & Charge: With the next generation of the ID. software the Plug & Charge function will also be available for the new GTX models, making charging on the go even more convenient. The vehicle automatically authenticates itself as soon as the customer plugs the charging cable into a compatible DC rapid-charging point and launches secure encrypted communication between the vehicle and the post. This authentication process takes just a few seconds before charging starts. Plug & Charge is already supported in many large charging infrastructures such as Ionity, Aral, BP, Enel, EON, as well as Iberdrola and Eviny. Further large providers will follow.

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Two very special ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ inspired Volkswagen ID. Buzz are part of this year’s Star Wars Celebration in Anaheim, California (May 26-29), part of the brand’s ongoing collaboration with the new series, coming to Disney+ on May 27.

The showcars, ID. Buzz ‘Light Side Edition’ and the ID. Buzz ‘Dark Side Edition’, embody the Light and Dark side with eye-catching looks designed to delight and thrill Star Wars fans.

Both ID. Buzz showcars were on the carpet at the premiere of ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’, a surprise addition to the fan event, where Volkswagen brand ambassador and star of the series, Ewan McGregor, was also in attendance.

A first-time collaboration from Volkswagen and Lucasfilm designers

Using special adhesive films on the body of the ID. Buzz vehicles, the designers created skins that convey the two sides, drawing specific inspiration from Ob-Wan Kenobi and Darth Vader, two iconic characters from the upcoming series. Designers from Lucasfilm and Volkswagen worked in close collaboration for the special project.

“The opportunity to explore how ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ and the Volkswagen brand could come together on a vehicle was pure fun. The themes of good and evil, light and dark aren't necessarily concepts we apply to cars. The ID. Buzz collaboration offered an unique opportunity to have the cars become graphic reflections of two iconic characters,” says Doug Chaing, Lucasfilm VP and Executive Creative Director.

“In close collaboration with Lucasfilm, we combine the timeless and functional design of the ID. Buzz with the fascinatingly detailed world of Obi-Wan Kenobi,” explains Volkswagen Head of Design Jozef Kabaň. This philosophy also compelled the ID. Buzz lettering on the rear of the vehicles, which was designed in the classic Star Wars “Aurebesh” font – instead of in the font of standard Volkswagen models. Other lettering inspired by the series, is located on the fenders.

ID. Buzz ‘Light Side Edition’

Based on the passenger version of the car, the color of the lower section of the ‘Light Side Edition’ is beige, taking inspiration from the hue of the Obi-Wan Kenobi’s tunic. The shiny chrome on the upper section references the design of spaceships and droids from the Star Wars universe. A blue line on the side, which continues to the front of the ID. Buzz into the headlights and light strip, symbolizes Obi-Wan’s blue lightsaber. The glass surfaces of the electric ID. Buzz are designed in transparent blue, matching perfectly with the underbody lighting. Logos of the Jedi Order can be found on the side windows as well as on the centercaps of the rims. The customized 21 inch wheels carry through the unique design of the entire vehicle.

ID. Buzz ‘Dark Side Edition’

The Buzz Cargo serves as the platform for this edition. Through ominous shades of black and red, the ID. Buzz ‘Dark Side Edition’ embodies the Dark Side. The film is shiny black on the lower area of the body, while the upper section of the Buzz is draped in matte black. Side lines, headlights, light strips and window surfaces are in a red hue, inspired by Darth Vader’s lightsaber. The contrast of red and black is continued by the red underbody lightning. The center of the uniquely designed 21-inch rims and the body of the ID. Buzz bear the logo of the Sith Empire.

The collaboration between Volkswagen and ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’

The unveiling of these one-of-a-kind showcars is the next step in the brand’s celebration of the new series, following the launch last week. “It’s about bringing together two icons,” says Jozef Kabaň. “ ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ sees the return of iconic characters from Star Wars and is sure to connect generations worldwide – as will the VW Bus, whose mythology will enter the new era of electromobility with the ID. Buzz.”

In addition, with the new partnership, Volkswagen is focusing on even more emotions when positioning the brand, giving its global electrification strategy an additional boost. The wide-ranging "Obi-Wan Kenobi" campaign starts with its own spot, which was created in cooperation with Lucasfilm and Industrial Light & Magic. This is where the ID. Buzz starred alongside the well-known Star Wars characters.

The new limited Star Wars series “Obi-Wan Kenobi” will be available on Disney+ from today, May 27. The new ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo can already be ordered in European markets.

Article source: https://www.volkswagen-newsroom.com/en/press-releases/volkswagen-unveils-two-obi-wan-kenobi-inspired-id-buzz-vehicles-at-star-wars-celebration-7991

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Golf R, Volkswagen is launching the Golf R “20 Years” as an exclusive special-edition model. The production period limited to approximately one year makes the special-edition model a collector’s item as soon as it rolls off the production line. Like all premium performance models of the Volkswagen R with their increased power, the Golf R has its roots on the race track and stands for the transfer of innovative technologies to series production. Fan communities around the world are enthralled by the expressive design and enhanced performance. The new Golf R “20 Years” is now available to order with prices starting from 59,995 euros in Germany.

The Golf R “20 Years” surpasses everything that has been launched with the “Golf” label up to now with its drive technology. The anniversary model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds: the top speed is electronically limited to 270 km/h. The Golf R “20 Years” edition makes its exceptional nature known as soon as the engine is started. It is impossible not to notice the 245 kW / 333 PS) delivered by the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine. The driver can select an Emotion Start to activate an initial engine speed overshoot extending up to 2,500 rpm. In combination with especially striking drive acoustics, this additionally heightens the anticipation of a typical R driving experience.

When the driver shifts up manually in S and S+ gear selector positions, the DSG provides noticeable feedback from the gearbox and drive train each time the right paddle is operated. In addition, the optimised engine tuning means that the load change response is extremely spontaneous. The turbocharger is preloaded to keep it at a constant speed during part-load driving. This then allows faster power development for subsequent acceleration. The open throttle valve in overrun phases also improves dynamics and performance on the road. When the driver takes their foot off the accelerator and then accelerates again, this allows faster build-up of the engine torque and noticeably improves the engine’s responsiveness. This allows the Golf R “20 Years” to be driven even more dynamically and with a higher level of driving stability in sporty driving situations.

The Golf R “20 Years” will be available as standard with the R Performance package already familiar from the Golf R (including, for example, R-Performance Torque Vectoring in conjunction with the Vehicle Dynamics Manager and two additional driving modes, Special and Drift) and will be further enhanced by exclusive design highlights. At the rear, the roof spoiler emphasises the sporty look of the vehicle, which is fitted as standard with 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels.

The sporty and exclusive nature of the premium performance brand from Volkswagen is also evident in the interior. For the first time in a production Volkswagen, the dash panel and door trim feature decorative trim elements in Genuine Carbon. The special-edition model sports blue R logos, including on the multifunction sport steering wheel (at 6 o’clock position). The blue R logo can also be found on the vehicle key cap to underline the fact that the key belongs to a special vehicle.

Like all Golf models, the Golf R “20 Years” will be produced in the Wolfsburg factory – the home of the Golf. The Golf R “20 Years” will reach dealerships in many European markets and North America from the middle of 2022.

The Golf R “20 Years” is the fifth edition of the extremely sporty Golf R. The success story of the model began in 2002 with the Golf R32 and its 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine with an output of 177 kW (241 PS). It was the most powerful Golf that Volkswagen had built up to that point. Featuring all-wheel drive in combination with exclusive design and equipment, this highly dynamic car was the technological benchmark in its class. The Golf R32 was an immediate success, and its sales were triple the originally planned amount.

Article source: https://www.volkswagen-newsroom.com/en/press-releases/golf-r-20-years-anniversary-model-of-the-golf-r-now-available-to-order-7995

Volkswagen is celebrating 20 years of the Touareg with the Touareg “EDITION 20”. This special-edition model will join the premium SUV model family from mid-June 2022 and features a particularly extensive range of exclusive equipment – including an extremely expressive exterior design and an elegant leather package in the interior. Since its market launch in 2002, the luxury SUV has become an out-and-out success. More than one million units of this innovative technology carrier have been sold worldwide up to the present day. The special-edition model is available to order now, with prices starting from 77,530 euros (for V6 TDI with 170 kW/231 PS).

20 years ago, Volkswagen took the bold step into a new segment with the stylish Touareg. Since then, the company’s premium SUV has firmly established itself in the respective markets and has become an outstanding success. More than one million units have been sold up to the present day – an impressive figure in the SUV C-segment. Modern optional features such as Travel Assist and the Innovision Cockpit with 15” infotainment system display (standard in the Touareg “EDITION 20”) ensure even greater comfort and maximum connectivity. Technologically sophisticated running gear innovations such as the optional air suspension and roll compensation increase the vehicle dynamics and make the Touareg much easier to handle than its size might suggest.

Exterior with exclusive visual highlights. The distinguishing features of the new special-edition model include the completely new paintwork in Meloe Blue as well as the high-gloss polished 20-inch Bogota wheels, which are only available for the anniversary model. The expressive exterior design is rounded off by darkened side and rear windows, LED tail lights with cherry red tint, and an “EDITION 20” badge on the B-pillar. The wheel arches and diffuser additionally have a Black Glossy paint finish.

Standard leather equipment and “EDITION 20” details. The exclusivity of the Touareg “EDITION 20” is continued in the ultra-modern interior. When getting into the vehicle, the driver and occupants are welcomed by illuminated sill panel trim with the “EDITION 20” logo. High-quality black Savona leather seats with distinctive diamond stitching and seams in the contrasting colour Ceramique, a light beige, underline the extremely stylish overall impression. The sporty character is highlighted by red accents: Perfectly matched double seams (piping) in Ceramique/Red can be found on the dash panel, steering wheel and door inner sides. The leather-covered selector lever for the automatic gearbox features the “EDITION 20” logo.

Four engine variants with superior power. The new Volkswagen Touareg “EDITION 20” is offered with four drive variants:

• 170 kW (231 PS) 3.0 V6 TDI with 500 Nm torque
• 210 kW (286 PS) 3.0 V6 TDI with 600 Nm torque
• 250 kW (340 PS) 3.0 V6 TSI with 450 Nm torque
• Plug-in hybrid V6 TSI with 280 kW (381 PS) system power and 600 Nm torque

All four engines transmit their power to an eight-speed gearbox with all-wheel drive system. This makes it possible to tow braked trailers with a weight of up to 3.5 tonnes.

Technology carrier and record holder for 20 years. When it was introduced in 2002, the Touareg surprised with a 5.0-litre V10 TDI engine and an impressive torque at the time of 750 Nm. The “Race Touareg” from Volkswagen Motorsport dominated the Dakar Rally for three years in succession from 2009 to 2011. Various long-distance world records followed, such as on the Pan-American Highway, where a distance of up to 23,000 kilometres was covered in just under twelve days. In 2006, the Touareg pulled a Boeing 747 weighing 155 tonnes out of its hangar and in doing so secured another world record.

In 2005, the Touareg “Stanley”, one of the first truly intelligent vehicles in automotive history, won the DARPA Grand Challenge for autonomous vehicles organised by the American Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. It was one of only four vehicles from the 23 that started the race to reach the finish line. Today, Volkswagen customers benefit from many years of development experience with systems such as Travel Assist and the optional Park Assist Plus with remote parking capability.

Articles source: https://www.volkswagen-newsroom.com/en/press-releases/happy-birthday-touareg-exclusive-special-edition-model-for-the-20th-anniversary-7980