All New Volkswagen Sharan to get debut at 85th International Geneva Motor Show 2015.

• Even more technical highlights for the popular Volkswagen MPV
• New TSI and TDI engines are up to 15 per cent more fuel efficient

Volkswagen is presenting the technically updated Sharan at the Geneva International Motor Show. Numerous new convenience and assistance systems make the family-friendly MPV one of the most advanced models in its segment. 

A wide range of infotainment systems also guarantees full connectivity to many smartphones and tablets. 

At the same time, the fuel economy of the petrol and diesel engines was improved by up to 15 per cent. The updated Sharan will arrive on the German market this summer; advance sales begin in April.

Along with the standard Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, which automatically initiates braking after a collision if the driver is no longer able to intervene, numerous optional assistance systems are available in the updated Sharan as well. 

They include the ambient traffic monitoring system Front Assist with integrated City Emergency Braking, the Lane Assist lane-keeping assistant, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), the third generation of Park Assist (for assisted parking and exiting from parking spaces) and the Blind Spot Monitor, which warns of vehicles in the blind spot when changing lanes.

The petrol (TSI) and diesel (TDI) engines, which are as powerful as they are efficient, have been completely redesigned. The turbocharged direct-injection engines are now up to 15 per cent more fuel-efficient, and they all conform to the Euro-6 emissions standard. The two TSI engines produce 110 kW / 150 PS and 162 kW / 220 PS. 

The power of the strongest petrol engine is increased by 15 kW / 20 PS. The diesel engines are offered at three power levels: 85 kW / 115 PS, 110 kW / 150 PS (gain of 10 PS) and 135 kW / 184 PS (gain of 7 PS). All engines (except the 85 kW TDI) may be combined with the agile 6-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG), which now also enables the fuel-saving coasting function (decoupling of the engine from the drivetrain when foot is taken off the accelerator pedal).

The second generation of the modular infotainment platform is used in the Sharan; it offers a maximum level of connectivity. The Sharan is one of the first Volkswagen vehicles to be equipped with "App Connect"; thanks to MirrorLinkTM, Android Auto (Google) and Car Play (Apple), a wide variety of apps can be fed into the new infotainment systems. The systems are also impressive due to their fast processors (optimised boot- up, quick route calculation, optimal touchscreen performance) and high-resolution displays.

In addition, the Sharan interior is upgraded with new accents and materials, and the instrument cluster is perfected. The rear of the Sharan now also has a more concise light signature thanks to LED technology.

* Fuel consumption of Sharan in l/100 km: 7.1 - 4.9 (combined); CO₂ emissions in g/km: 167 – 130 (combined), efficiency class: C-A (estimated, as of 16 February, 2015)

Want a new SUV from VW, then NOW is the time, apparently.

• Special offers add extra value to SUVs from 13 to 27 February 2015
• Tiguan and Touareg models ordered during event receive three years’ free servicing^^

Volkswagen is launching a number of special offers across its SUV ranges this month, meaning there has never been a better time to buy a Tiguan or Touareg model.  On top of competitive deals already available to buyers purchasing an SUV between now and 31 March 2015, during the half term event which runs at participating Retailers from 13 to 27 February, there’s the added bonus of three years or 30,000 miles free servicing^^.

The offers start with Volkswagen’s compact SUV, the Tiguan, which is available with a deposit contribution of up to £2,750**, and monthly payments on Solutions PCP (Volkswagen Financial Services’ personal contract plan) from £265 and 4.9 per cent APR representative.  

Popular and well-specified, all Match and R-Line Tiguan models now benefit from standard touchscreen satellite navigation.  Protection Packs, comprising front and rear mats, a boot mat and mud flaps are also available to ensure the new car stays looking new for as long as possible.

Customers with their eye on Volkswagen’s range-topping SUV, the new Touareg, which went on sale in August, can save up to £5,000^** off the list price of the car.  The Touareg is of course available on Solutions too, with monthly payments from £459 with 7.0 per cent APR representative.  A bespoke Protection Pack is also available for the Touareg.

What’s more, during the half term event, all Tiguan and Touareg orders will benefit from three years or 30,000 miles free servicing^^.  This is not linked to Solutions, and so is available on all retail orders placed between 13 and 27 February.

The SUV campaign is being supported by national advertising, encouraging potential owners to ‘Treat yourself, not the kids’ this half term.  For full details, terms and conditions, finance examples or to find your nearest participating Retailer, please go to www.volkswagen.co.uk.

Solutions PCP^# representative example for a Tiguan 1.4 TSI BMT S 5 door 2WD

(based on 10,000 miles p.a.)

Duration 35 monthly payments of  Deposit  Deposit contribution   (Total deposit      Retail cash price Acceptance fee Optional final payment    Option to purchase fee Total amount payable Total amount of credit Representative APR Rate of interest

3 years £265.00 £3,726.32 £2,750.00 £6,476.32) £21,960.00* £125.00 £7,822.46 £60.00 £23,633.78 £15,483.68 4.9% APR 4.30% fixed

Solutions PCP^# representative example for a Touareg 3.0 V6 TDI 262 R-Line

(based on 10,000 miles p.a.)

Duration   35 monthly payments of      Deposit Retail cash price Acceptance fee Optional final payment Option to purchase fee Total amount payable Total amount of credit Representative APR Rate of interest

3 years £459.00 £12,897.20 £43,215.00* £125.00 £19,206.43 £60.00 £48,228.63 £30,317.80 6.9% 6.65% fixed

* These prices reflect the Volkswagen UK tactical discount available until 31 March 2015.

^£5,000 off offer is available on all 262PS engines regardless of trim, 204PS engine attracts a £3,000 off offer.

^#At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) retain the vehicle: pay the optional final payment to own the vehicle; ii) return the vehicle; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle, subject to status.

**Deposit contribution is available when purchased on Solutions Personal Contract Plan^^  Free servicing is available up to 3 years/30,000 miles (whichever comes first) when purchased on Solutions Personal Contract Plan.  Offer available for vehicles ordered by 27 February 2015 from participating Retailers.  Retail Sales only. Available to 18's and over.  

Further charges may be payable if vehicle is returned.  Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time.  Subject to availability.  Terms and conditions apply.  Finance subject to status.  Accurate at time of publication [09/02/2015].  Freepost Volkswagen Finance.

New Volkswagen GTE, capable of 166mpg and 39g/km, making this one clean car.

• New plug-in hybrid Golf GTE combines benefits of e-mobility with GTI dynamics
• GTE available to order now with first deliveries expected in March
• Golf becomes the only car to be available with five powertrain types (four in UK)
• Combines petrol and electric motor to produce 204 PS and range of up to 580 miles

The Volkswagen Golf GTE is available to order from today, costing £28,035* RRP.  And unlike Volkswagen’s other electric vehicles (the e-up! and e-Golf) which are sold through a network of 25 e-Retailers, the GTE will be available through all of the company’s franchised sales outlets.

The name of Golf GTE reflects its standing in the line-up alongside the petrol-powered GTI and diesel GTD, while its pricing also reinforces this position.  

The new car is driven by two engines: a 1.4-litre 150 PS TSI direct-injection petrol engine and a 102 PS electric motor.  

Together, they produce a maximum power of 204 PS and a theoretical range of 580 miles, while maximum torque is 350 Nm (258 lbs ft).  A six-speed DSG gearbox developed for hybrid vehicles is standard.

The electric motor is integrated into the gearbox housing, while further hybrid components include power electronics and a charger.  An electro-mechanical brake servo and an electric air conditioning compressor make for energy-efficient braking and air conditioning.  

There are five operating modes: ‘E-mode’, ‘GTE mode’, ‘Battery Hold’, ‘Battery charge’ and ‘Hybrid Auto’.  In pure electric mode (activated at the press of a button), the Golf GTE can travel up to 31 miles.  Electric power can also be saved – for example when driving to a zero-emissions zone – and in electric mode, the GTE is capable of speeds of up to 81 mph.

With the TSI engine engaged as well, the Golf GTE can sprint from zero to 62 mph in 7.6 seconds and on to 138 mph, yet returns a combined cycle figure of 166 mpg and CO₂ emissions of 39 g/km.  As such it is expected to be exempt from VED and the Congestion Charge.

The Golf GTE’s 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery can be charged in 3.75 hours from a domestic mains outlet, or 2.25 hours from a domestic wallbox. 

The Golf GTE is available in five-door bodystyle only and in one highly-specified trim level.  Visually, it combines elements of the e-Golf and Golf GTI, with C-shaped LED daytime running lights (e-Golf) and aerodynamic horizontal ‘fins’ (GTI).  Where the GTI features red, the GTE has blue accents, including across the radiator grille and into the headlights (which as on the e-Golf are LED), while 18-inch ‘Serron’ alloy wheels are fitted as standard.

Inside too, the GTI’s red highlights are turned to blue – including the stitching on the steering wheel, gear lever gaiter and seats, and a blue stripe in the tartan pattern on the sports seats.  Touchscreen infotainment system with DAB radio and Bluetooth is standard, while optional navigation includes bespoke EV features such as the ability to identify potential destinations on electric range, and charging points. 

The GTE also has an e-manager which allows the driver to preset vehicle charging, as well as interior cooling or heating and these functions can be operated remotely using the Car-Net app on a smartphone; a three-year subscription is standard in the UK.  The speedometer and tachometer are familiar, and the latter is supplemented by a power meter in the central display, which shows the status of the battery, whether or not power is being used and the intensity of any regeneration.

(*RRP OTR after £5,000 Government plug-in car grant has been deducted)

Volkswagen dealers to take orders for all new Polo Petrol Bluemotion.

Volkswagen Retailers in the UK will begin taking orders for the first-ever petrol version of the Polo BlueMotion today, ahead of first UK deliveries in March, with prices starting from £14,730 (RRP OTR).

The greenest petrol engine in the range is powered by a 1.0-litre BlueMotion TSI petrol unit.  It emits 94 g/km of CO₂ and returns 68.9 mpg on the combined cycle. 

Delivering 95 PS between 5,000 and 5,500 rpm the new three-cylinder engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.  The Polo BlueMotion has a maximum torque of 118 Nm (160 lbs ft) produced between 1,500 and 3,500 rpm.

Efficiency does not come at the expense of performance.  The Polo BlueMotion will reach 62 mph from a standing start in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 119 mph.

Based on the S trim, the BlueMotion models add even more equipment including a styling pack which includes uniquely shaped front and rear bumpers, radiator grille, side skirts and rear roof spoiler, body coloured door handles, body coloured door mirrors with integrated indicators, front fog lights and static cornering function and unique BlueMotion badging.

Additional kit over that on the S trim includes 15-inch ‘Buenos Aires’ alloys with low rolling resistance tyres, aero body kit, multifunction leather steering wheel, alarm with remote central locking, air conditioning, a front centre armrest, Composition Media and infotainment system, cruise control and Volkswagen’s Driver Alert System.  This version of the Polo comes with a Think Blue, Trainer, which gives hint and tips on how to drive in a more economical fashion by analysing journey patterns.

This 1.0-litre BlueMotion TSI petrol 95 PS engine joins the three-cylinder diesel 1.4-litre TDI BlueMotion engine that produces 75 PS, returns 91.1 mpg and emits just 82 g/km of CO₂. 

All Polo models come with a colour touchscreen, SD card reader, DAB radio and USB and AUX-in connections, as well as a height-adjustable driver’s seat.

The BlueMotion models are available to order now with first deliveries expected in March.  For pricing see below, and for more information on the Polo BlueMotion and the rest of the award-winning Volkswagen range visit www.volkswagen.co.uk.

Engine derivative	Gearbox	Body	Combined mpg	CO2 (g/km)	Price, £ RRP OTR
1.0-litre TSI 95 PS	5-speed man	3-door	68.9	94	14,730.00
1.0-litre TSI 95 PS	5-speed man	5-door	68.9	94	15,360.00
1.4-litre TDI 75 PS	5-speed man	3-door	91.1	82	15,795.00
1.4-litre TDI 75 PS	5-speed man	5-door	91.1	82	16,425.00

ŠKODA produces and sells one million vehicles for the first time in one year.

• ŠKODA produces and sells one million vehicles for the first time in one year
• Large anniversary event for employees and guests at ŠKODA Museum
• Millionth vehicle produced: ŠKODA Fabia 1.2 TSI goes to charity
• One millionth vehicle delivered, a ŠKODA Octavia vRS, goes to Czech customer
• Manufacturer achieves key milestone in growth strategy

Producing and delivering one million ŠKODA cars in a single year is a milestone for the Czech manufacturer, and reaffirms its international growth strategy. ŠKODA honoured the team’s outstanding contribution to the successful development of recent years by hosting the ‘Million Celebration’ at the ŠKODA Museum.

The one millionth ŠKODA vehicle produced this year ran off the production lines at the main ŠKODA plant in Mladá Boleslav on 10 December: a ŠKODA Fabia 1.2 TSI in moon white. The anniversary car was donated to the ‘Life for Children’ foundation, a charity which provides care and support for ill children in the Czech Republic, and which was selected as the most worthy recipient by ŠKODA employees. The keys were handed over yesterday evening at a ceremony in Mladá Boleslav.

In addition, the millionth ŠKODA customer of 2014 – who is from the Czech Republic - was welcomed during the festivities. He had ordered an Octavia Estate vRS, 2.0 TSI in rally-green metallic, and the keys were handed to him by rally champion Jan Kopecky.

“Producing and delivering one million vehicles is a historical milestone that demonstrates the strength of the brand,” said ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. hc Winfried Vahland. “ŠKODA has achieved a new dimension and is firmly established as an international volume manufacturer. This success can be attributed to our model campaign, and the great performance of our 26,000 employees worldwide. The whole team is very proud of this achievement. At the same time, achieving this million in production and sales will spur us on to pick up the pace over the coming years.”

ŠKODA growth strategy is successful

By achieving one million in production and sales in 2014, the manufacturer is once again flying the banner high and highlighting its growth. At the heart of the growth strategy is the most comprehensive model campaign in the 119-year history of the company. Since 2010, the brand has been extensively renewing its model range and branching out into important segments – from the small ŠKODA Citigo to the new ŠKODA Fabia introduced just a few weeks ago.

“We offer the most attractive and modern ŠKODA model range of all time,” said Winfried Vahland. The model campaign’s success is reflected in the sales figures: between 2010 and December 2014, ŠKODA’s deliveries increased by over 30 per cent, making ŠKODA one of the world’s fastest-growing volume brands.

The company’s development over the past two decades is one of the great success stories in the automotive industry. Since the fall of the Iron Curtain and joining the Volkswagen Group in April 1991, ŠKODA’s production and sales have increased six-fold. With this came the resurgence of one of the longest-established automotive brands. ŠKODA's origins date back to the pioneering days of the car in 1895. In its rich history, the company has always delighted customers with legendary cars like the ŠKODA 860 and ŠKODA Popular Monte Carlo.

In addition to expanding the model range, an important pillar of the growth strategy is entering new markets beyond Europe. Nowadays, ŠKODAs are available in over 100 countries worldwide. China has been the brand’s strongest market since 2010. In the first 11 months of 2014 around one quarter of ŠKODAs worldwide were sold in China.