Practicality re-defined: The all-new Volkswagen Polo Sedan

• Volkswagen’s dominance in the A0 segment will be bolstered by the introduction of the new Polo Sedan.
• A striking exterior, stylish interior and a host of technological features make the new Polo Sedan a complete package
• The new Polo Sedan boasts practicality with a massive boot space of 521 litres
• The new Polo Sedan is now available at Volkswagen dealers

Johannesburg, 14 September 2022 – The only sedan in the Volkswagen model range, the new Polo Sedan, is now available for sale at Volkswagen dealers.

The Volkswagen Polo Sedan, which is manufactured in Pune, India, has sold 44 267 units in the local market since its launch in 2011. The new Polo Sedan is set to redefine the A0 Sedan segment in South Africa by fulfilling the mobility needs of customers.

Striking exterior design

The new Polo Sedan has a distinctive and striking exterior design which not only makes it a sight to behold, but also a treat to drive. The new Polo Sedan measures 4 561mm in length, 1 752mm in width and 1 507mm in height. Its sharp shoulder lines exude both power and elegance. The Polo Sedan comes standard with LED headlights and taillights, a signature chrome grille, 16-inch alloy wheels (only available in the Life derivatives) and a chrome package with chrome window strips and chrome door handles which accentuate the striking look of the sedan.

Stylish and modern interior

Along with the striking exterior, the new Polo Sedan also offers a stylish, versatile and modern interior which offers a world-class experience of connectivity and technology. Offering a premium dual- tone interior, dual-tone seat upholstery and premium touch surfaces, the Polo Sedan combines comfort with sheer elegance. The new Polo Sedan is equipped with features like keyless entry, ambient lighting and Climatronic’ air-conditioning (only available in the Life derivatives), multi-function steering wheel and 521 litres of boot space.

The new Polo Sedan comes standard with a host of technology, entertainment and connectivity features such as a 7-inch touchscreen radio, 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system equipped with wireless App-Connect and wireless mobile charging (only available in the Life derivatives) and eight sound speakers. The new Polo Sedan has up to six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), multi-collision braking system, LED headlights and taillights, tyre pressure monitoring, Park Distance Control in the rear, rear-view camera (only available in the Life derivatives) and Hill Start Assist (only available in the Life Tiptronic derivative).

New Polo Sedan equipment lines

The new Polo Sedan is available in three equipment lines; Polo Sedan, Polo Sedan Life and the Polo Sedan Life Tiptronic. The Polo Sedan range comes fully equipped and has no optional features.

The entry-level Polo Sedan derivative comes standard with LED headlights and taillights, 16-inch steel wheels, App-Connect, 7-inch touchscreen radio, Cruise Control and a multi-function steering wheel.

In addition to the standard features in the entry-level derivative, the Polo Sedan Life also comes standard with keyless entry and start, rear view camera, 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless mobile charging, wireless App-Connect, power adjustable and folding exterior mirrors, climatronic air conditioning, ambient lighting, leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel and gear lever, front fog lamps and cornering lights, a chrome package and 16-inch Scimitar alloy wheels.

The top derivative of the model range, the Polo Sedan Life Tiptronic, is further equipped with Hill Start Assist and a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with shifting paddles.

The only optional feature available is the choice of five exterior colours; solid paint (Candy White) and four metallic colours (Wild Cherry Red, Carbon Steel Grey, Reflex Silver and Rising Blue).

The new Polo Sedan model range is offered with the four-cylinder MPI petrol engine mated to a 5-speed manual or 6-speed Tiptronic transmission. The engine delivers 81kW power and 152Nm of torque at 3 850 to 4 100 rpm. It takes 11.2 seconds to reach 100km/h, the top speed is 190km/h and fuel consumption is 6.2 litres/100km. The Tiptronic derivative delivers the same power and torque as the manual and takes 12.2 seconds to reach 100km/h. The top speed is 187km/h and fuel consumption is 6.5 litres/100km.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

Polo Sedan 1.6 81kW Manual R318 300

Polo Sedan Life 1.6 81kW Manual R345 600

Polo Sedan Life 1.6 81kW Tiptronic R365 500

The new Polo Sedan comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, a 3 year/ 45 000km EasyDrive Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km. Customers have the option to extend EasyDrive Maintenance and EasyDrive Service Plans up to 10 years/ 300 000km.

Volkswagen announces specifications of the new Golf R and Tiguan R

• Volkswagen R model range has been expanded with the introduction of the all-new Tiguan R in the local market.
• The most powerful production series Golf (now with a drift mode) and Tiguan develop 235kW of power and 400Nm of torque.
• The most powerful production series Golf (now with a drift mode) and Tiguan develop 235kW of power and 400Nm of torque.

Johannesburg, 2 August 2022 – For the Volkswagen brand, the letter ‘R’ is associated with pinnacle in performance. October 2022 and early 2023 will see the launch of the most powerful production series Tiguan and Golf in the South African market.

Since the Golf R’s launch in South Africa in 2007, the powerful hatch has sold close to 6 000 units. The new Volkswagen Golf R reigns supreme as the model range’s most powerful hatch to date. More powerful, more dynamic, more efficient, more closely integrated, more digital; these are the characteristics of the new Golf R, the dynamic flagship of the eighth Golf generation.

The new Golf 8 R’s drive technology tops everything that has been launched in the Golf model range up until now. The corresponding drive output is generated by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder EA 888 engine. The new Golf 8 R accelerates to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. The top speed is 250 km/h. The Golf 8 R impresses with the combination of 400Nm of torque, cutting-edge running gear and the most progressive all-wheel drive in its class.

The new all-wheel drive system and high-tech running gear merge to create a host of innovations whilst offering maximum agility and driving pleasure. The 4MOTION system with R-Performance Torque Vectoring is the new control centre that distributes the engine’s

output to the four wheels. A new rear final drive distributes the power of the turbocharged petrol engine in the Golf 8 R, not just between the front and rear axles, but also variably between the two rear wheels. This makes it possible to significantly increase the agility, particularly when cornering. As a world first, the all-wheel drive is also networked via a Vehicle Dynamics Manager (VDM) with other running gear systems such the electronic differential locks (XDS) and adaptive chassis control DCC. Thanks to this close integration of the different systems, the new Golf 8 R offers optimum traction control and neutral handling with the utmost level of precision. The Golf 8 R is equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) as standard. Fuel consumption is 7.8l/100km.

Standard features in the new Golf 8 R include mobile inductive charging, panoramic sunroof, Keyless Entry with safelock and an electric tailgate and luggage compartment, ‘Discover Pro’ system with satellite navigation, Wireless App-Connect and Voice Control, 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels, Adaptive Chassis Control including driving profile selection, Light and Vision Package including high- beam control light assist, Nappa leather seats as well as a choice of three exterior colours (Pure White, Lapiz Blue Metallic and Deep Black Pearl).

Optional features in the new Golf 8 R include IQ.Light LED Matrix Headlights, Akrapovič Exhaust, Head-Up Display, Harman Kardon sound system, Parallel Park Assist, Rear Assist with a rear view camera, Blind spot monitor with Rear Traffic Alert and Lane Assist with electronically folding side mirrors, Travel Assist with Lane Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control, IQ.Drive Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking System as well as the Black Performance Package with drift mode, an increased top speed of 270 km/h and black 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels.

All-new Tiguan R, Volkswagen’s most powerful SUV
Volkswagen will also be launching the most powerful Tiguan, the Tiguan R, in the local market. The Tiguan R will join Volkswagen’s T SUV range in South Africa which currently consists of the T-Cross, Taigo, T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and Touareg. With a power output of 235kW, the Tiguan R accelerates to 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds. Featuring an all-wheel drive system, the Tiguan R, with a top speed of 250 km/h, fascinates with outstandingly agile and confident handling. The new Tiguan R combines the dynamic performance of a sports car with the variability of a SUV. The four-cylinder engine provides its maximum torque of 400Nm as low as 2 100 rpm and maintains this high torque at a constant level up to 5 350 rpm. This power is distributed to the four wheels by the new all-wheel drive system: 4MOTION with R-Performance Torque Vectoring, which is also available in the new Golf 8 R. With the new all-wheel drive system, handling agility, particularly when cornering, has been improved. With this system the Tiguan R sets a new benchmark for SUV driving dynamics.

The extended technical Tiguan R equipment includes a powerful 18- inch brake system with blue brake calipers (with the R logo at the front), a DCC chassis (with adaptively controlled shock absorbers) lowered by 10mm and a driving profile selection enhanced for the Tiguan R with an additional R profile. This sporty mode can be activated by means of a blue R button on the new multi-function sports steering wheel. This is also equipped with separate large paddles for manual control of the 7-speed DSG gearbox.

The Tiguan R’s sporty DNA is not just to be found in the turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive system, but also in its extensively customised equipment. Taking the exterior as an example: the standard equipment here includes bumpers in R design with aerodynamic elements in high-gloss black or the car body colour, exterior mirror covers in matt chrome, a unique high-gloss black rear diffuser, black wheel housing extensions, 20-inch Misano alloy wheels, Lights and Vision Package (with Auto Dimming Rear view mirror and rain sensor), panoramic sunroof and Park Distance Control in the front and rear. The new Tiguan R comes available with a choice of ten exterior colours.

In the interior, the Tiguan R sets itself apart with features such as premium Nappa leather seats with an ‘R’ logo, a customised Digital Cockpit with an integrated lap timer, as well as Carbon Grey

decorative trim. The decorative trim elements are illuminated via the background lighting. Also illuminated is the R logo in the aluminium front sill panel mouldings. The ‘Discover Pro’ system with satellite navigation, Wireless App-Connect and Voice Control, Active Info Display as well as Keyless Entry with safelock and an electric tailgate and luggage compartment also come standard.

Optional features in the Tiguan R include the trailer hitch, IQ.Light LED Matrix Headlights, Akrapovič Exhaust, 21-inch Estoril alloy wheels, Head-Up Display, Mobile Inductive Charging System, Harman Kardon sound system, Area view camera system with Park Assist and Park Distance Control, Rear view camera system with Park Assist and Park Distance Control, IQ.Drive Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Change System, Park Assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking, IQ.Drive Adaptive Cruise Control with Pedestrian Monitoring and Autonomous Emergency Braking, IQ.Drive Adaptive Cruise Control with Autonomous Emergency Braking and Front Assist as well as the Trailer Manoeuvring System with Park Assist.

The Golf R and Tiguan R come standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 5 year/ 100 000km EasyDrive Maintenance Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km.

Pricing for the new Tiguan R and Golf R will be confirmed closer to the launch date in October 2022 and early 2023 respectively.

Volkswagen’s Golf GTI8onTour campaign wins gold at annual PRISM Awards

• Volkswagen’s Golf 8 GTI launch campaign won a total of three accolades at this years’ PRISM Awards
• Volkswagen was the only automotive brand to be awarded at the PRISM Awards

Johannesburg, 28 July 2022 – The Volkswagen Golf GTI8onTour campaign won gold at this years’ PRISM Awards which were held in Johannesburg recently.

The PRISM Awards, which are run by the Public Relations Institute of South Africa (PRISA), are Africa’s most sought after public relations and communication awards and are judged by more than 60 industry experts. PRISM awards are conferred on entities that have successfully fused strategy with creativity and professionalism to achieve the best communications and business objectives in their public relations campaigns.

“As Volkswagen, we’re proud to not only have won three awards which include a gold award in the ‘Launch of a New Service or Product’ category at the PRISM’s, but to also be the only automotive brand awarded at this years’ ceremony shows the creative prowess of our brand. The Golf GTI was our biggest vehicle launch last year and the #GTI8OnTour campaign paid homage to the legendary status that this hot hatch enjoys in South Africa,” said Bridget Harpur, Head of Marketing for the Volkswagen Brand.

In its new form, the tours include a completely reworked script, showcasing the most exciting elements of Volkswagen’s world-class factory, including the production process that combines the efficiency of high-tech robots and the expertise of our production employees.

Working with Public Relations agency, One-Eyed Jack, the #GTI8OnTour campaign also won a silver award for ‘Influencer Management’ and a bronze award in the ‘Integration of Traditional and New Media’ category.

The #GTI8OnTour was launched as a gaming app that got fans racing the Golf 8 GTI through the virtual streets of South Africa to get their name on a virtual leader board in order claim a free ticket to the #GTI8OnTour country-wide customer launch events.

The #GTI8OnTour campaign culminated in high-energy customer events in Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg where fans were given the chance to experience life in the GTI lane.

The #GTI8OnTour campaign saw over 21 000 app downloads across Apple and Android devices and over 370 000 game plays in just six weeks. The online social media campaign also reached 3.3 million people.

Volkswagen plant in Kariega reopens FactoryTours

• FactoryTours resumed in June for the first time since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic
• Tours include a closer look at how Volkswagen’s popular Polos and Polo Vivos are built

Kariega (Uitenhage) – After a hiatus of more than two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Volkswagen Group South Africa’s (VWSA) Kariega manufacturing plant has reopened its popular FactoryTours to the public.

The FactoryTours restarted on 21 June and has already welcomed a total of 921 visitors in its first month of operating since it was stopped in 2020 at the start of the pandemic. Using the downtime productively, the team behind the FactoryTours have reinvented the experience for visitors.

In its new form, the tours include a completely reworked script, showcasing the most exciting elements of Volkswagen’s world-class factory, including the production process that combines the efficiency of high-tech robots and the expertise of our production employees.

The tours are led by veteran guide Monwabisi Cekiso, who has been entertaining visitors for 11 years, and Siphokazi Wonci, who joined VWSA in 2021 as a trainee of the YES programme and stayed on to share the Volkswagen story on these tours. All tours are conducted on an open-top FactoryTours train that can accommodate 21 people, with plans to increase the tour capacity in the near future.

Both the FactoryTours and the AutoPavilion museum have been a popular experience among school groups and other visitors. In 2019 the museum welcomed 34 314 visitors, of which 12 780 also participated in the FactoryTours. The museum boasts a variety of unique exhibitions, from the Meet the Freaks display that includes the weird and wonderful elements of Volkswagen history, to the 70 Years exhibition with prominent vehicles from Volkswagen’s seven decades in Kariega.

FactoryTours are free of charge and run at 09:00 and 12:00 on weekdays, for visitors aged 8 years or older. To join, visitors can contact the AutoPavilion at 041 994 5941 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to book their space.

NEW VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK GLOBAL PREMIERE TAKES PLACE THIS WEEK

• The much-anticipated global premiere of the new Volkswagen Amarok takes place on 7 July 2022
• The new Volkswagen Amarok will also be launched at a global media event in South Africa later this year
• The new Volkswagen Amarok will retail in South Africa from the first quarter of 2023

Johannesburg, 4 July 2022 – The new Volkswagen Amarok will be officially unveiled during its global premiere on Thursday, 7 July 2022.

“We are incredibly excited for the world and our customers to see the new Volkswagen Amarok when it officially breaks cover during its digital premiere on the Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge YouTube page this week,” said Mark Handley, Head of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

The current Volkswagen Amarok was launched in South Africa in November 2010 and has sold 41 422 units in the local market.

The new Volkswagen Amarok was designed in Germany and Australia and will be built in South Africa.

The new Volkswagen Amarok measures 5 350mm in length (96mm longer than the predecessor) and has a wheelbase of 3 270mm (173mm longer than the predecessor) which equates to more space than the outgoing generation.

Depending on the model and specification, large loads of up to 1.2 tonnes can be accommodated. The new Amarok has an impressive maximum towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes. The Amarok also has a new range of wheel options and for the first time ever, the bakkie will, depending on the derivative, also be sold with ex-factory all-terrain tyres.

With its intuitive controls, digital cockpit and tablet-style infotainment display, the Amarok’s interior has a high-quality functional appearance. The new digital cockpit and a vertically- aligned display unit with a 10 or 12-inch screen, offers a better view and extensive control options.

The new Amarok model range also comes available with over 30 driver assist systems; 20 of which will be found in the new Amarok range for the first time. The local product line-up will incorporate a vast majority of these autonomous driving technologies.

“As Volkswagen South Africa, we are proud that the new Amarok will not only be built in our country, thus supporting the local economy, but at the end of the year we will also welcome motoring journalists from around the world for the Amarok global media launch to be hosted in South Africa,” concluded Handley.

The new Volkswagen Amarok will retail in South Africa from the first quarter of 2023.

New Volkswagen Amarok Global Premiere details:

Date: 7 July 2022 at 10:00am

Where: Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge YouTube Page

New Volkswagen Amarok Global Premiere Link

New Volkswagen T-Roc to retail in South Africa from July

• The new Volkswagen T-Roc will go on sale from Volkswagen dealers on 5 July 2022
• The starting price of the Volkswagen T-Roc range is R563 800

Johannesburg, 4 July 2022 – Volkswagen’s new T-Roc will retail from Volkswagen dealers on 5 July 2022.

The T-Roc is positioned between the recently launched Taigo and the Tiguan in Volkswagen’s T SUV model range. Since market introduction in 2020, the Volkswagen T-Roc has sold 4 490 units in South Africa.

The Design equipment line (available in the 1.4 TSI with 110kW and 2.0 TSI with 140kW) is offered with two-tone paintwork, chrome elements, background interior lighting and convenience seats.

Standard features include LED headlights and taillights, a leather- wrapped multi-functional steering wheel (with paddle shift, Adaptive Cruise Control, High-Beam Control Light Assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking with Front Assist), multi-colour Digital Cockpit, 2-zone climatronic air-conditioner, Comfort Package with keyless entry, Composition Media Radio, 17-inch Johannesburg alloy wheels, Park Assist with Park Distance Control and silver anodised roof rails.

The T-Roc R-Line features a striking, sporty bumper design and multi-function sports steering wheel with touch control. In addition to the standard features in the Design equipment line, the T-Roc R- Line also comes available with the Sports Comfort Package (Sport suspension, progressive steering and keyless entry), Nappa leather seats, Driver Assistance System with lane keeping system and lane change assist, 19-inch Misano alloy wheels, Digital Cockpit Pro, IQ.Drive Package for R-Line (Autonomous Emergency Braking with Front Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with speed limiter and Proactive passenger protection system for Front Assist and Side Assist) and a Lava Stone dashboard, centre console and front door trim panel inserts.

The entry-level engine offering in the new Volkswagen T-Roc range is the four-cylinder 1.4 TSI with maximum output of 110kW and 250 Nm of torque. It is coupled with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission, with the top speed being 205km/h. Fuel consumption is 6.3 l/100km and it takes 8.4 seconds to reach 100 km/h.

The T-Roc range is rounded off with the 2.0 TSI engine with 140 kW of power and 320Nm of torque. The 2.0 TSI engine, which is combined with 4MOTION as standard, is coupled with a 7-speed DSG® transmission. The top speed is 216 km/h. Fuel consumption is

7.3 l/100km and it takes just 7.2 seconds to reach 100 km/h.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

T-Roc Design 1.4 TSI 110kW Tiptronic R563 800
T-Roc Design 2.0 TSI 140kW 4MOTION DSG® R627 300
T-Roc R-Line 2.0 TSI 140kW 4MOTION DSG® R660 400

The Volkswagen T-Roc comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 5 year/ 90 000km EasyDrive Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km. Customers have the option to extend EasyDrive Maintenance and EasyDrive Service Plans up to 10 years/ 300 000km.

New Volkswagen T-Roc to retail in South Africa from July

• The T-Roc, is positioned between the Taigo and the Tiguan in the Volkswagen T SUV model range
• The new T-Roc, features a fresh exterior design, optimised interior with high-quality materials and a soft touch dash surface
• The T-Roc model range will be offered with two TSI engines
• Retail in South Africa will start from July 2022

Johannesburg, 21 June 2022 – The new and refreshed Volkswagen T-Roc will go on sale in South Africa at the end of July 2022.

The combination of a progressive look, sporty performance and solid versatility have made the T-Roc a popular compact SUV in the local market. The T-Roc, which is positioned between the recently launched Taigo and the Tiguan, has sold 4 490 units in South Africa since its market introduction in 2020. A refreshed exterior defines the unmistakable appearance of the new Volkswagen T-Roc. Innovative technology from higher vehicle classes has now been integrated into the compact SUV model range. The new T-Roc range now comes standard with LED headlights and taillights. IQ.Light LED matrix headlights, which are available in the Touareg, Tiguan, Golf, Taigo and Polo, are available as an optional feature as well as IQ.Drive assistance systems such as Travel Assist. The interior has also been refined with high-quality materials, a re- designed infotainment display as well as the Digital Cockpit as standard.

Sophisticated interior, sharpened exterior design

The lines of the new Volkswagen T-Roc exterior have been sharpened, making its unmistakable crossover design more striking. LED headlights and darkened rear lights are included as standard. IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights and an illuminated radiator grille strip, as well as tail light clusters with a new graphic structure and dynamic turn signal are available as optional features in the new T-Roc. Five new exterior paint colours (which can be combined with a white, black or Indium grey roof) and newly designed 17 and 19- inch alloy wheels provide customers with even more options to customise their car.

With a soft touch dash surface and distinctive seams, the new dash panel brings modern and top-quality design highlights to the interior of the new Volkswagen T-Roc. The 8.0-inch infotainment display is designed like a tablet and positioned on the dash panel in line of sight with the instrument cluster behind the steering wheel. The new T-Roc comes standard with the Digital Cockpit instrument cluster in the Design equipment line and the Digital Cockpit Pro in the R-Line equipment line. The multi-function steering wheel, which is also part of the standard package, has a new design that contributes to the vehicle’s intuitive control. In the Design and R-Line equipment lines, door trim and arm rests are made of leather and boast designer seams. In the Design, ArtVelour seats come as standard, while Vienna leather seats are available as optional feature. In conjunction with the R-Line, top-of- the-range sports seats for both driver and front passenger as well as Nappa leather upholstery come as standard.

New levels of digitalisation and connectivity

The new Volkswagen T-Roc is available with Front Assist and Lane Assist advanced assist systems as optional features (standard in the R-Line). The new IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control enable assisted steering, braking and acceleration at speeds of up to 210 km/h. Another highlight among the optional equipment is the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. Whether you are driving during the day, at night or in bad weather, they always provide the best possible visibility. Dynamic Light Assist helps to predictively illuminate winding roads and ensure that oncoming traffic is not dazzled even when the main beam headlights are active, the individual LED segments of the high-tech light system provide better light distribution by specific activation and deactivation depending on the driving situation. In conjunction with the optional 8.0 inch Discover Media system, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ functions can also be integrated wirelessly into the control system via App-Connect Wireless, if desired.

Two equipment lines offered in the new Volkswagen T-Roc.

In South Africa, the new T-Roc range will be offered in two equipment lines; the Design and top-of-the-range R-Line.

New T-Roc Design equipment line

The Design equipment line (available in the 1.4 TSI with 110kW and 2.0 TSI with 140kW) is offered with two-tone paintwork, chrome elements, background interior lighting and convenience seats. Standard features include LED headlights and taillights, a leather- wrapped multi-functional steering wheel (with paddle shift, multi- functional sensor, Adaptive Cruise Control, High-beam control Light Assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking with Front Assist), multi- colour Digital Cockpit, 2-zone climatronic air-conditioner, Comfort Package with keyless entry, Composition Media Radio, 17-inch Johannesburg alloy wheels, Park Assist with Park Distance Control and silver anodised roof rails. Optional features include the tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, Black Style Exterior Package with 18-inch Grange Hill black alloy wheels, IQ.Light LED matrix headlights, 18-inch Grange Hill and Portimao alloy wheels, 8.0-inch Discover Media (with navigation system, Wireless App-Connect and mobile smartphone inductive charging), Beats sound system, Rear view camera, IQ.Drive Package (Travel Assist, Lane Change Assist, Lane Keeping system, Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist), Vienna leathers seats, removable and lockable trailer hitch, black roof rails and Chrome package (rotary light switch, power mirror switch, window regulator switches, vent with chrome frames and vent with black frames).

New T-Roc R-Line equipment line

The T-Roc R-Line’s unique character manifests itself in many ways such as in a striking, sporty bumper design and multi-function sports steering wheel with touch control. In addition to the standard features in the Design equipment line, the T-Roc R-Line also comes available with a host of standard features like the Sports Comfort Package (Sports suspension, progressive steering, keyless entry, towing protection and high- beam control Light Assist), Nappa leather seats, Driver Assistance System with Lane keeping system and lane change assist, 19-inch Misano alloy wheels, Digital Cockpit Pro, IQ.Drive Package for R-Line (Autonomous Emergency Braking Front Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with speed limiter and Proactive passenger protection system for Front Assist and side assist) and a Lava Stone dashboard, centre console and front door trim panels inserts. The T-Roc R-Line can be further customised with the tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, Black Style Exterior Package with 19-inch Misano black alloy wheels, IQ.Light LED matrix headlights, 8.0-inch Discover Media (with navigation system, Wireless App-Connect and mobile smartphone inductive charging), Beats sound system, Rear view camera and exterior mirror housings painted in contrast colour.

The new T-Roc available with efficient 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TSI engines

The entry-level engine in the range is the four-cylinder 1.4 TSI with maximum output of 110kW and 250 Nm of torque. It is coupled with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission, with the top speed being 205km/h. Fuel consumption is 6.3 l/100km and it takes 8.4 seconds to reach 100 km/h. The T-Roc range is rounded off with the 2.0-litre TSI engine with 140 kW of power and 320Nm of torque. The 2.0 TSI engine, which is combined with 4MOTION as standard, is coupled with a 7-speed DSG transmission. The top speed is 216 km/h. Fuel consumption is 7.3 l/100km and it takes just 7.2 seconds to reach 100 km/h. The Volkswagen T-Roc comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 5 year/ 90 000km EasyDrive Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km. Retail pricing of the new Volkswagen T-Roc will be announced closer to the launch date at the end of July.

Volkswagen announces pricing of the new Taigo model range

• The new Volkswagen Taigo will go on sale from Volkswagen dealers on 6 June 2022
• The starting price of the Volkswagen Taigo range is R429 900

Johannesburg, 3 June 2022 – Volkswagen’s new SUV coupé will retail from Volkswagen dealers on 6 June 2022.

The new Taigo is positioned between the T-Cross and the T-Roc in Volkswagen’s T SUV model range. With this launch, Volkswagen will offer six vehicles in the T SUV range namely, the T-Cross, Taigo, T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and the Touareg. Standard features of the Taigo Life 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® include LED headlights and LED tail lights, a Digital Cockpit, 6.5-inch Composition Colour infotainment system, App-Connect, We Connect Go, front centre armrest with a USB-C interface, multi-function leather steering wheel, electric foldable exterior mirrors with heating function and 16-inch Belmopan alloy wheels. Exterior highlights include an individualised front section with a chrome-look crossbar, projection light from the exterior mirrors and black roof rails.

In addition to the standard features in the Life derivative, the Taigo Style 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® also comes standard with IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, ambient lighting, 17-inch Aberdeen alloy wheels, Park Distance Control in the front and rear, Dynamic Light Assist, 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, Active Info Display and an 8-inch Composition Media infotainment system. The Style is differentiated from the rest of the range by the rear bumper which has a chrome strip, a silver diffuser and silver anodised roof rails.

In addition to the standard features in the Style, the Taigo R-Line comes standard with a black headliner, stainless steel pedals, privacy glass for rear side windows and rear windows as well as 17-inch Valencia alloy wheels. The top-of-the-range Taigo’s bumpers are distinguished by their striking R-Line design. In the front bumper, the high-gloss black cross and longitudinal bars of the air intakes convey a unique and charismatic sense of dynamism.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

Taigo Life 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® R429 900
Taigo Style 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® R464 100
Taigo R-Line 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® R486 000

The Volkswagen Taigo comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, a 3 year/ 45 000km EasyDrive Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km. Customers have the option to extend EasyDrive Maintenance and EasyDrive Service Plans up to 10 years/ 300 000km.

Specifications of Volkswagen’s new compact SUV coupé, the Taigo, announced

• The Taigo features a large panoramic sunroof, LED lights and a sporty R-Line trim with a Black Style Package.
• The Taigo achieved top marks in the Euro NCAP test, ensuring high safety standards.
• The Taigo is positioned between the T-Cross and the T-Roc in the Volkswagen T SUV model range.
• The Taigo will retail in South Africa from June 2022.

Johannesburg, 13 May 2022 – The new Volkswagen Taigo (pronounced 'tie-go’) will join the Volkswagen T SUV model range in South Africa from June 2022. The Volkswagen Taigo, which is manufactured in Pamplona, Spain, will join the T-Cross and T-Roc as Volkswagen’s trio of compact SUVs in the A0 SUV segment. Volkswagen’s T SUV range currently consists of five models namely the T-Cross, T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and Touareg.

With the new Taigo, Volkswagen has produced its first SUV coupé in this segment. Highlights of the new Taigo include high-quality equipment features, raised seating position and unrestricted suitability for everyday use. The technical basis of the new Taigo is provided by Volkswagen’s Modular Transverse Toolkit (MQB). The MQB platform offers a range of advantages: tight proportions are combined with a high level of body rigidity, excellent crash properties and a low body weight.

Modern, sporty design with a distinctive and charismatic look.

The design of the Taigo is characterised by powerful proportions and particularly striking is the coupé silhouette, with its strongly forward-sloping C-pillar. The side view is also characterised by very precise and sharp lines, which, together with the large wheels and offset wheel arch cladding, emphasise the crossover character of the Taigo. The overhang at the rear has been extended to underscore the vehicle’s functionality. The luggage compartment volume is an impressive 440 litres and offers almost as much storage space with full seating as the T-Cross with its sliding rear seat (385 to 455 litres). All exterior lighting elements from the headlights to the rear lights feature LED technology as standard, which makes for a charismatic daytime and night-time signature.

The Taigo has a long roof line which slopes elegantly towards the rear, merging into the roof spoiler at the level of the rear window. The window line, surrounded in black, visually lowers the centre of gravity of the Taigo. Among the iconic details is the long band of side windows, including the third side window integrated in the C- pillar and the window line rising sharply towards the rear. It opens up into the precisely cut C-pillar and gives the new SUV coupé a dynamic feel.

The Taigo is flatter and longer than the T-Cross and has a ground clearance of 137 mm. The striking design of the front and rear bumpers also underscores the highly distinctive nature of the new Taigo. The long wheelbase of 2 566 mm gives all passengers a comfortable and slightly elevated seating position. As compared to the Polo and T-Cross, the distance between the axles has been increased by two and three millimetres respectively. Measuring 4 266 mm in length, 1 515 mm in height and 1 757 mm in width, the Taigo has short overhangs that give it a powerful and sporty appearance.

The standard LED headlights extend far into the black radiator grille. Together they define the Taigo’s “face”, extending across the entire width of the vehicle. The IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights (standard in the Style and R-Line) are particularly striking. The LED modules combine with the LED daytime running lights to form a unique signature. With its muscular contours, the bonnet extends far down into the radiator grille. No less striking is the newly designed bumper which, like the radiator grille, emphasises the width of the Taigo. In the rear, the new Taigo also has LED tail light clusters as standard.

These consist of one main element on both the right and left in the body and a second segment that extends over the tailgate. The rear tail light unit, surrounded in black, gives a more striking appearance to the rear section and an enhanced sense of quality and dynamic flair to the Taigo as a whole. One continuous light strip emphasises the width of the vehicle and intensifies its sporty appeal. The new Taigo is available in eight exterior colours – two solid paint finishes, five metallic paint finishes and one pearl effect finish. All body colours except Deep Black Pearl can be combined with a contrasting black roof. Customers can choose wheel sizes from 16 to 18-inch alloy wheels.

Digitalised interior.

The entire dash panel of the new Taigo features a horizontal design. This design is largely defined by the modules that the dash panel contains: the standard Digital Cockpit in the Taigo Life or the Digital Cockpit Pro in the Taigo Style and R-Line, as well as the new generation of infotainment systems. The new Taigo is available with a choice of three different infotainment systems: Composition Colour with a 6.5-inch display (standard in the Life), Composition Media with an 8.0-inch display (standard in Style and R-Line) and the optional Discover Media with an 8.0-inch display format. The 2-zone climatronic air conditioning (standard in the Style and R-Line) has a new, digitalised mode of operation: touch panels and sliders now perform the functions of rotary knobs and buttons.

Located below the air conditioning module are two USB-C ports and, as an option, a compartment for inductive smartphone charging.

Progressive lighting and driver assistance systems.

With the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, a new evolutionary stage of vehicle lighting is fitted as standard in the Taigo Style and R-Line. In this way, Volkswagen is driving forward the democratisation of innovative LED lighting system across all classes – right down to the small car segment. Alongside the Taigo, this system is also used in the Touareg, new Golf, new Tiguan, new Tiguan Allspace and new Polo.

IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist. Volkswagen has bundled its systems for assisted driving under the umbrella brand IQ.DRIVE. A fundamental element here is the Travel Assist system, which permits partly automated driving in the Taigo. The system can steer, brake and accelerate the Taigo at speeds between 30 and 200 km/h. To do this, the activated system relies on functions such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist. Using a radar system in the front end and a camera behind the windscreen, Travel Assist can maintain the speed, lane and distance from the vehicle in front. The system is activated by means of the Travel- Assist button in the multi-function steering wheel. The driver must remain responsible for control of the Taigo and must keep their hands on the steering wheel even when IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist is active.

redictive ACC. The latest generation of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) works together with the DSG transmission and navigation system to proactively take into account local speed limit information, town boundary signs, junctions and traffic circles. To do this, the assist system uses the signals from the front camera as well as GPS and map data. The new ACC thus becomes a kind of intelligent cruise control system and is a good example of how familiar assist systems are being continuously enhanced. Moreover, when the system is combined with DSG, the Taigo with ACC can be automatically slowed to a standstill behind a stopping vehicle. ACC operation resumes automatically in the Taigo once re-enabled by the driver.

Side Assist plus Lane Assist. The new Taigo is equipped with the optional Lane Assist, the lane keeping system. If the Taigo is ordered with the optional driver assist system package including Side Assist, these two systems merge. Its advantages come into play in two situations in particular: on the highway, it recognises vehicles in the blind spot that are overtaking quickly or driving at low speed in slow-moving traffic, warns the driver about them, and initiates counter-steering via Lane Assist before a dangerous situation can occur. When reversing out of a parking space, the sensor system already detects vehicles approaching from the side before they enter the driver’s field of vision. It can then warn the driver very early on about traffic crossing sideways.

Autonomous Emergency Braking Front Assist. This optional feature uses a radar sensor integrated in the front of the vehicle to continuously monitor the distance to the vehicles ahead. The system assists the driver in critical situations by preconditioning the brake system, alerting the driver to the need to react by visual and audible warnings and, in a second stage, by a brief warning jolt of the brake pedal. If the driver does not brake hard enough, the system automatically generates the necessary amount of brake pressure to prevent a collision. If the driver does not react at all, Front Assist automatically applies the brakes to give the driver more reaction time. In addition, the system assists by informing the driver if the distance to the vehicle ahead is too short.

Driver Alert System. The Driver Alert System, which comes as standard, detects if the driver has lost concentration and sends them an acoustic warning lasting five seconds. In addition, a break recommendation is displayed in the instrument cluster. If the driver does not take a break within the next 15 minutes, the warning is repeated. Park Assist. Park Assist automatically guides the Taigo into perpendicular or parallel parking spaces and can reverse the car out of the latter as well. The system is activated by pressing a button on the centre console. Using the indicators, the driver selects the side on which the vehicle is to be parked. Once Park Assist finds sufficient parking space, using the ultrasound sensors, assisted parking can begin. The driver selects reverse gear and only has to accelerate and brake in a controlled manner. The system takes over steering.

Three equipment lines with individual standard features. Volkswagen has redesigned its equipment lines across all model ranges for greater clarity. Features favoured by most customers such as LED headlights and Digital Cockpit are now integrated as standard in the Taigo. The Taigo is available in Life, Style and R-Line versions.

Life: the new golden mean. LED headlights and LED tail lights come as standard in the Taigo Life. Volkswagen now includes the Digital Cockpit as part of the standard equipment of all new model series. Standard features include; the Composition Colour system with 6.5- inch monitor, App-Connect, We Connect Go, a front centre armrest with a USB-C interface, multi-function leather steering wheel, electric foldable exterior mirrors with heating function and exterior highlights such as an individualised front section with chrome-look crossbar, projection light in the exterior mirrors, 16-inch Belmopan alloy wheels and black roof rails. When unlocking and locking the Taigo, a honeycomb-textured carpet of light is projected next to the driver and passenger doors. The seats in the Taigo Life are upholstered in high-quality Slash/Stoff fabric; the matching interior décor is known as Lava Stone Black.

Optional features in the Taigo Life are the tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, removable trailer hitch, IQ.Light LED Matrix headlights, Keyless Entry, 17-inch Bangalore alloy wheels, Comfort Package (Rear View Camera, Keyless Entry and Park Assist), Driver Assistance Package (Park Assist, Lane Assist and Side Assist), Seat heater for front seats, Composition Media with inductive mobile charging and Discover Media (Wireless App-Connect, inductive mobile charging, Active Info Display, Voice Control and Navigation).

Style includes IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. The Style is differentiated from the range by the rear bumper which has a chrome strip and a silver diffuser. Another distinctive feature of the Taigo Style is that it has silver anodised roof rails as standard. In addition to the standard features in the Life model, other standard features of the Taigo Style include IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, ambient lighting, 17-inch Aberdeen alloy wheels, Park Distance Control in the front and rear, Dynamic Light Assist, 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, Active Info Display and an 8-inch Composition Media infotainment system. The Pale Grey seat covers and the high- gloss décor Deep Iron Grey provide a stylish ambience.

Optional features in the Taigo Style include the tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, removable trailer hitch, Keyless Entry, 17-inch Tokio alloy wheels, 18-inch Funchal alloy wheels, beats sound system, Comfort Package (Rear View Camera, Keyless Entry and Park Assist), IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist Package (Lane Assist, Forward Collision Warning including Autonomous Emergency Braking system and Adaptive Cruise Control), Driver Assistance Package (Park Assist, Lane Assist and Side Assist), Seat heater for front seats, Inductive mobile charging which includes Composition Media Plus and Discover Media (Wireless App-Connect, inductive mobile charging, Voice Control and Navigation).

R-Line with bumpers in R design. At first glance, its individualised exterior and interior underscore the sporty positioning of the Taigo R-Line within the overall range. The bumpers are distinguished by their striking R-Line design. In the front bumper, the high-gloss black cross and longitudinal bars of the air intakes convey a unique and charismatic sense of dynamism. Here too, IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights and LED fog lights are fitted as standard. A diffuser –in high-gloss black – with chrome-look integrated exhaust panels in the lower part of the vehicle rear distinguishes this area from the other equipment versions. The optional Black Style Package adds fascinating black exterior accents to the Taigo R-Line. The exterior mirror caps, radiator grille and tailpipe trim are all finished in black, while the darkened side windows and dark rear window shield the interior. The Black Style Package is rounded off with 18-inch Misano alloy wheels in black.

The Taigo R-Line’s seats are upholstered in Karoso fabric in ArtVelours providing a perfect match for the interior décor in Dark Grey Anodized Matt. In addition to the standard features in the Style model, the Taigo R-Line also comes standard with a black headliner, stainless steel pedals, privacy glass for rear side windows and rear windows, Active Info Display as well as 17-inch Valencia alloy wheels.

Optional features in the Taigo R-Line include the tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, removable trailer hitch, Black Styling Package with black 18-inch Misano alloy wheels, Keyless Entry, 18-inch Misano alloy wheels, beats sound system, IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist Package (Lane Assist, Forward Collision Warning including Autonomous Emergency Braking system and Adaptive Cruise Control), Comfort Package (Rear View Camera, Keyless Entry and Park Assist), Driver Assistance Package (Park Assist, Lane Assist and Side Assist), Seat heater for front seats, Inductive mobile charging which includes Composition Media Plus and Discover Media (Wireless App-Connect, inductive mobile charging, Voice Control and Navigation).

Economical 1.0 TSI engine with 85kW of power.

The new Taigo will be available with the 1.0 TSI engine with 85kW of power and 200Nm of torque. The Taigo’s three-cylinder engine is paired with the 7-speed DSG transmission. Fuel consumption is 5.4 litres / 100 km and it takes just 11.3 seconds to go from 0 to 100km/h.

The Taigo comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 3 year/ 45 000km EasyDrive Service Plan and a 12-year anti- corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km.

Retail pricing of the Volkswagen Taigo will be announced closer to the launch date. Customers who want to Pre-Order the Taigo before it officially goes on sale in June 2022 may do so on the Volkswagen website: https://forms.vw.co.za/app/pre-order/taigo

VWSA produces its 1-millionth Polo for export

• The Kariega plant has been building Polos for export since 2002
• Polo is currently exported to 38 countries

Kariega (Uitenhage) – Amid the Covid-19 pandemic and an ongoing semi-conductor shortage, Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) reached a momentous milestone when the plant in Kariega built its 1-millionth Polo for export. The plant has been building Polos since 1996 and began exporting Polo models in 2002. VWSA currently exports the Polo built in Kariega to 38 countries, building this vehicle for all right-hand-drive markets and supplementing production for left-hand-drive markets. The Kariega plant is also the sole manufacturer worldwide of the Polo GTI, and builds the popular Polo Vivo for the local market. By the time the 1-millionth export Polo rolled off the line on 3 May, the plant had manufactured a total of 4 181 031 vehicles to date, of which 1 292 793 vehicles were built for export. “Given the current climate, with the pandemic and the semi-conductor crisis, this milestone is an especially strong moment for VWSA,” said Robert Cisek, VWSA Chairman and Managing Director. “VWSA is the biggest private employer in Nelson Mandela Bay and a significant player when it comes to exports from this region. As a corporate citizen in Kariega and the Bay, and as the VWSA family, we are proud to have achieved this milestone and we look forward to the next million mark. I would like to thank every employee who has contributed to this achievement.” Ends.

VWSA celebrated the 1-millionth Polo built for export at its Kariega plant. This vehicle is bound for the United Kingdom. Celebrating the milestone are some of VWSA’s long-serving employees.

From left: Ulrich Schwabe (Production Director), Barry Murphy, Chantal Botha, Myrtle Miggels, Samantha Jackson, Ndodana “Sidney” Goqwana, Michael Bott, Maria Davids, Ntombekaya Tulela, Janey Swart, Margaret Loughead, James Hoffman, Harry Jordaan, Meryl Kilroe, Marthinus van Willing, Sharon Jacobs, Robert Cisek (VWSA Chairman and Managing Director).

Next generation of the on- and off-road specialist: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ new Amarok

• Premium: Amarok with new design and new technologies
• Efficient: new V6 diesel and four further engine specifications
• Optional: two different all-wheel systems or rear-wheel drive
• High-tech: over 30 driver assist systems set new pick-up standards
• Countdown: market launch from end of 2022

Hannover, 26 April 2022 – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWN) will present the completely new generation of its Amarok pick-up in 2022, which will be capable of even more both on- and off-road. Designed and conceived in Germany and Australia, built in South Africa, the new Amarok will once again take its place at the top of the pick-up B segment with excellent specification, a greatly expanded array of driver assist features and a much larger range of drive systems than its predecessor. A first few disguised models of the new

Amarok are already out and about in Europe.

The all-rounder's innovative, premium design is both typical of the Amarok and has at the same time been redefined. A powerful, charismatic exterior meets here with a high-quality interior. Despite the disguise, it is already possible to identify how the dimensions have changed: at a good 5,350 mm the new model is at least 100 mm longer than its predecessor. A wheelbase of 3,270 mm equates to an increase of 175 mm – as a result there is more space in the double cab. The payload is also increasing to up to 1.2 tonnes and an imperious maximum towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes is now possible across more engine/gearbox variants. As the wheelbase of the new Amarok is growing more than its total length, the bodywork overhangs are getting smaller. And that has a positive effect on the off-road capability. The off-road capabilities of the new Amarok are further perfected by a significantly greater fording depth for driving through waters than its predecessor.

Dependent on engine/gearbox variant and market, the engines available will be one petrol and up to four different diesels with four to six cylinders and cubic capacity of 2.0 to 3.0 litres – optionally with rear-wheel drive, or on- demand or permanent all-wheel drive. A great array of preconfigured driving modes with multiple levels assists the driver, including in non- everyday situations. Enhanced safety, meanwhile, is provided by more than 30 driver assist systems, over 20 of which are completely new to the Amarok.

Design as a statement of dominance

For now it is still hidden behind the camouflage. In the future, however, the pick-up’s exterior will present itself in powerful, charismatic form. “For the new generation we have significantly modified the Amarok’s archetypal design. It is now unambiguously more expressive and once again appreciably more impressive”, says Albert Kirzinger, Head of Design at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, summarising the result.

The new front section is a statement in itself. Striking: the straight and very upright bonnet with a clear brand DNA. Charismatic: the horizontal, upper radiator grille crossbars with the concisely integrated, narrow LED headlights, which are standard for all versions. Offered as an option will be ‘IQ.Light – LED matrix headlights’; they underline the Amarok’s high-tech look. Below the bars the radiator grille unit merges depending on version in bespoke fashion into a horizontal division of the front section or into an X- shaped design on the top specification models. Embossed here: the word ‘Amarok’.

Particularly pronounced in silhouette: the half-round wheel arches as on the previous model. In contrast to many other pick-ups the top of the arches forms a practically straight rather than a circular line – a typical Amarok characteristic. The wings above the up to 21-inch alloy wheels and all- terrain tyres (available for the first time as standard) have a powerful look.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ new pick-up is striking from the rear too. The wide tailgate is framed by the standard LED rear lights, and the word ‘Amarok’ is embossed across practically the tailgate’s full width. As in the previous model, in the new Amarok too there is sufficient space on the cargo bed between the wheel arches for a euro pallet to be loaded in sideways and strapped in place there to robust lashing rings.

An interior for professional tasks and long journeys

With its intuitive controls, digital cockpit and tablet-style infotainment display, the Amarok’s interior has a functional, high-quality appearance. Such details underline the premium character of the pick-up. Further contributing to this as options are an exclusive sound system, the elegant leather-look surfaces of the instrument panel and door panels with distinctive decorative stitching. The vehicle’s premium positioning is matched by the seating. It gives all passengers the customary Volkswagen comfort: drivers and front-seat passengers sit in the new Amarok on comfortable, wide seats, which can optionally be configured with electric, 10-way adjustment. The rear also offers plenty of space for three adult passengers to enjoy the journey.

There will be five trim versions of the new Amarok: the entry-level version is the ‘Amarok’. It is followed by the ‘Life’ and ‘Style’. To be offered by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles as equal top versions will be the ‘PanAmericana’ (off-road character) and the ‘Aventura’ (on-road character).

Following in the wheel tracks of success

Over 830,000 units of the Amarok have been sold to date in Europe, South America, South Africa and Oceania. The strengths of the successful premium pick-up: supreme drive systems, high load capacities, systematic functionality and an authentic all-terrain design. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is further developing these strengths with the new generation. The new Amarok will launch at the end of 2022 in the first few countries with double cab and four doors (DoubleCab), and in some individual markets with a two-door single cab (SingleCab).

Polo Vivo, Polo and T-Cross boost Volkswagen’s first quarter sales amidst global supply challenges

• The Volkswagen brand sold 16 472 vehicles in the first three months of 2022.
• Volkswagen T-Cross’ 2022 sales are up 6% when compared to the first three months of 2021.
• Volkswagen’s Kariega plant has manufactured over 30 000 Polos in the first quarter of 2022.

Johannesburg, 6 April 2022 –The Polo Vivo, Polo and T-Cross are Volkswagen’s best-selling vehicles in the first quarter of 2022.

“The Volkswagen brand (including Commercial Vehicles) sold 16 472 vehicles in the local market in the first three months of this year. The global supply challenges continue to have an adverse effect on our brand and affected the availability of models like the Tiguan and Golf which are strong performers in our market,” said Steffen Knapp, Head of Volkswagen Passenger Cars.

“The Polo Vivo and Polo continued to post strong sales in the A0 Hatch segment. The T-Cross is not only leading the A0 SUV segment, but sales have also increased by six percent when compared to the first three months of 2021,” added Knapp.

The Volkswagen manufacturing plant in Kariega, which is the sole manufacturer of the Polo GTI in the Volkswagen production network, produced 30 807 Polos in the first quarter of 2022 with 72% of those units being exported to international markets. Volkswagen Passenger Cars sold 15 051 vehicles in the first quarter of 2022 and achieved a market share of 16.1% in the passenger car market. In the first three months of 2022, the Polo Vivo was Volkswagen’s best-selling vehicle with 5 124 units sold followed by the Polo and T-Cross with 4 071 and 2 473 units sold respectively. The Polo Sedan, which dominates the A0 Sedan segment, posted 2 074 sales and the T-Roc sold 703 units in the first quarter of 2022.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles sold 1 421 units in the first three months of the year. The sales were supported by the Amarok double cab bakkie and the T6.1 range with 498 and 263 units sold respectively. The recently-launched Caddy sold 225 units whilst the Crafter posted 96 units in the first quarter of this year.

“We remain confident that our upcoming launches of the new Tiguan Allspace, all-new Taigo, new T-Roc and all-new Polo Sedan will strengthen Volkswagen’s performance in the local passenger car market for the remainder of 2022,” concluded Knapp.

Volkswagen announces pricing for the new Tiguan Allspace

• The Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace will go on sale in South Africa this month

Johannesburg, 4 April 2022 – The new Tiguan Allspace will be available from Volkswagen dealerships this month.

The Tiguan Allspace is part of the Volkswagen’s T SUV family in South Africa which consists of the T-Cross, T-Roc, Tiguan and the Touareg.

Since its global launch in 2017, the Tiguan Allspace has become a great success. The Tiguan Allspace, which is 22 centimetres longer than the standard Tiguan, has sold more than 1.7 million units worldwide. In South Africa, 7 064 Tiguan Allspace units have been sold since launch in 2018.

The new Tiguan Allspace features an updated design as well as enough space for up to seven people. The new Tiguan Allspace has received similar changes as the new Tiguan which gives it an impressive sharper look, digital cockpit and comprehensive connectivity. The new Tiguan Allspace will also be offered with new technological features, such as IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights.

Customers have a choice of three engines (1.4 TSI with 110kW, 2.0 TSI with 132kW and 2.0 TSI with 162kW) and three equipment packages; Life, Style and the top-of-the-range R-Line.

When it comes to its exterior look, the illuminated radiator grille and dynamic turn signals are the main highlights. Customers also have the option of ordering the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, which offer added safety and comfort. The LED tail light clusters have also had a makeover. Additionally, there are two new exterior paint options as well as optional 18-inch and 19-inch alloy wheels for the Life model and 20-inch alloy wheels for the R-Line models.

Spacious vehicle interior with a digital update.

To give the interior a modern feel, the vehicle is equipped with the Digital Cockpit Pro as standard, an updated multi-function steering wheel and an infotainment system with an 8.0 inch colour screen. The 3-zone automatic climate control system is controlled from a new module with touch panels in the centre console.

Wide range of drive systems, improved emissions.

Three efficient and powerful drive systems are available in the new Tiguan Allspace. The 1.4 TSI engine, with 110 kW of power and 250Nm of torque, comes standard with a 6-speed DSG gearbox. It takes 9.2 seconds to go from 0-100km/h and fuel consumption is 7.1L/100km.

The mid-range engine offering is the 2.0 TSI with 132kW of power and 320Nm of torque. This is paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive. It takes 9.2 seconds to go from 0-100km/h and fuel consumption is 8.9L/100km. The halo model of the range comes available with the 2.0 TSI turbo charged engine offering 162kW of power and 350Nm of torque. This is paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive. It takes just 6.5 seconds to reach 100km/h and the fuel consumption is 8.6L/100km. In conjunction with 4MOTION, the permissible maximum trailer weight is 2.5 tonnes.

Advanced assist systems.

The Tiguan Allspace includes new advanced assist systems. The optional equipment package offers the enhanced Front Assist Autonomous Emergency Braking function, Lane Assist lane departure warning system, Driver Alert System and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

New structure for specification packages.

The new Tiguan Allspace is available with three specification packages: Life, Style and R-Line.

The standard equipment in the Life package includes silver exterior mirror housing, silver anodised roof railing, 18-inch Frankfurt alloy wheels, two Type C ports, 8.0 inch Composition Media radio with App-Connect and Voice Control, Active Info display, Park Distance Control (front and rear), electrically adjustable and foldable side mirrors, 3-zone climatronic automatic climate control, multi- function Digital Cockpit Pro with multi-colour display, LED matrix head lights with LED separate daytime running lights and dynamic cornering lights and an electric tailgate.

Optional features in the Life model include a trailer hitch, panoramic sunroof, IQ.Light LED Matrix head lights, 18-inch Kingston alloy wheels, 19-inch Victoria Falls alloy wheels, smoker's package, Keyless Entry, Discover Pro infotainment system with Wireless App- Connect, Heads-Up display, Inductive mobile charging system, Harman Kardon Sound System, Area view camera system and Park Assist, Rear view camera system and Park Assist, IQ.Drive (incudes Autonomous emergency braking, front assist and lane assist with side assist), IQ.Drive (Adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning including autonomous emergency braking, lane change assist, lane keeping system, travel assist with lane assist, traffic jam assist and emergency assist), Trailer Manoeuvring System (includes Park Assist and Trailer hitch) and Vienna leather seats.

In addition to the standard features in the Life model, the Style model is available with Vienna leather seats and 18-inch Nizza alloy wheels.

Optional features in the Style model include a trailer hitch, panoramic sunroof, IQ.Light LED Matrix head lights, smoker's package, Keyless Entry, Discover Pro infotainment system with Wireless App-Connect, Heads-Up display, Inductive mobile charging system, Harman Kardon Sound System, Area view camera system and Park Assist, Rear view camera system and Park Assist, IQ.Drive (incudes Autonomous emergency braking front assist and lane assist with side assist), IQ.Drive (Adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning including autonomous emergency braking, lane change assist, lane keeping system, travel assist with lane assist, traffic jam assist and emergency assist) and Trailer Manoeuvring System (includes Park Assist and Trailer hitch).

The R-Line comes standard with all the features in the Style model as well as 19-inch Valencia alloy wheels, exterior R-Line design, ambient interior lighting with 30 colours and dark LED rear lamps.

Optional features in the R-Line model include a trailer hitch, Black Style Package with 20-inch Suzuka black alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, IQ.Light LED Matrix head lights, 20-inch Suzuka alloy wheels, smoker's package, Keyless Entry, Discover Pro infotainment system with Wireless App Connect, Heads-Up display, Inductive mobile charging system, Harman Kardon Sound System for R-Line, Area view camera system and Park Assist, Rear view camera system and Park Assist, IQ.Drive (incudes Autonomous emergency braking front assist and lane change system with side assist), IQ.Drive (Adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning including autonomous emergency braking, lane change assist, lane keeping system, travel assist with lane assist, traffic jam assist and emergency assist) and Trailer Manoeuvring System (includes Park Assist and Trailer hitch).

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

• Tiguan Allspace Life 1.4 TSI DSG R671 700
• Tiguan Allspace R-Line 1.4 TSI DSG R719 700
• Tiguan Allspace Style 1.4 TSI 4MOTION DSG R726 000
• Tiguan Allspace R-Line 2.0 4MOTION DSG R798 000

The Tiguan Allspace comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 5 year/ 90 000km EasyDrive Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km.

VOLKSWAGEN LAUNCHES THE NEW POLO WITH SOUTH AFRICA’S FIRST NFT BRAND CAMPAIGN

• The Taigo, Volkswagen’s compact SUV coupé, will join the T SUV model range in the first half of 2022
• For the local launch of the new Polo, Volkswagen released their first-ever NFT collection
• The new Volkswagen Polo campaign is South Africa’s first NFT brand campaign and the world’s first ad featuring NFTs
• Polo fans can find and win one of 100 Volkswagen NFTs, with three Golden NFTs, hidden in the new Polo commercial

Johannesburg, 18 March 2022 – In celebration of the new Polo with IQ.DRIVE, Volkswagen is taking things to the next level while embracing the future of mobility. The People’s Car brand has launched South Africa’s first NFT (Non-Fungible Token) brand campaign, with a future-focused commercial incorporating Volkswagen’s first collections of NFTs.

“Our new Polo NFT campaign and Mzansiverse commercial is testament to Volkswagen’s eye on the future, not only in the innovation of our vehicles but in embracing the passions of our fans and driving evolution in how we engage with them,” said Bridget Harpur, Head of Marketing for the Volkswagen Passenger Car Brand.

Inspired by the virtual realm and gaming trends, the new commercial portrays the innovative new Polo navigating through a futuristic and gamified version of Mzansi – the Mzansiverse – with digital avatar characters to match. The ad offers fans a window into a future South Africa like they’ve never seen it before. Inspired by the metaverse and powered by the new Polo with IQ.DRIVE, Volkswagen has created a real-meets-virtual world where anything is possible.

Like Volkswagen, the commercial is leading the way as the first brand ad, globally, to incorporate NFTs in the creative. To celebrate the game-changing arrival of the new Polo, Volkswagen has created five unique collections of NFTs and dropped them into the commercial to gamify the fan experience.

For five days (18 to 22 March 2022), Polo fans can hunt for the hidden NFTs in the commercial and stand a chance to win one of 100 NFTs. To play, consumers will need to solve the daily clues shared on Volkswagen’s social channels to guess the daily NFT. To stand a chance to win, consumers need to tweet a screenshot of the daily NFT from the ad to the Volkswagen Twitter page using #GameOnVW and #NewPolo hashtags. The first 20 correct fans will win one of the 100 NFTs to keep and collect or trade on the popular NFT trading platform, OpenSea.

Hidden in the Polo NFT collections are three rare Golden NFTs that will give their owners exclusive benefits allowing them to level up with a new PlayStation as well as Volkswagen Advanced Driving and GetSmarter courses.

With the Polo being locally manufactured and in the spirit of Volkswagen’s continued commitment to ‘Drive Local, Support Local’ the entire campaign, commercial and NFT Collections are all proudly locally created. Harnessing and showcasing local talent, the #GameOnVW campaign was conceptualised by local creative partners (Ogilvy Cape Town), produced by a local production company (Patriot Films) with the world-class animation and CGI (computer-generated imagery) developed by a South African company (Polycat). The commercial’s soundtrack was created for the ad by local musicians, Field, featuring local songstress, Moonchild Sanelly, with sound design created by local studio, Resonate.

Volkswagen adds the Taigo to its T SUV range

• The Taigo, Volkswagen’s compact SUV coupé, will join the T SUV model range in the first half of 2022
• The T SUV range consists of the T-Cross, T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and Touareg

Johannesburg, 28 February 2022 – Volkswagen’s T SUV range will be bolstered with the market introduction of the Taigo in 2022. The retail of the Taigo will commence in the first half of this year.

The Taigo will join the T-Cross and T-Roc as Volkswagen’s trio of compact SUVs in the A0 SUV segment. By the end of 2022, Volkswagen’s T SUV range will consist of seven models namely the

T-Cross, Taigo, T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace, Tiguan R (launching in the local market in the third quarter of 2022) and Touareg.

Taigo derives its name from a combination of ‘tiger’ and ‘Taiga’, which is a forest in the Northern Hemisphere. Taigo symbolises strength, outdoors and adventure. The SUV’s name starts with the letter ‘T’ and follows Volkswagen’s naming convention for its SUVs in South Africa.

The new Volkswagen Taigo impresses with its trendy crossover body style, raised seating position and pioneering connectivity. Numerous driver assistance systems guarantee comfort and a high level of safety for all passengers. With full LED headlights, a digital cockpit and the latest generation of infotainment systems, the Taigo sets high technology standards in its class. The Taigo will be offered with Volkswagen’s popular tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof. The Volkswagen Taigo will only be available with the 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® engine.

Volkswagen announces pricing for popular Polo DSG® derivatives

• The new Volkswagen Polo (70kW Manual and Polo GTI) went on sale in January and sold 1 455 units in the first month.
• The Polo 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® derivatives will go on sale from Volkswagen dealers at the end of February 2022.

Johannesburg, 14 February 2021 – The retail of the Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® derivatives will commence from late February 2022.

The Polo 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® derivatives will join the Polo 1.0 TSI 70kW Manual and Polo GTI derivatives which went on sale at the beginning of January 2022. Volkswagen sold 1 455 units of the new Polo in the first month of retail. The 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® derivatives account for 40% of the sales volume of the Polo model range.

The Polo Life 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® comes standard with a digital dashboard display, Park Distance Control (front and rear), electric folding mirrors, lumbar support for the driver and front passenger, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with shift paddles as well as 15-inch Essex alloy wheels.

The Polo R-Line 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® distinguishes itself from the other Polo versions by its striking ‘R’ design. In addition to the standard features of the Polo Life, the Polo R-Line is offered with 16-inch Valencia alloy wheels, Composition Media infotainment system with inductive mobile charging and a two-zone climatronic air-conditioning system.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)
Polo 1.0 TSI 70kW Manual R311 800
Polo Life 1.0 TSI 70kW Manual R350 000
Polo Life 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® R370 700
Polo R-Line 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG® R421 900
Polo GTI 2.0 TSI 147kW DSG® R489 400

The new Volkswagen Polo comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 3 year/ 45 000km EasyDrive Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km. Customers have the option to extend EasyDrive Maintenance and EasyDrive Service Plans up to 10 years/ 300 000km.

New Volkswagen Caddy pricing announced

• The new Caddy will be available from Volkswagen dealers from February

Johannesburg, 28 January 2022 – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has announced pricing of its best-selling Caddy range.

The Caddy was first launched in the local market in 1992 and has to date sold over 35 000 units. Over three million units have been built worldwide since 1979.

The fifth generation Volkswagen Caddy will be launched with a new naming convention; Caddy, Caddy Maxi, Caddy Kombi, Caddy Maxi Kombi, Caddy Cargo and Caddy Maxi Cargo.

The Caddy exterior has a new and striking sporty design. Exterior features include new LED headlights and rear lights, painted body coloured bumpers and black roof rails. Optional exterior features include a panoramic sunroof with a large glass area of 1.4m², a removable tow bar that can tow a maximum weight of 1 500kg as well as 16-inch Wien alloy wheels. The new Caddy is available in 12 exterior paint colours with five new colours now available in the fifth generation model.

The Caddy’s interior impresses with new high-tech solutions and more space. The Caddy Maxi Cargo now provides room for up to two Euro pallets.

The new Caddy range showcases some of Volkswagen’s most advanced driver assistance systems. With Cruise Control, the new Caddy offers a relaxing drive for longer journeys. Park Assist paired with the Rear-View Camera takes the hassle out of parking in tight spaces, while Trailer Manoeuvring will give drivers the confidence to guide a trailer easily.

The new Volkswagen Caddy range will be offered in two engines: 1.6i with 81kW and 2.0 TDI with 81kW.

The retail of the new Caddy range will start in February 2022.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

Caddy 1.6i 81kW Manual R484 200
Caddy 2.0 TDI 81kW Manual R573 800
Caddy Maxi 2.0 TDI 81kW Manual R600 400
Caddy Kombi 1.6i 81kW Manual R412 100
Caddy Kombi 2.0 TDI 81kW Manual R476 100
Caddy Maxi Kombi 2.0 TDI 81kW Manual R502 700
Caddy Cargo 1.6i 81kW Manual R404 000
Caddy Cargo 2.0 TDI 81kW Manual R460 600
Caddy Maxi Cargo 2.0 TDI 81kW Manual R487 200

The Caddy and Caddy Maxi passenger derivatives come standard with a 3-year / 120 000km warranty while the Caddy Kombi, Caddy Maxi Kombi, Caddy Cargo and Caddy Maxi Cargo come standard with a 2-year / unlimited kilometre warranty. The entire Volkswagen Caddy range also comes standard with a 12-year anti corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000 kilometres.

New Amarok: From South Africa to the World

• For the men and women making the future: the latest generation of the pick-up is being unveiled next year
• “I’ll be back”:from 2022, the new Amarok will be impressing again with numerous innovations
• The draft design shows, for example, the off-roader’s numerous possible uses
• The look of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ pick-up is becoming more self-confident

Hannover/Melbourne/Johannesburg, 8 December 2021 – Whether it be getting medicine and food to remote locations, protecting wildlife in the African savanna or saving lives at the beach, the places where pick-ups are used are infinitely varied. Be it simply driving on open land like building sites or on rough tracks –the highlights of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ new Amarok are without doubt its versatility and off-road capabilities.Developed by teams in Australia and Europe, the premium pick-up is being produced in future in South Africa. In 2022, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ new Amarok will make its début and be available then to order in the first few markets.

No matter whether it be in South Africa or Australia, pick-ups represent an approach to life and without them certain tasks would be impossible to master. When faced with large loads, challenging country tracks or off-road terrain, everyone is then happy to have a pick-up they can rely on. The Amarok has thus, for example, been used for wildlife preservation in South Africa since way back in 2011. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is a partner of the Wilderness Foundation Africa (WFA) in their important rhinoceros protection work.

Completely new vehicle with “clear Volkswagen DNA”

Looks good, and is highly capable: the new Amarok not only has a completely new appearance inside and out, but in future also has even more extensive equipment on board, which is useful not only when being utilised as work tools. “The Amarok makes possible what in many places appears impossible at first sight: it makes things easier for its users by assisting them in their work and everyday lives”, says Dr Lars Krause, Brand Board of Management Member for Sales and Marketing at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. “That's because the Amarok provides solutions that enable our customers to achieve their goals –especially when things get difficult.”

Now in its third generation, the new vehicle has significantly more driver assist systems and knows how to impress customers in terms of connectivity. The Amarok will from 2022 thus be featuring innovations that have not been seen before in this segment. And it will still, of course, not be deterred by any rough terrain.

As Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ all-rounder, the new Amarok impresses with its compelling lines and its overall appearance. “The striking front, and above all the definingX design clearly distinguish the new Amarok and emphasise its claim to be leading the way”, confirms Albert-Johann Kirzinger, Head of Design at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. “We’ve given the strength and power of the new Amarok an unambiguous expression–with clear Volkswagen DNA, inside and out.” This shows the confidence of the model, which impresses visually with a puffed-out chest and which supports the men and women making the future.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ Amarok has been in series production since 2010. The premium pick-up used to be made in Hannover and will continue to be built in Pacheco in Argentina. The newest version will also be built going forward in the South African city of Silverton. Over the last decade, more than 800,000 vehicles have been sold globally, solving challenges for their owners and drivers on many continents.

In the southern hemisphere the vehicle –the only one to date with V6-cylinder diesel engines as drive system to make a name for itself in pick-ups’ so-called B segment –is still going strong. In Europe it will again be possible to order the Amarok as a new vehicle from late 2022.

Black Style Package added to the Polo Vivo range

• Popular exterior package now available in South Africa’s best-selling passenger car
• The Black Style Package also available in the Tiguan, Golf GTI and Touareg

Johannesburg, 10 November 2021 – The Polo Vivo is the latest model in the Volkswagen range to offer the popular Black Style Package.

The Black Style Packages were introduced in the Tiguan and Touareg in 2019.

“The Black Style Package is a popular optional package and its success in the Tiguan and Touareg models motivated our decision to also introduce it in the new Golf GTI and now the Polo Vivo,” said Steffen Knapp, head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car Brand.

The Black Style Package is available on the Polo Vivo Comfortline and Highline derivatives. It is only offered in Pure White, Reflex Silver, Flash Red and Reef Blue exterior colours.

In the Polo Vivo range, the Black Style Package includes black 16-inch Portago alloy wheels, gloss black mirror caps, a gloss black painted roof, gloss black B and C pillar covers, black side sill covers, body-coloured boot spoiler, privacy glass, chrome exhaust tip as well as anthracite headliner and sun visors.

The Black Style Package on the best-selling Polo Vivo is now available from Volkswagen dealers and retails for R9 000 on the Comfortline and R8 250 on the Highline.

“In the Golf 8 GTI, the Black Style Package features piano black side mirrors, a piano black chrome strip on the front grille as well as black 18-inch Bergamo alloy wheels. The Black Style Package in the Golf 8 GTI retails for R8 000.

In the Tiguan, the Black Style Package comes with a body coloured bumper and lower door parts, black air intakes with fins on the radiator grille, black decorative trim on the side windows, black exterior mirror housings, privacy glass, black roof rails, a black headliner, sport suspension and black 20-inch Suzuka alloy wheels. The Black Style Package in the Tiguan costs R28 000.

In the top-of-the-range Touareg, the Black Style Package features blackened out chrome elements, an ‘R’ style bumper, body-coloured bumper and lower door parts, black roof rails, black decorative trim on the side windows, black side mirrors, black radiator grille and black 21-inch Suzuka alloy wheels. The Black Style Package in the Touareg, which is only available on the Executive model, retails for R45 200.

OVER 55 000 VOLKSWAGENS SOLD IN THE FIRST 10 MONTHS OF 2021

• Volkswagen leads the local passenger car market in the first 10 months of 2021
• Polo Vivo is South Africa’s best-selling passenger car with over 18 000 units sold from January to October

Johannesburg, 9 November 2021 – In a year that has been adversely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic as well as a global shortage of semi-conductor chips, Volkswagen has remained South Africa’s best-selling passenger car brand in the first 10 months of 2021.

“In October, the Volkswagen brand (including Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles), sold 5 614 vehicles; the locally-manufactured Polo was our brand’s best-selling model last month with 1 693 units delivered to customers,” said Steffen Knapp, head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car Brand.

In the first 10 months of 2021, the Volkswagen Passenger Car brand has sold 51 381 vehicles in the local market. The Volkswagen Polo Vivo is the best-selling model with 18 241 units sold (2 747 more units when compared to the same period last year). The T-Cross, the leader of the A0 SUV segment, is now the best-selling imported model with 5 912 units sold from January to October.

“Despite the vehicle supply challenges our Brand is experiencing, our dealer partners, which account for over 75% of total Volkswagen sales, displayed resilience to ensure that we maintain our leadership in the passenger car market in South Africa,” concluded Knapp.

The Volkswagen model range was bolstered by the market introduction of the new Tiguan in July and new Golf GTI in September. The new Tiguan, which is Volkswagen’s second best-selling SUV, has sold 1 301 units since its launch.

Meanwhile, the new Golf GTI has sold 201 units during its first two months of retail. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has improved its market share to 3.7% when compared to the same period last year. The brand delivered 4 356 units to customers in the first 10 months of 2021. The Amarok double cab is the best-selling model with 1 485 units sold and accounted for over 30% of the Brand’s sales. The T6.1 Kombi and Caravelle also reported good sales of 853 units during this period.

2022 will be an exciting year for Volkswagen. The Brand will introduce the new Polo, all-new compact SUV, the Taigo, and the new Polo Sedan. Performance will be taken to the next level with the market introduction of the new Golf 8 R and Tiguan R.

For Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, 2022 will also be an important year with the market introductions of the new Caddy and the highly anticipated new generation.

New Volkswagen Caddy to retail in South Africa in November

• The fifth generation Caddy now features increased space, new technologies and a new interior and exterior design
• Compact outside, spacious inside: the new Caddy Maxi Cargo offers room for up to two Euro pallets
• The re-designed fifth generation Caddy is now based on Volkswagen’s Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform

Johannesburg, 21 September 2021 – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be launching the new Caddy in South Africa from November 2021. The Caddy was first launched in the local market in 1992 and has to date sold 35 617 units. In 2020, the fourth generation Caddy sold1 730 units achieving an impressive share of 88% in the A City Van segment. Over three million units have been built worldwide since 1979. The fifth generation Volkswagen Caddy will be launched with a new naming convention; Caddy, Caddy Maxi, Caddy Kombi, Caddy Maxi Kombi, Caddy Cargo and Caddy Maxi Cargo

Charismatic design and new exterior features

The exterior has a new and striking sporty design. The new Caddy is built on the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform, the same as the Golf 8. The vehicle body has been redesigned to be more charismatic than ever before. Thanks to the MQB platform, new high-end technologies now find their way into the Caddy range.

In terms of engineering and specification, the exterior of the Caddy offers a number of new features. Exterior features include new LED headlights and LED rear lights, painted body-coloured bumpers and black roof rails. Optional exterior features include a panoramic sunroof with a large glass area of 1.4m², a removable tow bar that can tow a maximum weight of 1 500kg as well as 16-inch Wien alloy wheels. The new Caddy is available in 12 exterior paint colours with five new colours now available in the fifth generation model.

Caddy and Caddy Maxi – for passenger and lifestyle use

Even as a short wheelbase, the Caddy is broader and longer. A stand-out feature is the optional panoramic glass roof, which is the largest in the segment.

The Caddy entry-level derivative comes as a short wheelbase with five seats and an optional seven-seat selection. The Caddy Maxi (long wheelbase) comes standard with a seven-seat configuration.

Caddy Kombi and Caddy Maxi Kombi – for carrying more people.

The Caddy Kombi is ideal for everyday use as well as for sport, leisure, work and holidays. The vehicle can be easily converted to suit various personal and business needs. Recent conversions include for people living with disabilities, mobile offices, K9 units and hearses. The Caddy Kombi comes available as a short wheelbase with seven seats and the Caddy Maxi Kombi is available in a long wheel base version with five seats and an optional seven-seat configuration. Both model lines feature easily removable and folding seats as well as easy-access sliding rear passenger doors.

Features of the Caddy Kombi include black coated bumpers, steel wheels, H7 Halogen headlights and an electronic brake with auto-hold. Optional features include a Rear View Camera, LED headlights, App-Connect, multi-function steering wheel, 16-inch Wien alloy wheels, tow bar (fixed or removable), rear wing doors, front fog lamps with cornering lights and cruise control.

Caddy Cargo and Caddy Maxi Cargo – for carrying bigger loads

The Caddy Cargo exterior design sees the roofline sloping down slightly towards the back. The short wheelbase is 2.755mm in length and has a load compartment volume of 3.1m3. The Caddy Maxi Cargo with a long wheelbase of 2.970mm allows a load compartment volume of 3.7m3.

Highlights of the Caddy Cargo include; up to six lashing rings in the load compartment, a brake assist system, electronically adjustable door mirrors, an electronic parking brake with auto hold function, H7 Halogen main headlights and daytime running lights, single near-side sliding door (Caddy Cargo SWB), twin near-side and off-side sliding doors (Caddy Maxi Cargo) and a rear wing door which is split into a ⅔ to ⅓ ratio and has a maximum opening angle of 180°.

Large modernised interior with practical storage

Inside, the fifth generation Caddy impresses with new high-tech solutions and more space. The Caddy Maxi Cargo, now provides room for up to two Euro pallets. The indicator and control elements have been completely redesigned: the interactive interfaces for the driver and front-seat passenger are formed by the new radio and infotainment systems of which the Composition Comfort radio is smartphone compatible (App-Connect). The modern instrument cluster now has the traditional rotary switch for lights. In addition, LED interior lights enhances the interior of the car. Another new feature is a roof vent for better climate control and faster stationary ventilation in the back.

New driver assistance systems make the Caddy safer and easier to drive

The new Caddy range showcases some of Volkswagen’s most advanced driver assistance systems. With Cruise Control, the new Caddy offers a relaxing drive for longer journeys. Park Assist paired with the Rear-View Camera takes the hassle out of parking in tight spaces, while Trailer Manoeuvring will give drivers the confidence to guide a trailer easily.

1.6i MPI engine

The new Caddy range will be available in two engines, one petrol and one diesel.

New Caddy Engine line-up

The four-cylinder petrol engine develops 81kW, torque of 152Nm and is coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption is 7.3 litres/ 100km. This engine is available in the Caddy, Caddy Kombi (SWB) and Caddy Cargo (SWB) derivatives.

2.0 TDI engine

The four-cylinder diesel engine also develops 81kW and a torque of 300Nm and is coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption is 5.5 litres/ 100km. The 2.0 TDI engine is available in the Caddy, Caddy Maxi (LWB), Caddy Kombi (SWB), Caddy Maxi Kombi (LWB), Caddy Cargo (SWB) and Caddy Maxi Cargo (LWB).

The passenger version Caddy and Caddy Maxi come standard with a 3-year / 120 000km warranty while the Caddy Kombi, Caddy Maxi Kombi, Caddy Cargo and Caddy Maxi Cargo come standard with a 2-year / unlimited kilometre warranty. The entire Caddy range also comes standard with a 12-year anti corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000 kilometres.

The fifth generation Caddy will be available from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Dealers in November. Pricing for the new Caddy range will be announced closer to the launch date.

New Polo to continue sales success for the Volkswagen brand

• The sixth generation Polo has sold over 73 000 units in the local market since its introduction in 2018, making it South Africa’s second best-selling passenger car
• Over 80% of the locally-manufactured Volkswagen Polos are exported to international markets

Johannesburg, 9 September 2021 – Production of the new Polo has commenced at Volkswagen’s manufacturing plant in Kariega (formerly known as Uitenhage). The Volkswagen manufacturing plant is currently operating on a three-shift pattern and building the new Polo (including the Polo GTI) for local and international markets. The first consignment of new Polos left the Volkswagen manufacturing plant in the last week of August 2021. The vehicles will be shipped to overseas markets from the Gqeberha harbour.

The Volkswagen Polo is currently manufactured in Brazil, China, Spain and South Africa. The Polos built in Kariega are exported to all right-hand-drive markets worldwide and Volkswagen also supplements production for left-hand-drive markets. Kariega is also the sole manufacturer of the Polo GTI.

The Volkswagen Polo was first launched in South Africa in October 1996 and has continued to be a sales success over the past 25 years.

Since the sixth generation Volkswagen Polo was launched in the local market in January 2018, over 400 000 units have been manufactured in Kariega, with more than 326 000 units (over 80% of the total volume) being exported to international markets. In the three years since the sixth generation of the hatchback was launched in the local market, it has sold a total of 73 439 units.

“The Volkswagen Polo is the second best-selling passenger vehicle in South Africa (behind the Polo Vivo) and an important derivative for our brand. In 2021 alone, we have sold over 10 000 Polos in the local market giving Volkswagen a share of 21.8% in the A0 Hatch segment,” said Steffen Knapp, Head of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars Brand.

The new Volkswagen Polo will retail from Volkswagen Dealers in the first quarter of 2022.

THE GOLF 8 GTI OFFICIALLY GOES ON SALE IN SOUTH AFRICA TODAY

• AVIS was the first customer to take delivery of the Golf 8 GTI in South Africa
• Volkswagen’s partnership with AVIS dates back to 1971
• The Golf 8 GTI pre-order campaign, which kicked off on 19 July, has seen over 1 000 customers showing interest in the eighth generation hot hatch

Johannesburg, 1 September 2021 – The Golf 8 GTI will officially go on sale from Volkswagen Dealers in South Africa today, 1 September 2021.

AVIS was the first customer to take delivery of the Golf 8 GTI in South Africa.

“Part of our success as a brand is attributed to sales to the rental industry. Volkswagen has the highest passenger car share of the rental market which is 34%. AVIS remains a key strategic partner for the Volkswagen brand because it accounts for 50% of our rental channel sales,” said Steffen Knapp, head of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars Brand.

Over 7 000 units are sold to AVIS each year, which is approximately 10% of Volkswagen’s total annual vehicles sold in South Africa.

The partnership between Volkswagen and AVIS began in January 1971 with the delivery of 96 Beetle 1300s. A year later, Avis tripled the order which included 1600cc Beetles, Type 4s and Microbuses. By 1981, Volkswagen has sold its 10 000th car to AVIS which was a Golf. In 1996, AVIS became Volkswagen’s biggest customer when a record number of 3 805 vehicles were delivered to them during that year. In 2008, Volkswagen delivered the 100 000th vehicle to AVIS and to date over 200 000 units have been delivered to AVIS.

“2021 is a special year for Volkswagen and AVIS as we celebrate our 50-year partnership. We are proud of how the partnership between the two organisations has grown since the humble beginnings in 1971. We are also excited to be the first customer to take delivery of the Golf 8 GTI in South Africa which will be an important model of our AVIS Luxury Cars fleet,” Rebone Motsatsi, AVIS Executive: Car Rental Operations.

In 2020, the Golf range was No.1 in the A Hatch segment with a share of 29.1%. The Golf 8 GTI is set to continue the success of the hot hatch and to date over 1 000 customers have shown interest in the GTI since pre-orders went live on 19 July 2021.

VOLKSWAGEN IMPROVES YEAR-ON-YEAR SALES TO REMAIN SOUTH AFRICA’S LEADING PASSENGER CAR BRAND

• Volkswagen sold over 32 600 vehicles in the first half of 2021
• Polo Vivo continues to be South Africa’s best-selling passenger car

Johannesburg, 15 July 2021 – The Volkswagen brand (Passenger Cars and Commercial Vehicles) sold a combined 32 603 vehicles in the first six months of 2021.

The Volkswagen Passenger Car brand sold 29 772 units and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles sold a total of 2 881 units. The Volkswagen brand sold 6 824 more vehicles this year when compared to the same period in 2020 which was affected by the hard lockdown in April. The Volkswagen brand leads the South African passenger car market with a market share of 24.4%.

“The automotive industry has been severely affected by the worldwide shortage of semi-conductor chips and vehicle transportation related challenges this year, so to have increased our sales from last year is a remarkable achievement. I would like to commend the Volkswagen Dealer Network which accounted for over 70% of our sales in the first six months of 2021,” said Steffen Knapp, Head of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars.

The locally-manufactured Polo Vivo is South Africa’s best-selling passenger car with 11 560 units sold in the first six months of the year. The Polo, also manufactured at Volkswagen’s plant in Kariega (formerly Uitenhage) and exported to international markets, is the second best-selling passenger car in South Africa with 9 045 units sold in the same period.

“The Volkswagen T SUV model range which consists of the T-Cross, T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and the Touareg, continues to perform well in the local market with 6 609 units sold in the first half of the year. The T-Cross, is the top-selling model in the A0 SUV segment and also our best-selling imported derivative with 3 893 units sold in the first six months of this year, amounting for over half of our SUV sales,” concluded Knapp.

South Africa’s most powerful double cab bakkie, the Amarok, is the best-selling model for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles this year with 908 units sold in the first six months of 2021. The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles T6.1 model range sold a combined 823 units in the first half of the year.

The Volkswagen vehicle portfolio in South Africa will be bolstered by new model introductions in the second half of the year. The new Tiguan was recently launched into the local market. Retail of the Golf 8 GTI, which is Volkswagen’s most anticipated launch this year, will commence in September. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be introducing the new generation Caddy in October.

VOLKSWAGEN ADDS TWO DERIVATIVES TO CRAFTER 35 MODEL RANGE

• Updates to the Volkswagen Crafter 35 model range include automatic and 4MOTION derivatives

Johannesburg, 7 July 2021 – With over 11 500 units sold since its introduction in the South African market in 2007, the Volkswagen Crafter has been updated with the addition of the Crafter 35 Automatic and 4MOTION derivatives.

By combining rugged versatility, cutting-edge engineering and a business-orientated approach, the Volkswagen Crafter is the ultimate transport solution. It also offers maximum personalisation; 90% of Crafters sold in South Africa are converted into busses for passenger transport (taxi’s and scholar transport), ambulances and patient carriers by government departments and the balance being sold to logistics and courier companies. The Crafter, which is manufactured in Poland, is the largest 3 to 5 tonne van produced by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The Crafter, with its efficiency, reliability, durability and adaptability, can cope with the most demanding road conditions and the fuel-efficient TDI engine makes it perfectly suited to the transportation demands of South African businesses.

Enhanced ergonomics for comfort over long distances

Attention has been given to every detail in the Crafter to ensure the comfort and safety of the driver and passengers. The interior ergonomics have been enhanced to ensure higher levels of practicality and ease of use. Improvements include robust seat upholstery for durability, a revised instrument cluster and control panel as well as plenty of storage compartments for a professional workspace. The interior is also easily controlled with a fresh air ventilator including air recirculation and heating as standard. Other standard interior features include power steering, heat-insulating glass, electric front windows and door pockets.

Loading the Crafter made easy The Crafter has a sturdy frame and a generous loading capacity. Boasting a loading capacity ranging between 9.3m³ and 17.5 m³, the Crafter can handle any load thrown at it. It also has the longest loading spaces in its class of up to 4.6m. Loading and unloading from the back is made easy through two rear wing doors or through the 1.3m-wide left-hand side sliding door. For even more convenience, a sliding door is optional for the right-hand side as well. The flexible and practical nature of the Crafter makes it suited to a variety of applications. With a payload capacity of up to 2.5 tonnes and torque of up to 340Nm, even the heaviest loads feel light.

The Crafter is available in 3.5 tonne GVM and 5 tonne GVM versions. Customers can also choose from two wheelbases (3 640mm or 4 490mm), three body lengths and two different roof configurations.

Crafter 35 Safety Assistance Systems

Safety is of utmost importance to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and that’s why the Crafter 35 is fitted with innovative safety features designed to deliver all-round protection. Essential safety systems such as ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) combined with Brake Assist and Crosswind Assist, MCB (Multi-Collision Braking), TCS (Traction Control System) and EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) are all standard in the Crafter.

The Crafter 35 derivatives also offer handy driver assistance and convenience systems as optional. These include the High Roof, 270° Rear Doors, Dual Sliding doors, Trendline Trim Exterior, LED headlights with LED separate daytime running lights, Park Pilot (Front and Rear), Park Distance Control (Front and Rear), Trailer Assist (Trailer manoeuvring system), Park Assist with Park Distance Control, Rear view camera system, Blind Spot Monitor including Rear Traffic Alert, Lane Assist including Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert and Park Distance Control in front and rear, Fixed Tow Bar with Trailer Stabilisation, Differential Lock, Hill Start Assist with Hill Descent Control, Air Conditioner, Air Conditioner with Rear Evaporator, Cruise Control, Multi-function Steering, Front Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking for Adaptive Cruise Control up to 160km/h, ‘Composition Media’ Radio, Heavy-duty Suspension System and a Second Battery.



Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI Automatic

The Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI Automatic is fitted with the same world-class standard safety systems and convenience features found in the Crafter 35 Manual version.

The Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI Automatic is characterised by a 100mm lower loading sill (when compared to the 4MOTION derivative), the largest loading height and payload in its class as well as bigger headroom within the loading area.

The transmission utilised in this derivative is the first 8-speed automatic gearbox with a torque convertor for transversely mounted front-engine vehicles in the commercial vehicle sector. The 8-speed automatic transmission utilises a torque convertor, which transforms the Crafter into a vehicle that is easy to drive over long distances. It features a robust design to meet the requirements of commercial vehicles while transmission ratios are adapted for optimum fuel consumption and performance. A short first gear ensures hassle-free starts even with heavy loads, on inclines or when towing a trailer. A long eighth gear ensures low rpms at higher speeds for fuel-efficient driving.

The automatic transmission facilitates stress and fatigue-free driving in stop-and-go traffic, making it the perfect workhorse, delivery vehicle or taxi.

Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 4MOTION The Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 4MOTION offers reliable traction, the best tracking stability as well as a trailer load of up to three tonnes. The Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 4MOTION is based on the front-wheel drive model but adds a four-wheel drive coupling that delivers power to the rear axle. The permanent four wheel driving system means that as much power as possible is sent to the front wheels alone in order to maximise fuel economy. The six-speed manual gearbox utilised in this model has been further developed from the T6 gearbox to offer shifting comfort similar to that of passenger cars, while the transmission ratios have been adapted for optimum fuel consumption and performance. The Crafter 35 derivatives are both available in the 2.0 TDI engine which boasts 103kW and 340Nm and fuel consumption of 8.2 litres/100km (Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI Automatic) and 9.1 litres/100km (Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 4MOTION).

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 103kW (MCV) R616 900

Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 103kW Automatic R659 400

Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 103kW (LCV) R711 700

Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 103kW Manual 4MOTION R713 300

Crafter 50 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 103kW (LWB) R726 600

Crafter 50 Bus Conversion Ready 2.0 TDI 103kW (LWB) R726 600

Crafter 50 Bus Conversion Ready 2.0 TDI 103kW (XLWB) R736 700

Crafter 50 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 103kW (XLWB) R736 700

The Volkswagen Crafter comes standard with a 2 year/unlimited kilometre warranty, 5 year/ 120 000km EasyDrive Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 20 000km.

PEACE-OF-MIND DRIVING WITH VOLKSWAGEN EASYDRIVE VEHICLE PLANS

• Volkswagen’s EasyDrive Vehicle Plans, parts supply across South Africa as well as extensive Dealer Network footprint ensure seamless after sales experience for customers. EasyDrive Maintenance and Service Plans can be extended to 10 years/ 300 000km.

Johannesburg, 6 July 2021 – Volkswagen’s EasyDrive Vehicle Plans offer a comprehensive service and maintenance programme designed to give customers the best value in terms of hassle-free motoring.

“The EasyDrive Vehicle plans give our customers peace-of-mind motoring and benefits like protection against inflation as prices are fixed at today’s rates for future servicing and maintenance costs, transferability from the current owner to a new owner and enhanced resale value with a full service history,” said Steffen Knapp, Head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car Brand. Customers have the option to extend the EasyDrive Maintenance and Service Plans up to 10 years/ 300 000km.

The comprehensive EasyDrive Maintenance Plan covers all costs (parts and labour) associated with scheduled vehicle services, repairs of defective components and wear and tear items (excluding tyres) that need to be replaced as well as 24/7 Roadside Assistance. The EasyDrive Service Plan covers all manufacturer-specific scheduled service requirements, including parts and labour costs. “At Volkswagen, we offer a seamless after sales customer experience. Included in our EasyDrive Maintenance and Service Plans is access to and the technical expertise of the 109-strong Dealer Network in Southern Africa, over 40 000 genuine Volkswagen vehicle parts which are available in the country as well as customer care in the form of 24-hour Roadside Assistance,” added Knapp. The added benefit of the vehicle plans is the availability of parts in South Africa; Volkswagen has one of the biggest footprints when it comes to vehicle parts in Southern Africa. In South Africa, Volkswagen has 32 000m² Parts facilities in Cape Town and Centurion, Pretoria with more than 40 000 genuine parts available.

Simplified and Digitalised Service Experience Using the WeConnect Go App, Volkswagen drivers are able to book a vehicle service on the app. Using the digital Service Cam feature, a first and an innovation for the dealer network in South Africa, a technician is able to diagnose an issue on the car and show this to the customer via video, the customer is then able to give approval before repairs are made on the vehicle. The Volkswagen Dealer Network uses expert and world-class master technicians who utilise cutting-edge tools and equipment for repair work and to update the latest available software so that drivers can enjoy the best performance and driving dynamics.

The 24-hour Roadside Assistance also offers Volkswagen customers benefits like towing, fuel (for the customer’s account) and jump-starting in the unlikely event of a flat battery.

Virtual reality to support the launch of the new Volkswagen Tiguan

• The new Tiguan, which is part of Volkswagen’s T SUV range, will go on sale from 1 July 2021

Johannesburg, 12 May 2021 – The new Volkswagen Tiguan, which was introduced in the South African market in 2008, will go on sale from 1 July 2021.

“To strengthen Volkswagen’s local digitalisation strategy, the launch of the new Tiguan in South Africa will be supported with Virtual Reality (VR) technology, which is available at 25 selected Volkswagen dealerships across South Africa.

Volkswagen was the first automotive brand in South Africa to introduce VR in dealer showrooms and currently the Polo, T-Cross, T-Roc and Tiguan are all available in VR. VR will also be available for the Golf 8 GTI when it goes on sale in September 2021. Through using VR, customers can learn more about the vehicle and its features, configure a vehicle to their specification as well as take it on various adventures. The new Tiguan is Volkswagen’s most technologically advanced SUV in South Africa and VR allows customers to experience these advancements in real time. Customers will be able to experience night-time driving in the new Tiguan as well as the convenience offered by the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, which feature 22 individual LEDs per headlight.

Features like Lane Change Assist and Side Assist are also easily experienced using VR. Lane Change Assist and Side Assist helps drivers to stay in their lane with reaction to vehicles moving in parallel as well as oncoming traffic. Another feature available on VR is Emergency Braking with Front Assist which assists with detecting obstacles in the front of the vehicle. Not only can customers discover all of the new Tiguan’s technological advancements in VR, they can also drive Volkswagen’s newest SUV in iconic locations around South Africa.

Customers wanting to pre-order the new Tiguan ahead of its 1 July launch in South Africa can do so on the Volkswagen website:

The first Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI lands in South Africa

• Volkswagen will launch the Golf 8 GTI at Dealers countrywide from the third quarter.

Johannesburg, 28 April 2021 – The eighth generation Volkswagen Golf GTI will be launched in South Africa from the third quarter of 2021.

“The Volkswagen Group has been impacted by the global shortage of the semiconductor chips and all vehicles built on the MQB platform have been affected. For this reason, the launch of the Golf 8 GTI in South Africa will now move to the third quarter,” said Steffen Knapp, Head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car Brand.

“We are working closely with our German counterparts to ensure that we get as many Golf 8 GTI units for the local market as possible. A few Golf 8 GTI units started arriving in the country from mid-April. These units will be stockpiled until we have enough vehicles for the launch at the beginning of the third quarter,” added Knapp.

Volkswagen’s launch plans for the Golf 8 GTI include a digital South African premiere and countrywide customer events which will allow enthusiasts to be among the first to experience the new Golf GTI.

The Golf 8 GTI is Volkswagen’s highly anticipated vehicle launch this year. South Africa is one of the biggest Golf GTI markets outside of Europe. The Golf 7 GTI sold over 14 000 units since its launch in South Africa in July 2013. The Golf was also the best-selling model range in the A Hatch segment in South Africa last year with a 29.1% segment share.

Customers who want to be kept informed on launch plans can visit the Volkswagen website: New golf GTI KMI (vw.co.za)

Western Province wing joins Volkswagen as a brand ambassador for Amarok

• Distinguished rugby player, Seabelo Senatla, is Volkswagen’s newest brand ambassador.

Johannesburg – Western Province rugby player, Seabelo Senatla has joined Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles as the newest brand ambassador. Free State-born Senatla, who plays for the Stormers in PRO14 and Western Province in the Currie Cup, joins current brand ambassadors, rally legend Sarel van der Merwe and 4x4 specialist and television presenter Andre de Villiers.

Senatla who is also a philanthropist, an entrepreneur and a winemaker, is best known for his talents on the rugby field. He was awarded the World Sevens Player of the Year and South African Sevens Player of the Year in 2016. He also currently holds the record for the most tries for the South African Sevens team (224).

“Seabelo Senatla fits perfectly with the Amarok’s brand motto of ‘Know your power’. He embodies the Amarok’s traits which are speed, strength, intelligence, character and power and we are proud to welcome him to the Volkswagen family,” said Mark Handley, Head of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Brand.

“Key to this partnership is sharing Senatla’s inspiring personal stories of his confident power to succeed in many roles. The partnership with Volkswagen, will also see Seabelo driving our top-of-the-range Amarok 190kW 3.0 V6 TDI,” concluded Handley. Senatla has signed a three-year partnership with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The Amarok model range, which has been in the local market for over a decade, now consists of the following engines; the 2.0 BiTDI 132kW and the 3.0 V6 TDI 190kW.

Volkswagen’s best-selling Tiguan SUV receives a new look

• Innovative Volkswagen SUV launches with sharper design and new technological highlights
• The new Tiguan model range comes available with one diesel and two petrol engines
• The new Tiguan will be launched in the local market from the third quarter of this year

Johannesburg– The Volkswagen Tiguan, which was launched in the South African market for the first time in 2008, will be getting a new look in 2021. Now in its third generation, the Tiguan has sold over six million units globally since launch and over 41 000 units in South Africa. The Tiguan was the best-selling medium SUV in South Africa last year, with 4 280 units sold and a 16.2% share of the A SUV segment.

The Tiguan is currently manufactured at four Volkswagen plants spread across four time zones; China, Germany, Mexico and Russia. The Tiguan for the local market, which will be manufactured in Germany, will go on sale from the third quarter of this year.

New interior and exterior features.

The Tiguan will come with a host of new interior features; a new steering wheel with touch controls is among the key interior highlights. The air conditioning functions have also been digitalised by means of touch sliders and touch buttons. A first for the Tiguan and the Volkswagen model range is the premium and optional Harmon Kardon sound system, with a 16-channel amplifier, eight speakers and a subwoofer. One of the striking new exterior features of the Tiguan includes the redesigned front bumper. The bonnet is more concise in its appearance and the new radiator grille with LED headlights is also wider. The Tiguan’s new IQ.LIGHT – LED matrix headlights features 22 individual LEDs per headlight offering enhanced convenience for night-time driving At the rear, the Tiguan lettering is now central below the Volkswagen badge. New exterior metallic colours include Ginger Brown, Kings Red, Lapiz Blue, Night Shade Blue and Dolphin Grey.

Driver assistance systems.

Lane Change Assist and Side Assist – this system helps drivers to stay in their lane with reaction to vehicles moving in parallel as well as oncoming traffic. Emergency Braking with Front Assist – assists with the detecting obstacles in the front of the vehicle. Response is by means of an acoustic warning and the initiation of emergency braking.

New specification lines for the Tiguan model range.

The model range comes in three specification lines; the base derivative called the Tiguan, the Tiguan Life and the Tiguan R-Line.

The base derivative Tiguan comes standard with features like 17-inch Montana alloy wheels, LED headlights, leather multi-function steering wheel, cruise control and the new MIB3 Infotainment system’s Composition radio (with eight speakers).

Positioned above the base derivative is the “Life” specification line. In addition to the standard features on the base derivative, the Tiguan Life comes standard with 18-inch Frankfurt alloy wheels, LED headlights with cornering lights, Climatronic air conditioning, Park Distance Control in the front and rear as well as an electric tailgate for easy opening and closing. Optional alloy wheels on the Tiguan Life include 18-inch Nizza and 19-inch Victoria Falls.

The top-of-the-range derivative is the Tiguan R-Line. Standard features include the R-Line exterior package, 19-inch Valencia alloy wheels, ambient lighting with 30 interior lighting options, Vienna leather seats with the R-line Logo in the two front seats, Active Info Display, Composition Media Radio with App Connect, multi-functional steering wheel with touch and swiping actions and the R-line logo as well as keyless entry. Optional alloy wheels on the R-Line derivative are the 20-inch Suzuka alloy wheels in chrome and black.

The new Tiguan can also be upgraded with optional features such as the panoramic sunroof, trailer hitch, Black Style Package (black roof rails and decorative trims, black exterior mirror housing, privacy glass for the rear windows and black 20-inch Suzuka alloy wheels), Discover Pro entertainment system with wireless App Connect, Heads-up display, Harmon Kardon sound system, IQ Lights: Matrix LED, Area view camera system with Park Assist, IQ Drive Package (Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Park Assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking) and the Trailer Manoeuvring System which includes Park Assist.

One diesel and two petrol engines.

The Tiguan model range will come with a choice of three engines which are carried over from the previous model; two petrol and one diesel with power outputs ranging from 110kW to 162kW.

1.4 TSI with 110kW of power.

The entry engine in the Tiguan model range is a 6-speed DSG with a power output of 110kW and torque of 250Nm. With a top speed of 200km/h, it reaches 0 – 100km/h in 9.2 seconds.

2.0 TDI with 130kW of power.

The only diesel engine in the Tiguan model range has a power output of 130kW and 380Nm of torque. The 7-speed DSG has a top speed of 207km/h and completes the 0 – 100km/h sprint in 8.3 seconds. 2.0 TSI with 162kW of power. The most powerful engine in the model range has a power output of 162kW and torque of 350Nm. It takes just 6.5 seconds for it to complete 0 – 100km/h. This 7-speed DSG engine’s top speed is 225km.

New Tiguan pricing.

Pricing for the new Tiguan will be announced closer to the launch date.

Volkswagen won three awards at the sixth annual Cars.co.za Consumer Awards which recognises the best cars in South Africa

• Volkswagen won three awards at the sixth annual Cars.co.za Consumer Awards which recognises the best cars in South Africa

Johannesburg. Volkswagen won three category awards at the annual Cars.co.za Consumer Awards which were broadcast on national television on 15 February 2021.

The wins at the 2020/2021 Consumer Awards come after a record-breaking 2020, where the Volkswagen brand in South Africa achieved a 21.6% passenger car market share, the highest in the history of the brand as well as the highest of all Volkswagen markets worldwide.

“With 50% of the final scores being based on after-sales data that incorporates customer feedback from South African vehicle owners, as Volkswagen we are proud of how our customers continue to put their trust behind our incredible range of vehicles,” said Mike Glendinning, Director: Sales and Marketing at Volkswagen Group South Africa.

Widely regarded as South Africa’s most definitive and prestigious automotive awards programme, the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, which are supported by WesBank, have become a highlight in the automotive calendar since the inaugural event six years ago.

Volkswagen’s first win of the night was the Compact Hatch category which went to the Polo. The Polo has won this category for the last three years. The Polo is also South Africa’s second best-selling passenger car with 16 335 units sold in 2020.

The second award for Volkswagen went to the Golf GTI TCR which is a final swansong of the Golf 7 model range. With less than a year on sale in South Africa, the Golf GTI TCR won the fiercely contested Hot Hatch category. This is the fifth time in the six-year history of the Cars Awards that the Golf GTI has won this category.

With less than two years since being introduced in the local market, the T-Cross defended its Compact Family Car title with a back-to-back win. The T-Cross has also become Volkswagen’s best-selling imported vehicle with 5 693 units sold in 2020.

“The fact that the locally-manufactured Polo has won the Compact Hatch category for three years in a row, is a testament of our world-class manufacturing facility in Uitenhage. I am also incredibly proud of the how our compact SUV, the T-Cross, has managed to not only defend its title with another win this year, but has become a dominant player in the A0 SUV segment. As Volkswagen gears to launch the Golf 8 GTI in South Africa from the second quarter of this year, the win by the Golf GTI TCR is a fitting tribute to the Golf 7 range in South Africa,” concluded Glendinning.

The Volkswagen brand still holds the record of the most category wins in the history of the Cars Awards; since inception Volkswagen has won 19 categories at the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards.

Volkswagen’s 190kW Amarok Double Cab bakkie now on sale

• South Africa’s most powerful double cab bakkie is now available from Volkswagen dealers

Johannesburg – Retail of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ most powerful bakkie has now commenced. The introduction of the Amarok Double Cab bakkie with 190kW of power is a celebration of 10 years of Amarok in South Africa.

The Amarok range which was launched in South Africa in 2010, has sold over 37 000 units (single and double cab). The Amarok model range now consists of the following engines; the 2.0 BiTDI 132kW and the 3.0 V6 TDI 190kW.

The most powerful Amarok distinguishes itself from the rest of the range through the new 3.0-litre V6 190kW TDI engine, which has 25kW more power as well as 30Nm more torque than the outgoing 165kW derivative.

The Amarok 3.0-litre V6 TDI generates 190kW from 3 000 to 4 500 rpm and 580 Newton metres of torque from 1 400 to 2 750 rpm which is channelled through its standard eight-speed automatic gearbox. The Amarok, which is one of the quickest double cab bakkies in the market thanks to launch control available for fast acceleration, completes the zero to 100 km/h sprint in just 7.6seconds and has a top speed of 207 km/h. The average fuel consumption is 9.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

With an over boost function that powers the Amarok to a maximum power output of 200kW for 10 seconds, it is the most powerful bakkie on sale in South Africa at the moment.

Off road ABS and stability control enhance the Amarok’s safety features and four disc brakes all round give the Amarok V6 190kW enormous stopping power. The Amarok also has the largest bin, largest loading width and the largest cabin in its class.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)
Amarok Double Cab 3.0 V6 190kW Highline R921 900
Amarok Double Cab 3.0 V6 190kW Extreme R996 000

The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Amarok comes standard with a 3-year/100 000km manufacturer warranty, 5-year/90 000 km Genuine Easy Drive Service Plan and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty, which is the best in its class. The service interval is 15 000km.

Volkswagen brand leads passenger car market in the first 10 months of 2020

• Locally-manufactured Polo Vivo continues to be the brand’s best-selling model range
• The manufacturing plant in Uitenhage posted strong export figures last month
• Despite the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic, Volkswagen’s market share of 21.5% is higher than the previous year

Johannesburg – “Volkswagen South Africa continues to make a positive comeback in the local car market after reeling from the effects of Level 5 lockdown earlier this year. Even though we won’t see a repeat of our record-breaking 2019 volumes, we have made incremental volume gains and posted a record year-to-date market share thanks to a strong performance from our dealer network,” said Mike Glendinning, Sales and Marketing Director for Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA). In the first 10 months of 2020, the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand sold 42 354 vehicles in the local market. The passenger car market is down year-on-year by 33.3% and Volkswagen’s sales showed a 29% year-on-year decline. Volkswagen’s Passenger Car market share increased by 1.1% to 21.5% when compared to October 2019’s figure of 20.4%.

“This year has been challenging for all South Africans and as a brand that has been in the local market for close to 70 years, we invested back into our communities by heralding the Drive Local campaign. The Drive Local campaign saw us building a field hospital to assist Covid-19 patients in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, using our employees’ technical expertise to manufacture medical equipment as well as supporting vulnerable communities through funding Non-Profit Organisations. The Drive Local campaign urged people to champion proudly South African products and services. For our brand the results are evident in the sales and market share figures we recorded in the first 10 months of this year,” added Glendinning.

The locally-manufactured Polo Vivo is Volkswagen’s best-selling range with 15 494 units sold this year. With just a little over a year since being launched in South Africa, the T-Cross is now the brand’s best-selling imported vehicle with 3 965 units sold in the first 10 months of 2020. The Volkswagen plant in Uitenhage showed strong export figures during the first 10 months of 2020, despite the impact of the Level 5 national lockdown which halted production. To date, the Uitenhage plant has exported a total of 68 232 locally-manufactured Polos to both left and right-hand drive markets. Of the 10 months, October delivered the highest number with 10 576 vehicles exported.

“Though our export numbers are lower than in some previous years, this performance is testament to the commitment and perseverance of VWSA and each of its employees,” said Bernd Schaberg, Acting Production Director. “We have recovered from a low point of zero exports in April to a steady performance in the months that followed. Our priority for the rest of 2020 is to continue building on this growth by manufacturing quality vehicles – in the safest way possible for our employees,” concluded Schaberg. “As a brand, we want to finish 2020 strong. Later this month, we will launch the newest derivative in the T SUV range, the T-Roc. Sales of one of South Africa’s most powerful double cab bakkies, the Amarok 190kW, will also start this month,” concluded Glendinning.

Polo Vivo range gets a stylish special edition derivative

• South Africa’s best-selling passenger car, the Polo Vivo, is getting a stylish special edition derivative added to the range

Johannesburg – With 261 285 units sold since its market introduction in March 2010, the Volkswagen Polo Vivo hatch has been the best-selling passenger car model in South Africa for the past decade.

Being the only locally manufactured model in the competitive A0 segment, the Polo Vivo has been a dominant brand in the entry-level hatch segment in spite of new models being launched on a regular basis.

Polo Vivo’s key product attributes such as affordability, German build quality, safety, space and comfort have a set an unparalleled benchmark in the segment. The cost of ownership over a 3-year cycle makes Polo Vivo one of the most affordable cars to own in the South African market. Volkswagen has updated the Polo Vivo model range by adding a stylish special edition to the range.

“The Polo Vivo Mswenko, which is based on the 1.4 63kW Comfortline manual, is a fashion-inspired derivative which features unique styling details and serves to appeal to customers that are dynamic and young at heart,” said Mike Glendinning, Sales and marketing Director for Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA).

Mswenko (pronounced m-swe-nkoh) is the isiZulu expression for the slang word “swag”. Swag is an expression of attitude and confidence. A self-confident and stylish person is said to have swag. Mswenko, which is unique to South Africa, refers to a person’s style, attitude and general demeanour.

In the exterior, the Polo Vivo Mswenko is easily recognisable by the Mswenko side decals, a chrome tip exhaust, 16-inch Portago alloy wheels in Anthracite, a black painted roof, privacy glass and mirror covers in two colour variants. In the interior, the Polo Vivo Mswenko differentiates itself from the rest of the range with unique standard features such as the new Ocean Blue seats, Anthracite headliner, silver dashboard inserts,

App Connect, six speakers and a leather package (leather multi-function steering wheel, gearshift lever and gear knob). This special edition model will only be available in the following exterior colours; Pure White, Reflex Silver, Limestone Grey and Reef Blue. The Polo Vivo Mswenko will be available at Volkswagen dealers from October 2020.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)
Polo Vivo Mswenko 1.4 63kW Comfortline R246 900
The Polo Vivo Mswenko comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. A Volkswagen Maintenance Plan as well as a Volkswagen Service Plan are available as options. Service interval is 15 000km.

Volkswagen’s Amarok Double Cab bakkie gets a power boost

In celebration of a decade in South Africa, Volkswagen has launched the most powerful derivative of the Amarok
New 3.0-litre V6 TDI with 190kW power output added to the model line-up

Johannesburg – In the last quarter of 2020

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be introducing its most powerful bakkie yet, the Amarok Double Cab with 190kW of power. The Amarok range which was launched in South Africa in 2010, has sold almost 35 000 units (single and double cab) in the local market. The Amarok Double Cab was Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ best-selling derivative last year with 2 596 vehicles sold. As of November 2020, the Amarok model range in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana will consist of the following engines; the 2.0 TDI 103kW, 2.0 BiTDI 132kW and the 3.0 TDI V6 190kW.

The biggest development with this addition to the Amarok range is under the bonnet. The most powerful Amarok distinguishes itself from the rest of the range through the new 3.0-litre V6 190kW TDI engine, which has 25kW more power as well as 30Nm more torque than the outgoing 165kW derivative. The Amarok 3.0-litre V6 TDI generates 190kW from 3 000 to 4 500 rpm and 580 Newton metres of torque from 1 400 to 2 750 rpm which is channelled through its standard eight-speed automatic gearbox. The Amarok with the V6 engine completes the zero to 100 km/h sprint in just 7.6seconds and has a top speed of 207 km/h. It has an average fuel consumption of 9.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

With an over boost function that powers the Amarok to a maximum power output of 200kW for 10 seconds, it is also one of the most powerful bakkies on sale in South Africa at the moment. The Amarok 3.0-litre V6 190kW TDI 4MOTION® will be available in the following model lines: Highline and the top-of-the-range Extreme. It is available in the following exterior paint finishes; Candy White, Mojave Beige, Indium Grey metallic and Deep Black Pearl Effect.

In the Highline model line, a host of features come standard such as the Vienna leather seats, winter package (seat heating), increased GVM from 2.8t to 3.0t (including heavy duty leaf springs), Bi-Xenon headlights, font and rear Park Distance Control with rear-view camera, climatronic air-conditioning as well as the 18-inch Manaus alloy wheels. Optional features on the Highline are the Discover Pro Media system which includes satellite navigation, rubber floor covering and 19-inch Milford alloy wheels.

In addition to the standard features on the Highline, which are also available on the Extreme, the top-of-the-range model is further customised through the addition of ‘Special Edition’ Nappa leather seats, Discover Pro Media system which includes satellite navigation and 20-inch Talca alloy wheels which also come standard. The optional features on the Extreme are the Increased GVM from 2.8t to 3.0t (including heavy duty leaf springs), rubber floor covering, 19-inch Milford alloy wheels and a sports bar painted in body colour.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

Amarok Double Cab 3.0 V6 190kW Highline From: R908 300
Amarok Double Cab 3.0 V6 190kW Extreme From: R974 600

The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Amarok comes standard with a 3-year/100 000km manufacturer warranty, 5-year/90 000 km Genuine Easy Drive Service Plan and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km.

THE SIXTH GENERATION VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER RANGE GETS A FACELIFT

• The facelifted T6.1 range will go on sale from Volkswagen dealers in South Africa from January 2021

Johannesburg – The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles T-Series range has been refreshed with a facelift that will now be called the T6.1.

The facelifted Transporter range consists of the Pick Up (Single and Double cab), Panel Van, Crew Bus, Kombi, Caravelle and California. The T6.1 range will go on sale in South Africa, Botswana and Namibia from January 2021. In South Africa the T-Series, especially the legendary Kombi and Caravelle, have been the best-sellers for the past six decades. Now in its sixth generation, the Transporter range has sold around

12 million units worldwide; no other commercial vehicle in the world has been on the market for as long as the Transporter has. In South Africa, 10 097 units of the T6 range have been sold since its launch in 2015. The T6.1 will now continue the heritage and sales success story of the T-Series model range in South Africa.

What’s new?

Exterior
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has further developed, honed and refined the T6.1, especially at the front. Particularly striking is the radiator grille, which is now significantly larger and forms a single stylistic unit with the new bumper. All elements below the bonnet, like the headlights, are new. On all versions two chrome-plated cross-bars link the new headlights to the radiator grille. The lines of the two cross-bars are continued as LED daytime running lights, extending all the way into the housing units of the headlights, which depending on the specification can also be LED. The grille itself is now drawn out into the striking bumper. On the higher specification models a chrome strip also adds a refined touch to the bumper. With or without chrome elements, the new front design emphasises the width and increases the charisma of the T6.1. Six newly designed wheels, six new exterior colours and seven newly combined two-tone paintwork finishes round off the new exterior updates to the range.

Interior
The new instrument panel not only meets the requirements of digitalisation, but also the aim of providing high levels of practicality. The panel has been equipped with an additional shelf in front of the driver. Also new is a larger tray for a smart phone with, an inductive interface for charging which is an optional feature. The air vents in the dashboard can now be adjusted in every direction and simultaneously opened or closed using one slider control. Previously a second slider was needed for opening and closing. The steering wheel has also been redesigned - on the new multifunction steering wheel there is now a ‘View’ button, which enables the driver to switch between the digital cockpit's different display configurations with just one click.

Infotainment and digitalised instruments
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has reconfigured the entire range of infotainment systems in order to provide an unprecedented array of web-based functions and services. With the T6.1, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is offering a vehicle that is equipped with fully digital instruments, like the digital cockpit. All T6.1 models are equipped with a Composition Colour radio system as standard, whereas the Caravelle and California are equipped with the Discover Pro Media system with navigation as standard and on the Kombi Trendline Plus, it is available as an optional feature.

Digital Cockpit
The 10.25-inch digital cockpit in the T6.1 sets new standards. It is fitted as standard in the Caravelle Highline and California. The graphics of the high-contrast display have a clear, high-quality look. The driver can choose between different screen configurations which is done via the ‘View’ button on the multifunction steering wheel.

The T6.1 steers electro-mechanically
Electro-mechanical power steering is being used for the first time in the T6.1. This has two major benefits: unlike the hydraulic system it replaces, the new steering system can be controlled as needed and this reduces fuel consumption. At the same time, through its controllability it opens up access to numerous new driver assistance systems. The electro-mechanical power steering system transmits steering commands to the wheels more directly than the systems in previous models. That makes the T6.1 noticeably more agile and precise. In order to utilise the potential of the new steering system combined with the new range of tyres optimised for low rolling resistance, the tuning of the conventional and regulated chassis versions has been further optimised in the direction of driving comfort and handling. With the introduction of the optional second-generation chassis control system (DCC) the adjustment options have increased. Via driving profile selection, the driver can now set the desired level of damping almost seamlessly using a slider control. On the conventional chassis versions the damping forces are set dependent on the spring travel and thus ensure that the T6.1 is smoothly kept stable in all load situations. The range of familiar slip and braking control systems has been expanded through the addition of the XDS function, which improves the handling and traction characteristics of the T6.1 through gentle application of the brakes. As a result of the combination of electro-mechanical power steering, vehicle dynamics control systems and adapted chassis adjustment, an appreciable enhancement in handling and driving fun is a feature of the T6.1, while it continues – including on longer journeys – to offer the familiar high level of ride comfort.

Safety and Driver Assistance systems
The following driver assistance systems are available in the T6.1: Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Automatic Post-Collision Braking (also standard), Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Assist (for 4MOTION all-wheel drive), the Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator, lane change assistant Lane Assist, the standard cruise control system inclusive of speed limiter and parking assistant Park Assist. Optional safety systems include Trailer Assist and the advanced main-beam control system Light Assist. The full spectrum of driver assistance systems makes the T6.1 one of the safest and easiest driving commercial vehicles on the market.

Lane Assist
Lane Assist, which is standard in the T6.1 Caravelle and California, alerts the driver if they stray out of the lane and onto oncoming traffic. The system works at speeds of 60 km/h and above and functions even in fog and darkness.

Trailer Assist
Trailer Assist, which is standard in the T6.1 Caravelle and California, relieves the driver of the complicated task of mentally adjusting to the fact that when reversing with a trailer because the steering wheel has to be turned to the left to make the trailer go to the right – and vice versa. The system is designed to make it easier to reverse in a straight line over relatively long distances.

Rear View reversing camera
The reversing camera is now available as a standard or optional feature in the T6.1 range and comes in three different versions, two of which are new:

1. Reversing camera with static guide lines in the rear hatch as in the current T6.
2. New: reversing camera with static guide lines now also in vehicles with wing doors.
3. New: reversing camera with dynamic guide objects in combination with Trailer Assist and rear hatch only. In this case, unlike the static guide lines representing an extension of the vehicle contour, what now gets projected in the reversing camera image is a choice of dynamic guide lines, parking boxes or a trailer guide line, dependent on the steering angle.

Side protection
The T6.1's side protection, which is standard on the T6.1 Caravelle and California, function makes manoeuvring easier. Via six ultrasound sensors in the front section and six in the back of the vehicle, the side protection system charts its entire 360-degree surroundings. It provides visual and audible warnings of any objects, such as posts or walls that the vehicle is getting close to, and also, for example, of any pedestrians.

Park Assist
Park Assist, being offered for the first time in the T6.1, assists through automatic steering with getting into parking spaces (both parallel and perpendicular parking) and with getting out of tight spots after parking parallel to the kerb. Park Assist, which is standard in the T6.1 Caravelle and California, utilises the parking sensors (six at the front, six at the rear) and thus recognises different parking spaces for parallel or perpendicular parking. Even parking on corners is possible if the radius is not more than 20 metres.

Manoeuvre braking function
Vehicles with Park Assist and Park Distance Control are automatically equipped with a manoeuvre braking function. It protects the vehicle from any damage that could be caused by a collision with any static or moving obstacle during the manoeuvring process. If the T6.1 goes above a certain speed or gets too close to an obstacle, the driver is warned by an audible signal and if there is a risk of collision, there is an additional warning through the abrupt application of the brakes.

Rear Traffic Alert
Another additional layer of safety is provided by Rear Traffic Alert, the new assistance system for reversing out of parking spaces. This new feature, which is standard on the T6.1 Caravelle and California, reduces the risk of backing out of driveways and parking spaces at right angles to the road. What makes it really innovative is that using the radar sensors in the rear, the system ‘recognises’ not only stationary or moving vehicles directly behind it, but also any that might be approaching at 180 degrees from the side which would be almost impossible for the driver to spot. If there is a risk of collision, the system produces a visual alert and an audible warning. If the driver or other road user do not take action to avert the danger, Rear Traffic Alert automatically applies the brakes before a possible collision.

Crosswind Assist.
As part of the Electronic Stabilisation System (ESP), this applies the brakes (undetected by the driver) if the vehicle encounters a strong crosswind. Standard across the T6.1 range, Crosswind Assist is activated automatically when travelling above 80 km/h. Crosswind Assist detects track offset caused by strong crosswinds and thus helps the driver to remain in their lane. The track offset is significantly reduced and the influence of the crosswind blasts is largely balanced out or reduced.

With six models and numerous specifications, the T6.1 range allows for several specifications
The three categories of the T6.1 will continue with the commercial vehicles (Panel Van, Pick Up and Crew, Bus); passenger carriers designed for private use (Caravelle and Kombi) and the recreational vehicle (California Coast). Along with the various engine combinations, the choice of short and long wheelbases offers flexibility and functionality.

T6.1 Pick Up
The Pick Up, which can be ordered as a single or double cab variant, is the workhorse of the Commercial Vehicles range. The Pick Up is only available with a long wheelbase which offers a sizeable cargo loading bed of 5.7 square metres for a single cab. The height of the aluminium side panels, which can be dropped down on every side, is 39 centimetres. The double cab provides a cargo bed of 4.2 square metres. In the double cab there is storage space under the rear bench seat.

T6.1 Panel Van
Such is the strength and rigidity of the Transporter’s body that it can be fitted with two sliding doors. A left-hand door is standard, with a right-hand door available as an option. With a low load bed, maximum opening width of 1 700mm and maximum load height of 1 410mm, the Panel Van is designed to make work easier. All Panel Van derivatives provide a spacious load compartment with volume of 6.7m³.

T6.1 Crew Bus
The biggest difference between the Crew Bus and the Panel Van is that the Crew Bus has a single front passenger seat as well as removable rear seating for a further three passengers, whereas the Panel Van only has seats for the driver and front passenger. The Transporter Crew Bus offers three options of engines in addition to the choice of wheelbases. Access to the rear passenger area is through a double near-side glazed sliding door, while at the rear there’s a glazed tailgate with heated window and wash-wiper. Featuring a robust rubber floor covering throughout the cab and cargo area, as well as four load-lashing rings in the cargo area, the Crew Bus’ flexible interior can be transformed in seconds from a comfortable five, six, eight or ten-seater, into a spacious delivery van.

T6.1 Kombi
The T6.1 Kombi, the best-seller in the range, is being offered in two model lines: the Trendline and the top-of-the-range Trendline Plus. The Kombi’s interior trim is in Titanium Black in all model lines, as are the seat covers in the standard version. The door handles are in chrome. In addition, the Kombi is embellished inside in all models by chrome-look trim and black instrument visors. Even on the base Trendline version, the Kombi’s bumpers are painted in the vehicle body colour. In the Kombi, the Circuit fabric is used as standard. The backs of the seats are also equipped with two new pockets to create space for gadgets such as smart phones.

T6.1 Caravelle
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles covers a huge variety of possible uses with the Caravelle – from a large taxi to an elegant shuttle bus. The Caravelle is only being offered as a Highline model. The T6.1 Caravelle Highline leaves the factory in the German city of Hannover with a chrome-look trim (in the air vents, the spokes of the multi-function steering wheel and as edging around the gear lever), black sun visors, decorative strips in the Pewter Wave Grey pattern (instrument panel and door panels) and leather seats in Nappa leather. Standard features of the Highline include; 17-inch Woodstock black diamond-turned alloy wheels, electrically adjustable, heated and folding exterior mirrors, digital cockpit, ‘Discover Pro’ with 10.25-inch touch screen, Wireless App-Connect and USB, Crosswind Assist, Side Assist (blind spot monitoring), centre table and Trailer Assist with Park Distance Control in front and rear and a rear view camera. Optional features include the cooler box with additional battery and Adaptive Chassis Control.

T6.1 California Coast
More than 18 000 California’s are sold internationally each year, thus making the California the number 1 camper van. Both a camper and a van, it is ideal for big trips and daily journeys. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has further refined the top seller; the living and sleeping areas of the camper van have been carefully enhanced and optimised.

TDI engines deliver between 81kW and 146kW
The T6.1 range will launch with three 2.0-litre turbo diesel (TDI) engines with common rail injection that are both economical and sustainable. The four-cylinder engines deliver between 81kW and 146kW of power.

2.0-litre TDI delivering 81kW
The 2.0 TDI develops a power output of 81kW. The maximum torque of 250 Nm is already available at the very low engine speed of 1 250rpm. It is fitted with a 5-speed manual gearbox and has a fuel consumption 7.9 l/100 km in the Pick Up Single Cab and Double Cab, 7.5 l/100 km in the Panel Van and 7.3 l/100 km in the Crew Bus and Kombi.

2.0-litre TDI delivering 110kW
With a power output of 110 kW (as of 3 250 to 3 750 rpm) the front-wheel drive T6.1 with a 7-speed gearbox reaches an impressive top speed of 172 km/h. What is much more decisive, however, is this TDI’s supreme traction, which is down to the high maximum torque of 340 Nm – a level that is consistently available between 1 500 and 3 000 rpm. In the Pick Up Single Cab, Panel Van, Crew Bus and Kombi, the powerful engine consumes between 8.0 – 8.3 l/100 km.

2.0-litre BiTDI delivering 146 kW
The model with the top engine specification is powered by a 146 kW twin turbo engine, which is supplied as standard in combination with 7-speed DSG®. The TDI delivers its highest power output between 3 800 and 4 000 rpm. The engine develops its very high maximum torque of 450 Nm between 1 400 and 2 400 rpm. This powerful drive train accelerates the T6.1 to a speed of up to 191 km/h. The derivatives that are offered with this engine are the Pick Up Double Cab, Crew Bus, Kombi, Caravelle as well as the California Coast. Recommended Retail Price as of 1 September 2020 (VAT and emissions tax included)

T6.1 Pick Up

Single Cab 2.0 TDI 81kW LWB R412 800
Single Cab 2.0 TDI 110kW 4MOTION® DSG® LWB R466 100
Double Cab 2.0 TDI 81kW LWB R485 300
Double Cab 2.0 BiTDI 146kW 4MOTION® DSG® LWB R590 800

T6.1 Panel Van

2.0 TDI 81kW LWB R530 600
2.0 TDI 110kW DSG® LWB R568 700

T6.1 Crew Bus

2.0 TDI 81kW LWB (10-seater) R612 000
2.0 TDI 110kW 4MOTION® DSG® LWB (5-seater) R639 000
2.0 BiTDI 146kW 4MOTION® DSG® (5-seater) R710 500
2.0 BiTDI 146kW 4MOTION® DSG® LWB (8-seater) R752 700

T6.1 Kombi

2.0 TDI 81kW Trendline R697 700
2.0 TDI 110kW DSG® Trendline R726 000
2.0 BiTDI 146kW 4MOTION® DSG® Trendline Plus R871 800

T6.1 Caravelle

Highline 2.0 BiTDI 146kW 4MOTION® DSG® R1 149 400

T6.1 California

California Coast 2.0 BiTDI 146kW 4MOTION® DSG® R1 196 500 The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Pick Up, Panel Van and Crew Bus range comes standard with a 3-year/60 000 km Easy Drive Service Plan, 2-year/unlimited km manufacturer warranty. The Kombi, Caravelle and California range comes standard with a 5-year/ 60 000km maintenance plan and a 3-year/ 120 000km manufacturer warranty. The entire T6.1 range comes standard with a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km.

Schaefer leaves VWSA to join ŠKODA Auto

• Thomas Schaefer appointed as the new Global CEO for ŠKODA Auto
• Dr Robert Cisek will take over as the new Chairman and Managing Director for VWSA

Port Elizabeth - Thomas Schaefer is leaving Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) to join ŠKODA Auto as the new Global CEO effective 3 August 2020.

With this investment, Ghana becomes the fifth Volkswagen vehicle assembly location in Sub-Sahara Africa; the other locations are in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Rwanda.

Schaefer has been the Chairman and Managing Director of VWSA since February 2015. In 2017, his role was expanded to include the responsibility for Sub Saharan Africa as part of Volkswagen’s expansion strategy into the region. Since then, Volkswagen has established its presence in Kenya, Rwanda and Ghana, and has signed Memorandums of Understanding with the governments of Nigeria and Ethiopia.

Under Schaefer’s leadership, VWSA has continued to maintain its dominance in the local passenger car market, with the Polo and Polo Vivo manufactured at the Uitenhage factory as the best-selling passenger models as well as ramping up international exports by 30%.

In 2019, VWSA enjoyed a record year with the Uitenhage factory achieving its highest production volume of 161 954 units and the Volkswagen Brand reporting a record-market share of 20.4%, the highest since 1996.

Schaefer will be succeeded by Dr Robert Cisek (44), who is currently responsible for the Production Strategy of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars Brand in Wolfsburg. Dr Cisek holds a doctorate degree in Industrial Management from the Technical University of Munich. He also holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Technical University of Munich. He joined Volkswagen in 2018 from BMW Group. His experience at BMW Group included Head of Industrial Engineering, Head of Press Shop and managing a company-wide performance programme aimed at securing long-term profitability targets.

Dr Cisek has also worked for McKinsey & Company where he served clients in automotive, aerospace and defence, telecommunication and industrial automation on topics such as growth strategy, portfolio optimisation, research and development efficiency and manufacturing excellence.

Schaefer said: “My tenure as the MD of VWSA has been the highlight of my career so far. I am immensely proud to have worked for and led such an impactful and good company. Together with my team, we have moved VWSA forward with outstanding production and sales results which have earned our company recognition locally and abroad.”

Volkswagen opens vehicle assembly facility in Ghana

• President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen welcome the first Volkswagen assembled in Ghana at the official launch of Volkswagen Ghana and announcement of the Volkswagen’s investment in the country
• Ghana becomes Volkswagen’s fifth assembly location in Sub-Sahara Africa

Accra/Uitenhage – Volkswagen is expanding its footprint in Sub-Sahara Africa with the official opening of a vehicle assembly facility in Accra, Ghana.

With this investment, Ghana becomes the fifth Volkswagen vehicle assembly location in Sub-Sahara Africa; the other locations are in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Rwanda.

The event to announce Volkswagen’s investment and the unveiling of the first vehicle assembled in Ghana was attended by the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen, and cabinet ministers.

The official opening of the vehicle assembly facility in the West African country, which has a population of about 30 million people, is the realisation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which Volkswagen signed with the Government of Ghana in the presence of the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, nearly two years ago.

The Government of Ghana has also fulfilled its MoU undertaking to develop a comprehensive Automotive Industry Policy with the recent promulgation of the Ghana Automotive Development Policy (GADP), which is a groundbreaking and blueprint automotive policy in the West African region.

GADP has paved the way for Volkswagen to solidify its commitment in Ghana with the initial investment in the first phase of its long term vehicle assembly plans.

Universal Motors Limited, a licensed Volkswagen importer since 2005, has been awarded the assembly contract for the initial phase of the project. The Universal Motors facility in Accra has an installed capacity to assembly 5 000 units per annum. The models to be assembled using Semi Knocked Down (SKD) assembly kits are Tiguan, Teramont, Passat, Polo and Amarok.

Thomas Schaefer, Head of Volkswagen Sub-Sahara Region and Managing Director of Volkswagen Group South Africa, said: “The opening of our vehicle assembly facility in Ghana is another exciting chapter of our expansion journey in the Sub-Sahara Africa region. This is a big step into establishing our presence in the West African region. I wish to commend the Government of Ghana under the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Akufo-Addo, for introducing a comprehensive policy that is set to transform the automotive industry in West Africa.”

Schaefer added: “Volkswagen is committed to helping Ghana to develop a modern automotive industry as part of the country’s industrial transformation agenda.”

Schaefer also announced the establishment of Volkswagen Ghana, which is the first automotive company to be registered under GADP. Volkswagen Ghana is a 100% subsidiary of Volkswagen. It is a registered assembler and will be responsible for the importation of the SKD kits and Fully Built Units (FBU). Jeffrey J. Oppong Peprah has been appointed as the CEO of Volkswagen Ghana.

Volkswagen is strengthening the regions and focusing on new up-and-coming markets as part of its TRANSFORM 2025+ brand strategy. Alongside North and South America as well as China, the Sub-Sahara region plays an increasingly important role. Although the African automotive market is comparatively small today, the Sub-Sahara region has the potential to develop into an automotive growth market of the future.

Volkswagen brings relief to healthcare facilities in Nelson Mandela Bay

• VWSA assists NHLS to boost testing capacity in the Metro
• Protective equipment handed over to Department of Health for frontline workers at hospitals and clinics

Port Elizabeth – To better equip the healthcare facilities in Nelson Mandela Bay in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) has provided protective gear to the provincial Department of Health for frontline workers at healthcare institutions across the metro.

The personal protective equipment (PPE), which was handed over to Department today, includes:

• 50 000 N95 personalised masks
• 65 000 Disposable Gowns
• 2 Million Latex & Nitrile Gloves
• 1 000 Visors

According to Ossip, “Our driving behaviour technology allows us to collect telematics data for each driver on our Vitality Drive programme, making it possible to tailor-make premiums for our warranty product.” This telematics-based warranty cover is a world-first, with up to 100% vehicle servicing discounts for driving well.

The PPE will be distributed to staff at the three main Covid-19 hospitals in the Metro, which are Dora Nginza Hospital, Livingstone Hospital and Uitenhage Provincial Hospital, as well as other regional Primary Care Clinics and Covid-19 test centres.

VWSA also handed over 200 Digital Infrared Thermometers, 150 Portable finger-tip pulse oximeters and 40 Stand-alone table top pulse oximeters, which are critical medical equipment for the assessment and treatment of Covid-19 patients.

VWSA procured the protective equipment as part of their greater project to convert its former Port Elizabeth plant into the Rev. Dr Elizabeth Mamisa Chabula-Nxiweni Field Hospital. The first phase of this hospital for Covid-19 patients was handed over to the Department on 23 June. Funding for both the hospital and the protective equipment was provided by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), which committed R100 million to the project, implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. R10 million of this funding was used for protective equipment.

Our frontline healthcare workers are in dire need of the PPE in order to feel safe and be able to do their work, which is to provide care and save the lives of our people. It is our wish that this PPE will bring relief and hope to our healthcare workers who have been toiling under difficult circumstances to treat the Covid-19 patients,” said VWSA Chairman and Managing Director Thomas Schaefer.

Using R4 million of the funding from the BMZ, VWSA also supported the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) branch in Port Elizabeth. This laboratory is responsible for the majority of Covid-19 testing in the metro, with a current testing capacity of around 1 500 tests per day. VWSA assisted the NHLS by performing extensive renovations to turn an open office space into a fully-fledged Molecular Virology laboratory in the space of 18 days. The company also analysed and recommended improvements to the NHLS’s testing processes to increase efficiency. With a full staff complement, these improvements would increase the testing capacity to over 3 000 tests a day, thereby more than doubling the current daily testing capacity.

“We need to be able to trace the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic to fight it - the faster we act, the better we can keep it from spreading further,” said Schaefer. “That is why it is absolutely crucial for the NHLS to have the capability to analyse tests and deliver results quickly. “As VWSA we are proud to be able to contribute our expertise and assist the NHLS in optimising their processes to reach this capacity. We are also grateful to the German government, who made these improvements possible. We will keep supporting those who lead the fight against Covid-19 wherever possible.”

The Premier of the Eastern Cape, Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, said the provincial government was grateful to VWSA for its continuous contribution to the fight against Covid-19. “The donation of PPE and testing resources are giving us a shot in the arm as we continue with saving the lives of our people,” said Mabuyane. “We appreciate the contribution by VWSA because they are contributing to the work being done by the collective. As we are fighting this virus together, we will continue to support many people to recover from infections.

“The impressive recovery numbers we are seeing in the Eastern Cape are made possible by contributions from companies like VWSA, the health workers in our health system, and members of the public who comply with the Covid-19 precautions and prevention measures. We must continue fighting the virus by protecting each other. This investment will benefit the health workers who are on the frontline against this pandemic and will help bolster our testing capabilities, so that we can provide healthcare to those who need it after testing positive.”

QUARTERLY REVIEW OF BUSINESS CONDITIONS: NEW MOTOR VEHICLE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY / AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR: 2nd QUARTER 2020

Attached, for information purposes, is a copy of NAAMSA’s quarterly review of business conditions for the South African motor vehicle manufacturing industry, during the second quarter of 2020, as submitted to the DirectorGeneral, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition.

Industry vehicle sales, export and import statistics for 2011 through 2019, together with current projections for 2020, are reflected on the attachment to the submission.

According to Ossip, “Our driving behaviour technology allows us to collect telematics data for each driver on our Vitality Drive programme, making it possible to tailor-make premiums for our warranty product.” This telematics-based warranty cover is a world-first, with up to 100% vehicle servicing discounts for driving well.

• Overall a quarter of extremities due to the COVID-19 impact but in line with domestic motor industry expectations and global trends in other major vehicle manufacturing countries
• Second quarter 2020 industry employment reflected a decline of 467 jobs to reach 29 529 positions at end June 2020
• Industry capacity utilisation levels in the various segments reflect the impact of the COVID-19 country lockdown restrictions on the automotive industry as well as the ongoing recessionary economic climate in the country during the quarter
• Aggregate capital expenditure by the major vehicle manufacturers in 2019 recorded its second highest level on record at R7,274 billion
• All vehicle segments reflected massive year-on-year declines during the quarter, linked to the temporary closure of the entire motor industry during the quarter due to the COVID-19 country lockdown restrictions as well as in mirroring the current negative economic growth rate in the country as a leading economic indicator
• Aggregate new vehicle sales registered the biggest quarterly decline on record with the second quarter 2020 reflecting a massive fall of 63,4% compared to the second quarter 2019, which exceeds the 34,8% decline experienced in the first quarter 2009 as a result of the global financial crisis by far
• With the easing of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in South Africa and abroad, expectations are for the domestic new vehicle market and export sales to improve during the second half of the year, but it is anticipated that the new vehicle market could drop back to the levels of 20 years ago

Volkswagen Motorsport to Defend GTC championship in the Golf 8 GTI

• Volkswagen's new Global Touring Cars (GTC) racing car, the new GOlf 8 GTI, was unveiled at the virtual event.
• The Golf 8 GTI will be officially launched in South Africa in 2021

Johannesburg – Today, Volkswagen Motorsport unveiled its new Global Touring Cars (GTC) racing car through a virtual event which was streamed live on social media.

Volkswagen Motorsport's new GTC racing car is built using the Golf 8 GTI body. "For the past four years we have been racing with the Jetta. Since the Jetta is no longer offered in the Right-hand drive markets, we had to find an appropriate successor and that is where the idea to use the Golf 8 GTI came from. Even though the Golf 8 GTI will only be officially Launched and available from South African dealers in 2021, we wanted to use this opportunity to showcase the Golf 8 GTI's performance attributes ahead of the local markets introduction," said Martina Biene, Head if the Volkswagen Brand.

Global Touring Cars (GTC), which launched in South Afric in 2016, is the premier motorsport championship in South Africa and includes the main GTC Championship (GTC1) as well as the Second, GTC2.

Volkswagen Motorsport will compete in the two Golf 8 GTI's in the GTC1. They will be driven by 2019 GTC champion Keagen Masters and Daniel Rowe, the 2016 GTC2 champion. Volkswagen Motorsport will also be represented in the SupaCup, Which replaces GTC@, by 2016 Driver Search winner and 2017 Polo Cup Rookie winner, Jonathan Mogotsi, Mogotsi will be racing the SupaCup Polo, which is a newly developed car for the second tier class within the GTC Championship. The new ca is an exciting addition to South African motorsport and Produces over 200kw coupled to a locally developed 6-speed M-Trac Sequential Gearbox.

In the GTC series all the vehicles have to adhere to strict control measures which feature a common chassis, running gear,a single ECU to cintrol performance, tyres, suspension and other components.

"New features in the Golf 8 GTI racing car include an all-new chrome moly tubular chassis whic is much stiffer and lighter than the previous generation GTC car," said Mike Rowe, head of the Volkswagen Motorsport.

Even with five manufactures competing in the GTC series, it is one of the most premier circuit racing series in Africa due to its competitive nature. It is a tought chapionship to win, so consistent scoring of points at every round is very important," added Rowe.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic we have not been permitted to race and as the Motorsport fraternity we are all hoping that by August, we can get the cars on the track, although it will most likely to be without any spectators," concluded Rowe.

The start of the official 2020 South African Mototsport circuit racing season is stil unconfirmed, but it is hoped that motorsport events can resume in August 2020 and the first round will likely start at Zwartkops Raceway in Johannesburg.

VolkswagenVolkswagen hands over first phase of Covid-19 temporary medical facility

• The first phase of this temporary facility could accommodate 1 485 patients
• testing capacity

Uitenhage – Seven weeks after the initial announcement of the company’s plans to provide a temporary medical facility for Covid-19 patients, Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) today handed over the first phase of this project to the Eastern Cape Department of Health.

VWSA announced on 5 May that they would make their former Port Elizabeth plant, situated in Neave, available as an overflow facility to provide care for those diagnosed with Covid-19. With funding from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), VWSA has since completed the first phase of equipping this facility, which can now accommodate 1 485 patients including high-acuity patients who require oxygenation. Once the second and third phases are complete, in accordance with the Department of Health’s standard operating procedures for field hospitals the facility could accommodate more than 3 300 beds for patients.

The conversion of this 66 000m² building is the result of collaboration between VWSA, Eastern Cape Department of Health, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber. BMZ provided funding of 5.2 million Euros (R100 million). A performance framework for the project was developed by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. The Business Chamber assisted in facilitating the project, while the Department of Health will be responsible for running the facility, with support from the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Aside from managing the process of equipping the facility, VWSA contributed 1.3 million Euros (R25 million) for the facility, as well as the procurement of protective gear for staff at regional tertiary hospitals, regional Primary Care Clinics and Covid-19 test centres.

600 000 Euros (R11 million) of this funding will also be used in support of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) branch in Port Elizabeth, which is responsible for the majority of Covid-19 testing in the metro. The branch is currently facing immense pressure amid challenges that include the shortage of testing kits. The assistance from VWSA will include the sourcing of necessary equipment, and improving the process flow of testing – all with the goal of doubling the current laboratory’s daily average output of 1 500 tests to more than 3 000 tests.

“We have learned that collaboration is key when facing an unprecedented threat such as Covid-19,” said Thomas Schaefer, Chairman and Managing Director of VWSA. “This pandemic requires us to act decisively and with speed. VWSA has answered this call by completing and delivering phase 1 of the medical facility at the time when it is desperately needed by our Metro which is currently experiencing an alarming increase of infections. We are honoured to be able to provide this facility so our communities can receive the care they need during this difficult period of our lifetime.

“The testing process in the Metro needs to be optimised to enable tracing. This remains crucial as it will ultimately allow us to curb the spread of the virus. It is our hope that the support we offer to the NHLS will enable them to perform their potentially life-saving duties more effectively. I am very grateful to the German government for making both these projects possible and helping us to protect our community.”

The Premier of the Eastern Cape, Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, welcomed the completion of the first phase of the field hospital. “The intervention by Volkswagen Group South Africa and the German government, to invest in the establishment of this 3 300-bed field hospital, came at the right time as more than 12 000 people in our province are infected by Covid-19,” said Mabuyane. “It is neatly dovetailing into our broader strategy of establishing field hospitals to fight Covid-19 in the Eastern Cape. We were looking for more beds to increase our capacity and ensure that whoever is in need of hospitalisation, would be able to get that support from this public-private partnership.”

Mabuyane revealed that the hospital will be named the Rev. Dr Elizabeth Mamisa Chabula-Nxiweni Field Hospital. This name was chosen in honour of Rev. Dr Chabula-Nxiweni, a retired Port Elizabeth doctor and vocal advocate for safe circumcision during initiation ceremonies. Dr Chabula-Nxiweni is also a Presbyterian minister, a former Nelson Mandela Bay Municipal Health Chief and a pioneer in caring for young initiates who have suffered as a result of unsafe circumcision practices.

“This is an honour to one of our brightest medical minds with a heart of gold and a spirit to serve our people. With this honour, we thank her for her service to our people,” said Mabuyane.

Mabuyane said the provincial government would provide healthcare workers to work at the new field hospital and its pharmacy. “The German government and VWSA have shown their good hearts in answering this call for international solidarity. This investment in human beings came at the right time. It’s a very progressive way of ploughing back into the community where you are doing business.

“3 330 beds is huge; we appreciate the humanitarian gesture by the donors. It is a responsible investment. We are in this campaign to save lives.”

Dr Gerd Müller, the German Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, commented: “I am pleased that the temporary hospital in Port Elizabeth opened today. Working together with Volkswagen South Africa, we have managed in just seven weeks to convert a factory that was not being used into a facility for Covid-19 patients. We are thus able to provide 3 300 additional hospital beds including 800 with oxygenation. This contribution is part of our global Emergency Covid-19 Support Programme to help expand health infrastructure in developing countries, ensure food security and stabilise crisis and refugee regions. This support is needed because the coronavirus has not only caused a global health crisis; it has also led to a dramatic food and economic crisis. We all must realise that we either beat Covid-19 worldwide or not at all.”

Volkswagen’s best dealers recognised via a virtual awards ceremony.

• Volkswagen’s annual Grand Prix Awards recognise the best performing dealers in the network
• Due to social distancing guidelines, for the first time in the history of the brand, the awards were live streamed

Johannesburg – The annual Grand Prix Awards, which were held on 11 June 2020, recognise the best performing dealers in the Volkswagen Brand.

This year’s ceremony themed, ‘Made to Move You’ was slightly different. For the first time in the history of the Grand Prix Awards, the ceremony was hosted as a virtual event. This year’s awards were streamed to all 109 Volkswagen dealers in an effort to adhere to social distancing guidelines.

“Over 50 000 vehicle sales were channelled through the Volkswagen Dealer Network last year. Our Dealers played an important role in helping the Volkswagen Passenger Car brand to achieve its highest market share since 1996. Even in the time of the Covid-19 pandemic and social distancing guidelines, we found an innovative way to recognise their achievements,” said Mike Glendinning, Volkswagen Group South Africa Sales and Marketing Director.

A total of 87 awards were presented during the ceremony which rewarded the exceptional performance of the Volkswagen dealerships in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana.

The two most prestigious awards of the night were awarded to Mike McNaughton and Sally McNaughton from the Kelston Group who won the Dealer Micro Group of the Year award and Brad Kaftel from the Hatfield Group, who walked away with the Macro Dealer Group of the Year Award (the third year in a row).

The Volkswagen Dealer of the Year is bestowed upon the Volkswagen Dealership that delivers the best overall results across various disciplines of the business, on a consistent basis whilst representing the Volkswagen brand values at the highest level. The Dealer of the Year Award, which is the most coveted award at the Grand Prix’s, went to Michael Kaftel from Hatfield VW Rivonia.

“The Dealer Network is an integral aspect of Volkswagen South Africa’s business and accounts for over 70% of our sales. The Volkswagen brand’s exceptional performance in 2019 was fuelled by a strong dealer performance. I am proud of the commitment shown by our dealers who continue to make the Volkswagen Brand the most-loved passenger car brand in South Africa,” concluded Glendinning.

Motus Financial Services and Discovery Insure partner on new telematics-based warranty product.

(JOHANNESBURG, South Africa) 15 June 2020. The South African economy has suffered tremendously due to the global and national COVID-19 epidemic. As we gradually move back to ‘normal’, many consumers are taking advantage of incredibly low interest rates to secure new vehicle purchases.

Discovery Insure CEO, Anton Ossip, announced the launch of a new product in their offering, providing vehicle warranty cover to its clients. The new product, available exclusively to Discovery Insure clients, comprises comprehensive and market-leading mechanical breakdown and electrical failure cover for 36 critical vehicle components, with no cover limits.

According to Ossip, “Our driving behaviour technology allows us to collect telematics data for each driver on our Vitality Drive programme, making it possible to tailor-make premiums for our warranty product.” This telematics-based warranty cover is a world-first, with up to 100% vehicle servicing discounts for driving well.

CEO of Motus Financial Services Kerry Cassel adds, “We are able to cover a more comprehensive list of critical components, with no limits, due to the data we have collected from operating in the motor industry market for decades. This product encourages good driving with premiums based on a driver’s specific driving profile as well as the unique circumstances of the vehicle compared to a market where premiums are mostly undifferentiated.”

Discovery Insure, a leading South African short-term insurance company, has its ambition to create a nation of great drivers. Its business model is anchored on its Shared-value Insurance model that encourages drivers through the Vitality Drive programme to improve their driving behaviour, using telematics data collected from their vehicles, and reward them for their good driving.

Motus Financial Services develops and distributes innovative vehicle-related financial products and services through importers, distributors, dealers, finance houses, call centres and digital channels. Motus is South Africa’s largest automotive group and undisputed leader in mobility. Apart from its interests in financial services, Motus represents 22 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) through over 300 strategically located dealerships. Its unrivalled footprint across South Africa allows Motus to quickly gauge changes in motoring trends.

“Together, our two companies saw a business opportunity in the market where we could combine Motus’ expertise in the vehicle Warranty business with Discovery Insure’s Vitality Drive programme to create the world’s first telematics-based Warranty product,” said Ossip.

“By driving well, drivers who have our telematics-based Warranty product will be able to access the Vitality Drive vehicle servicing benefit discount up to a maximum of 100% depending on the Vitality Drive status of the client, limited to a R5 000 spend, when visiting a dealership that is part of our vast network, including over 270 Motus Retail service centres as well as Bosch service centres.”

Cassel adds, “Through our extensive years of experience in the vehicle and warranty business, we knew that good drivers looked after their cars and would be better clients to offer warranty cover to.”

“As Discovery Insure, we are excited to work with Motus to bring this world class offering to our clients,” says Kgodiso Mokonyane, Head of Strategy at Discovery Insure. “We look forward to seeing the success of this product and creating a stronger relationship to bring more value to our clients.”

Volkswagen's T-Roc to complete the SUV range in South Africa

• Volkswagen's T-Roc to complete the SUV range in South Africa
• With the T-Roc, Volkswagen is completing its range of SUVs in South Africa
• The T-Roc will go on sale in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana at the beginning of November 2020

Johannesburg - Volkswagen has added a fifth model to the brand's SUV range in South Africa, the T-Roc. The T-SUV range in the Southern African market now consists of the T-Cross, T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and the Touareg.

The SUV market is growing rapidly in South Africa and from 2015 to 2019, it increased by 44%. International experts estimate that the compact SUV segment worldwide will almost double in size over the next decade. It is for this reason that Volkswagen South Africa is introducing another attractive model in the compact SUV space, less than 12 months since the launch of the T-Cross.

As part of the biggest model offensive in its history, Volkswagen is extending its model range by adding a compact-class crossover. The new crossover from Volkswagen brings fresh impetus to the compact SUV class and sets a new benchmark in the SUV segment with its functionality, dynamic handling and technology. The T-Roc, which slots above the T-Cross and below the Tiguan in the Volkswagen SUV range, offers maximum personalisation, innovative digitalisation, perfect connectivity, class-leading driver assistance systems, dynamic engines and above all a modern and expressive design. In the local market, the T-Roc will be available in the following derivatives; 1.4 TSI 110kW Design, 2.0 TSI 140kW 4MOTION® DSG® Design and the 2.0 TSI 140kW 4MOTION® DSG® R-Line. The introduction of the T-Roc comes with new naming for the trim lines under Volkswagen's new "Y" structure line up. The base models will branch out into two different line structures offering different levels of specification to suit the different customer needs. The T-Roc offering has the Design line for customers looking for more styling elements and the R-Line is aimed at customers looking for more sporty levels of specification.

Exterior design Numerous design elements define the new five-seater's style; at the front it is the wide radiator grille unit with integrated dual headlights and the repositioned light signature, which make the T-Roc unmistakable even at night. The lines of the elongated silhouette are characterised by a particularly striking chrome element that runs from the A-pillars across the complete side roof line all the way into the C-pillar and is reminiscent of a coupé. The off-road look is enhanced by all-round, dark plastic trim, which protects the bodywork around the wheel arches and side sills, as well as the vehicle's front and rear. The rear bumper styling is just as distinctive as the front, with the design aimed to frame the rear lid and in turn give the T-Roc a sportier look. The T-Roc will also be amongst the first Volkswagen models to display the new Volkswagen logo in South Africa.

The T-Roc is the first Volkswagen SUV that will be available to order in two-tone paintwork with visually contrasting roof section (including the A-pillars and exterior mirror housings). On the Design derivatives, customers have a choice of pure white, red and black on the roof and exterior mirror housings. These roof and exterior mirror housings can be paired with various exterior colours, thus giving T-Roc customers 26 different colour options. The R-Line derivative will have 21 different colour options.

The Design derivatives come standard with the 17-inch Mayfield alloy wheel and have two further options of an 18-inch Montego alloy wheel as well as an 18-inch Grange Hill alloy wheel. The R-Line derivative comes standard with the 19-inch Suzuka alloy wheel. The T-Roc is based on the modular transverse matrix (MQB) meaning that the T-Roc offers a Golf-like level of ride comfort; it is 80millimetres longer than the T-Cross and 162millimetres shorter than the Tiguan. When all five seats are occupied, luggage space is 445 litres. The backrests can also be folded down in a 60/40 split, yielding luggage capacity of up to 1 290 litres and hardly any other SUV in this class offers such a spacious package.

Interior features The interior has been adapted to match the exterior design. It has a robust SUV feel and modern treatment of surfaces. The interplay between the Active Info Display and the specific infotainment system creates a new, digital and interactive cockpit. To further enhance the individual offering, the Design derivative, in addition to the standard limestone grey dashboard colour, has a further three interior colours to choose from, whilst on the R-Line derivative, the interior dashboard colour is Caribou Grey. Ambient lighting, which is white for the Design derivative and red for the R-Line derivative, completes the interior style design.

Innovative digital offering The T-Roc will come standard with Composition Media radio and App-Connect. The Composition radio has an 8-inch colour touch screen with two USB ports easily located in the centre console of the vehicle. App-Connect makes it possible to connect your smartphone to the radio system which enables the user to operate selected mobile phone apps from the touchscreen. In the T-Roc App-Connect has been upgraded to Wireless App-Connect, meaning you no longer need to connect your smart phone to the USB port in order to get this functionality (this is only available with Discover Media system). In addition to being able to charge your phone via the USB ports, the Composition Media radio also has the option for compatible phones to be charged inductively. This mobile inductive charging function is standard on the R-Line derivative. If integrated navigation is required, Discover Media infotainment is available as an optional feature.

We Connect Go is also standard in the range and allows T-Roc customers to pair their vehicle to their smartphone. The We Connect Go app functionality includes the following; vehicle data, access to the nearest or preferred Volkswagen dealer, records for the tax log book and gamification. The instrument cluster can be full digitalised with the optional Active Info Display digital cluster. The high resolution 11.7-inch screen, makes it possible to adapt instruments to personal needs in various screen views. The interplay between the Active Info Display and the infotainment system creates a new digital and interactive cockpit.

I.Q Drive technologies. In the T-Roc, the level of passive safety features included are Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Park Distance Control, LED Headlights, Light and Vision Package, Blind Spot Monitor and Fatigue Detection. In addition to these safety features, I.Q Drive technologies are also available on the T-Roc. The technologies support Volkswagen's journey to autonomous driving and represent the relevant driver assistant systems which aid the parking, driving and security of the T-Roc. The I.Q Drive technologies included in the T-Roc are Park Assist, Emergency Assist, Front Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist. Emergency Assist which is standard on the T-Roc uses a number of technologies in the car to assist the driver when they are unable to.

Traffic Jam Assist utilises functions from the Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist to enable convenient and safe stop-and-go driving in heavy traffic situations. Front Assist uses sensors to detect situations where the distance to the vehicle ahead is critical and it helps to shorten the vehicles stopping distance. In dangerous situations the system alerts the driver by visual and audible signals. Pedestrian Monitoring, which is a new offering, is an extension of Front Assist. It utilises two sensors at the front to acquire information from the front of the vehicle. If required the vehicle will trigger an audible and visual signal to warn the driver of obstructions and could also brake the vehicle if required within system limits. Lane Assist which is standard on the R-Line derivative is activated via the multifunction steering wheel and active from 65km/h. If the vehicle starts to depart from the lane, the Lane Assist will warn the driver by means of an audible system, vibrating of the steering wheel or corrective steering intervention.

Specifications Standard specification on the 1.4 TSI Design and 2.0 TSI Design derivatives are details such as climatronic air conditioning, the Composition Media infotainment system, connectivity via the We Connect Go app, Voice Control, LED tail light cluster, visual underbody guard (black) and Park Distance Control (front and rear). The top-of-the-range T-Roc R-Line comes standard with high-tech systems such as Front Assist area monitoring with City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring, the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and the lane keeping system Lane Assist. Also standard on the top-of-the-range R-Line derivative are the Light Assist package, LED daytime running lights in the bumper and dynamic cornering lights, 19-inch Suzuka alloy wheels, the latest generation Active info display, Keyless entry, Mobile phone inductive charging, Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist and Vienna leather seats.

Optional features on all derivatives includes; the panoramic sunroof, electronic trailer hitch, smoker's package, Discover Pro navigation system with a 9.2-inch screen, the Beats sound system and the Park Package.

Two petrol engines for the T-Roc model range The new T-Roc can be ordered with a choice of two efficient petrol engines at launch. Customers have a choice of the 1.4 TSI 8-speed Tiptronic engine with a power output of 110kW at 5 000 - 6 000rpm and torque of 250Nm. The entry-level engine reaches 0 - 100km/h in 8.4 seconds, has a fuel consumption of 6.9l/100km and a top speed of 205km.

The 2.0 TSI engine with 7-speed DSG® and 4MOTION® is the second engine in the range and has a power output of 140kW and torque of 320Nm. It takes just 7.2 seconds to go from 0 - 100km, with the top speed being 216km. The fuel consumption on this engine is 8.3l/100km.

The Volkswagen T-Roc comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 5 year/ 90 000km Volkswagen Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service interval is 15 000km. The T-Roc 1.4TSI 110kW Tiptronic Design and 2.0TSI 140kW 4MOTION® DSG® R-Line will officially go on sale in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana from November 2020. The 2.0TSI 140kW 4MOTION® DSG® Design derivative will go on sale in January 2020.

Due to the volatility of exchange rates in the last few months, Volkswagen South Africa will only announce pricing for the T-Roc range in August 2020.

The best time to buy a new vehicle? Now.

• Combination of factors driving reduced cost of vehicle ownership
• Reduction in fuel price dramatically reduces major running cost
• Average mileage at reduced levels will result in lower running costs for years to come

(JOHANNESBURG, South Africa) 29 May 2020. As South Africa prepares to move to Alert Level 3 on the 1st of June, Motus has seen renewed interest in vehicle sales enquiries. Representing 22 Original Equipment Manufactures (OEMs) through over 300 strategically located dealerships, Motus is South Africa’s largest automotive group and undisputed leader in mobility. Its unrivalled footprint across South Africa allows Motus to quickly gauge changes in consumer motoring trends.

“The cost of vehicle ownership has reduced dramatically in just a few months as a side effect of the lockdown as well as global economic factors,” says Osman Arbee, CEO, Motus. “The marked recovery in new and used vehicle enquiries across the Motus network suggests South African buyers intend to make the most of this unprecedented reduction in the cost of vehicle ownership.”

The South Africa motoring market is driven by value and quality. Owners tend to keep their vehicles much longer than the average global buyer. Consequently, local consumers place a lot more emphasis on the cost of ownership and running costs when choosing a new vehicle. Given that a car is often the second most expensive purchase for many South Africans a lot of research is done before making the final purchasing decision.

Based on several factors monitored by Motus the current cost of ownership has seen a reduction of approximately 15% when compared to February 2020. Over the past few months there have been major changes in three critical factors that impact the cost of ownership:

• The prime lending rate has dropped from 9.75% to 7.75%, reducing monthly repayments by approximately 7% (depending on finance structure);
• The cost of fuel has dropped by 23.8%, while the average mileage per vehicle is down by 8.6% as a result of the country-wide lockdown. This means the average fuel spend per vehicle contracted by around 30% in total;
• Maintenance costs are down by at least 9% as a result of lower mileages travelled.

While the current cost of vehicle ownership is the lowest it has been in a number of years, Motus anticipates that the lower mileages travelled will result in people keeping their cars for longer. A significant number of customers have negotiated a ‘payment holiday’ with their banks, and these extended repayment terms will contribute to extending ownership periods. Based on current statistics, the ownership period is anticipated to extend from an average of 42 months to between 45 and 47 months.

In addition, average mileage travelled per customer per year is anticipated to drop from an average of 22,965 km to 18,542 km and in all likelihood will only start increasing once the country has returned to Level 1. Furthermore, its projected that average mileages will continue to remain lower in the months (and even years) to come as many businesses continue with work from home, and make use of virtual meeting alternatives.

“Although movement will increase as the country reopens, most South Africans realise that movement will remain restricted for a long time, which means cost of ownership is likely to remain at these low levels for a similarly long time. It is, in many respects, the perfect time to purchase a new car,” says Arbee.

Volkswagen’s T-Roc to make a digital premiere in South Africa

• Volkswagen biggest launch of the year will be broadcast to South Africans via a digital premiere
• T-Roc’s South African launch will take place on 17 June 2020

Johannesburg – Volkswagen’s major vehicle launch for 2020 will be streamed via a digital event. The T-Roc will premiere in South Africa on Thursday, 17 June 2020.

“Covid-19 has necessitated our brand to find new and innovative ways to communicate with our customers as well as launch our exciting range of products. We are very excited to debut the T-Roc in South Africa through a digital event which will be a first for the South African automotive industry,” said Martina Biene, Head of the Volkswagen Brand.

The sporty, stylish and contemporary T-Roc will complete Volkswagen’s T-SUV range in South Africa which currently consists of the T-Cross, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and the Touareg. The T-Roc slots between the T-Cross and the Tiguan in Volkswagen’s SUV range.

At its South African debut, Volkswagen will announce the T-Roc model line-up that will be available in the local market, Namibia and Botswana. Detailed specifications and retail pricing of the new SUV will also be announced.

Volkswagen South Africa’s social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter), will provide media and customers with detailed information of the digital premiere of the T-Roc closer to the date of the event.

The T-Roc will officially be launched in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana from November 2020.

Volkswagen's WeConnect Go App now available in South Africa

• Volkswagen takes first step on the journey to the connected car
• WeConnect Go offers an easy 'Plug & Play' car connectivity solution for Volkswagen customers
• WeConnect Go App, which replaces the MyVW App, is now available for iOS and Android users in South Africa

The WeConnect Go app forms part of the "Volkswagen We" ecosystem which offers a growing range of vehicle-related digital services and mobility offerings that can be used in-car or via smartphones.

The WeConnect Go app, which replaces the MyVW app, has a host of new innovative features which are designed to simplify the experience for Volkswagen customers. These features include; MyVolkswagen (displays the most important vehicle information like fuel level, mileage and battery voltage), Service Appointments (enables customers to send appointment requests to their preferred Volkswagen dealer), Get help (24-hour roadside assistance), Trip Monitor (digital logbook which is easily exported as a PDF and can be used for SARS vehicle claims) and Driving Challenges (points awarded for a safe and efficient driving styles).

WeConnect Go offers an easy 'Plug & Play' car connectivity solution where the user receives all the car's information on their smartphone. The WeConnect Go app works hand-in-hand with the Data Plugs. The Data Plug, which is connected into the vehicle's On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system, reads data relating to the vehicle and sends it to the vehicle owner's smartphone via Bluetooth.

Data plugs will be offered as standard on Volkswagen models from the Polo Comfortline and above, as from July 2020. Data plugs will be available as optional items for older Volkswagen models dating back as far as 2008, but excluding the previous generation Polo Vivo.

The WeConnect Go and Data plug roll-out commenced with T-Cross customers and is now being extended to the entire Volkswagen range. Volkswagen customers are able to get their Data Plugs fitted to their vehicles by their Volkswagen dealer.

More information on the WeConnect Go app is available on the Volkswagen website:
https://www.vw.co.za/en/innovation-technology/we-connect-go-for-everyone.html

MOBILITY FOR GOOD: MOTUS DONATES VEHICLES IN SUPPORT OF FOOD SECURITY DURING THE NATIONAL LOCKDOWN

• Motus donates 16 vehicles to assist socio-welfare organisations with feeding the nation during national lockdown
• Five charities benefit from a total of 16 Hyundai and KIA passenger and light commercial vehicles
• Beekman Canopies ensures precious cargo is kept safe in transit

Johannesburg 15 May 2020 - In the past week, Motus donated a total of 16 vehicles to five different charities across the country through local importer subsidiaries, Hyundai Automotive South Africa and KIA Motors South Africa, with additional donations by Beekman Canopies. The vehicles will be used to feed South Africa during the extended national lockdown.

“As a proudly South African company that strives to deliver mobility for good to all South Africans, the best way in which we can ensure food security is to assist in delivering food to those who need it desperately,” says Osman Arbee, CEO, Motus. “We are leaders in mobility, and it is a privilege to be able to assist these excellent organisations with vehicles, so that their expertise and dedication to support those most vulnerable communities can be expanded.”

GIFT OF THE GIVERS

Thanks to Hyundai Automotive South Africa, Gift of the Givers received two Hyundai H100 light commercial vehicles (‘bakkies’) as well as a Hyundai H-1 Bus. The organisation, started by Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman in 1992 and today considered the largest disaster relief group of African origin, will be using the vehicles to accomplish their mission of providing nutritious food to impoverished children and families.

"Gift of the Givers values the generous contribution,” said Dr. Sooliman. “The three [Hyundai] vehicles couldn't have come at a more opportune time to increase our logistical capability in ferrying medical teams, delivering food and transporting essential medical supplies and protective wear to frontline health care workers, the SA Police Service and the general public in all nine provinces in South Africa, including many deeply rural areas.

FOODFORWARD SA

Simultaneously, Hyundai Automotive South Africa also donated three Hyundai H100 light commercial vehicles (‘bakkies’) and two Grand i10 Cargo panel vans to FoodForward SA. The organisation, established in 2009 to address widespread hunger in South Africa, is working with a range of social partners to feed insecure households through its network of registered beneficiary organisations.

According to FoodForward SA’s Managing Director, Andy du Plessis, more than 30 million people in South Africa lived below the poverty line before the impact of Covid-19, and that millions of people, such as informal traders and day-job seekers, were surviving by earning a daily income. Many small businesses were also struggling to stay afloat; the country was in yet another recession - and then the Covid-19 pandemic struck.

"It is safe to assume that the Covid-19 collision will be severe and far reaching, both in the short and long term,” says Du Plessis. "Creating better access to food for the poor is critical now and in the coming months. FoodForward SA is committed to scaling up so that households in vulnerable communities receive proper food provisions, and we thank all our donors for their generosity and for caring enough to make a difference."

SANZAF

In similar spirit, KIA Motors South Africa donated three KIA K2700 light commercial vehicles and three KIA Picanto STARTs to SANZAF to assist the organisation in delivering food and other welfare support services to vulnerable communities.

A Section 18A Public Benefit Organisation, The South African National Zakah Fund directly invested R27 million in education in the previous financial year. In addition, the organisation also counselled and assisted 28,000 people through their welfare support services. Under normal circumstances, more than 40,000 people benefit from their monthly food programmes.

“It is really heart-warming to receive this generous donation,” says Yasmina Francke, CEO of SANZAF. “These vehicles will go a long way to ease the load for our teams working on the ground, particularly in these difficult times when we are delivering door-to-door and practising social distancing. Having extra vehicles in circulation will definitely help us with our distributions in needy communities.”

Adds SANZAF Chairperson, Fayruz Mohamed: “As a nation we are facing a humanitarian crisis that requires a collective effort from government, the private sector and civil society. This is one of those examples where a company has certainly shown heart by doing amazing work in supporting the efforts required to serve the poor and the needy.”

RADA & ASHRAFUL ULOOM

But it’s not only the large, networked organisations that has benefitted: people are at the heart of every community, so when a crisis like the Covid-19 pandemic arises, it’s the people on the ground that will make a real difference in their community. To this end, KIA Motors South Africa also donated a KIA K2700 light commercial vehicle to the Madrassah Ashraful Uloom in Marlboro, Johannesburg, to assist the organisation in delivering food and other essentials to the community of Alexandra and surrounds, as well as a KIA K2700 light commercial vehicle to RADA to assist the organisation in delivering food and other essentials to their various RADA CARE Homes.

Founded in 1995, the Madrassah is a community-based organisation that provides a broad range of services to the community it serves. This includes operating three Madrassahs (Marlboro, Edenvale, Alexandra) and a children’s home, as well as assisting widows, the poor and the needy. In addition, the Madrassah also supports prison services and education through seminars and workshops.

“On behalf of Ashraful Aid, I would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation for the generous donation from Motus,” says Suhail Wadee. “It is with the support of the business community that our aspirations and ambitions are realised. Our ability to respond timeously during crisis makes all the difference. The K2700 will allow us to continue our response during these challenging times.”

RADA – an acronym for rape, alcohol, drug, abuse – is a registered NPO that takes positive, meaningful and effective action to combat these addictions and atrocities so that the world can become a better, healthier and safer place in which all can prosper. They operate a number of programmes and initiatives, including the “Adopt-a-Home” project that provides assistance to existing homes of safety for abused and abandoned children, people with disabilities, the elderly and the homeless through the provision of food, clothing, bedding, books and other basic necessities. The programme currently supports up to ten different homes around Gauteng.

“It is imperative that Covid-19 does not reach our facilities as the elderly, homeless, children and people with ongoing immune deficiencies who are cared for in these homes are all high-risk individuals,” says John-Paul Nobrega, Founder and CEO of RADA. “Without the assistance of KIA and Motus, we would not be able to deliver the quantities of food and other essentials needed for each home. We truly value the support that allows us to feed the less fortunate and assist us in alleviating the immediate and very desperate needs of communities.”

L'AVENIR FARMING COMMUNITY

Mitsubishi Motors SA has partnered with L’Avenir Wine Estate and the Pebbles Project to assist L’Avenir in keeping the farm worker community safe, healthy and nourished during the national lockdown. The Pebbles Project has been enriching the lives of children and families in the Western Cape Winelands since its inception in 2004, and with the help of Mitsubishi Motors, are delivering special food parcels to 56 adults and children in this period. These families also have access to proper healthcare services through Pebbles Project’s mobile clinics. The food parcels cost R150 each, and will feed a family of four twice a day for seven days.

PRICING OF THE LIMITED EDITION GOLF GTI TCR ANNOUNCED

• The Limited Edition Golf GTI TCR will be available for order at Volkswagen dealers from May 2020

Johannesburg - The retail price of the Limited Edition Golf GTI TCR has been announced. The Golf GTI TCR will be available for order from Volkswagen dealers in South Africa as of May 2020.

The Golf GTI TCR is the final swansong of the Golf 7 range which has sold 40 128 units in South Africa since launch in 2013. Of the total Golf sales, 13 230 (33%) of those were the GTI derivative, which makes South Africa one of the top 10 markets worldwide for Golf GTI.

The Golf GTI TCR is derived from the racing car of the same name; the two-time overall winner of the international TCR racing series.

The Golf GTI TCR, which will only come in a 5-door version in South Africa, is distinguished by the standard black 19-inch Reifnitz alloy wheels, perforated disk brakes, matte black exterior mirror caps, sill extensions, front splitter, TCR roof spoiler and a diffuser at the rear. The Golf GTI TCR makes a further strong impression even before the driver settles behind the wheel, as the TCR logo is projected onto the road when the front doors are opened.

In the interior, Alcantara door inserts and the gear lever, premium Alcantara sport seats with GTI TCR detailing with a new fabric design as well as floor mats with black and red stitching, further accentuate the Golf GTI TCR. Additional interior features include climatronic airconditioning and red ambient light strips and an exclusive sports steering wheel.

The Golf GTI TCR also features standard technology such as Dynamic Chassis Control including driving profile selection, Active Info Display, Parallel Park Assist and LED headlights.

The Golf GTI TCR comes with a host of standard features and is the only model in the Volkswagen range in South Africa where the only optional features are the colours. Customers can choose between the following colours; Pure White, Tornado Red and Pure Grey.

Another exclusive offering just for the Golf GTI TCR customers in South Africa, will be a unique number that will be placed under the GTI logo at the rear of the car and a personalised ownership certificate.

The Golf GTI TCR, with 6-speed DSG®, reaches 100 km/h after just 5.6 seconds. The standard Vmax increases the maximum speed from 250 km/h to 264 km/h. The torque is 380Nm at 1 950 – 5 300 r/min.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

2.0 TSI Golf GTI TCR 213kW DSG® from R669 000

The Golf GTI TCR comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 5 year/ 90 000km Volkswagen Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service interval is 15 000km.

VWSA DOING ITS PART IN FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19

• VWSA to produce protective face masks in partnership with Gusco
• VWSA to produce local Ventilator
• The company is also involved in local and national measures against Covid-19

Uitenhage – In response to the global Covid-19 crisis, Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) is focusing its time and attention on the manufacture of masks and medical equipment, which could be crucial in protecting South African citizens from the virus.

VWSA has partnered with Gusco, which was previously a beneficiary of the company’s Community Trust, to produce soft fabric face masks aimed at reducing the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Following a successful trial batch, production of these masks began last week, with the goal of delivering a few thousand masks over the coming weeks in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro.

The idea to produce face masks stemmed from the national and global shortage of protective masks.

VWSA’s engineers are part of an international Volkswagen Group team pioneering possible ways in which the company can assist during the global crisis. In addition to this collaboration, VWSA is also part of the National Government Task Force team working on medical equipment such as ventilators

The company’s Research and Development team is using 3D printing technology to produce parts for a mechanical ventilator which will be produced at the Uitenhage plant. The ventilator is based on an open-source design produced by Seat in Spain.

“We are working with Dr John Black, who is the lead medical advisor on Covid-19 in Nelson Mandela Bay, Dr Adrian Wentzel, a local anaesthetist, and Quinton Uren of Jendamark Automation” said Joost Kessels, Head of Technical Engineering at VWSA. “Our Legal team is in the process of obtaining the medical release from the relevant authorities as South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), and the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications, which we need before we can commence with mass production.”

“We are continuously investigating ways in which VWSA can offer support to the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro in this time of crisis. We are working together as business under the lead of the Business Chamber in assisting Dr Black and his team with everything we can from engineering to logistics. It is very important for all the key stakeholders in the Metro to collaborate in order to flatten the curve of the infections whilst protecting the lives of our most vulnerable citizens,” said Thomas Schaefer, Volkswagen Group South Africa Chairman and Managing Director.

Schaefer added: “VWSA is made up of employees with diverse talents and qualifications. We have made these skills available to the country and the Metro to contribute to the fight against Covid-19.”

The Motus Choice Pre-Owned Vehicle of the Month

• 2019 VW Polo Vivo 1.4 Comfortline

Specifications:

Model: 2019 VW Polo Vivo 1.4 Comfortline
Pre-Owned Price: R 205 900
Mileage: 9 640km
Finance Deal: Could be structured
Maintenance Plan: Optional extra available
Fuel Consumption (combined): 7.1-litres/100km
0-100km/h: 12.8 seconds
Contact: Contact Oscar Malatije from Lindsay Saker VW Germiston at 072 154 5195

Introduction:

Being South Africa’s number one selling passenger car for many years, does say a lot about a vehicle. Value for money, reliability and durability are but a few of the Polo Vivo’s trademarks that has made it a best seller over the last few years. Throw in its excellent residual values and its clear why its such a popular buy at this price point.

For the past 63 years, Car Magazine has been the most recognised and respected voice in motoring journalism in South Africa and to be the most awarded manufacturer at this year's awards is something we are incredibly thrilled about. I am particularly proud of the T-Cross, which has received this great accolade after having been launched in South Africa only six months ago," said Mike Glendinning; Volkswagen Group South Africa Sales and Marketing Director.

Background and condition of vehicle:

With a mere 9 640km on the clock it was no surprise this Polo was still in a great condition. The previous owner treated the vehicle well and there was no flaws or imperfections on the bodywork that we could notice. The odd scuffmark on the door sills were noticed as you do find on most pre-owned vehicles. Overall the vehicle was in great shape, as you would have expected with such low mileage.

Performance and Economy:

Although the engine tech in the Vivo by today’s standards are by no means state of the art, it still delivers a remarkably satisfying all-round driving experience. The trusted 1.4-litre 8-valve power unit promises 63 Kilowatts of power and 132Nm of torque. Although not huge on outright performance in 8-valve configuration the Vivo delivers fantastic usable low-down torque, which makes for a lovely every-day city car. The silky-smooth shifting 5-speed manual gearbox further enhances the effortless driving experience. Although not as fuel efficient as some of it’s more advanced smaller engine turbocharged rivals, it would still return a decent fuel economy figure of 7.1-litres per 100km.

How does it drive?

Ride comfort would probably be another strong selling point. The suspension set-up really proved very comfortable and compliant on most road surfaces. Definitely class leading in terms of comfort. Noise, vibration and harshness levels also impressed and again probably one of the best at this price point. As expected after 9 600km of mileage the car drove like a new one and no funny noises or rattles were noticed.

Inside the vehicle:

The recently upgraded Polo Vivo certainly offers a far more modern cabin, with improved levels of quality. Especially the trim on the dashboard is now softer to the touch, although some of the harder plastic trim on the doors have been retained. Overall the cabin might still seem a bit bland to some, but the fabrics and trim remain of good quality and will most certainly be durable in the long run. Standard kit included most of the essential creature comforts, although the Polo was certainly not as well equipped as some of it’s competitors at this specific price point. Features included:

• Air-conditioning
• Central Locking
• Multi-function steering wheel
• On-Board trip computer
• Multi-media infotainment system
• Alloy wheels
• Electric windows (front only)
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Dual Airbags
• USB Port
• ABS braking

Space and Practicality:

As a small to medium sized hatchback the Vivo felt quite spacious. Head and legroom certainly proved more than adequate for even taller people. Boot space compares well with most of its rivals at 280-litres, while this could be increased by folding down the rear seats to 952-litres.

Summary:

Yes, the Vivo might not be the most striking hatch out there, but it’s such an accomplished all-rounder that it would be easy to recommend it to any buyer in this price range. This vehicle was well cared for and thus offers good value.

• Easy going nature
• Good quality at the price
• Ride comfort
• Not as economical as some of its competitor
• Maintenance plan only available as an option

Volkswagen the most awarded manufacturer at the Top 12 Best Buys awards

• Volkswagen South Africa walked away with three awards, the most of any manufacturer
• Now in its 21st year, the Car Magazine Top 12 Best Buys Awards recognise the very best cars in South Africa

Johannesburg. Volkswagen won three awards at the Car Magazine Top 12 Best Buys Awards which were presented at a gala dinner in Johannesburg on 11 March 2020. The distinguished annual Top 12 Best Buys, now in their 21st year, are a definitive guide to the very best cars in South Africa.

Only vehicles that the majority of the CAR magazine editorial team have driven, are eligible for the awards. Factors such as findings of road tests, driving impressions, performance and price are taken into consideration. Volkswagen South Africa was the most awarded manufactured at this year's award. Polo Vivo won the Small Car category; a back-back win for the locally-manufactured best-selling passenger car. The T-Cross recorded its first success at the Top 12 Best Buys by winning the Small SUV/Crossover category. Rounding off Volkswagen's awards on the night was the Tiguan which won the Midsize SUV/Crossover category, for the fourth time in a row.

For the past 63 years, Car Magazine has been the most recognised and respected voice in motoring journalism in South Africa and to be the most awarded manufacturer at this year's awards is something we are incredibly thrilled about. I am particularly proud of the T-Cross, which has received this great accolade after having been launched in South Africa only six months ago," said Mike Glendinning; Volkswagen Group South Africa Sales and Marketing Director.

The Car Magazine April 2020 issue will have the full article on the Top 12 Best Buys as well as the rationale behind each decision.

L - R: Martina Biene: Head of the Volkswagen brand, Ian McClaren: Car Magazine deputy Editor, Siyanga Madikizela: PR Manager and Meredith Kelly: Head of Marketing.

Volkswagen launches electric mobility pilot project in South Africa

• South Africa becomes the second country after Rwanda to introduce Volkswagen electric vehicles in Africa

Johannesburg. Volkswagen has taken the first step in its journey towards electric mobility in South Africa through the launch of the e-Golf pilot project.

The e-Golf pilot project will see six fully electric vehicles being tested by motoring and lifestyle media, selected dealers as well as Volkswagen employees in an effort to gain valuable consumer insights into the varying experiences of driving and living with an electric vehicle in South Africa.

Through the involvement of selected Volkswagen dealers in Gauteng and Western Cape, the e-Golf pilot project seeks to drive customer awareness and education regarding electric vehicles. The e-Golfs will be used as shuttles and courtesy cars for Volkswagen customers.

At Volkswagen, we want to democratise electric mobility and that is why the e-Golf pilot project is a key initiative for the brand. With the help of our dealers, we want to get as many South Africans as possible to drive and experience an electric vehicle as this is the future of our brand," said Mike Glendinning, Sales and Marketing Director for Volkswagen Group South Africa.

The e-Golf pilot project includes charging infrastructure installed in Volkswagen's Uitenhage manufacturing plant and as well as the Dealer Training Academy in Centurion, Gauteng.

The e-Golf pilot project is the first step of a three-phase approach which will pave the way for Volkswagen to include electric vehicles in its future product portfolio in South Africa. The second phase will be expanded to include a fleet of fully electric Volkswagen ID.3 vehicles from 2021.

The third and last phase of the electric mobility project will see the first fully electric Volkswagen vehicles available for sale to customers in South Africa from 2022.

The e-Golf as well as the ID.3 will not be available for sale in South Africa and will be used solely for the purposes of ensuring as many South Africans as possible get to experience life with an electric vehicle.

Customers who want to be kept informed on Volkswagen's electric mobility journey can sign up on the Volkswagen website: www.vw.co.za

Volkswagen wins big at the 2020 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards

• The fifth annual Cars.co.za Consumer Awards recognised the best cars in South Africa
• Volkswagen was the biggest winner on the night walking away with the coveted Brand of the Year award and six category wins

Johannesburg. Volkswagen was the biggest winner at the fifth annual Cars.co.za Consumer Awards held at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit on 6 February.

Widely regarded as South Africa's most definitive automotive awards programme, the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, which are exclusively supported by WesBank, South Africa's largest vehicle finance provider, have become a highlight in the automotive calendar since the inaugural event in 2016.

The wins at the Consumer Awards come after a record-breaking 2019 where the Volkswagen brand achieved a 20.4% passenger market share, the highest in 23 years, and the manufacturing plant in Uitenhage achieved an all-time record for production in a single year.

Volkswagen won the biggest accolade at the Consumer Awards, the coveted Brand of the Year award which is solely determined by market and customer data.

"We are truly happy and honoured with the vote of confidence and support from our customers. At Volkswagen we pride ourselves with outstanding products and excellent customer service and winning the Brand of the Year award is recognition of the great work being done by Volkswagen employees as well as the dealer network," said Mike Glendinning, Director: Sales and Marketing, Volkswagen Group South Africa.

Volkswagen's first win of the night was the Compact Hatchback category which went to the Polo - this is the second time the locally-manufactured vehicle has won this category.

The second award for Volkswagen went to the Polo GTI which won the Fun Hatchback category at its first time being a finalist at the Consumer Awards.

The popular Golf GTI won the Premium Hatchback category, bringing Volkswagen's wins on the night to three. With only five months on sale in South Africa, the T-Cross won its first award in the Compact Family Car category.

The Arteon defended its Business Class category title with a back-to-back win. Volkswagen's sixth category award for the night went to the Amarok which won the hotly contested Leisure Double Cab category. This is the third time the Amarok has won this category.

"We are so proud of the Volkswagen wins at this year's awards. For the locally-manufactured Polo and Polo GTI to defend and win their categories respectively, is great recognition for the Uitenhage plant. I am also very proud of the T-Cross which continues to be a key player in the A0 SUV segment and this win is a further statement of the great package this compact SUV offers. A great performance also by our premium brands, the Arteon and much-loved Golf GTI. With the bakkie market being intensely competitive in South Africa, it is a terrific feat that the Amarok defended its title in this category for the third time," concluded Glendinning.

The Volkswagen brand has had the most category wins (16) in the history of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. Volkswagen is also the only brand to have won at least one Consumer Awards category every year since the programme began in 2015/16.

Volkswagen Group South Africa ends 2019 as the passenger car market leader

• Volkswagen Group South Africa sold 89 353 vehicles in 2019
• Volkswagen Passenger brand achieved its highest market share since 1996 of 20.4%
• Audi ended the year with an improved market share of 18.2%
• Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles' full-year market share increased to 5.2%

Johannesburg. Full-year 2019 sales saw Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) dominating the passenger car market with 89 353 vehicles sold in South Africa.

"2019 was an incredible year for VWSA. Not only did the Uitenhage factory produce a record 161 954 vehicles, surpassing the previous record of 137 758 vehicles produced in 2011, VWSA also ended the year with 23.4% passenger market share (up 0.6% from 2018), meaning that close to a quarter of all cars sold in the South African market are from the Volkswagen Group," said Mike Glendinning, Director: Sales and Marketing, VWSA.

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), South Africa recorded domestic sales of 536 626 units in 2019, a decline of 15 601 units or 2.8%.

The Polo Vivo was the best-selling passenger car in South Africa with 29 619 vehicles sold in 2019. The locally-manufactured model topped the A0 segment with a share of 24.5%. The Volkswagen Passenger brand also ended 2019 with a record-market share of 20.4% (0.6% improvement from 2018), the highest since 1996.

Premium brand Audi sold 8 495 vehicles in 2019 and ended off the year with a market share of 18.2%, which is up from the 17% market share achieved in 2018. The brand's best-selling vehicle was the Audi A3 Sportback with 1 826 vehicles sold last year.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles reported deliveries of 8 397 units in the light commercial vehicles segment last year. The Commercial Vehicles brand achieved a market share of 5.2%, which is a growth of 0.1% when compared to 2018. The Amarok Double Cab topped the sales charts with 2 596 vehicles sold in 2019.

"Our strong sales performance in 2019 was ably supported by our dealer network as well as our customers who continue to put trust in Audi and Volkswagen products thus cementing VWSA as South Africa's leading passenger car brand year after year," concluded Glendinning.

Looking ahead

2020 will be an exciting year for VWSA which will see key model introductions for Volkswagen and Audi in South Africa.

This year, Volkswagen will launch the T-Cross 1.5 TSI 110kW and 70kW models, the T-Roc (Volkswagen's sporty premium SUV which slots between the T-Cross and Tiguan), the special-edition Golf GTI TCR which will see only 300 units sold in South Africa, the all-new Golf 8 as well as a facelift in the T6 Commercial Vehicles range.

2020 will be an eventful year for the Audi brand with the introduction of new models like the all-new Audi Q3 Sportback, Audi A6 Sedan and Audi's first fully electric vehicle, the Audi e-tron. In addition the Audi A4, A5, Q7 and R8 model ranges along with their high performance derivatives receive product improvements or facelifts this year. Audi's S/RS performance vehicle portfolio will be bolstered with the new RS6, RS7, RSQ3, RSQ8 and the S8.

Bradley Liebenberg is crowned Falken Polo Cup Champion after season-long battle with Jeffrey Kruger

• Liebenberg wipes out 4-point deficit to become champion
• Liebenberg also claims two race victories in the process
• Kruger finishes second on the day

Delmas. Bradley Liebenberg wiped out a 4-point deficit to become the 2019 Falken Polo Cup champion. In the end, he beat the defending champion Jeffrey Kruger after a season-long battle that saw both drivers lead the way at various stages of the fight. In the process, the Falken Polo Cup lived up to its reputation as the country’s most successful and exciting racing formula.

The Red Star Raceway to the east of Delmas played host to the final Falken Polo Cup race after a season-long battle between defending champion Jeffrey Kruger and Bradley Liebenberg. Kruger had the upper hand in the first few rounds, but the momentum swung heavily in Liebenberg’s favour following a great run in the middle of the season. Kruger however fought back and after Liebenberg was penalised for mistakenly using a Push-to-Pass on the opening lap of a race in Cape Town during Round 7, Kruger was the one with a slender advantage going into the final round.

The advantage however was only 4 points which made the calculations easy. Whoever beat the other one on the day would come out on top. The two title hopefuls proved once again that they were the ones to beat as their names topped the timesheets in every practice session leading up to Saturday morning’s qualifying. If anything, Liebenberg was slightly quicker than his rival. The youngster then managed to convert his pace into provisional pole position when he set the fastest time in the initial qualifying session. To add to the excitement of the Falken Polo Cup, the top six in qualifying each gets one flying lap to determine the final starting grid. This is when Liebenberg missed a gear and handed pole position back to his rival Kruger.

It was clear that both title rivals were in a class of their own as they managed to open a slight gap at the front of the field. It didn’t take Liebenberg long to squeeze his way past Kruger and into the lead which he managed to hold onto until the checkered flag was waved. Add the points that come with setting the fastest lap of the race and we had a tie at the top of the championship points table with just one race to go.

Starting positions for the final race was determined by a numbers draw and this time luck was not on Kruger’s side. The defending champion drew number five while rival Liebenberg would start the final race from third on the grid. Kruger’s only chance was to make a move early on and it nearly paid off in the first corner, but when the dust had settled, it was Liebenberg who managed to take the race lead while Kruger fought his way up into third position behind the Polo of Arnold Neveling. This is all that Liebenberg needed as he raced off to claim double victory on the day as well as the coveted Falken Polo Cup title.

“It was a perfect day,” said Liebenberg after the finish of Race 2. “We had an epic battle with Jeffrey all season long and to come out on top with two race victories on the day is the best possible way to finish it.”

Kruger was graceful in defeat. “We had a fantastic battle throughout the season and it all came down to the wire and the last race. We tried our best but Bradley was just to quick on the day.”

Behind the title fight, Arnold Neveling enjoyed his best day yet in the Falken Polo Cup with a third place overall, ahead of Keegan Campos and Clinton Bezuidenhout. Capetonian Dario Busi was classified sixth on the day ahead of the Shorter brothers Matt and Chris. Volkswagen Motorsport’s Jonathan Mogotsi finished the last day of a trying season in 12th.

“The Falken Polo Cup once again lived up to its reputation as the most exciting form of racing,” commented Mike Rowe, head of Volkswagen Motorsport. “It is extremely competitive with just tenths of seconds separating nearly 20 drivers. This makes it the championship that every driver wants to win most. Well done to Bradley for doing so and also to Jeffrey for taking the fight all the way to the end,” he concluded.

Victory for Volkswagen as they claim quadruple gold at GTC season finale

• Keagan Masters claims GTC Driver’s title
• Bradley Liebenberg crowned GTC2 champion
• Volkswagen takes both GTC and GTC2 Manufacturers titles

Delmas. The Red Star Raceway near Delmas played host to the final and eighth round of the 2019 Global Touring Cars Championship (GTC), a series which receives great support from South Africa’s motoring giant Volkswagen. As a result, the team from Uitenhage was on the edge of making motorsport history in Delmas with just two races standing between them and no less than four different titles.

The Volkswagen Motorsport team came to Delmas with very clear objectives in mind. “Every team races to win,” said an elated Mike Rowe, head of Volkswagen Motorsport after the event. “We came to the final round with a mission to win both the GTC and GTC2 Drivers as well as Manufacturers titles. We knew that we were in a good position to reach most of our goals, but to achieve all four was fantastic.”

The overall success was a result of hard work, not only at the last event, but throughout the entire season. The team’s GTC drivers Daniel Rowe and Keagan Masters were in the mix on almost every event, and when the points were added before the last round, both were in with a chance to claim the title. Masters had a slender lead of just 2 points over title rivals Simon Moss and Michael van Rooyen which meant that whoever finished ahead of the other ones on the day would be crowned the champion.

A rainstorm early on raceday caused the qualifying session to be declared a wet one, so the Jettas took to the track in wet weather tyres. The times were tumbling towards the end of the session as the circuit dried out but when the flag was waved, it was Masters who put his Jetta on the front row of the grid with the second fastest time. More importantly, he managed to out qualify his main title rivals while Rowe’s fifth place also forced title rival Van Rooyen down to sixth. Masters was very aware of the fact that he needed to stay out of trouble in both races to score points so the youngster was happy to steer clear of traffic on the opening laps of race one. But an incident between one of his title rivals (Simon Moss) and the BMW of pole setter Robert Wolk on lap 2 cleared the way for Masters to race off into the distance and to a comfortable race victory. After the calculations were made, the new points table revealed that Masters’ only title rival with one final race to go was Michael van Rooyen. The latter had to win the race and the Volkswagen driver had to finish fourth or lower to not win the title. Masters started from the back of the reverse grid but fought his way through the field and up into third where he stayed until the checkered flag was waved. Meanwhile teammate Rowe was leading the race until he got punted off by a competitor. Rowe recovered and went on to set the fastest lap of the race, confirming Volkswagen’s competitiveness in the process.

All eyes however were on Masters as his team welcomed him back in the pits to congratulate him on winning SA’s premier circuit racing title. “It’s an unbelievable feeling and it hasn’t sunk in yet,” said a very happy Masters. “I am fortunate to have a wonderful team and I would like to thank them for all the hard work they put in throughout the season that allowed us to win the title.” Teammate Rowe was just as pleased. “As a team we had a very competitive season. Congratulations to Keagan who’s consistency throughout the season paid off. It’s a great team result and I’m already looking forward to next year.”

With Volkswagen taking the overall GTC Drivers and Manufacturers title, the squad were well on their way to achieve all of their goals. Thanks to the efforts of Bradley Liebenberg and Adrian Wood, the team already clinched the GTC2 Manufacturers award at the previous round, so all that remained was for Liebenberg to convert his dominance into the GTC 2 title, something which he managed to do after finishing second in Race 1. The win went to teammate Wood while Liebenberg bounced back to celebrate his title with a victory in the final race of the season. “It’s been an amazing season. We had the pace all season long and to finally be crowned champion is a fantastic feeling,” said Liebenberg.

“We came here to win,” added Mike Rowe. “Motorsport can be both cruel and unpredictable which makes all of these achievements bitter sweet. It’s a result of hard work from all involved and I would also like to thank Volkswagen for supporting motorsport. Whilst we are celebrating a great season this year, we have already started thinking about how to repeat our successes next year,” he concluded.

First for Africa: Volkswagen and Siemens launch joint electric mobility pilot project in Rwanda

• Rwanda becomes the first African country to introduce Volkswagen electric car
• Volkswagen and Siemens sign joint development agreement to conduct electric mobility feasibility project
• Pilot Project part of Moving Rwanda Initiative
• Four e-Golfs and one charging station for the initial phase of the pilot project
• e-Golfs added into the Volkswagen Mobility Solutions fleet

Kigali / Uitenhage – In a first for the African continent, the Volkswagen Brand has launched a pilot project in partnership with Siemens to test the feasibility of electric mobility in an African country.

The pilot project, which will form part of Volkswagen’s operations in Rwanda, was officially announced today by Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Group South Africa and responsible for the Sub-Sahara Africa Region, in the presence of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Rwanda, Right Honourable Dr. Edouard Ngirente.

During the pilot phase, four e-Golfs and one charging station will be introduced in the capital of Rwanda, Kigali. Volkswagen has signed a joint development agreement with Siemens to provide the charging infrastructure for the electric cars.

With the launch of the pilot project, Rwanda becomes the first African country to introduce a Volkswagen electric car.

Thomas Schäfer said: “The success of our innovative and pioneering mobility solutions business has shown us that Rwanda has the potential to leapfrog the internal combustion engines into electric cars. Rwanda has a young and progressive population that appreciates individual and modern mobility. Together with our development partner Siemens and with the support from the Government of Rwanda, Volkswagen wants to make the e-Golf pilot project in Rwanda a blueprint for electric mobility in Africa.”

Sabine Dall’Omo, CEO for Siemens Southern and Eastern Africa said: “Our partnership with Volkswagen on this project solidifies our commitment not only to Rwanda but to the East Africa region. By contributing towards shaping the African market for intelligent, adaptive infrastructure, while addressing skills challenges in this sector, Siemens is helping to build a more sustainable future for the people of Rwanda.”

The pilot e-Golfs will be added into the Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda fleet to provide customized mobility service.

The plan is to increase the number of the electric cars to 50 units and 15 charging stations, depending on the outcomes of the pilot project.

The drivers and technicians who will be working with the electric cars have received specialized training in preparation for launch of the pilot project.

“Africa’s youth need sustainable jobs and better prospects for a future in their home countries. Therefore, German development cooperation supports innovative ideas for vocational education and environmentally friendly mobility concepts for African cities. In this respect, initiatives such as Moving Rwanda are yet another step towards implementing the Marshall Plan with Africa,” said Dr. Gerd Müller, German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development.

The electric mobility project was developed within the Moving Rwanda initiative, a cooperation between Volkswagen, Siemens, SAP and Inros Lackner and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. GIZ supported the e-mobility project by bringing together relevant partners from the private and public sector and by advising on the development benefits of the project.

The Moving Rwanda Initiative was established as the result of Volkswagen’s initial investment in Rwanda, which saw the launch of Africa’s first Integrated Mobility Solutions business in June 2018.

Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda offers mobility solutions services such as ride-hailing and corporate car sharing. The services are offered on the Move App, an innovative IT mobility solution which was developed by a local IT start-up company, Awesomity Lab.

The services are offered using a fleet of vehicles assembled at Volkswagen Rwanda’s assembly facility in Kigali. By the end of 2019, Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda will have a fleet of more than 200 vehicles consisting of Polo, Amarok, Teramont and Passat.

Move App has about 27 000 registered users. Over 59 500 rides have been completed in the ride-hailing service since the beginning of 2019.

Thomas Schäfer commented: “The integrated mobility solutions business in Rwanda is our lighthouse project. In the past year, our operations in Kigali have provided us with valuable lessons and business intelligence which we plan to utilise in our growth strategy into other African markets like Ghana and Ethiopia.”

Sub-Sahara Africa expansion strategy gaining momentum

Africa is the last frontier for the automotive industry. Volkswagen’s long term goal is to play a leading and pioneering role in the development of the automotive industry in the continent. As such, Volkswagen has significantly expanded its engagement in Africa with the establishment of assembly facilities and marketing activities in Kenya, Rwanda and Nigeria. Ghana and Ethiopia are planned as the next locations.

Volkswagen Group South Africa makes significant gains in market share

• Volkswagen Group sold 64 658 vehicles from January to September 2019
• Volkswagen's market share in the passenger market climbs to 20.2% year-to-date
• Audi's market share in the premium market grows to 17.8% year-on-year
• Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles' year-on-year sales increase by 8%

Johannesburg - Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) showed a solid performance in the South African passenger car market from January to September with a market share of 23.2%.

"The first nine months of this year were challenging due to the economic and political climate, but the Volkswagen Passenger, Audi and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brands' determination, innovation as well as leveraging of key vehicle introductions ensured we continue to keep our position as the passenger car leader in South Africa," said Mike Glendinning, Director: Sales and Marketing, VWSA.

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa)

South Africa recorded domestic sales of 49 191 units in September, a decline of 439 units or 0.9% from the 49 630 vehicles sold in September last year.

The Polo Vivo was South Africa's best-selling passenger car in September with 2 540 sales. With only nine working days of sales, Volkswagen's new compact SUV, the T-Cross, sold 810 units in September, an average of 90 units sold every day until the end of the month. From January to September 2019, Volkswagen has sold 52 382 units and achieved a market share of 20.2% in the passenger car market, an increase of 0.6% versus 2018 YTD.
Premium brand Audi's market share rose to 17.8% YTD, an increase of 1.2% versus 2018 YTD.

From January to September 2019, Audi sold a total of 6 145 units to South African customers.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles reported deliveries of 6 131 units in the light commercial vehicles segment from January to September 2019, an 8% growth compared to the same time last year. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles' market share also increased to 4.9%, a 0.4 increase, when compared to the same time last year.

Key model introductions such as the Audi A1, Audi Q3, Volkswagen T-Cross as well as Amarok Special Editions in the previous quarter, enabled VWSA to record a strong performance in the first nine months of the year with sales of 64 658 vehicles.

"With three months to go until the end of 2019, we are confident that the strength of our brands, which are supported by a strong dealer network, will ensure that we retain our passenger car market leadership," concluded Glendinning.

The Volkswagen T-Cross, now on sale in South Africa

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→ Customers can now purchase the all-new T-Cross from their nearest Volkswagen Dealers
→ The T-Cross range will also see the introduction of a new 1.5 TSI engine with 110kW of power in the first quarter of 2020
→ The entry level T-Cross model which retails below R300 000 will be available in South Africa from the second quarter of 2020

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Johannesburg – Sales of the all-new T-Cross in South Africa, Volkswagen’s compact SUV, will start on Saturday, 21 September 2019.

At market launch, the T-Cross will only be available in the 1.0 TSI engine with 85kW power output. In the first quarter of 2020, the 1.5 TSI 110kW will be introduced and in the second quarter the range will be completed with the introduction of the 70kW engine.

The T-Cross, which joins the Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and Touareg in the model range in South Africa, is a practical, cool and versatile addition to Volkswagen’s fast-growing SUV range. It is sophisticated, diverse and, like all members of the brand’s SUV family, has an eye-catching appearance. It has a carefully balanced combination of casual style, refined practicality and extreme cost-effectiveness.

The T-Cross, which is manufactured in Navarra, Spain, will captivate hearts of the customers with its combination of style, practicality, flexibility, connectivity and fuel economy.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The T-Cross leaves a lasting impression at first sight. The striking front end highlights the vehicle’s family affiliation while the exterior emphasises the individuality of the new SUV model.

Attractive highlights include the successful combination of a powerfully expressive front spoiler and a large, wide radiator grille, at the outer ends of which the headlamps are integrated. The light units are designed to be long and flat, and extend far into the flanks. This arrangement gives the new T-Cross an unmistakeable appearance from the front. The lower section of the front end is characterised by distinctive recessed fog lights and integrated daytime running lights. The positioning of the fog lights and daytime running lights emphasise the height of the vehicle front. If the optional LED headlights are installed, the daytime running lights share the same housing. The tail light clusters feature LED technology as standard.

On the sides of the T-Cross, two horizontal sharp character lines from front to rear underline the dynamic appearance of the compact SUV. They form a muscular shoulder at the rear and culminate in a new, equally memorable design element. A bold reflective band spans the rear. Framed by a black trim panel, it is a notable recognition feature in the same way as the distinctive front end. The light band emphasises the width of the vehicle and at the same time signals presence and vitality. The large wheel arches also emphasise the striking appearance. The dynamically designed wheels also contribute to the distinctive and cool look of the new T-Cross. 16-inch wheels are fitted as standard. In addition, 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels are available as options. The exterior of the T-Cross can also be customised in various ways. There is a choice of nine exterior colours or a selection of coloured wheel rims which enhance the combination options.

The compact Volkswagen SUV offers easy access for all passengers through four large doors - a major advantage of the modular transverse matrix (MQB), which allows the driven front axle to be positioned much closer to the vehicle front. This facilitates the vibrant and powerful SUV design that gives the T-Cross its unmistakable performance, while also creating a remarkably generous wheelbase. In addition to easier entry, vehicle occupants also benefit from a significant increase in interior space and legroom for both rows of seats.

The T-Cross measures 4.2 metres in length, 182 millimetres more than the Polo and 11 centimetres shorter than the T-Roc (which will launch in South Africa in 2020). The difference in height is even more obvious: the T-Cross measures 1 584 millimetres compared to the Polo’s 1 461 millimetres. The wheelbase of 2 551 millimetres increases the space for seats and provides a spacious and roomy feel. The elevated seat position is typical of an SUV. The driver and front passenger sit 597 millimetres above the road, while the rear passengers benefit from a vantage point of 652 millimetres. That is 10 centimetres higher than in the Polo, thus guaranteeing good visibility from all seats.

INTERIOR DESIGN

The T-Cross provides good visibility. Passengers enjoy a superior view and good all-round visibility thanks to the elevated seating position. The interior is extremely spacious, giving the occupants the feeling that they are sitting in a larger vehicle.

The 2.55 metre wheelbase is comparatively generous, allowing a spacious interior with enough room for five people. For the greatest possible versatility in the interior, the sliding rear seat can be adjusted by 14 centimetres, allowing more passenger leg room or more luggage space. The luggage compartment holds between 377 and 455 litres. Thanks to a rear seat back that folds down fully or partially, you can create a flat loading space with up to 1 281 litres of storage volume - unsurpassed by any other SUV in this segment.

The large-format dash pads correspond in colour and structure to the seat materials, the steering wheel clasp, the painted central console, the platinum grey trim colour and the exterior finishes. This gives the interior of the vehicle a cool, sporty look. The design package also offers 3D décor for the dash pad, two-tone seat surfaces, a steering wheel clasp and central console in a matching tone, and colour-coordinated wing mirrors and wheels. The indirect ambient lighting further accentuates the vehicle’s interior. Electric windows on all four doors and a height-adjustable driver and passenger seat also come as standard.

MORE DIGITALISED

The T-Cross provides discerning users with the highest level of networking and connection to the outside world. Even the operation and customisation of the on-board functions are intuitive. Up to four USB ports and the optional inductive wireless charging ensure optimum connectivity and sufficient power for smartphones. The optional keyless locking and starting system Keyless Access makes access to the T-Cross more convenient. Another highlight is the optional sound system from renowned US brand Beats with a 300-watt, 8-channel amplifier and a separate subwoofer in the luggage compartment. DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS The T-Cross’ outstanding five star rating in the Euro NCAP test and exemplary occupant protection, increases safety, reduces the risk of a collision and improves driving comfort. The Driver Alert System comes standard whilst optional equipment available on the T-Cross includes Front Assist area monitoring system, the lane keeping assistant Lane Assist, Hill Start Assist, the proactive occupant protection system, automatic adaptive cruise control, Park Assist and the Blind Spot Detection lane change assist system with the integrated Rear Traffic Alert.

SAFETY

The T-Cross performed outstandingly in the renowned Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) safety test. Independent testers awarded the new SUV top scores in all categories. This innovative crossover model meets the most stringent safety standards.

Euro NCAP recreates the most common accident scenarios as part of comprehensive test procedures. The vehicle scored a compliance rating of 97% in the “Adult occupant protection” category. Very few vehicles have scored this value, demonstrating that small SUVs can keep up with larger models. The child safety rating of 86% underlines how perfectly suitable the T-Cross is for families. The active support systems scored a rating of 80%, far better than the previous standard in this vehicle category. In addition to passive protection equipment, the vehicle also features Front Assist that looks out for pedestrians’ and cyclists’ safety. With 81% the vehicle scored very well within the currently valid assessment scenarios in this category.

EQUIPMENT LINES

The T-Cross, already equipped with extensive standard equipment, can be customised and upgraded further with optional equipment and several equipment trims.

Trendline trim (available only with 70kW). The entry level variant comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, LED daytime running lights and tail lights, split folding rear seats, colour-coded handles and mirrors, electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors, electric windows at the front and rear, height and lumbar adjustable driver and passenger seats, Tyre Pressure Monitor, 6.5-inch ‘Composition Colour‘ display, combined front and side airbags, Rest Assist as well as Titanium black seat and instrument panel, black carpets and ceramique headliner.

Comfortline trim. The Comfortline trim expands on the Trendline and comes standard with 16-inch ‘Belmont‘ alloy wheels, black roof rails, front fog lights, leather multi-function steering wheel with multi-function display, Park Distance Control (front and rear), cruise control, Light and Sight Package and a front centre arm rest.

Optional features on the Comfortline trim include; R-Line Exterior with 17inch ‘Manila‘ alloy wheels, Beats sound system, Inductive Wireless Mobile Charging, Composition Media with App-Connect, Discover Media (includes Navigation), Active Info Display, Park Assist with Rear View Camera and Foldable Mirrors , Adaptive Cruise Control (includes Blind Spot Monitor, Foldable Mirrors, Lane Assist and Front Assist), LED headlights with Rear View Camera, Keyless Entry and Removable Towbar.

Highline trim. The third equipment variant, the Highline, has additional standard features to the Comfortline which include Comfort Sports Seats, Inductive Wireless Mobile Charging, Driving Profile Selection, Climatronic Aircon, LED Headlights, Composition Media with App-Connect and 18-inch ‘Cologne‘ alloy wheels.

Optional extras on the Highline include; R-Line Exterior with 18-inch ‘Nevada‘ alloy wheels, Design Package in Energetic Orange, Beats sound system, Discover Media (includes Navigation), Active Info Display, Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control (includes Blind Spot Monitor, Foldable Mirrors, Lane Assist and Front Assist), Keyless Entry, Removable Towbar and Titanium Black-Energetic Orange seats, titanium black instrument panel, black carpets and ceramique headliner.

ENGINES

The T-Cross is powered by two three-cylinder petrol engines. The Volkswagen’s compact SUV will be available with the 1.0 TSI engine delivering 70kW and 85kW power outputs as well as the more powerful 1.5 TSI engine delivering 110kW.

The 85kW engine is available at launch. The 110kW engine will be available from the first quarter of 2020. The 70kW engine will be available in the second quarter of 2020.

1.0 TSI engine with 85kW. The three-cylinder 1.0 TSI generates 85 kW of power. The turbocharged direct injection engine develops maximum torque of 200 Nm is available between 2 000 and 3 500 rpm. This version goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.2 seconds and has a top speed of 193 km/h. Claimed fuel consumption is 4.9 litres/100km. This engine is only available in 7-speed DSG transmission.

RANGE TOPPER

The range-topping T-Cross 1.5 TSI 110kW R-Line DSG® model comes standard with a host of features including: Sports Seats, Driving Profile Selection, Climatronic Aircon, LED Headlights and Taillights, Composition Media with App-Connect, R-Line interior and exterior with 18-inch ‘Nevada’ alloy wheels, digital Active Info Display and a choice of eight exterior colours. Up to four USB ports and the standard inductive wireless charging ensure optimum connectivity and sufficient power for smartphones.

Optional extras include; Design Package in Energetic Orange, beats® sound system (300-watt, 8-channel amplifier and a separate subwoofer in the luggage compartment), Discover Media (includes Navigation), Park Assist (includes Rearview Camera and Powerfold Mirrors), Adaptive Cruise Control (includes Blind Spot Monitor, Foldable Mirrors, Lane Assist and Front Assist), Keyless Entry, Removable Towbar and Titanium Black-Energetic Orange seats, titanium black instrument panel, black carpets and ceramique headliner.

Pre-orders of the top-of-the-range T-Cross 1.5 TSI 110kW R-Line DSG® model start this week and customers can place their pre-orders on the Volkswagen website: www.vw.co.za.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

1.0 TSI 85kW Comfortline DSG® R334 600
1.0 TSI 85kW Highline DSG® R365 000
1.5 TSI 110kW R-Line DSG® R403 500 The T-Cross comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, a 3 year/ 45 000km Volkswagen Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service interval is 15 000km.

Ends.
Issued by: The Public Relations Department of Volkswagen South Africa.

UP WE GO: MOVE UP

VW Lindsay Saker Edenvale: Partners of Passion

Lindsay Saker Edenvale is my favourite place to go to check out the latest in Volkswagen engineering. I had the distinct joy of test driving the tiny, yet incredibly memorable VW up! (Intentionally spelled as such, as this is the official, trademarked name for this compact vehicle), in my case, the Move up! Variant.

Having seen the increase of women in the industry, Lynda Joynt, New Vehicle Sales Manager is proud of how many successful and professional ladies she now works with. Her belief that women are more pedantic about how the sell and market vehicles allows her to meet her client’s needs with an intuitive, understanding perspective. She also feels women are born as natural managers, and holds close relationships with colleagues and client alike. With a deep love for this industry, Lynda confidently asserts that this is where she will retire, doing what she does best in service to the industry, and the people, as this is the “drug” that fuels her.

And Up We Go: Move Up

The first thing that catches my eye is the unique and fresh design of the vehicle – sharp, sporty lines with a LED daytime running lights, a redesigned front and sleek lines that are rounded off by a really distinctive rear diffuser. The up! oozes funkiness and confidence and gives off the trademark VW glow that makes anything VW stand out. I am told by the team at Lindsay Saker that the up! is a rising star in the motoring industry, most especially making a name for itself in the compact car segment. And with incredible optional extras and optional new wheels (measuring up to 16 inches), this little vehicle is now even more appealing, reaching out to more mature, adventurous markets as well.

Previously earmarked as a perfect vehicle for the first and second year varsity student, the up! is clearly on top of it’s game when it comes to styling and interior comfort. With printed surfaces for the dashboard styling panel (carbon fibre) and a state-of-the-art ambient lighting feature, the cabin of the up! is surprisingly luxurious. Boasting a leather-clad multi-function steering wheel and gear knob, I find myself quite impressed with the exclusive-looking interior, which throws back to the interior of the VW Golf. I personally liked the chrome-trimmed interior door handles as an added touch, as well as the idea of a heated rear-seat bench in this variant.

The reputation of the up! has spread like wildfire, and even older, more sophisticated audiences have responded enthusiastically: according to the team at Lindsay Saker Edenvale, the up! is even increasing in popularity for the older generation of retired folks who require a comfortable, reliable vehicle with all the bells and whistles, without it costing them an arm and a leg. With incredible fuel consumption (noted at 4.6 litres per 100 kilometres on combined cycle), the 1 litre variant I am driving still provides a great driving experience thanks to its 3-cylinder engine that cranks out 55 kW of power.

Despite being one of the smallest vehicles in the compact car segment, the up! is quite comfortable inside, with ample room for four adults thanks to a longer wheelbase and a forward-mounted engine. A 251-litre boot is also impressive for this class, and provides ideal space for student-life to be accommodated. Speaking of which, the 300-watt on-board BeatsAudio sound system, which includes an amplifier, six top-of-the-range speakers and a separate subwoofer is sure to be a huge drawcard for the younger generations, together with a comprehensive infotainment system.

In terms of safety, all variants come standard with ABS, four airbags, and Electronic Stability Control. The drive itself is remarkable – for a smaller engine, this little vehicle delivers a surprising amount of punch. It is nippy and responsive and on the highway, performs beautifully, reaching top speeds comfortably and smoothly. For all intents and purposes, driving the up! is very similar to driving a Polo or Golf, and I am suitably impressed.

For more information on this versatile and dynamic little car, the Dealer’s contact details are in the link below, – check it out!

https://www.lindsaysaker.co.za/edenvale/contact.
A Torque Queen Review

By Desh Bechan

Papas Got a Brand-New Bag!

Lindsay Saker VW Edenvale were excited to share the arrival of the new VW T-Cross with me – under the capable leadership of the dynamic Sales Manager Lynda Joynt, the team of professional sales executives are eager to show off this vehicle that sits somewhere between the Tiguan and a supped-up Polo. I am so excited about this vehicle – having seen it overseas some time ago, I have eagerly awaited its introduction to the South African market!

The Concept:

Based on the enigmatic VW Polo, the T-Cross was designed to be an in-between vehicle situated in the middle of the popular Tiguan and the soon-to-be-released T-Roc. Think of vehicles like the Ford EcoSpot and the Hyundai Creta…

The Looks:

Unlike anything in the current VW range, the T-Cross looks like a muscular Polo with some unique touches – a classy rear spoiler, broad taillight cluster-strip across the boot, solid, bold haunches and silver roof-rails. From the front there is a sense of aggressive strength, with a prominent grille that makes this vehicle really stand out. I also love the range of unique colours, including a really stunning sea-green, turquoise shade that is both feminine and fierce. The interior is equally unique! Hexagonal styling along the dash with splashes of colour make for a perfect, modern cabin.

The Feel:

Obviously taking a new vehicle for a spin is a big rush – even more so when it’s a never-before seen variant, such as this. It really feels unique – although the familiar VW steering wheel and little touches of design throughout the cabin provide a sense of comfort, there is the thrill of something new! I loved the bright, airy cabin and the added bonus of driving a vehicle that makes heads turn.

The Features:

LED headlights, wireless charging, 4 USB ports and a superb sound-system are part of the package; there is also a range of wheel options (16 – 18 inches) and a new feature, the VW Connect Dataplug – the idea is to create an interface between your smartphone and your vehicle to share data, driving figures and fuel efficiency information – it will replace the current My VW App and be rolled out in 2020. Important features that are included on the T-Cross include rear-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, proactive occupant protection, blind-spot detection and hill start assist, to name but a few.

The Drive:

Four models exist in the range, with two still to be launched in South Africa. The existing options include either a Comfortline or Highline variant, with the R-Line to be released in the new future. Currently, the Comfortline is available is a 70-kW producing TSO, or an 85 kW TSI on the Highline, which features a 7-speed DSG gearbox. The added bonus of having an effective 1.0-litre petrol engine is the 4.9-litre per 100-kilometre fuel consumption.

The Score:

The two available models at present range between R334 600 and R365 000 and earn a score of 8 crowns out of 10 for its unique and funky design.

Where to Find It:

Edenvale Lindsay Saker Volkswagen have an interactive website where you can view their products and services: https://www.lindsaysaker.co.za/edenvale/contact.

A Torque Queen Review – Desh Bechan

VOLKSWAGEN POLO VIVO GETS A SPECIAL EDITION MODEL

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→ South Africa’s best-selling passenger vehicle, the Polo Vivo, will be pumping a new sound
→ The Polo Vivo Sound Edition will be available from Volkswagen Dealers in September 2019.

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Johannesburg – In celebration of the love of music as well as the success of the Polo Vivo brand, South Africa’s best-selling passenger vehicle will be getting a special model called the Sound Edition.

The Polo Vivo Sound Edition, which made its debut at the VIVOnation Music Festival in April, retails at the beginning of September.

‘As at the end of July 2019, 17 672 Polo Vivo units have been sold in South Africa this year. We are confident that the addition of a special premium sound system in the Polo Vivo will appeal to young customers that are passionate about quality sound when they are listening to music,’’ said Martina Biene, Head of Sales and Marketing for the Volkswagen Brand.

The Polo Vivo Sound Edition is based on the 1.4 Comfortline 63kW manual derivative. The Sound Edition differentiates itself from other Polo Vivo derivatives in the range through the standard features such as 16-inch Rivazza alloy wheels in Anthracite, R340G Radio with App-Connect, a 6-speaker system with Subwoofer, mirror caps in Energetic Orange colour as well as equalizer decals on the doors and tailgate.

The Black Interior Styling Package (Anthracite headliner, sun visors and trim, Privacy Glass and Leather Steering Wheel, Gear and Handbrake Lever) is an optional feature retailing for R2 500.

The Polo Vivo Sound Edition will only be available in the following colours; Pure White, Limestone Grey and Reef Blue.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)
Polo Vivo Sound Edition 1.4 63kW Comfortline R220 000

The Polo Vivo Sound Edition comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. A Volkswagen Maintenance Plan as well as a Volkswagen Service Plan are available as options. Service interval is 15 000km.

Ends.
Issued by: The Public Relations Department of Volkswagen South Africa