The 2003 Geneva Motor Show will see the Volkswagen Touran, the new range of vans, make its world debut, and the four-seater New Beetle Convertible make its European debut. What’s more, five versions of the Phaeton, Touareg, Passat and Golf will be making their world debuts in Geneva. Highlights include the Touareg 2.5 TDI and V8 and also the 250 km/h Phaeton V10 TDI. The Passat, with a 132 kW / 180 PS V6 TDI, is also appearing in Geneva for the first time. The innovative Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) is celebrating its premier in the Golf R32.
- Touran and New Beetle Convertible premiere at European trade fair
- New engine versions for the Phaeton, Touareg and Passat; the Golf 32 with DSG
Alongside the new vehicles, the company is also presenting a new brand: The Volkswagen Individual. From April onwards, this autonomous division will be offering an exclusive refined, high-tech range of equipment for the Phaeton. Customers of other model ranges will gradually be able to benefit from the equipment offered by Volkswagen Individual GmbH.
The new Touran: The Touran, Volkswagen’s new multi-variable compact van, will appear in Germany on March the 14th. The Touran body, interior, chassis and drive concept, equipped with five or, as an option - seven single - seats has been completely revamped. The most stunning features of the van include its versatile interior design, generous proportioning - with a maximum luggage space capacity of 1,989 litres - and - thanks to a completely new chassis generation - the sharpest and safest handling in what is known as the A-MPV sector.
When it first goes on sale, the van will be offered with three dynamic yet thrifty FSI and TDI engines: a 1.6 FSI (85 kW / 115 PS), the tried and tested 1.9 TDI (74 kW / 100 PS) and the new 2.0 TDI (100 kW / 136 PS). The basic 1.6l (75 kW / 102 PS) engine will be available from May onwards, and over the course of the year: a 2.0 litre FSI. Unique in the sector: all FSI and TDI models are equipped with six-speed gearboxes.
New Beetle Convertible: The New Beetle Convertible will be ready for European launch right on schedule in Spring 2003. The torsionally stiff open Volkswagen, with full-sized seats, even in the rear, a roll-over protection system that automatically extends during an emergency, all-year top, including heated glass rear windscreen, and a six-speed automatic gearbox offered for the first time in this class (optional equipment), demonstrates just how safe and comfortable the concept of a lifestyle-oriented vehicle can be for every-day use. The New Beetle Convertible will be offered with three four-cylinder engines. The entry-level is a 1.4 (55 kW / 75 PS) and the next performance level is a 1.6 (75 kW / 102 PS). Most powerful petrol engine: 2.0 (85 kW / 115 PS). The 1.9 TDI (74 kW / 100 PS) will follow in the second half of 2003. All engines satisfy EC 4-emissions standards.
Touareg 2.5 TDI and Touareg V8:Volkswagen is expanding its Touareg off-roader engine range, which has enjoyed initial success in the first markets, with a 5-cylinder TDI and a V8 petrol engine. The new 2.5 TDI delivers 128 kW / 174 PS; the equally powerful (maximum torque of 400 Nm) yet thrifty diesel direct injection engine will be available from April onwards. The new Touareg V8 delivers 228 kW / 310 of power, a maximum torque of 410 Nm, and is already available in Germany. The Touareg now provides a choice of four engines, including the comfortable V6 petrol (162 kW / 220 PS) and the fascinating V10-TDI (230 kW / 313 PS).
Phaeton V10 TDI: The V10 TDI, already in-situ in the Touareg, is now also available for use in Volkswagen’s top class saloon. The bi-turbo diesel direct injection engine develops an incredible torque of 750 Nm at just 2,000 rpm.Its high performance makes the all-wheel 4MOTION ideal for use in the standard production version of the Phaeton V10 TDI.A new six-speed automatic gearbox provides the power.
In addition to its large capacity, the enhanced pump-nozzle, high-pressure direct injection and charging via a bi-turbo system with electrical charge adjustment also contribute to its sports-car-like power and performance. Notwithstanding its excellent road performance (250 km/h), the Phaeton V10 TDI also boasts a unique relationship between power, comfort and consumption.
Volkswagen Individual: Volkswagen Individual is set to be an exclusive partner for customers seeking top-class design to personalise their new vehicle.The equipment range offered by Volkswagen Individual GmbH (with Head Office in Wolfsburg) enables every new Phaeton to be lent that personal touch.
Volkswagen will be presenting one of their individually-finished Phaetons at the Geneva Motor Show.The first personalisation packages will be available in Germany from April 2003, other European markets will follow suit.Customers can discuss their personalisation requirements directly with either the Volkswagen Partner responsible for Phaeton distribution or the Phaeton specialists at “Transparent Manufacturing” in Dresden.
Passat / Passat Variant V6 TDI with 132 kW: From March, Volkswagen will be expanding its Passat and Passat Variant engine ranges with a 132 kW / 180 PS V6 TDI.The new top models among the diesel versions of the Passat come with all-wheel drive and six-speed gearboxes as standard equipment and satisfy the high EC 4 standard for this range. As a V6 TDI, the Passat Saloon achieves a maximum speed of 226 km/hour (Variant:223 km/h); average consumption is 7.6 litres (Variant:7.9 litres).
The Golf R32 with Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG): The Golf R32 has been more masterfully crafted than any other Golf before it. Its 177 kW / 241 PS 3.2 litre V6 engine gives a driving performance like that of a pure sports car (247 km/h; 0-100 km/h in 6.6 s). And an innovation to boot: The Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), available for the Golf R32 this spring, will improve road performance and reduce consumption over conventional manual gearboxes (0-100 km/h) for the first time: 6.4 seconds; consumption: minus 1.3 L/100 km). The DSG is a worldwide technical innovation: As essential distinguishing feature over conventional automatic gearboxes: The DSG does not utilize a torque converter as a ramp-up element. The DSG engineers took a new and revolutionary route used innovative mechanics and intelligent electronics to harmonise the agility of a manual gearbox with the comfort of an automatic.
Geneva 2003 - the Touran
- Compact van with innovative engines and versatile interior concept
- Generous proportions and up to 1,989 litres of luggage space
The Touran, Volkswagen’s new multi-variable compact van, will appear in Germany on March the 14th. This will stand alongside the Sharan and the Multivan (also new), as a third MPV model range to be offered by Europe’s largest vehicle manufacturer. The company presented its first “van” more than 53 years ago: The model 22, known throughout the world as the VW bus and the forebear of all MPV history.
The Touran body, interior, chassis and drive concept, equipped with five or an optional seven single seats - has been completely revamped. The most stunning features of the van include its variable interior concept, generous proportioning - with a maximum luggage space capacity of 1,989 litres - and - thanks to a completely new chassis generation - the sharpest and safest handling in what is known as the A-MPV sector.
The Touran, available in the Basic, Trendline and Highline equipment versions, is a Volkswagen van development that lends a whole new claim to quality in this market sector. This claim is justified by one of the essential features distinguishing the Volkswagen development from its competition:
In terms of its flexibility and safety features, the interior is designed to meet the needs of customers with exacting mobility requirements. The second row of seats has a particularly versatile design. The three single seats, weighing less than 16 kilograms each, can be individually shifted, moved, folded down to save space, or even removed. Up to 39 storage trays complete this well-thought out interior concept.
The Touran is also available with a third row of seats. When not in use, these two full-sized single seats can be folded into the floor using the fitted hand grips.
The boot is also extremely versatile and practical. In the classic five-seat configuration, the luggage compartment has a volume of 695 litres; the maximum useful load is up to 660 kilograms. If all of the second-row seats are removed and the third row is folded down, the maximum storage volume is a remarkable 1,913 litres. At 1,989 litres, the 5-seater offers even more, a best-in-class for this sector.
In terms of comfort, the Touran also offers unusually good standard equipment including a radio with CD player, central locking with radio remote control and electric window lifts.
The fact that the new Volkswagen demonstrates particular agility and safety under all operating conditions is due to the completely redesigned chassis with a completely revamped front suspension strut and an innovative four-link rear suspension. This new chassis configuration offers maximum road stability, comfort and driving fun.
This is also the first time an electro-mechanical servo steering arrangement has been used in this sector. Compared to conventional steering, the system requires less fuel, works depending on speed and can be better matched to the vehicle than other systems.
The van is offered in three equipment versions and when launched, will be offered with three dynamic yet thrifty FSI and TDI motors. The 1.6 FSI (petrol direct injection), with its 85 kW / 115 PS, has undergone significant further development. The Touran 1.9 TDI, with an output of 74 kW / 100 PS, will also become available: The most powerful diesel engine in its class is a TDI with four-valve technology; the 2.0 TDI achieves 100 kW / 136 PS with a torque of 320 Nm at just 1,750 rpm. In principle, all motors satisfy the EC 4-Emissions Standard and bring tax benefits in Germany.
The Touran’s basic engine, a 1.6 litre petrol with 75 kW / 102 PS, will be available from May onwards. A more powerful 2.0 litre FSI engine will also become available during the course of the year.
Unique in the sector: All FSI and TDI models come with six-speed gearboxes as standard. At a later date, the new innovative Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) will be available as an option for the TDI versions. This option is a completely new and fascinating way of combining the benefits of an automatic gearbox with the agility and economy of a manual. In combination with the FSI engine, Volkswagen also offers the Touran with a new six-speed automatic gearbox (Tiptronic).
The Touran’s laser-welded and extremely stiff bodyshell offers a very high level of passive safety. With standard side-curtain airbags in the first and second seat rows, front and rear side airbags and active driver and passenger head supports, the Touran benefits from a comprehensive safety system. Standard three-point seat belts ensure passenger safety in all seats. All-round disc brakes (front-ventilated) and ESP, including ABS, EDS, ASE and brake assistant complete the active safety system. The all-encompassing safety concept and the vehicle structure ensure low maintenance costs: Its classification in the Class 12 category (85 kW FSI) for fully comprehensive insurance has put the Touran at the top of the list.
Geneva 2003 - The New Beetle Convertible
- Lifestyle convertible sets new quality standards
- Safety system with automatic extending roll-over system
The New Beetle Convertible will be ready for European launch right on schedule in spring 2003. The design is completely original and synonymous with classless joie de vivre. What’s more, the New Beetle Convertible is a refreshing and progressive take on the original Beetle convertible, which wrote history as the first classless Volkswagen. The spiritual links between the new and old versions of the Beetle Convertible are closer than that of their closed counterparts.
When Volkswagen launched the Beetle convertible in 1949, driving an open four-seater came within many people’s reach for the first time. With a mature image and suitability for every day use, it offered pure driving pleasure under every clear sky of the world.
In 1980, after sales of 330,000, the Beetle convertible was taken out of production; it had long-since developed into the classless lifestyle car for generations of convertible drivers.
The New Beetle Convertible is a highly modern interpretation of this very vehicle concept. It is a lifestyle car, classless, completely open, and perfectly suitable for every day use.
The torsionally stiff open Volkswagen, with its full-sized seats, even in the rear, a roll-over protection system that automatically extends during an emergency, all-year top, including heated glass rear windscreen, and a six-speed automatic gearbox offered for the first time in this class (optional equipment), demonstrates just how safe and comfortable the concept of a lifestyle-oriented vehicle can be for every-day use.
Paint colours designed specifically for the New Beetle Convertible work for every day include Aquarius Blue, Mellow Yellow and Harvest Moon, to name but a few, and as their names suggest, confirm that the positive and happy charisma of this car is part of the overall plan.
The New Beetle Convertible is offered for market launch in Europe with three different engine versions. The entry level is a four-cylinder petrol engine with 55 kW / 75 PS. The next performance phase makes use of a 1.6 litre petrol engine, the 75 kW / 102 PS. The most powerful petrol-engine is a 2.0 litre, four-cylinder with 85 kW / 15 PS. In the second half of 2003, a four-cylinder turbo diesel is set to follow - equally economical with just as much torque; the 1.9 litre engine with pump nozzle direct injection delivers 74 kW / 100 PS. All engines satisfy the strict EC 4-emissions standards.
In general, all engines will be fitted with a manual five-speed gearbox. As a new innovation in the convertible sector, Volkswagen also offers a new six-speed automatic (with Tiptronic function) as an option for the 2.0 litre petrol engine.
Typical convertible highlights include structural design and fabric roof control. Like the previous Beetle convertible, the ’soft-top’ is stowed in the area around the imaginary C-column. This makes it reminiscent of the historic convertible. Thanks to a particularly lavish Z-fold, however, it has been possible to significantly reduce the height of the folded roof.
To open it, the roof is unlocked with a single-hand operation in the front roof area. It can then be brought into its stowage position. With the optional electro-hydraulic system, the roof can be opened or closed in just 13 seconds with the flick of a switch. An all-round moulding creates a classy transition between the roof or lower edge of the window and the body line.
The automatic triggering rollover protection system has been harmoniously integrated into the silhouette of the open convertible and is located behind the rear seat backrest. A rollover and crash sensor detects a potential rollover and actuates the protection system. In this case, two support profiles flick up within 0.25 seconds and, together with the reinforced windscreen frame, protect the interior.
The passive safety elements, which include effective front and side airbags and energy-absorbing side trim designed specifically for the convertible, are supplemented by proven, active, safety features. The New Beetle Convertible comes with standard ABS and ESP.
Geneva 2003 - Touareg 2.5 TDI / Touareg V8
- The new 2.5 TDI generates 128 kW / 174 PS; this five-cylinder version will be available from April
- The new V8 with228 kW / 310 PS delivers a maximum speed of 218 km/h
With a 5-cylinder TDI and a V8 petrol engine, Volkswagen is expanding the engine range of the Touareg off-roader, which has experienced an extremely successful launch thus far. The new 2.5 TDI delivers 128 kW / 174 PS; and the equally powerful (maximum torque of 400 Nm) and thrifty diesel direct injector will be available from April onwards as the entry level engine. The new V8 in the Touareg generates 228 kW / 310 PS and a maximum torque of 410 Nm; it is already available in Germany.
Since its launch in autumn, the Touareg has been available with a 3.2 litre, V-6 petrol engine and a five-litre V10-TDI. The V6 engine delivers 162 kW / 220 PS and develops 305 Nm of torque. The new V10 TDI is one of the most fascinating diesel engines in the world; the 230 kW / 313 PS bi-turbo engine develops 750 Nm of torque at just 2,000 rpm.
The five-cylinder TDI has been completely revamped. The turbo diesel, fitted with a direct injection pump nozzle (injection pressure to 2,050 bar) is particularly compact. In the Touareg, it is installed longitudinally. A vibration balancer integrated into the crankshaft ensures that this diesel engine exhibits particularly low-vibration behaviour. In addition, the 2.5 litre engine boasts a pleasingly quiet running noise and a comparably low weight (approx. 189 kg).The latter was achieved not least through the decision to use an aluminium cylinder crank-casing (cylinder spacing: 88 mm). A technical innovation also contributed to the weight reduction: For the first time, plasma-coated cylinder bearing surfaces are being used in a turbo-charged diesel engine. In addition to the direct-injection pump nozzle, the turbocharger, with versatile turbine geometry, also has a positive effect on superior power generation.
The new TDI in the Touareg achieves its high output (128 kW / 174 PS) at 3,500 rpm; the maximum torque (400 Nm) becomes available from just 2,000 rpm. The Touareg 2.5 TDI satisfies the EC 3 Emissions Standard.
Being its most powerful petrol engine, Volkswagen will be putting this V8 into the Touareg. From a capacity of 4,172 cc, the 5-valve develops 228 kW / 310 PS at 6,200 rpm. The maximum torque (410 Nm) is available after 3,000 rpm.
The comparably light V8 (193 kg, cylinder angle 90o) boasts a low-friction valve train assembly with roller valve lever, intake camshaft adjustment, three-phase variable magnesium induction pipe, aluminium cylinder head and magnesium cylinder head covers.
The Touareg V8 achieves a maximum speed of 218 km/h; the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds can be likened to sports-car performance. In the overall fuel mix, the average consumption is 14.8 litres per 100 kilometres. Like all Touareg petrol engines, the eight-cylinder also satisfies the EC 4 Standard.
All Touaregs have six-speed gearboxes. The Touareg 2.5 TDI and the V6 come with manual gearboxes as standard. For the Touareg V8 and the V10 TDI, a newly designed 6-speed automatic gearbox is used.
Geneva 2003 - Phaeton V10 TDI
- The 313 PS, V10 TDI engine is set to follow the V6 and W12 in 2003
- The Phaeton impresses with its dynamic design and high-end technology
In 2003, the Phaeton will define a new standard in the diesel division of the luxury car market:as a V10 TDI with 230 kW / 313 PS.The bi-turbo diesel direct injection engine develops an incredible torque of 750 Nm from just 2,000 rpm.Owing to its high performance, the all-wheel 4MOTION drive is used as standard in the Phaeton V10 TDI.Transmission is via a new automatic six-speed gearbox.
In addition to its large capacity, the enhanced high pressure direct injection pump nozzle (up to 2,050 bar), along with charging via a bi-turbo system with electrical charger adjustment, all contribute to the vehicle’s sports power and performance. Notwithstanding its excellent road performance (250 km/h), the Phaeton V10 TDI impresses with a unique relationship between power, comfort and consumption.
Consider the key technological values of the V10 TDI, with a compression ratio of 18:1: The cylinder spacing of the TDI is 88 millimetres, the bore 81.0 and the stroke 95.5 millimetres. The two five-cylinder banks are set at an angle of 90 degrees, allowing a flat design. The compact length of 433 mm is also notable.
Besides the extremely good torque and power characteristics and the compact dimensions, exemplary smooth running was one of the most important development objectives. To achieve this, Volkswagen used an engine with a low-vibration design and a balance shaft contra-rotating to the crankshaft, which eliminates the residual torque of inertia. Its action is supported by six counterbalances, produced using a Wolfram alloy and mounted to the crankshaft.
The direct injection of the V10 TDI plays a key technical role. It optimises the mean pressures, the specific power and the quality of the emissions. The U1-P1 pump nozzle used in the ten cylinder is characterised in this respect by improved efficiency, a more compact solenoid valve and a significantly increased partial load injection pressure. This is progress that improves the quality of emissions.
To further reduce emissions, the engine is equipped with pneumatically-controlled exhaust gas return pipe and switchable recirculation coolers. Furthermore, oxidation catalytic converters mounted near the engine contribute towards optimising the low raw emissions.
Geneva 2003 - Volkswagen Individual
- Volkswagen Individual as the division ensuring perfection in bespoke solutions
- Exclusive, bespoke equipment for the Phaeton
Volkswagen Individual GmbH, a new division of Europe’s largest vehicle manufacturer is set to be an exclusive partner for customers who want to have their new luxury car highly personalised.The new company has autonomous distribution, development and finance divisions; its engineers work closely with Volkswagen’s technical development.The product range offered by Volkswagen Individual GmbH, whose Head Office is in Wolfsburg, enables every new Phaeton to be lent that personal touch.
Customers decide upon their individualisation requirements directly, together with either the Volkswagen Partner responsible for the sale of the Phaeton, or with a Phaeton specialist at “Transparent Manufacture” in Dresden.Volkswagen Individual then integrates the equipment details into each individual vehicle at its ‘Transparent Manufacture’.
Volkswagen will be presenting a Phaeton individually finished by Volkswagen Individual GmbH at the Geneva Motor Show.From April 2003, the first “personalisation” packages will be available from German dealers; other European markets will follow shortly thereafter.
The equipment options offered from April comprise an individual leather package in extra colours, new wood trim, special paint finishes, two new 19″ light alloy rims (”Helios” and “Omanyt”), a multi-media system with DVD changer, a multi-functional communication unit and a refrigerator in the rear.
All equipment ranges offered by Volkswagen Individual are intended specifically for the Phaeton and are being continuously developed and supplemented by additional new packages based on current customer requirements.
“Multimedia System”:This feature for the rear accommodates a package consisting of 6-way DVD changer, two LCD monitors (6.5 inch) in the front headrest and two headsets designed for in-car use.Images are created via a DVD-changer, an AV connection (e.g. for video camera, game console etc.) and the vehicle’s TV aerial.
Refrigerator: Unlike the conventional thermo-electrical coolbox, the refrigerator, integrated into the rear bench seat has a chiller compressor, which enables non-cooled drinks and food to be chilled down very quickly.The refrigerator has an above-average capacity of 17.5 litres.
Paint finishes:Besides the numerous metallic and pearl-effect finishes, heliochrome paint is now being used, which, thanks to its shimmering effect, creates a varying surface finish, depending on the angle of view.Also offered in the range:Special piano lacquer, with optimum brilliance and maximum scratch-resistance.
Example: The extensive Phaeton standard production program is complemented by three extra leather colours in the highest leather quality “Sensitive” and two wood trims that are very different from the existing program, thereby creating further attractive options for individual interior design.
Communication unit:This system, developed in collaboration with other vehicle manufacturers, is a true all-rounder in mobile communication, boasting a send/receive fax facility, connection for a telephone receiver and/or a Bluetooth mobile phone, scanning (b/w or colour) and printing (b/w) from notebook and/or PDA and Internet access.The link between the communication unit and the notebook or PDA can be created by either USB port or Bluetooth.
Geneva 2003 - Passat 2.5 V6 TDI with 132 kW
- 180-PS-TDI up to 226 km/h, standard all-wheel drive 4MOTION
- Low emissions satisfying EU4 with standard six-speed gear box
As of March, Volkswagen will be expanding its engine range for the Passat and Passat Variant with a 132 kW / 180 PS V6 TDI.The new top models among the diesel versions of the Passat come with all-wheel drive and six-speed gearboxes as standard, thereby satisfying the exacting EC 4 Standard. As an option, the Passat V6 TDI 4MOTION and Passat Variant V6 TDI 4MOTION can be combined with a five-speed automatic (Tiptronic) gearbox.
The 180 PS six-cylinder engine is one of the most powerful and comfortable turbo diesel injections in its performance class.From just 1,500 rpm, the 2,496 cc engine develops a maximum torque of 370 Nm.
As a V6 TDI, the manual Passat Saloon achieves a notable maximum speed of 226 km/h, the Variant 223 km/h.No less impressive is acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.7 seconds (Variant:8.9 seconds).These performances are matched by low consumption values.7.6 litre diesel (Variant:7.9 litre) will last for an average of 100 kilometres.Out-of-town driving reduces this to an average of 5.9 litres (Variant: 6.1 litres).
In addition to low fuel consumption, use-dependent service intervals contribute to the high economy of the new Passat V6 TDI 4MOTION.
Geneva 2003 - Golf R32 with DSG
- Dynamism and consumption values at manual gearbox level
- 241 PS Golf R32 is the first Volkswagen to boast the unique DSG
The Golf R32 has been more masterfully crafted than any other standard production Golf before. Its 177 kW / 241 PS 3.2 litre V6 permits a maximum speed of 247 km/h; the Golf R32 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.6 seconds. An innovation to boot: The standard production Golf R32 fitted with a six-speed gearbox achieves, as an optional automatic version, even higher performance and lower consumption (0-100 km/h: 6.4 seconds; consumption: minus 1.3 L/100 km). The key: Volkswagen’s new direct shift gearbox (DSG).
The sporty yet economical six-speed automatic gearbox for the Golf R32 will be launched in the first half of 2003 as a worldwide technical innovation.The direct shift gearbox has been designed specifically to satisfy the needs of the sporty yet consumption-conscious driver.An essential distinguishing feature of the DSG over conventional automatic gearboxes:The DSG does not make utilise a torque converter as a ramp-up element.The DSG engineers took a new and revolutionary route by harmonising the agility of a manual gearbox with the comfort of an automatic.
This new gearbox provides a genuine alternative, especially to those drivers who have always preferred the manual option. The DSG does not give any hint of a disadvantage, neither in terms of consumption nor performance. On the contrary:Given identical driving values, the shifting comfort achieves the level of the best-known automatic gearbox; in addition, through a Tiptronic function, and in the Golf R32 through a rocker behind the steering wheel, the system can also be switched to manual operation.And it is faster and snappier than any manual or automatic gearbox before it.
Pictures from Geneva:
Related articles:
- The new Passat celebrates its world premiere in Geneva
- World premiere at Geneva Motor Show: Phaeton V10 TDI with 313-bhp ten-cylinder turbocharged diesel
- Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible - Initial facts
- New Beetle Cabriolet launches the 2003 open-air season on 21st February
- Touareg - world premiere for Volkswagen’s top-class off-road vehicle at Paris Motor Show
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