Hybrid powertrains

The “In China, for China” strategy of the Volkswagen brand is taking on visible form: At this year’s Auto Shanghai (April 23 to May 2), one of the world’s most important motor shows, VW’s three Chinese joint ventures will present electric concept cars. The spotlight is on an electric notchback model from FAW-Volkswagen, an electric SUV in the B segment with extended range due to range-extender technology (EREV) from SAIC VOLKSWAGEN as well as an all-electric SUV from Volkswagen Anhui. All three concept cars embody Volkswagen’s new China DNA – both in terms of technology and design and in relation to development time, which has been cut by more than 30 percent.

Volkswagen is expanding the drive range of the best-selling Tiguan and Passat as well as the new Tayron with the most powerful turbocharged petrol engines (TSI). These are coupled to the intelligently controlled 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard. The combination of TSI and 4MOTION enables towing capacities of up to 2,200 kg (Passat and Tiguan) and 2,500 kg (Tayron with appropriate equipment). The Tiguan and Tayron SUVs can be configured as 2.0 TSI 4MOTION with 150 kW (204 PS) or 195 kW (265 PS). The Passat 2.0 TSI 4MOTION always comes in the more powerful 195 kW version. Sales of the new Volkswagen all-wheel drive models have begun in some markets in Europe. The turbocharged petrol engines complement the most powerful TDI engine with 142 kW (193 PS).

The new Golf GTE and the new Golf eHybrid offer new plug-in hybrid technology and a host of enhanced features. With an output of 200 kW (272 PS), the performance drive of the new Golf GTE even surpasses the level of the new Golf GTI thanks to its additional electric power. The Golf eHybrid is designed for maximum comfort and delivers an output of 150 kW (204 PS). The all-electric range of the GTE has been increased to up to 131 kilometres. With the eHybrid, it is even possible to achieve a range of 143 kilometres (combined). In addition, both models come with a DC quick-charging function. On the outside, the distinguishing features of the two compact models include their updated front with LED Plus headlights, as well as redesigned LED tail light clusters and the standard-equipment 17-inch “Richmond” alloy wheels (for GTE) and “Nottingham” (for eHybrid). A modern infotainment system and numerous driver assist systems increase comfort. The comfortable Golf eHybrid can now be configured and ordered at prices starting from 44,240 euros. The dynamic Golf GTE is available from 46,745 euros.

A class of its own. The Volkswagen Passat is a global bestseller. To date, more than 34 million units have been delivered to almost every country in the world. An ongoing success – even five decades after its debut, the Passat is currently one of the three best-selling Volkswagens internationally alongside the Tiguan and Polo (with their derivatives). In Europe, it has always been a steady long-term seller, especially as the Variant. Since 2022, Volkswagen has therefore exclusively offered the Passat as an estate version between the North Cape and Gibraltar. And with resounding success. In Germany, for example, the Passat Variant was topped the rankings in the mid-sized class in 2023, with 45,494 new registrations. The secret to its success is the fact that the Passat Variant is two cars in one – a business class vehicle and a family all-rounder at the same time. Now, a brand-new Passat Variant is being launched that has been developed from scratch. And this time, it is breaking down class boundaries. Even though the Passat Variant – now in its ninth generation – is priced (from 39,995 euros) in the mid-sized class, its new size, new quality standard and new innovative power mean it can cater to the next segment up.

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