A monthly publication for Volkswagen owners in Singapore ISSUE ONe April 2013 Reasons why the NEW Golf is The Car of the Year Inside • The VCS Check • VCS MacPherson Turns 1 • Aftersales Promotions • More! Contents Global news Global news 06 01 | XL1 is the most fuel-efficient car the world has ever known 02 | GTI & GTD – Official news on these two new hot hatches Cover story 04 | How the new Golf won the hearts of the judges and became Car of the Year 2013 Local news 08 06 | Volkswagen Centre Singapore (MacPherson) celebrates its first anniversary 07 | Volkswagen goes to the heartlands again Aftersales 08 | The check that ensures you get your car back in tip-top condition Volkswagen launches the record-breaking XL1 Integrating a lightweight and low-drag frame with a super-efficient hybrid power plant, the XL1 is born 02 The new Golf GTI The legend is back, better than before! VolksMag is a monthly publication by Volkswagen Group Singapore. ISSUE ONE | April 2013 Publisher Interpage Pte Ltd Enquiries [email protected] www.volksmag.com.sg Lightweight and low-drag are hallmarks of a great sports car design, and when paired with a superefficient hybrid power train, you have the Volkswagen XL1, the most aerodynamic and fuel-efficient production car ever. Once a vision, the sub 1.0-litre combined fuel consumption is now a reality with the XL1. The record figure of 0.9 l/100 km has not been achieved by any other vehicle to date, and simply illustrates how Volkswagen is redefining what is technically feasible in car making. Adhering to pure sports car design principles, the XL1 has perfect aerodynamics of Cd 0.189 and a low centre of gravity, measuring 1,153 mm in height. This results in the ability to cruise on the road at a constant speed of 100 km/h using just slightly over 8 bhp worth of power. In all-electric mode, the XL1 requires less than 0.1 kWh to cover a driving distance of over one kilometre. If necessary, the XL1, with a top speed of 160 km/h, can accelerate to 100 km/h in 12.7 seconds. Combining high-tech lightweight design, a low drag coefficient, seven-speed DSG transmission and a plug-in hybrid power plant that consists of a two-cylinder TDI engine (47 bhp) and an E-motor (27 bhp), the Volkswagen XL1 emits an astonishingly modest 21 g/km of CO2. The 795 kg two-seater can also cover a distance of up to 50 km in all-electric mode with zero local emissions – it is indeed, a car of the future, built for today. 01 Global news Diesel twin The legend reborn The new Golf GTI is set to make history once again Time stands still for no man. That is why at Volkswagen, we strive to continuously improve our cars, no matter how good they are. Beloved though the Mk6 Golf GTI was by car enthusiasts across the globe, we could not simply rest on our laurels. The new Golf GTI will be instantly recognizable to fans of this award-winning hatchback, but with several improvements to keep it ahead of the competition. The turbocharged 2.0-litre TSI engine now produces 220 bhp and 350 Nm of torque as standard, and will accelerate to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds, and on to a 246 km/h top speed. For the first time, a Performance variant will also be available, which adds a further 10 bhp, a mechanical limited-slip differential, larger brakes, and bumps the top speed up to 250 km/h. Thanks to VW’s MQB modular architecture, the new Golf GTI’s kerbweight drops 40-90 kg, depending on 02 trim level and options. Not only will this benefit ride, handling and agility, but, in conjunction with stop-start technology, also improves fuel efficiency by 18%. This means a combined fuel consumption figure of 6.4 l/100km and 148 g/km CO2 for the DSG model, and an even more impressive 6.0 l/100km and 139 g/km for the 6-speed manual, which, if chosen, will grant the buyer a CEVS rebate of $10,000. Likewise, the usual GTI visual cues are also given a mild refresh. The red grille trim that is unique to the GTI now runs across the nose. ‘GTI’ badges adorn the grille, front wings and bootlid, to remind the neighbours of your special car. 17-inch ‘Brooklyn’ wheels, eye-catching red brake calipers, a purposeful rear diffuser and dual chrome tailpipes complete the exterior. Inside, the GTI is distinguished by a flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel, stainless steel pedals, red stitching on the wheel and gearlever, and ever-iconic tartan cloth seats, here in updated ‘Clark’ pattern, though leather sports seats will also be available. Launch date and pricing are to be confirmed, but needless to say, this will be one of the must-have performance cars of the year ahead. Unveiled alongside the Golf GTI at the Geneva motorshow was its diesel sibling, the GTD. Yup, that’s right, an oil-burning hot hatch, and a very potent one at that. With 180 bhp and a tyreshredding 380 Nm (available from just 1,750 rpm!), the GTD will hit 100 km/h from standstill in 7.5 seconds, and yet the DSG version will consume just 4.7 l/100km and put out 119 g of CO2 per kilometer! Apart from the engine, everything else about the car is borrowed directly from the GTI, including the tweaked chassis, bodykit and interior pieces. The few ways to tell a GTD apart from a GTI would be its cool silver, rather than red, grille trim, and twin exhausts instead of the latter’s split dual items. Even the interior can be specced with sport seats in the signature tartan pattern (“Clark”), albeit in grey instead of the GTI’s red lining. The Golf GTD has been an established model in VW’s model range, dating all the way back to 1982, when it was first introduced in the Mk1. With the new model, the GTD will undoubtedly continue to put a smile on the faces of torque addicts and motorists with long distance commutes the world over. 03 Cover story Reasons why the Golf Mk7 is The Car of the Year It’s a sharper looker 1 The Volkswagen Golf is no stranger to awards and success. Over the years, the model has been consistently regarded by the industry and journalists as the standard by which all family hatches should be judged. This is not the first time the Golf has been named the 2013 European Car of the Year, the Mk3 had the honour of that title back in 1992. In fact, over 38 years of this model’s history, every single generation has finished in the top three rankings of this prestigious competition. On that note, let’s look at seven reasons why the new Golf has won, and can turn you into a winner too. The increased width, lowered roofline and widened grille give it a squatter, more dynamic look, while daytime running lights and tapered LED taillights keep you visible to other motorists at all times. 2 The flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel, driver-angled centre console and overall simple intuitive design lend the cabin an understated, classy style that is easy to operate on the go. 04 Despite a lowered roofline and 100 kg less weight, the new Golf has grown. Larger by a sizable 59 mm, the wheelbase allows it to increase in length and width. By moving the front axle forward, passengers now get an extra 35 mm of legroom, and boot space has increased by 30 litres. Because more, is more! It’s better to drive Thanks to our innovative MQB architecture, production methods are massively simplified across many models in the VW Group, and costs go down. Thus, extra investment can be made in higher strength materials that decrease weight but improve chassis stiffness, leading to better handling, performance and fuel efficiency. 5 It’s cheaper to run 4 It’s safer It’s nicer to sit in It’s more spacious 6 Lower weight and stop-start technology help bring consumption and emissions down 23 percent to impressively low levels – up to 5.0 l/100km and 116 g/km CO2 is possible, allowing the Golf to qualify for a $15,000 CEVS rebate! 3 There is a saying, that the best way to survive a crash is to avoid one in the first place. To that end, the Golf comes equipped with ESP and an XDS electronic differential lock to maintain optimum traction whatever the conditions. In the unfortunate event that a crash is unavoidable, Protective Occupant Protection closes all windows and pre-tensions all seatbelts before impact, while the multicollision brake system continues to apply the brakes to prevent the car from rolling into other lanes. It’s full of tech 7 The new Golf goes one-up in its segment by offering something rarely seen even in the class above: a full colour touchscreen infotainment system with 8 speakers, 2 SD card slots, USB and AUX-IN ports, Bluetooth and 3D navigation. Furthermore, the electronic parking brake also features Hill Start Assist, to ensure smooth, jolt-free starts from traffic lights and inclines, while Park Assist takes care of steering inputs while parking, to ensure you’re always perfectly in your lot. 05 Local news Roaring back into the heartlands again Making its way back to Toa Payoh, Volkswagen returns for yet another roadshow from 17th to 21st April 2013! Volkswagen Centre at MacPherson turns one Our location in the east continues to support and serve current and propective owners alike Since its inception last year, with the official opening held on 11th April 2012, our three-storey Volkswagen Centre Singapore at 1 Kampong Ampat has grown from strength to strength. With a gross floor area of 93,421 square feet, the MacPherson showroom offers complete aftersales support as well as a showroom big enough to accommodate the display of eight current Volkswagen models. The new MacPherson showroom has gathered pace and is currently serving half of the aftersales traffic for Volkswagen Singapore. The dealership mirrors the excellent quality of service set by Volkswagen Centre Singapore (Alexandra), and customers can also expect faster turnaround times due to the dealership’s large and new workshop as well as an expanded aftersales team. The success of Volkswagen Centre Singapore (MacPherson)’s growth mainly comes from the growing demand of having a dealership in the East for more convenient access to aftersales services, which holds true as approximately 40 percent of Singapore’s current Volkswagen owners reside there. Having this alternative venue makes it easier for this group of customers, as well as other owners and prospective customers, to enjoy the full Volkswagen experience at two convenient locations in Singapore! So make it a date with your family and friends, and come see your favourite Volkswagen models from the 17th to 21st of April at Toa Payoh Hub! The 2012 road show in Toa Payoh was Volkswagen’s first ever foray in reaching out to heartlanders and it was a resounding success! But it doesn’t stop there. What can be more exciting than seeing a fleet of brand new Volkswagen models gleaming under the spot light, proudly displayed in public for all to see and tagged with attractive prices? Look no further than the 2013 Volkswagen Roadshow, which promises a whole lot of fun for car buyers and their family members alike! With a wide range of new Volkswagen models on display, the roadshow in Toa Payoh guarantees an eclectic selection of cars, such as the family oriented seven-seater Touran to the sporty and head-turning Scirocco, all eight of them being the latest 2013 models. Also on exhibit at the roadshow will be interesting facts and figures like the Child Safety Display and Information. Making a comeback, is the fascinating Volkswagen Think Blue. Photobox, where the public can try their hands at cycling to generate enough kinetic energy to power a photo booth. Cycle hard; pop goes the camera, and moments of your loved ones are created in an eco-friendly way. VolksMag reader exclusive! Turn others green with envy! S$3,000 off a Scirocco 1.4 TSI Over and above all existing promotions! Super exclusive deal for VolksMag readers only. Enjoyed reading VolksMag? Sign up now to receive future issues via e-mail. Simply log on to www.volksmag.com.sg/subscribe to get your monthly e-copy. Valid for bookings made from 1st to 30th April 2013. 07 Aftersales A check you can bank on Did you know that every car that comes out of our service centres goes through a comprehensive check? The pleasure of driving a Volkswagen doesn’t stop at owning one. Having it looked after by our expert team at both our servicing centres will ensure that your car preserves its performance, safety and value for years to come. While servicing your car regularly is certainly important, how do you know a service has been carried out well? Or if there might be a fault that was overlooked? That’s where our Volkswagen Quality Control Supervisors come in. Armed with years of technical experience along with a comprehensive, factory-approved check, they ensure that your car is running smoothly and safely before it hits the road again. Loy Yoke Cheong (right) is one such person. He is dedicated to making sure your car passes the extensive check (which includes a complimentary on-board diagnostic test and software upgrades) before you get behind the wheel. After establishing a check on each item, he will personally test your car to make certain that nothing has been left out. If he spots even a minor detail that is amiss, he will ‘reject’ the car and have the workshop review it. Having been in the trade for more than 16 years, Loy emphasises that his job is a crucial one, “We check and test about 20 cars a day on average. It is our job to make sure each one is perfect before handing over to the customer, together with the completed form. Having the check not only ensures the servicing or repair was done well, it also helps us pick up any minor problems before they become big, expensive ones.” 08 This month’s aftersales promotions! To celebrate the first anniversary of Volkswagen Centre Singapore (MacPherson), we’ve lined up a special range of deals just for you. Service packages at special prices + free 1 litre Castrol oil • Upfront payment • Service package redemption can be done within one year • Servicing to be carried out at Volkswagen Centre Singapore (MacPherson) only Special discounts for original Volkswagen wheels & merchandise Lucky draw 1st prize: Free service package 2nd prize: Car grooming package 3rd prize: 3-in-1 performance system plus air-conditioning & cabin treatment All these offers are valid on the weekend of 20th & 21st April 2013 Volkswagen Centre Singapore (MacPherson) only. Think Blue. “Think Blue.” is our commitment to help drivers be more environmentally friendly. Volkswagen’s BlueMotion Technologies like TSI, TDI and DSG, as well as ecological initiatives such as the Volkswagen Eco Driving Programme, all play a role toward this aim. Visit www.thinkblue.sg for more ideas on how to Think Blue. www.thinkblue.sg