Volkswagen Archives

Second generation of Volkswagen Amarok to go on sale from end of 2022

Collaborating on products is nothing new nor unusual in the auto industry. It costs a massive amount of money to develop a new model and unless the potential volume over the life of the model is sufficiently high, it may not be worth the expenditure on R&D. So carmakers will team up and jointly develop a new model and share the costs, which would make better business sense if the volumes are not going to be very big.

Even our Perodua teamed up with Toyota and Daihatsu to develop the first Myvi, which each carmaker then added its own styling differences for differentiation. The sharing of costs sometimes allows a better equipped product to be developed as the money saved can be used for better features.

Volkswagen is no stranger to such partnerships and has shared products with companies like Ford and Toyota, among others. In the past, its Sharan MPV was also sold as a Ford Galaxy and now, the latest model to be shared by the two companies is the Amarok, which is adapted from the latest 4^th generation Ford Ranger (to be launched in Malaysia this month).

To be built in South Africa
The new Amarok is like the previous Rangers and Mazda’s BT-50, which was a shared product as well. And like those trucks, the Amarok will also be initially built at the same plant as the new Ranger in South Africa. Later on, production will also start at Volkswagen’s own factory in Argentina which has been making the first generation of the Amarok that was introduced in 2010.

The new Amarok was developed largely in Australia, probably at Ford’s facilities, but Volkswagen also mentions Germany which would have been where the styling work would have been done. It will be sold as a premium pick-up truck and appear in Australia and New Zealand, numerous countries of Africa, the Middle East and Europe. While North America is not mentioned and perhaps it would be a tough market to enter, it’s interesting that Volkswagen does not have Asian markets in mind either. Perhaps the dominance of models like the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-MAX also make it challenging to compete in, not to mention the fact that the Ford version is sold widely.

The first generation of the Amarok now looks pretty dated but then again, it was developed over 15 years ago. Since then, many new technologies have been developed and trucks have also gained more sophistication. Thus for the new model, it is a big leap technologically with over 20 new driver assist systems, mobile online services, all-wheel drive technologies, and high efficiency/high-torque powerplants.

With over 830,000 units sold, the first generation established the Amarok as a tough vehicle, though a bit basic in comparison to rivals. The new one is bigger, more powerful and more athletic. It has a frontal appearance that follows Volkswagen’s design language so it is well differentiated from the Ford.

“For the new generation, we have significantly modified the Amarok’s archetypal design. It is now unambiguously more expressive and even more impressive”, said Albert Kirzinger, Head of Design at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. Making a statement in itself is the new front section of the truck which will have three specification variants, as well as the top versions with off-road styling and exclusive styling. The new Amarok will be offered with two bodystyles – a 4-door double cab and 2-door single cab.

Long wheelbase enhances proportions
At 5350 mm, the new Amarok is 96 mm longer than its predecessor. The wheelbase has also been extended to 3270 mm, representing an increase of 173 mm. That allows more room within the cabin, especially for the rear passengers in the double cab. The longer wheelbase shortens the body overhangs, which is not only gives sharper proportions but is also advantageous in off-roading as there are better approach angles. The off-road capabilities of the Amarok are also enhanced by a much greater fording depth for driving through deep water; previously it was 500 mm, now it’s 800 mm.

High-quality interior
With its self-explanatory and digital displays, the interior has been configured by the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles design team in a very functional and high-quality way. The spectrum of display units is made up of digital 8-inch instruments (Digital Cockpit, fully digital) and 12-inch panels with a large touchscreen in tablet format.

After much research, the interior designers implemented a mix of digital functions and ergonomically configured buttons and/or push/rotary switches in the Amarok that are intuitive to use. The infotainment system’s volume and all-wheel drive system’s settings are controlled via such hard keys which make better sense than touch operation.

The sound system is from Harman Kardon and will be standard for the high-end versions and optional for others. It is used exclusively in the Amarok and complements the premium appearance of the leather-look instrument panel with elegant contrast stitching. The premium positioning is also matched by the seating which has electric adjustments.

Payloads of up to 1.16 tonnes
Behind the cab is a spacious load area which Volkswagen refers to as a ‘cargo box’. Its dimensions are sufficient for a Euro pallet loaded sideways. The single cab version can even take two pallets loaded sideways. The load is strapped down via eye rings on the cargo bed, each of which can take a load of up to 500 kgs. There is also boosted load capability – the maximum payload has gone up to 1.16 tonnes.

The cargo box can also be secured using an electrically operated roll cover, protecting the items inside. This roll cover can be opened and closed from the cargo box itself, from inside the vehicle or by remote control via the vehicle key.

5 turbocharged engines
Customers will have a choice of 4 turbodiesel engines and 1 turbocharged petrol engine. All the engines have high efficiency and high levels of torque. The engines offered in each market will depend on the needs of the customers. In African markets, for instance, the base specification engine will be a 4-cylinder, 2-litre turbodiesel with 150 ps output. But for many other markets, there will be a more powerful version which produces up to 170 ps.

10-speed automatic with 4MOTION systems
Amaroks with engine outputs of more than 209 ps will have a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard. This transmission is operated by an e-shifter which is a by-wire system. In addition, there will also be a 6-speed automatic transmission and manual 6 or 5-speed gearboxes for various engines and market preferences.

In many markets, the Amarok will come with Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system as standard. Depending on region and engine, there will be two different 4MOTION systems. One will have selectable all-wheel drive based on the given situation, and one will be permanent all-wheel drive.

Driver assist systems
With pick-up trucks spending more time on highways rather than off-road, the need for driver assist systems to make driving safer is greater. To provide this, there are more than 20 of the driver assist systems in the Amarok. Where markets are suitable, the ACC+ Adaptive Cruise Control can incorporate road signs into the automatic control of speed via camera scans.

There are also 6 different driving profiles (Drive Modes) to assist the driver in a variety of terrain conditions. These customise the characteristics of the engine and drivetrain to optimise grip and stability so the driver can confidently explore off-road areas.

Volkswagen’s design boss wants to know what you think of a pick-up version of the ID. Buzz

Volkswagen unveils ID.AERO concept as flagship of all-electric ID. range

After releasing sketches of a new model in its BEV (battery electric vehicle) ID. range, Volkswagen has now issued the first pictures of the concept car that will be the basis of the flagship of the range. To be known as the ID. AERO, it will be the sixth member of the ID. family, after the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID.6 as well as the iconic ID. Buzz.

The future model will be positioned in the premium midsize sedan segment and offered worldwide as the brand’s first global BEV sedan. the production version for China, a very important market for Volkswagen, is expected to go on sale in the second half of 2023. The European and global version will be made in Germany from 2023.

Electric offensive in China
With the ID. AERO, Volkswagen is stepping up its electric offensive in China as part of its ACCELERATE strategy. Following the ID.3, ID.4 and ID.6, the production version of the ID. AERO will become the fourth fully-electric model series in China when it goes on sale in the second half of 2023.

Two versions are planned for the world’s largest car market – one for each Volkswagen joint venture. Based on its regional strategy, Volkswagen is aiming to become the leading supplier of sustainable vehicles in China. As early as 2030, it is planned that at least every second vehicle sold in China will be an electric vehicle.

Elegant design characterised by aerodynamics
The concept car is almost 5 metres long and its design is greatly influenced by aerodynamic principles. The roof slopes elegantly to the rear in coupe style and contributes to achieving a very low drag coefficient of 0.23 Cd.

Stylistically, the ID. AERO transfers the design of the ID. family to a sedan in the premium midsize segment for the first time. The aerodynamically designed front end and roof ensure that air flows optimally over the vehicle. The airflow is calmed by the slightly drawn-in rear end with a separation edge.

The front end is characterised by the ID. honeycombs typical for the ID. family. The front is horizontally split into two in the bumper and is a defining style element for the ID. AERO design. As another distinctive feature that makes the ID. AERO stand out in the crowd, a narrow light strip extends horizontally across the front out to the left and right of the illuminated Volkswagen badge and above the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, wrapping into the wings and side panels.

This light strip is continued visually to the rear end with a few interruptions. The dominant rear end features a striking dark light strip and LED taillight clusters with honeycomb structure that create an exclusive look.

The sporty 22-inch two-tone wheels are designed in the style of a turbine and are integrated flush into the wheel housings. Classic door handles are replaced by illuminated touch surfaces, which reduce the drag even further.

At the top of the silhouette, the bold tornado line and downward sloping roof line shape the design. The powerful shoulder section of the ID. AERO is located above the tornado line. The contour lines make the electric sedan appear flatter and give it a dynamic look.

Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB)
Volkswagen’s modular electric drive matrix (MEB) permits short overhangs, a long wheelbase and an exceptionally spacious vehicle interior. The ID. AERO will have a powerful lithium-ion battery with a net energy content of 77 kWh. Thanks to the interaction of the efficient drive system and the excellent aerodynamic properties, the carmaker claims that ranges of up to 620 kms will be possible.

“With the ID. AERO showcar, we are revealing a preview of the next member of the ID. family. A car with an emotional and at the same time extremely aerodynamic design, a range of over 600 kms, an extraordinary amount of space and a premium interior,” said Ralf Brandstatter, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars. “With our ACCELERATE strategy, we are intensively driving forward the electrification of our model range. Following the ID.4, this model will be our next global car for Europe, China and the USA. ”

*The ID. family is Volkswagen’s range of the future with all battery-electric models using the MEB platform.*

VW’s ID. SPACE VIZZION shows the stationwagon will continue to exist in the electric age

Milivie 1 – a legendary icon evolved to become the ultimate performance classic

These days, it seems that reviving iconic models is a growing trend and while doing so, designers also use the opportunity to reimagine the model. While retaining the iconic elements, they make subtle (or not so subtle) changes to modernise the design which still remains immediately recognisable.

The Milivie 1 is such a car, instantly recognisable as the legendary Volkswagen Beetle but evolved in various ways. It is the brainchild of Jonathan Engler, an artistic engineer with the vision to celebrate extinct German automotive icons and discreetly re-engineer them anew as an exclusive machine for the very select few.

Engler and his team start with a carefully selected donor VW 1303 model. While many will think of the Beetle as a product in the 1950 or 1960s, the 1303 in particular was actually produced in the 1970s when the model was given a bigger engine. Once the unit is acquired, it will receive over a thousand hours of craftsmanship and engineering. This evolved it into a car that shares little other than the metal monocoque section of body and the floorboards with the donor. Even these areas are vastly modified from the original car.

The aim is also to provide a driving feel that is tactile, active and agile, hence every single component has been enhanced with a spec list that rivals the ultimate performance classic. The chassis is enhanced and onto it goes an air-cooled 2.28-litre flat four powertrain, precision-built for each car, tuned to the specific car’s use case and eventual environment. The Carrera 2-sourced ZF 4HP transmission is totally reworked to deliver the engaging, thrilling drive that will be the car’s signature.

The body, at first glance seemingly unchanged, is elegantly and artfully crafted to produce a smoother, more contemporary silhouette that combines shared DNA with a unique stance. The interior echoes familiarity but offers modernity. The vision for creating the interior design was to entirely replace the dominantly geometric and static design with a ground-up surface dynamic that elaborates on the exterior. Yet those shapes that are faithful to the original organic design base are the details characteristic to each generation of the donor vehicle’s history.

Engler has combined a subtle and unobtrusive exterior appearance with a complete reappraisal of driver and passenger desires that blends an old school driving feel with cutting edge technology and contemporary comforts.

The entire team has drawn on 70 years of air-cooled history and acted to build on the 78,000 incremental OEM changes made by the original manufacturer during the vehicle’s production period. To Engler and his team, the original story is an unfinished one deserving of a final, respectful yet totally modern evolution to mark the final chapter.

The number of cars that will be offered for sale – 22 – honours the 22 million total production output of the original Beetle, making each car representative of one in a million. In creating a car that is not only approachable in style but exclusive in every single detail, the Milivie team looked back not only to the donor vehicle’s extensive DNA, but also to wider evocation from air-cooled classics.

Complementing their evolution study references were drawn to pay homage to early Porsche designs, enabling them to respect and embrace the design vision of the car’s original creator – Ferdinand Porsche. 904 bodyline elements lead into the distinctive ducktail; the 935 echoes in the exhaust tips; and the 956 in the high-cut rear fenders and bumpers. The 964 inspired the concave indents of the rear fenders, not revealed until you glimpse the top view. The subtly inverted angle rear bumper from the type 64 results in a higher and longer rear end.

The slightly lower and more centred placement of the actual headlights and turn signals are inspired by the Rallye and buggy culture of the donor and once again evoke the 718, whilst the high-tension running lights are the stretched oval outlines of the Porsche RS Spyder headlights. The execution of painstaking design and artfully considered evolution delivers an initial silhouette that seems immediately familiar, whilst the detail intrigues and draws in the passionate driver for closer inspection.

Milivie is now taking orders for the cars which will have prices starting from €570,000 (around RM2.633 million). The first car will be delivered in July 2023 with subsequent units going to customers thereafter up till May 2025.

The Beetles that never made it to the showrooms

Volkswagen Malaysia’s Das WeltAuto website refreshed for better user experience

Das WeltAuto is a website where those who are looking for a used Volkswagen vehicle in Malaysia can go to and check out the available models. Launched in September 2019, it is Volkswagen’s global used car program which offers certified used cars for sale.

“What makes Das WeltAuto different from other used car channels is that you can expect the same exceptional level of service as a new car purchase experience from a dealer you can trust, with experienced sales staff who will provide the best advice and maximum transparency. All this from a brand you can rely on – and most importantly, a product you can trust,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM).

To improve the user experience, the website has been refreshed and now presents a more minimalist look. The interface has also been revamped and various new features have been introduced to provide convenience.

Most notably, owners can sell their Volkswagen to authorised dealerships through the ‘Sell Your Car’ function. This completes the Das WeltAuto ecosystem as it now provides both the purchase and sale of certified used Volkswagen cars within the same platform.

The process for ‘Sell Your Car’ is simple as owners only need to submit their vehicle’s details via the website. A preferred dealership will then arrange for a free inspection either at home or on-site before a competitive offer is made. Attractive trade-up support is offered if the owner wants to purchase a new Volkswagen from the dealership.

Another feature is the ‘Nearly New Cars’ section that lists certified cars with less than 12,000 kms mileage and are within a year of the original registration date. These might be company-owned vehicles that have been used as demonstrators and can often be a great deal for buyers as they are almost as good as new.

Das WeltAuto follows Volkswagen’s global know-how, standards and processes so customers are assured of the same level of meticulousness for the used cars as if they were purchasing a brand-new one. All vehicles are accepted for trade-in and will undergo a strict and thorough 133-point check by Volkswagen Technicians.

Peace of mind is also guaranteed as all Das WeltAuto vehicles are fitted with genuine parts (where necessary); are accident-free and flood-free; and come with complete proof of scheduled services at authorised Volkswagen service centres. Purchasers also get a 1-year extended warranty and 12 months of complimentary roadside assistance.

Full range of services available at all authorised Volkswagen dealerships

Volkswagen Golf R ’20 Years’ celebrates 20th anniversary of the R high-performance badge

The story of the Golf R began in 2002 when Volkswagen put a 3.2-litre 6-cylinder engine into the Golf, and the R32 badge. With 241 ps going to all four wheels, it became the most powerful Golf that Volkswagen had built for sale up to that point. And just like the first Golf, the planners under-estimated demand and sales were triple what had been expected.

To celebrate its 20^th year, the fifth edition of the sporty variant of the Golf range gets a special anniversary version called the Golf R ’20 Years’. Volkswagen plans to produce it for about 12 months, so the actual number has not been determined. But the Golf R ‘20 Years’ will undoubtedly become a collector’s item with its special-edition status.

2022 Volkswagen Golf R 20 Years edition — *Golf R ’20 Years’ and 2002 Golf R32 (right)*

Most powerful production Golf
As with other R-badged models, the Golf R draws on racetrack experience in its development, using many technologies developed for the high-pressured and demanding competition environment. With the Golf R ‘20 Years’, the company says that the model ‘surpasses everything that has been launched with the ‘Golf’ label up to now with its drive technology.

Unlike the first Golf R32, the latest one has a 4-cylinder engine and 2 litres of displacement. But with direct injection and turbocharging, its output has reached 333 ps – the highest ever for a production Golf. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is claimed to be just 4.6 seconds but the top speed is somewhere beyond 270 km/h, the electronically limited maximum speed.

Enhancing the driving experience
The enthusiasts at the company’s performance division have installed an ‘Emotion Start‘ to activate an initial engine speed overshoot extending up to 2,500 rpm, thereby enhancing the ‘R driving experience’.

The DSG is also said to provide noticeable feedback from the gearbox and drivetrain each time the right paddle is operated (when shifting up manually in S and S+ modes). In addition, the optimised engine tuning means that the load change response is extremely spontaneous. The turbocharger is preloaded to keep it at a constant speed during part-load driving. This then allows faster power development for subsequent acceleration and quickens response.

The Golf R ‘20 Years’ will be offered with the R Performance package already available with the current Golf R. This package includes R-Performance Torque Vectoring in conjunction with the Vehicle Dynamics Manager and 2 additional driving modes, Special and Drift.

Exclusive design and styling elements
The exclusive design highlights use blue accents and for the first time in a production Volkswagen model, the dashboard panel and door trim feature decorative trim elements in Genuine Carbon. There are blue R logos also found on the steering wheel and on the vehicle key cap.

First deliveries start from next month to many European markets and North America, with each unit priced in Germany at 59,995 euros (around RM283,000).

To know more about the latest Golf 8 and other Volkswagen models in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.

All-new Volkswagen Golf R revealed

Full range of services available at all authorised Volkswagen dealerships

Car companies do their best to provide as much convenience as possible to customers and owners of their products. Whether it is enquiring about a new model or sending a vehicle for servicing, the more convenient it is, the better the experience of the brand.

For this reason, many companies have made their retail outlets 3S or 4S types, meaning sales, service and sale of spare parts are all at one location. ‘4S’ includes additional services such as accident repairs and refinishing. It is the norm these days and businessmen who wish to become dealers must be willing to make the big investments to build such facilities.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has followed this policy and can now say that virtually all its authorised dealerships in the country are now either 3S or 4S outlets, with the exception of one which is 2S (service and spares). There are currently 17 Volkswagen dealerships and one service partner, strategically located in key regions to provide customers with sales and aftersales services.

All dealer groups are equipped with the expertise, personnel and equipment to maintain Volkswagen models. In addition, VPCM is continuously working with its dealer partners to enhance customer satisfaction by providing professional, attentive, and top-level services. These efforts are evident in the Car.Advisor ratings given by customers. Car.Advisor is an independent third-party platform that manages customer satisfaction for the Volkswagen brand.

Volkswagen Malaysia has achieved an average 4.93/5 star for its sales experience on Car.Advisor, whilst aftersales services received 4.76/5 star (these annual results are as of April 2022). Ratings and reviews for each dealership are transparently shown on the website and accessible by the public.

Providing 3S and 4S outlets that offer the full range of services at one location is part of the company’s Volkswagen Cares initiative to enhance the ownership experience for customers. According to Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM, a smooth and memorable ownership experience is important. “Customer service makes all the difference because it elevates the ownership experience. Now with a strong network of 3S and 4S centres, we are providing convenience for Volkswagen owners from around the country. We are also practising transparency with our customer satisfaction because ratings and reviews are available on the Car.Advisor website, and this pushes us and our dealer partners to continue improving our offerings too,” he said.

Click here for more news and articles about Volkswagen.

Volkswagen’s design boss wants to know what you think of a pick-up version of the ID. Buzz

Developing new car designs is a challenge as the designers have to anticipate trends and look ahead to market needs. They may have new ideas and features, but how will car-buyers respond? To get an idea of how people feel, concept cars are built and displayed to show proposed designs so feedback can be collected. From what they learn, they can know what appeals and what doesn’t and create a winner with the next new model.

These days, it’s not necessary to spend money making a concept model as digital renderings can provide very realistic representations. Furthermore, it’s not even necessary to display the cars in physical form (though it is still done at motorshows to draw crowds). There is now social media – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter – where millions of consumers can be reached and their opinions collected.

Recently, during World Design Day, Volkswagen Group Design boss Klaus Zyciora posted just one image of an idea on his Instagram page (and also the Volkswagen Group’s) and wrote: “On the way from an idea to production, there are a lot of unseen design drafts made – like this one: An #IDBuzz pick-up! What do you think about it?”. His post immediately went global and his team must still be going through all the comments posted.

The pick-up derivative of the just-launched ID. Buzz, the 21^st century electric successor to the iconic Transporter/Kombi, is just a proposal. The design is not based on the production ID. Buzz but draws more on the original concept of the model that was first shown in 2017.

2022 Volkswagen ID.Buzz — *ID. Buzz BEV (battery-electric vehicle) which will go on sale in Europe later this year.*

*The new Amarok undergoing testing. It is more of a workhorse type of pick-up whereas the proposal for the ID. Buzz variant would be towards lifestyle activities and usage.*

It would undoubtedly sit on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform for electric vehicles which has been developed to accept many bodystyles. In fact, even before the ID. Buzz goes on sale in Europe later this year, the carmaker has said that work is being done on a ‘California Camper’ version (shown below) as well as an autonomous variant for ride-sharing operators. Both are expected to enter the market in 2025.

Volkswagen already has a new generation of the Amarok pick-up truck on the way, with a battery-electric version likely to appear in the second half of the decade. The Amarok is a workhorse vehicle and Volkswagen may see some potential in the lifestyle segment where it can offer this ID. Buzz pick-up.

Volkswagen’s designers have always been thinking of a modern pick-up based on the Transporter. This was one idea which was displayed at the carmaker’s Autostadt exhibition complex in Germany in 2006.

Clearly, it is not being conceived as a workhorse and would be aimed at customers who want to take along their activity gear like bikes or surfboards, just like the original Transporter (except the surfboards went on the roof).

Many of the styling elements would be just ideas for now so it’s hard to say how the final product could look like but the proportions of the 4-door cabin and short rear deck will probably be adopted. Below the doors appears to be integrated side-steps which could also make it to production as they suit the overall design well.

*Volkswagen has produced a pick-up version of the Transporter/Kombi for decades.*

The idea of a pick-up variant of a van is not new to Volkswagen as previous Transporter generations did have such a variant. Like the MEB platform, the original platform for the Beetle was also versatile enough for different bodystyles. One of them, known as the ‘Doppelkabine’, may eventually be regarded as the grandfather of the ID. Buzz pick-up if it does make it to the showrooms in future.

If you would like Volkswagen ‘s design head to know what you think about the pick-up concept, click here to post your comments on his Instagram page.

2022 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace Elegance and R-Line 4MOTION

When the second generation of the Volkswagen Tiguan was launched around 6 years ago, there were two body versions – short wheelbase with 2-row seating and long wheelbase with 3-row seating. Initially, it was thought that the 3-row version was for China where extended bodies are preferred but it turned out that the longer Tiguan, known as the Tiguan Allspace, is offered globally as well.

The Tiguan Allspace has become a success story for Volkswagen as around 1.5 million units were sold worldwide, and this version accounts for 55% of all Tiguan production. With SUVs being popular, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) chose the model to add to its locally-assembled range with the completely knocked-down (CKD) kits coming from the global production hub in Mexico.

With the addition of the Allspace version, VPCM decided to stop assembling the 2-row version and now has two offerings – the Tiguan Allspace Elegance and R-Line 4MOTION. Both have been updated for 2022 with cosmetic changes and upgrades within. They are priced at RM174,745.68 and RM219,443.59, respectively, without insurance and with full exemption of sales tax (until June 30, 2022).

The overall form of the Tiguan Allspace remains recognizable but up front is a redesigned grille flanked by slimmer headlamps. The headlamps are LED units and said to have wider light distribution to better illuminate the sides of the road. The headlamps also include an all-weather light system and dynamic cornering function.

Like the front, the rear lights also use LEDs, with dynamic turn indicators typically found on premium models these days. The taillight cluster with a distinctive lighting signature puts on an interesting ‘show’ (Click-clack effect) when braking.

Other changes include redesigned bumpers and the signature LED illuminated light strip. Sharp-eyed observers will also notice that the brand logo is new, the result of what was said to be one of the world’s largest rebranding campaigns carried out in 2019 and 2020. The logo is reduced to its essential elements and has a new design that is flat and two-dimensional.

Plush and functional space for 7
Inside the new Tiguan Allspace is a plush and functional interior for 7 persons. Seats are all wrapped in Vienna leather with the addition of active climate 12-way adjustable seats at the front. The 11.7-inch Digital Cockpit has been improved and offers customizable displays on a TFT colour panel with resolution comparable to a premium smartphone.

The driver can operate and manage numerous functions from the multifunction sports steering wheel which has haptic-touch controls (needs a bit of getting used to). However, for more intuitive operation, there are upgrade knobs and buttons on the dashboard to adjust the air-conditioning systems. The shifter panel display has also been redesigned and gear positions are shown on the interface with illumination to highlight which gear is engaged.

Around the cabin, 30-colour ambient lighting is provided with light strips extending across the doors, creating a contemporary and personalised atmosphere to suit any driving modes, occasions, or moods. Newly added is the Easy Open and Easy Close feature that enables handsfree opening and delayed closing of the tailgate. The cargo volume can be expanded to 1,775 litres by folding down the rear backrests.

The infotainment system has also been upgraded to a new generation 9.2-inch Discover Pro unit. It now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and includes a navigation system as well as accepts voice commands. For the Tiguan Allspace R-Line, there is an additional Off-road display to provide information when this driving mode is selected. Also exclusively for the R-Line 4MOTION is the premium Harman Kardon 480W audio system with 10 speakers.

2-litre and 1.4-litre powertrains maintained
Technically, the powertrains are unchanged with the Elegance version having a 1.4-litre TSI turbocharged engine and 6-speed DSG (150 ps/250 Nm) and only front-wheel drive, while the R-Line 4MOTION uses the 2-litre TSI turbocharged engine and 7-speed DSG (220 ps/350 Nm). Power is transferred to all four wheels via the all-wheel drive system.

*1.4-litre TSI turbocharged engine for Tiguan Allspace Elegance*

Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace — *2.0-litre TSI turbocharged engine for Tiguan Allspace R-Line 4MOTION.*

The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system distributes power between front and rear axles on an infinitely variable basis. continuously adjusted to actual driving conditions. Mostly, it would be towards the front wheels but in slippery conditions, there will also be distribution towards the rear wheels for stability and grip.

The Tiguan comes with Dynamic Chassis Control for more personalised settings for driving behaviour, and there are 4 additional modes as part of the 4MOTION system – On-road, Off-road, Off-road Expert, and Snow. It is also fitted with progressive steering for sharper and more precise maneuvering.

Volkswagen pays a lot of attention to safety and would be right up there with other global brands. But unusually, the Tiguan doesn’t seem to have an integrated active system package that usually includes autonomous emergency braking. It does, however, come with a Lane Assist system which helps to keep the SUV within its lane. If it starts to move out of the lane, a gentle steering force will guide it back.

Nevertheless, all the other usual active safety systems like ABS, and stability control which works with the advanced Electronic Differential Lock (XDS). 6 airbags are also installed in the front and sides of the cabin and ISOFIX childseat points are provided in the front passenger’s seat as well as the rear seats.

The new Tiguans are now in authorized Volkswagen showrooms which have specific test-drive events this weekend. For those who do buy one, there’s a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty, free scheduled maintenance for the first 3 years as well as complimentary roadside assistance for the first 5 years.

“SUVs are increasingly popular among Malaysians, and we see an opportunity for us to fill the gap in providing premium SUVs for the discerning. What we have in the Tiguan Allspace is an all-rounder that has more to give – more space, more performance, more value,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.

To know more about the new Tiguan Allspace or to locate a showroom, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.

Review: 5 Reasons You Should Get The VW Tiguan Allspace R-Line

ID.Buzz & ID.Buzz Cargo – another Volkswagen icon returns

Thhe Beetle was Volkswagen’s first car and the company brought it back in a modern form in 1997. Now it is doing the same thing with the brand’s second model which was the Type 1 Transporter produced from 1949 onwards. It was actually on an extended Beetle platform and like the iconic car, remained in production for a long time. However, the Transporter, unlike the original Beetle, evolved in its design right to the current 6^th generation.

With demand for MPVs in many countries, Volkswagen decided that one of the models in its all-electric ID. family would have to be such a vehicle, and for inspiration, the designers looked all the way back to the Type 2 which had various names in different markets (just like the Beetle). The original Transporter was especially popular in America and was one of the symbols of the 1960s counter-culture movement.

*Evolution of the Transporter from 1949.*

*The Transporter was Volkswagen’s second model and used the same platform as the Beetle.*

Its low cost and simplicity made it easily affordable by the hippies who would live in it and gave the vehicles a lot of character with creative paintwork. And with the same durability as a Beetle, it lasted a long time with minimal maintenance too.

In 2022, the Type 1 returns as the ID.Buzz and it is fully electric. Like other ID. models, the ID. Buzz used the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB). This is the world’s first scalable mass production platform for fully-electric vehicles that can be configured for different models and segments. Its architecture allows for an evolutionary further development of software and technology, which not only benefits new models such as the ID. Buzz, but also models that have already been delivered, by means of over-the-air updates.

The iconic design

The unique design of the ID. Buzz has proportions that create a direct link with the original classic vehicle. Another feature that has always been typical of the model line is the iconic front with its V-shaped front panel, now flanked by charismatic LED headlights. The same goes for the optional 2- paintwork.

The ID. Buzz and commercially-oriented ID. Buzz Cargo have a long wheelbase of 2988 mm, roughly the same as that of the current 6^th generation Transporter. The length of both versions is 4712 mm which means that, in relation to the overall length, the wheelbase is unusually long. This has allowed for more flexible packaging within, complementing the cubic shape which is ideal for maximising available space.

Function should get a priority over design and in the case of the ID.Buzz, it’s the first MPV that has a drag coefficient comparable to a car’s – 0.285 to 0.29 (ID.Buzz Cargo). Good aerodynamics are important, especially for an electric vehicle so that the motor can work less hard to maintain a desired speed. Of course, it’s the same with cars with combustion engines too as less wind resistance means less energy consumed and more fuel saved.

And talking of energy, the ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo will have a 77 kWh lithium-ion battery pack to power a 150 kW electric motor, which – as the flat engine once did in the Type 2 – drives the rear axle. The position of the battery, integrated deep down in the sandwich floor, and the lightweight electric drive system result in a good distribution of weight and a low vehicle centre of gravity. Both factors optimise the handling and agility.

The battery pack can be charged from wallboxes or public charging stations using 11 kW alternating current (AC). Via a CCS plug connector at a DC rapid-charging station (direct current), the charging power can be as much as 170 kW. When charged in this way, the battery charge level rises from 5% to 80% in about 30 minutes.

For the ID.Buzz, the interior has been given a lounge-like, friendly ambience for 5 people to enjoy travelling. The spacious cabin maximizes utility and comfort, while dazzling with high-tech features and an interplay of colours and materials.

The cockpit is both high-tech and ergonomic with a 10-inch Digital Cockpit display and 10-inch or 12-inch infotainment/navigation system positioned centrally in the dashboard. Both the Digital Cockpit and infotainment system are connected with the instrument panel only at the bottom, looking like free-floating tablets. Beneath the infotainment system is a control bar with digital buttons and touch sliders.

A love for detail is reflected in the stylized vehicle silhouette that is embossed in the lower side seat trim, and the fold-down tables located in the backs of the front seats. Wholly practical, by contrast, is the optional height-adjustable cargo floor, which creates a level load space surface. The upward-opening rear hatch reveals 1,121 litres of luggage space and 2 side sliding doors are fitted as standard.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has developed an optional movable and removable centre console specifically for the ID. Buzz. The idea for this multifunction box was derived from the concept car shown earlier. In its upper section, it provides storage bins (in the case of the ID. Buzz Cargo, a cupholder), that can accommodate bottle, tablets or laptops.

As with other models of ID. family, the ID. Buzz comes with the interactive ‘ID. Light’. It stretches across in front of the windscreen in the driver’s field of vision above the instrument panel, and gives the driver intuitive information based on the colour and position of the light signal. For example, a signal in the right-hand area of the strip advises of obstructions in this area or corresponds with a navigation instruction to change lanes. When the ‘ID. Light’ goes red, it is signaling danger and the need to brake.

The hippies of the 1960s would love the ambient lighting feature – as standard, there are 10 colours and customers can also specify the 30-colour option. This option lights up a strip in the instrument panel, the decorative strips in the doors, the storage bins in the doors and the footwell. The Digital Cockpit and the infotainment system also take on the chosen base shade. In addition, two colours can be combined in each case for the different zones, and a ‘Mood Menu’ activates preconfigured lighting profiles.

Depending on the specifications chosen by importers in different markets, there is the possibility of a 6-seat configuration, with individual seats arranged in 3 rows of two. On the extended wheelbase version, there can be a 7-seat configuration in a 2/3/2 arrangement.

The ID. Buzz Cargo is what in Malaysia would be referred to as a ‘panel van’, strictly for commercial registration and use. In standard form, this version can accommodate 3 persons in front on a bench seat. An individual seat can also be installed for another passenger.

Behind the seats is a fixed partition, separating off the cargo space which has no windows. The cargo space has a volume of 3.9 cubic metres and has rings on the floor and bars on the walls for securing goods. Besides a wide-opening tailgate, the is one sliding door on the passenger side and customers can also specify a second sliding door on the other side as an option.

The ID.Buzz will go on sale in the third quarter of this year in some European markets. North America will see the extended wheelbase version in 2023 and deliveries will start in 2024. As for the rest of the world, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has not indicated when exports will start.

The iconic Volkswagen Kombi van returns next month

Over 70 years ago, a Volkswagen importer in Holland by the name of Ben Pons saw an opportunity to offer customers a versatile vehicle which could be adapted from the platform of the Beetle, then still a young product. He sketched a box like body on top of the Beetle platform and suggested it to Volkswagen which agreed to build prototypes. When the public saw the model, simply referred to as ‘T1’, there was great demand and so was born a vehicle that would become an icon in the decades that followed.

*The I.D. BUZZ concept in 2017 with the original Microbus Kombi T1.*

The original multi-purpose vehicle
It came to have various names – Kombi, Transporter, Caravelle, among them – and found use in numerous roles from people-carrier to goods transporter. In America, it was a ‘Microbus’ and became one of the symbols of the counter-culture movement there. Its low cost and simplicity made it easily affordable by the hippies who would live in it and gave the vehicles a lot of character with creative paintwork.

The original rounded form evolved into a more cubic shape with the third generation in 1979 and in 1983, the air-cooled engine was replaced by a water-cooled unit. The current generation is the T6 which was introduced in 2015 and continues to be a popular model in the midsize van segment.

Part of ID. family of EVs
However, with the trend towards electrification, Volkswagen has had to think of how to continue this iconic model with a zero emission powerplant. Its answer is a model known as the Buzz, which will be part of the ID. family of battery electric vehicles BEVs. The model, to be unveiled early next month, was shown in 2017 as the BUZZ concept and it received sufficient positive feedback that it was approved for production.

*Prototypes have been driven on public roads for many months as part of the final phase of the development program before unveiling next month.*

Volkswagen will have two versions of the electrically-powered model – the Buzz (a 5-seater) and Buzz Cargo (a van). The designers have transferred the styling of the 2017 concept car to the production version, and it has the design elements of the legendary T1. Those elements include extremely short body overhangs, maximum utilization of space on a minimal footprint, the classic division of the vehicle body design into an upper and lower level, and the V-shaped face. And just like the original, the Buzz also has rear-wheel drive.

*The Volkswagen Group MEB platform for battery electric vehicles uses a new generation of battery packs (below).*

VW Group MEB platform
The new model line is based on the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB). This uses a high-voltage lithium-ion battery providing gross energy content of 82 kWh, supplying 150 kW to the electric motor integrated in and driving the rear axle. The top speed is electronically limited at 145 km/h but official figures for range are not yet available. Unlike its combustion engine predecessor, the Buzz will be more agile with maximum torque of 310 Nm available when moving off.

Maximum space utilization
The MEB architecture has been designed to be variable and Volkswagen’s engineers have developed a versatile structure that facilitates a wide spectrum of roles – as a 5-seater leisure vehicle as well as a 3-seater cargo transporter. The range will be extended when another variant with a longer wheelbase and more possibilities of interior configurations debuts in 2023.

The standard wheelbase versions (2988 mm) of the Buzz and Buzz Cargo are just 4712 mm long. By way of comparison, the wheelbase of the Buzz is only 2 mm different to that of the current T6, which is 4904 mm long. The Buzz thus offers a similar internal length but is able to use smaller parking spaces. The passenger Buzz, which has a generous greenhouse, is 1937 mm high, which is lower than the T6, and is also 81 mm wider.

*The original T1 van was developed from the same platform as the Beetle and was Volkswagen’s second model.*

Thanks to the space-saving MEB concept, the two electric vans can offer good space utilization. The Buzz can take up to 1,121 litres of luggage even with all 5 seats occupied. For the Buzz Cargo, there‘s a volume of 3.9 cubic metres behind a partition that separates the front seats.

‘Plug & Charge’ and bi-directional charging
Using the latest ID. software, the model line will in future offer convenient charging methods such as the ‘Plug & Charge’ function. Using this function, the Buzz authenticates itself at many providers’ quick-charging (DC) stations via the charging connector, exchanging all necessary data with it in this way. And there is also the possibility of bi-directional charging which is available in some markets. This technology opens up a whole new spectrum of possibilities, such as the ability to store excess power from a home’s solar panels in the vehicle’s battery pack and to feed it back into the home in the evening.

Like other ID. models, the Buzz can receive software updates over the air (provided there is a connection). These include both updates for the infotainment system and updates relating to charging or driver assist functions. The spectrum of driver-assist systems available across various markets includes innovatively interconnected technologies such as the new ‘Trained Parking’ function (automatic maneuvering into and out of parking spaces); ‘Car2X’ (warnings and hazard alerts in the local vicinity); and the latest version of ‘Travel Assist’ that features crowd=sourced data to facilitate forward and lateral guidance on a partly automated basis across the full speed range.

*The model was assembled and sold in Malaysia and used in many roles. Some units are still in use today, their owners turning them into mobile food trucks (below)*.

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