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Archive for the ‘TDI Owners’ Category
· Production version of supermini estate breaks cover
· Third Ibiza silhouette significantly extends range
· New engine options enhance existing, impressive, powerplants
Making its world debut at the 80th International Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland this week, the forthcoming Ibiza ST promises space and style in equal measure.
The Spanish brand’s latest addition to the already popular Ibiza family which currently comprises both sporty SC and practical 5dr bodystyles – the ST adds accomplished load-carrying to the Ibiza’s list of attractive family traits thanks to a capacious 430-litre load bay (rear seats up).
Making its debut in the metal alongside the stunning SEAT IBE electric concept car, the production-ready Ibiza ST prepares to fight for a slice of the UK’s supermini estate market and is geared to take on the likes of the Peugeot 207 SW and MINI Clubman in the process.
In the UK, the new arrival from Martorell will debut with no fewer than five modern engines and an extensive array of equipment and new technologies.
At launch later this year, British buyers will get a choice of three petrol and two TDI diesel units with the latest common-rail fuel injection. Four of the five engines operate with direct injection and turbocharging and outputs span from 75 PS to 105 PS. Highlights include the exceptionally efficient new 1.2 TDI common rail diesel and 1.2 TSI.
Transmission options comprise both five-speed manual and six-speed dual clutch DSG automatic/sequential manual ‘boxes, while every new Ibiza ST will be offered with a combination of ventilated front disc brakes and either disc or drum rear brakes.
The new Ibiza model’s range structure in the UK will mirror that of its familiar siblings, with versions available in S A/C, SE and Sport specs.
Generous levels of standard equipment across the range, allied to the new SEAT’s undeniably elegant lines, promise to help the Ibiza ST make an instant impression. Buyers in the UK can, therefore, look forward to the availability of all manner of creature comforts.
Highlights of the ST’s standard equipment roster in the UK include, depending on model: speed-sensitive electro-hydraulic power steering; electrically adjustable, heated and folding door mirrors; electric windows front and rear; front fog lights with cornering function and climate control.
Performance is fully in line with the Spanish brand’s sporty ethos so, despite being a practical load carrier, the Ibiza ST will not be left wanting on the road. Provisional performance figures suggest a 0 to 62 mph time of as little as 10.1 seconds – for the version equipped with SEAT’s new 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS powerplant – while that same version is also capable of a top speed of 118 mph.
Provisional economy figures suggest that the Ibiza ST will be as frugal as it is practical. When equipped with SEAT’s hi-tech EU5-compliant 1.6-litre TDI CR turbodiesel with latest generation common rail fuelling the forthcoming supermini estate will be good for more than 55 mpg around town, rising to 78.5 mpg on the extra urban cycle.
Welcoming the public debut of the Ibiza ST in Geneva, Head of SEAT UK Peter Wyhinny said: ‘The arrival of our new supermini estate marks another important milestone for the growing Ibiza family.
‘This sleek, practical yet sporty new car is certain to appeal to a wide variety of drivers and I know our dealers are eagerly anticipating its UK showroom debut later this year.’
UKpricing and full specification details will be revealed closer to the car’s showroom launch.
Tags: ibiza st, st seat ibiza, st tdi
Posted in TDI Owners, VAG Topics
Largest luggage capacity in its class
Prices from £17,715
Contract hire from £279/month
TopGear magazine’s Luxury Car of the Year
The new Škoda Superb Estate will become the most luxurious and most practical car ever to wear the famous Škoda badge when it goes on sale on 26 February.
With prices starting at just £17,715, the Super Estate offers the same great value for money as every Škoda. However, it’s not just the great value that sets it apart from its rivals. Its style, practicality and luxurious comfort have also won it critical acclaim.
Even before it hits UK showrooms, the Superb Estate has already won it fair share of admirers including the TopGear magazine team, who declared it their ‘Luxury Car of the Year’. It’s easy to see why.
From its bold, chrome-framed grille and distinctive headlights to its subtly curved, coupe-like roofline, the Superb Estate’s design balances road presence with elegance. But style doesn’t come at the expense of substance: the Superb Estate boasts the biggest load capacity in its class.
The combination of the impressive boot capacity – 633 litres with the rear seats in place and a massive 1,865 litre with them folded – and the Superb’s legendary rear legroom makes the Estate one of the most practical cars on the market. And if the Superb Estate’s cavernous load bay still isn’t big enough, all models are fitted with roof rails as standard.
Trim levels and engine choices will mirror those of the Superb hatchback with S, SE and Elegance models available along with the same range of three petrol and three diesel engines. All engines, from 1.4 TSI to 3.6 V6 are equipped with direct fuel injection for optimum fuel efficiency, performance and low emissions. With a choice of manual or twin-clutch DSG gearboxes linked to either front- or four-wheel drive, there’s a Superb Estate to suit everyone’s needs.
The estate is expected to account for a third of all Superb sales in 2010 (a total of 3,400, split 2,300/1,100 hatch/estate). Fleet sales are expected to account for 75 per cent of total sales.
Contract hire starts from just £279 per month based on 36 months and 15,000 miles per year.
Tags: Diesel Estate, skoda tdi estate, superb diesel, superb estate, TDI Estate
Posted in Diesel News, TDI Owners, VAG Topics
Complete facelift of Fabia, Fabia Estate and Roomster
New engines and technology for both models
Reduced emissions and improved performance
Will be debuted at Geneva Motor Show, 2010
Škoda Auto is unveiling the new-look Fabia and Roomster at this year’s Geneva Motorshow. Škoda’s compact cars have been given an exciting exterior redesign, plus a fresh range of engines, packed with new technology.
The new design accentuates the cars’ width, with a totally redesigned face that gives both cars a more dynamic look, increasing their road presence. Scout models have also been redesigned, with a new Fabia hatch version making its debut in Geneva.
The new look is most evident in the redesigned radiator grille and 3D-shaped headlamps, which have been considerably widened, highlighting the stronger horizontal line of the cars’ faces. This gives both Fabia and Roomster a more dynamic look, while losing none of the cars’ elegance and appeal. Both vehicles now look more confident, mature and expressive.
The Fabia, Fabia Estate and Roomster also receive a number of technological improvements including state-of-the-art engines. This new engine portfolio is at the very core of the changes, with the entire front structure being redesigned to accommodate them.
Škoda will offer four petrol engines and two diesel units in the UK, with power ranging from 60bhp to 105bhp in the Fabia and from 70bhp to 105bhp in the Roomster. All engines comply with the EU5 standard and deliver exceptionally low fuel consumption and CO2 emission levels.
But Škoda’s development efforts weren’t only aimed at improving efficiency – improved performance was also a key goal. Nowhere is this more apparent than when the new 1.2 TSI 105bhp petrol engine is combined with the optimised, two-clutch seven-speed DSG transmission. This delivers impressive power with excellent combined fuel consumption of just 53.3 mpg. The four-cylinder 1.2 TSI engine is available in two power levels – 85 bhp and 105bhp. Both of these will also be available with a five-speed manual transmission.
Both diesel units are fitted with high-pressure Common Rail injection, with a pressure of up to 1,600 bar combined with fast-responding piezoelectric injectors that are able to perform as many as five injections within one beat, resulting in improved engine refinement. Both diesel engines feature particulate filters as standard and CO2 emissions are under 110g/km.
The Fabia engine line-up consists of:
1.2 6V 60 bhp
1.2 12V 70 bhp
1.2 TSI 85 bhp
1.2 TSI 105bhp (manual and DSG)
1.6 TDI CR DPF 90 bhp
1.6 TDI CR DPF 105 bhp
The Roomster is available with the following engines:
1.2 12V 70 bhp
1.2 TSI 85 bhp
1.2 TSI 105bhp (manual and DSG)
1.6 TDI CR DPF 90 bhp
1.6 TDI CR DPF 105 bhp
The Škoda stand will be located in Hall 2, stand 2160. The press conference will take place on March 2nd 2010 at 12.45 at the Škoda Auto stand.
Tags: fabia, new fabia, new fabia tdi, new roomster, Skoda Owners, skoda roomster tdi
Posted in Diesel News, TDI Owners, VAG Topics
The new Polo BlueMotion is available to order from Volkswagen Retailers today, with prices starting at £14,445 RRP on the road for the three-door, and £15,045 for the five-door model.
The new Polo BlueMotion adopts an all-new highly advanced 1.2-litre TDI three-cylinder common rail diesel engine developing 75 PS, and 133 lbs ft (180 Nm) of torque available from just 2,000 rpm. This new engine, combined with longer gearing through the five-speed manual gearbox, regenerative braking and an automatic Start/Stop system, help the new Polo BlueMotion emit just 91 g/km of CO2 while returning an impressive 80.7 mpg on the combined cycle. This grants the new Polo BlueMotion a theoretical range of over 800 miles on one tank of diesel.
These technological enhancements are accompanied by several cosmetic changes designed to maximise efficiency. Comprising bespoke bumpers, side skirts and an extended roof spoiler along with 15-inch ‘Greenland’ alloy wheels fitted with low rolling resistance tyres, they contribute towards making the new Polo BlueMotion among the most efficient vehicles currently available in the UK.
The Polo BlueMotion accelerates from a standstill to 62 mph in 13.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 107 mph.
Comfort levels remain high with manual air conditioning, cruise control and leather steering wheel fitted as standard. As with all models in the Polo range, a number of safety features are also fitted, including four airbags, ABS and ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme).
The Polo BlueMotion is available to order at Volkswagen Retailers now with the first cars expected in May. For more information visit www.volkswagen.co.uk.
Tags: fuel efficiency, low mpg diesel, mpg, polo tdi, TDI, TDI Bluemotion, VW TDI
Posted in TDI Owners, VAG Topics
Volkswagen Driver – March 2010 Issue
Road test: Tiguan R Line 2.0 TSI provides style and speed!
News: New Golf awards, VW sales worldwide, VW Motorcaravan awards, New SEAT Ibiza ST & FR TDI, Passat CC rear seat, Colbornes Skoda, Caddy Life
New Model: Eco Coupe (NCC) at the Detroit Show
Motorsport: Dakar Rally report VW 1-2-3!
Event report: VW action at Autosport International 2010
Performance modifications: Superchips Bluefin for Passat CC 2.0 TDI
Motorcaravans: Bilbo’s Celex T5
Model profile: Mk 2 Polo Coupe GT
Project GTI: TT engine transplant / K04 conversion
Technology: New 1.6 / 2.0 TDI Exhaust Gas Recirculation system
Tags: Neil Birkitt, Volkswagen Driver, Volkswagen Driver Magazine, VW Driver, VW Magazine
Posted in TDI Owners, VAG Topics
2.0 TDI 140bhp now with Common Rail technology
Lower emissions, better fuel economy and refinement
Prices from £18,205
The multi-award winning Škoda Superb range is now even more desirable thanks to the addition of the new 2.0 TDI CR 140bhp DPF.
By incorporating the very latest Common Rail diesel technology, this new model is even more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly than the 2.0 TDI PD 140bhp it replaces. Combined fuel consumption has improved by 4.4mpg and is now an outstanding 52.3mpg, while CO2 emissions have been reduced by 12g/km to just 143g/km.* The standard diesel particulate filter (DPF) also ensures compliance with the latest EU5 emissions regulations.
The use of a single, high-pressure fuel rail and a lower compression ratio has the added benefit of making the Superb even more refined than ever.
All of these improvements have been made without affecting the Superb’s strong performance or its price, which starts from £18,205. The new 2.0 TDI CR 140bhp DPF engine is available from 18th February with a choice of six-speed manual or twin-clutch DSG transmissions, in hatchback or estate bodystyles and in S, SE or Elegance trim.
This new engine option joins the existing 1.9 TDI PD 105bhp and 2.0 TDI CR 170bhp DPF diesel engines in the Superb range.
Tags: 2.0 Diesel Estate, 2.0 TDI, DPF, Skoda Diesel, Skoda TDI
Posted in TDI Owners, VAG Topics
The all-new Touareg has been unveiled – a car which is up to 200 kg lighter and up to 20 per cent more fuel efficient than the model it replaces. It’s sharper, cleaner and yet, in Hybrid form, able to out-accelerate many hot hatches while returning 34 mpg on the combined cycle. The new vehicle maintains all the same virtues of space, comfort, refinement and off-road and towing ability that have led the original Touareg to build up a loyal following since its launch in 2003.
Clean new styling which draws inspiration from the design direction established by the Golf Mk VI, the new Polo and the New Compact Coupé concept lends the new Touareg greater presence and a lower drag coefficient without sacrificing the functional requirements of short front and rear overhangs for off-roading.
The overall length and wheelbase of the Touareg have each grown by 40 mm to measure 4,758 mm and 2,900 mm respectively. The width of the new Touareg remains as before at 1,928 mm while overall height drops by 20 mm to 1,724 mm.
The changes over the outgoing model extend far beyond new styling. Standard examples of the new Touareg will feature an eight-speed transmission as well as, on the majority of models, Start/Stop technology, touchscreen satellite navigation and leather upholstery. In addition, a choice of advanced new options can be specified including High Beam Assist that automatically dips the headlights when it senses oncoming traffic, Side Assist to warn of vehicles occupying blind spots, adaptive roll compensation air suspension and air conditioned, massaging seats.
At the heart of the new Touareg is a range of highly efficient petrol and diesel engines and, for the first time, a Hybrid.
The new Touareg Hybrid brings together a 3.3-litre supercharged V6 petrol engine producing 333 PS and 265 lbs ft of torque and an electric motor generating 47 PS, resulting in a total output of 380 PS and 428 lbs ft of torque. The electric motor can operate independently of the combustion engine making the new Touareg a full hybrid. On electric power alone the new Touareg is capable of travelling at speeds of up to 30 mph. Alternatively the electric motor can supplement the V6 engine to provide a useful boost during overtaking manoeuvres and allows the Touareg Hybrid to accelerate from rest to 62 mph in 6.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 149 mph.
The entry-level engine and the likely volume seller is a powerful and refined 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine generating 240 PS and 405 lbs ft of torque while returning 38.1 mpg and emitting 195 g/km of CO2 to place it in VED band J.
A new 4.2-litre TDI V8 engine producing 340 PS and 590 lbs ft of torque sits at the top of the new Touareg range. Despite its substantial power and torque outputs the new engine is still capable of achieving 31 mpg on the combined cycle while emitting 239 g/km of CO2.
The new Touareg range will extend to four versions in the UK: SE, Altitude, Hybrid and Escape. The Escape model, available with the V6 TDI engine, features a system called 4XMOTION which comprises reduction gearing, centre and rear differentials that can each be fully locked for off-road applications and five stage control for the four wheel drive system. The first stage is for on-road applications, the second is for off-road use and activates automatic control for the mechanical differential locks, stage three engages the low-range gearbox with revised mapping of the gearbox to raise the shift points and switches off the automatic upshift in manual mode. Stage four applies the centre differential lock, stage five adds the rear differential lock.
The greater refinement afforded by the new drivetrain is matched by an all-new interior featuring a subtle mix of leather, wood and aluminium highlights and more space than ever before thanks to the longer wheelbase on which the new Touareg sits. Though the Touareg remains a five-seater, legroom in the rear has grown significantly due to the new sliding rear bench and reclining backrests while the boot measures from 580 litres to 1,642 litres depending on the seating arrangement.
Production of the new Touareg for the UK market starts in June before first deliveries commence in August. Prices and specifications will be announced nearer this time.
Tags: 3.0 TDI, Diesel Touareg, Touareg TDI
Posted in Diesel News, TDI Owners, VAG Topics
Sporty estate is third body shape in new Ibiza line-up
Expressive design, dynamic driving fun
Five efficient engines including new 1.2 TDI and 1.2 TSI
SEAT is continuing its relentless 2010 new product offensive with another stylish and svelte newcomer to the Ibiza range.
The Ibiza ST is the third silhouette to join the Spaniards’ supermini line-up and significantly expands SEAT’s presence in this important market segment.
The new arrival from Martorell debuts with no fewer than five modern engines and an extensive array of equipment and new technologies.
SEAT’s renowned design team, led by Luc Donckerwolke, has taken the highly functional concept of the Ibiza ST and clad it in the Spanish brand’s unique design language. Despite the estate layout and generous load capacity the newcomer retains the youthful, sporty character of the rest of the Ibiza range.
The roofline stretches rearwards, the rear overhang is integrated perfectly into the overall design and the tight span of its flanks lends tautness to its proportions. The front end bears the hallmark of SEAT’s now trademark ‘Arrow Design’ with the rear end receiving a new look courtesy of the split rear light clusters.
Measuring 4.23 metres in length, the Ibiza ST is 18 centimetres longer than the Ibiza hatch. This creates ample load capacity to satisfy the varied requirements of ST owners. The new car’s base luggage capacity of 430 litres is already comparatively generous, and can be easily increased in stages by folding the split rear seats.
SEAT’s engineers have also paid particularly close attention to the optimal width and low height of the load opening.
Sporty dynamics with a high degree of efficiency are par for the course with every SEAT. State-of-the-art engines see the Ibiza ST offer, in the UK, a choice of three petrol and two TDI units with the latest common-rail fuel injection. Four of the five engines operate with direct injection and turbocharging. Outputs span 85 PS to 105 PS and highlights include the exceptionally efficient new 1.2 TDI and 1.2 TSI.
Aside from a generous standard spec’ the new Ibiza ST will also offer hi-tech optional equipment including SEAT’s impressive dual clutch DSG automatic/sequential manual gearbox.
More details about the new car’s specification, pricing and model line-up will be revealed closer to its UK on-sale date this summer.
Tags: 1.2 TDI, 1.2TDI, ibiza st tdi, seat st, seat tdi st, st tdi, tdi st ibiza
Posted in Diesel News, TDI Owners, VAG Topics
Wolfsburg, 2. February 2010 – For the first time ever, the EuroNCAP Institute in Brussels compiled all of its crash test results for the year 2009 and named the safest car of the year: The Golf won out against the competition with a total of 103 points.
The Golf had already attained a five-star EuroNCAP rating in the year 2008. Initially, this testing programme − conducted since 1997 − only assessed frontal crashes, side crashes and pedestrian protection. After stricter criteria were introduced at the beginning of 2009, the Golf was re-tested, and it performed impressively in all four categories: Occupant protection of adults, protection of children, pedestrian protection and supporting safety and driver assistance systems. The bestseller from Wolfsburg once again attained the coveted five star rating with the top score of 103 points, earning it the title of “Safest Car of 2009”. In total, 33 cars were tested last year under the new, stricter and more extensive EuroNCAP crash testing procedure.
Electronic safety and assistance systems that help prevent accidents and serious injuries are now also incorporated in the rating of the new, stricter assessment method. The Golf offers maximum safety with standard safety features that include ESP with counter-steer assist, ABS with braking assistance, anti-slip regulation (ASR), electronic differential lock (EDS), engine drag torque control (MSR), trailer stabilisation, Isofix mounting brackets for two child seats on the rear bench as well as airbags for driver and front passenger with passenger-side deactivation, including knee airbag for the driver and a head airbag system for front and rear passengers with side airbags.
The Golf not only fulfils European safety standards. In 2008, the compact car earned the prestigious title of “Top Safety Pick” − awarded by the independent US safety institute “Insurance Institute for Highway Safety” (IIHS). In this evaluation, vehicles were tested in a frontal crash at 40 mph (64 km/h) and in a side crash at 31 mph (50 km/h) with a movable barrier shaped like the front end of an SUV. In addition, seat behaviour was studied in a rear-end crash.
Tags: Golf NCAP, Golf Safety, Golf Safety Rating, VW Golf, Wolfsburg NCAP
Posted in Diesel News, TDI Owners, VAG Topics
Racing debut of latest specification Audi R15 TDI brought forward
Participation in 8-hour race at Le Castellet (France)
Total of three starts in 2010 Le Mans Series
Ingolstadt, February 2, 2010 – To further prepare for the 2010 24 Hours of Le Mans, Audi Sport is planning an additional racing commitment with the Audi R15 TDI that has undergone additional development. For April 11, the participation in the 8-hour race at Le Castellet in southern France is planned for testing purposes.
Originally, the diesel racing sports car that is internally designated as “R15 plus” was to make its racing debut at the 1000-kilometer race at Spa-Francorchamps. The Belgian endurance classic continues to be on Audi Sport Team Joest’s race schedule as the final dress rehearsal for Le Mans. However, to complement these plans, Audi Sport also wants to use the season opener of the 2010 Le Mans Series (LMS) on the high-speed circuit at Le Castellet to test the “R15 plus” in racing conditions.
“We’re on schedule with the additional developments we’re making on the R15 TDI and so this race should be possible,” says Head of Audi-Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “Le Castellet is a race track that lends itself pretty well to testing for Le Mans, and we’ve frequently used this circuit for our Le Mans preparation. The 8-hour race distance makes the race of further interest to us.”
Purely for logistical reasons, Audi Sport Team Joest has registered for the 2010 Le Mans Series. “But this should not at all be interpreted to mean that we will be contesting all five LMS races,” said Dr. Ullrich. “At the moment, we are only planning to race at Le Castellet, Spa-Francorchamps and Silverstone.”
The 1000-kilometer race at Silverstone (Great Britain) on September 12 will mark the finale of the 2010 Le Mans Series and simultaneously kicks off the Le Mans Intercontinental Cup, which Audi Sport Team Joest will tackle with two R15 TDI cars.
Tags: Audi Le Mans, Audi R15, diesel r15, diesel race car
Posted in Diesel News, Diesel Tuning, TDI Owners, VAG Topics
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