Enthusiasts Unite - Southern Worthesee 2014

Southern Worthersee was this past weekend, and if you’re a gear head like a lot of us at Stohlman, you would have given an arm and leg to make the journey. Southern Worthersee is one of my favorite enthusiast events of the year, reflecting the original European event that is held every year in Worthersee, Austria. 

Title sponsored this year by Unitronic, Southern Worthersee is held in a quant, idealic German inspired town called Helen, Georgia. The event location is suiting, possessing a similar feeling to the town in Austria that the event is named after. SoWo brings out some of the most devoted Volkswagen Group enthusiasts, folks driving all the way from California and Canada. The windy twisted roads that leads to the German inspired Helen can tickle any driving enthusiast, making the experience just that much sweeter. Here are some highlights from the event, including some of my favorite Volkswagens at the show.

Seven Generations of Golf

Volkswagen of America definitely put together one of the coolest displays I’ve seen over the years that would have not been possible without the help of some hardcore enthusiasts. They pulled together a Rabbit/Golf/GTI from each generation, to have 7 including a mk7 GTI, lined up in the front of the Volkswagen display at the show. It really showed the evolution of the popular little hatch, and showcased the hard work and individuality that enthusiasts put into these "hot hatches".

Project Cars

Some of Volkswagens brought to the show are dreamt up by lovely folks at VWoA's Parts and Accessories Department, or the lovely guys at VW Vortex. When dreams become reality, magical things happen. From an old SEMA project Jetta to a SUPER (street illegal) Beetle, the potential for what's to come is endless, as long as the creativity keeps flowing. 

This APR tuned mk5 GTI has Recaro Racing seats in the front... AND THE BACK!

Retired Models Live

Enthusiast events are some of the only times when you will see massive amounts of "retired" models that you wouldn't see on the street every day. From models who recently left our lineup like the PassatWagen, or dinosaurs like T2 Dokas, these gems are beautifully revamped to shine like the diamonds they are.

Family Reunion

The Volkswagen community truly is one big family. Enthusiast events are also great times to reunite with old friends with common interests that are spread throughout the U.S. Some of my favorite folks include the great people at Volkswagen Racing, with their North American operations, Racingline USA, based out of Opelika, AL. They definitely have some of the "prettiest" aftermarket parts I've seen, including a Cold-Air Intake System I recently just picked up. 

Another group I enjoy seeing are the guys at Orchid Euro, based out of Norristown, PA. The owner Jamie and his gang specialize in rare and unusual automotive importation. What really caught my attention when I first met them last year was that they created a business by not only importing, but by doing right hand drive conversions. They convert vehicles into cars you'd drive in bloody England! It's truly remarkable, and definitely a perfect rare find if you're in the market. 

Modern Twists 

You don't need an older model to express your creativity. And the enthusiasts at Worthesee definitely didn't hold back for some of these current generation models. Bravo friends, bravo.

Return of the Original Air Cooled

You'll never see so many air-cooled vehicles in one location than at a Volkswagen enthusiast event. Unless you have a time machine and can transport back to the 70's. The iconic Beetle is truly inspirational, and these O.G. Bugs truly show an exuberant display of charisma. 

Previews of What's In Store

Of course we can't just reflect on the past, we have to look at the future! With the new mk7 GTI and Golfs coming out, VWoA's Parts and Accessories Department previewed some parts and body kits that will be offered for the new generation. My favorite in particular is the dual center exhaust option that's available for.... wait for it.... THE GOLF. WHAT?! That's right, the Golf.

If this hasn't convinced you that SoWo is worth experiencing, consider this. The event is held deep in the Chattahoochee National Forest, where the roads are hilly, windy, and smooth because Georgia roads don't experience a quarter of the wear and tear ours do. Not to mention, the gorgeous mountain backdrop that surrounds you. The nature is overwhelmingly beautiful, creating a perfect environment for an ideal driving experience. I'm still on cloud nine after a great weekend in Helen, and I hope that one day you too will be fortunate enough to attend this amazing event.

Tweet us @stohlmanauto. Until next time!

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5

Spring into Fresh Threads - VW DriverGear

The newest DriverGear catalog for Spring/Summer is out and the selection is grand. As a self proclaimed expert shopper, I decided to take the time this week to share some of my favorite items that are currently being offered by VW DriverGear. I mean, who doesn’t love great apparel and accessories to show your enthusiasm for VW?

What’s a better accessory to start off with than a polished Volkswagen emblem key chain? To go on your VW key… Crazy brilliant, right?

And if you’re anything like me, you tote around a lot of stuff (sometimes too much) on a regular basis. So lanyards are usually the only way to find your keys. Well why not have it be a Volkswagen Motorsport lanyard? It has a snap link hook for your VW key fob and a loop for your phone on the keyring. Plus, it can help you further your aspirations to one day become a professional race car driver.. 

If you’re a serious caffeine addict, indulge your addiction with an awesome Wolfsburg mug. It’s microwave/dishwasher friendly, and sports the Wolfsburg crest, an icon for the Volkswagen brand. It makes every sip of coffee feel like you’re in Germany. Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating on that last part.

Rain Rain.. Go Away.. But if you’re gonna stick around I’m going to rock these polka dot rain boots. So this might be more of feminine selection, but gentlemen… I guarantee your lady doesn't enjoy having wet feet. These super cute Wellies are perfect for all this ridiculous rain we’ve been getting (Global Warming is REAL!), while sporting the VW brand. Now go jump in a puddle, but make sure not to track mud into your VW. No one likes cleaning that up.

Summertime = Backyard BBQ’s, right? How would you like a hamburger with a VW emblem on it? And to go along with your VW grilling solutions, how about some entertainment along with it? This VW bus branded bag toss game will surely be a hit at your Das Auto themed Cook Out.

Protect your eyes with these sweet Malibu Volkswagen branded sunglasses. They come in 4 cool translucent colors, providing 100% UVA and UVB protection. Will fit perfectly at the Das Auto themed Cook Out, right?

If you want to fit in at a Das Auto themed Cook Out, your threads have to match of course. Well be unique and rock these R themed tshirts that make a killer statement. You’ve got a need. For speed.

Speaking of speed, got a tiny nugget in your life? Why not prep them to be a future driver with this adorable, yet clever onesie. You can’t help but giggle and say “Awwwww..” at the same time.

Of course since you were being a social media maven during this cook out, you probably drained your phone battery live tweeting your friend almost blowing up the grill. Don’t worry, we’ll help you get your cat meme fix with this fantastic Horse Power Mini. This convenient compact 2,800 mAh Li-Ion battery device can charge an iPad, smartphones, and other tablets. The actually device itself will charge just in a couple hours, so can be ready in times of peril (aka when your battery hits 5% when you’re trying to scroll through instagram). 

My last must have accessory for this summer is the PeopleForBikes Reflective Sticker. Not only does it keep you safe while road cycling, but 25% of the proceeds from this item goes to PeopleforBikes, a non-profit that Volkswagen of America sponsors. The organization started as Bikes Belong in 1999, and has spent over $30 million to improve and benefit the biking community on a national level. To find out more or if you’d like to join the movement, visit PeopleForBike’s website.

Now that you’ve seen my picks, head to Driver Gear yourself and see what you may fancy on top of my fantastic selections. And for first time Driver Gear purchasers, you get 20% off on your first purchase during the month of May, with a chance to win a free tent. If you need a second opinion on your Driver Gear selections, tweet us @stohlmanauto. Until next time!


Esther Cho
VW Product Specialist
@esther_ch5

America's German Sweetheart Gets A Refresh - 2015 Jetta

(Photo Credit @VW)

It's very unlikely, especially in the Northern Virginia area, that you can drive anywhere and not see a Jetta. Whether it may be one of the boxy mk4 Jettas, or our modern day mk6 Jetta, you probably know someone who's owned a Jetta at one point in their lives. Heck, my old roommate and I both rocked Jettas at one point, and my mk5 Laser Blue Jetta is still running like a champ in sunny Columbus, Ohio. A recent press release stated that America's favorite VW model delivered 925,000 units worldwide last year alone, making the popular sedan the top-selling car for both Volkswagen and the entire Group. Big achievements come with some big changes. The 2015 Jetta was unveiled at the 2014 New York International Auto Show, and the news is exciting.

(Photo Credit @VW)

(Photo Credit @VW)

The 2015 Jetta receives a small facelift, a few exterior aesthetic changes to compliment its current design. The radiator grille is redesigned in the front with three cross fins, a new bumper, and optional Bi-Xenon headlights with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS). Each daytime running light for the Bi-Xenon headlights are formed by 15 LEDs that are arranged in an L-shaped string around the xenon modules, creating a distinctive look. Between the LED daytime running lights and the xenons, a chrome element is also placed. A new visual band is created by the radiator grille and the headlights, and with a larger lower air inlet, the Jetta now has a bigger look. In the back, an integrated spoiler extends to the rear fenders, continuing into the contour of the Jetta’s silhouette. New LED taillights for certain models are available which feature a bright stripe and a redesigned VW logo.

The updated Jetta also gets some properties to improve its aerodynamics.  Air drag has been reduced by the redesigned bumper and air intakes, and defined rain gutters near the A-pillars on the sides. Underbody panels at the rear axle and sill covers with wheel spoilers are also equipped. The new 1.8T engine equipped in the new Jetta models also have modified brake ventilation channels, while the GLI and Hybrid models will have special elements such as new front/rear spoilers and sill extensions. The 1.8T and 2.0 TDI will also receive a new aerodynamic feature that is a closable shutter for the radiator grille. This will help shorten the warm-up process of the engine due to reduced air cooling. 

(Photo Credit @VW)

The new 2.0L 150 hp EA288 TDI Clean Diesel engine will be offered in the 2015 Jetta. This new TDI is the most fuel efficient yet, estimated to deliver 32 city/45 highway mpg with a manual transmission. The Jetta will also be introduced with a SCR catalytic converter - a complex exhaust gas recirculation system. This system not only meets current emissions standards in the US, but is designed to meet future anticipated regulations. Located newer the engine, the new layout enables faster responses by the oxidation catalytic converter and the SCR catalytic converter. Using the AdBlue additive, the SCR catalytic converter reduces oxides of nitrogen, furthering the reduction of emissions, and also helping to improve the fuel efficiency of the new Jetta.

(Photo Credit @VW)

Inside this new Jetta gets a subtle but big update. A new multifunction steering wheel, redesigned air vent controls, chrome accents around the dual-zone Climatronic control, ambient lighting, piano black accents on the center console and around the gear shift lever, and new fabric colors and seat designs are available. For mid to high trim levels, the dash gauges are framed in chrome-edged tubes, with an available color multifunction display in between. Technology like Blind Spot Detection plus rear cross-traffic alert and frontal collision warning are also now available for this updated Jetta. 

The 2015 Jetta is anticipated to hit dealerships closer to the end of summer. With updates on the inside and outside, America’s VW sweetheart will be hard not to love. Let us know what you think about the refreshed Jetta @stohlmanauto. Until next time!

Esther Cho
VW Product Specialist
@esther_ch5