Concerns About Your VW TDI and Emissions Regulations

As many of us have seen through social media and on the news, Volkswagen TDI vehicles are undergoing an emissions re-certification process in order to remain compliant with federal regulations. We understand the confusion and frustration this has undoubtedly caused our customers, and would like to assure everyone that we are working with Volkswagen to correct these problems in vehicles sold through our dealership.
 
Please understand, there are absolutely no safety issues with the TDIs that are being re-certified, that this is an emissions problem that will be addressed. All VWs on the list are still safe to drive.
 
We are currently unable to sell any new or certified pre-owned TDIs that fall under this recall until the problems have been addressed. But, don’t worry, once the dust settles and compliance is met, we will be showing off the new and improved TDI models you’ve already been looking for.
 
We appreciate your patience and understanding and will release more information about the situation as soon as possible.

SportWagens Have Arrived! Come. And. Get. It.

The all new Golf Sportwagen is finally arriving at dealerships. The widely anticipated wagon finally is hitting almost a year after the first mk7 GTIs were delivered. Was the wait worth it? I’d say definitely.

Before we get into details of our newest Sportwagen, the past must be addressed. “What happened to the Jetta Sportwagen?” Well, lets just say it was never really a Jetta. In model year 2002, the US market received its “first” compact wagon. This mIV “Jetta Wagon” was actually a Golf in every other country that this wagon was sold in. Why would VW do such a thing, you ask? The US market has had a long time love affair with sedans, and hatchbacks were never too popular. Because the Jetta was a much more recognizable model in the US at the time, the Golf Wagon was called a Jetta for marketing purposes. This relabeling for the US market would continue with the 2009-2014 Jetta SportWagen, which was again a Golf in every other market.

(Cargo box, wheels, and roof rails can be found at parts.vw.com)

Now that we understand that the beloved Sportwagen really is a Golf, let’s talk details. The Golf SportWagen comes equipped with either a 1.8L turbocharged gasoline engine, or the 2.0L turbocharged diesel engine. The ever so popular 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel engine has been bumped up to 150 hp @ 3500 rpm, with a maximum torque of 237 lb-ft at 1750 rpm. This beautiful inline four cylinder is a turbocharged direct injection, common rail system with an estimated fuel economy of 31 city, 43 hwy* - slight improvement from the previous generation. The gasoline engine however could give our beloved diesel engine a run for its money. This new inline four cylinder is based off Volkswagen’s award winning 2.0L TSI engine, with 170 hp at 4800 rpm and a maximum torque of 185 lb-ft @1600 rpm. This is a bump up from the previous generation’s 2.5L naturally aspirated five cylinder engine. In addition to more torque, the new 1.8L TSI Sportwagen has a better estimated fuel economy of 25 in the city, 36 on the hwy*, and is recommended to use regular unleaded fuel, despite being a turbocharged engine. With the price difference of diesel, the TSI engine could be more practical for a lot of future owners who don’t crave the 400-500k mile longevity of a diesel. 

Sizewise the new Sportwagen has increased just a little bit here and there. The passenger volume has increased 2.6 cu. ft, while the cargo space has decreased about 2.4 cu. ft. The wheelbase has increased 2 inches, but the overall length has only grown 0.2 inches, coming out to be 179.6 inches. The width has also only 0.7 inches, coming out to be 70.8 inches. The Sportwagen** may have slightly grown, but it certainly trimmed down. Weighing in at 3063 lb, the curb weight has gone down 123 lbs. 

In addition to standard features like Bluetooth connectivity, Car-Net, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio (Limited subscription), the Sportwagen has optional equipment including:

• Rear-view camera
• 5.8” touchscreen navigation system
• Fender premium audio system
• Climatronic dual-zone (L/R) automatic climate control
• KESSY keyless access w/ push-button start
• Automatic headlights
• Lighting Package including Bi-Xenon headlights with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), ambient interior lighting, footwell lights
• Driver Assistance Package including Park Distance Control (Front & Rear) and Forward Collision Warning System

What about that beautiful Alltrak that was shown at the New York International Auto Show? Well, that beautiful beast was actually a Euro-Spec. US models will not be built until the beginning of 2016. There are no confirmed details in terms of power train, but we do know that it will be a SportWagen with 4Motion All Wheel Drive. Availability is due towards the end of next year as a 2017 year model.

(Photos by VWoA)

The Golf SportWagen starts off at $21,395 as a 5-speed manual transmission in the 1.8L TSI gasoline engine. A 6-speed automatic transmission is available for an additional $1100 for the TSI transmission. The TDI Clean Diesel engine starts off as a 6-speed manual at $27,995 as a mid level trim, and a 6-speed DSG automatic transmission is available for again an additional $1100. 

For more pricing information and details, contact one of our fantastic sales staff. In the meantime tweet us @stohlmanauto. Until next time!

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5

*Fuel economy is in reference to manual transmission models.

**Specs are in reference to the 1.8L TSI gasoline engine with the 5-speed manual transmission.

Gearheads, Pause Your Modifying.. The GTI with Performance Package Has Arrived

So what do you do when you want a GTI, where stock is just not enough for you, but an R is a little too much for you? In the past you would have tuned it, thrown some after market parts on it, and prayed your warranty wouldn’t be voided. Well hold off on ordering a sway bar my friend, because Volkswagen has decided to now do a lot of that work for you, with the 2015 Volkswagen GTI with Performance Package. 

What does the Performance Package entail you ask? To start things off, you get a bump up on horsepower. Instead of the standard 210 hp with 258 lb-ft of torque, the 2.0L TSI engine for the Performance Package is factory tuned to 220 hp with 258 lb-ft of torque. Performance Package GTIs also get larger, upgraded front and rear brakes, in addition to the VAQ limited-slip front differential lock. The VAQ limited-slip front differential lock works with the XDS+ Cross Differential system, utilizing the brakes to help transfer power to the outside wheel and improving cornering. This allows your GTI to grip the roads better, and helping you conquer those turns in any driving condition.

The GTI with Performance Package is available in both 2 door and 4 door in all trim levels, with a 6-speed Manual or 6-speed DSG Automatic transmission. The GTI’s Lighting and Driver Assistance packages are also available on all trim levels for the GTI with Performance Package. However, one thing you can’t find in a normal GTI is the Dynamic Chassis Control offered in the Golf R. The Dynamic Chassis Control adds a 4th driving mode component, uprated rear shock absorbers, and an enlarged rear stabilizer bar. In a normal GTI with Performance Package, the Steering, Engine, and the Front diff. lock can be adjusted. Adding the DCC can give you the ability to adjust the suspension as well. The DCC is only available to add for an additional $800 for SE with Performance Package and Autobahn with Performance Package models.

The GTI with Performance Package comes in the same 6 color options like a normal GTI, including the Carbon Steel Gray Metallic, exclusive to GTI models. The S trim models have your Titan Black with the heritage Clark Plaid seats, and Titan Black Leather seats in all other trim levels. The Performance Package models do have a subtle but distinguishing feature where the GTI emblem is red, instead of your normal chrome.

The long awaited and greatly anticipated GTIs with Performance Package are slowing finally rolling into dealerships all over the country, one by one. Stohlman however, has a bunch. So if you’re dying to test drive one, head down to Tysons soon. They definitely have some. And more. 

Tweet us @StohlmanAuto. Until next time!

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5

2015 - Year of the Golf Part 1 - Golf R

Happy New Year Stohlman VW friends and family!

2014 is done and over, and we're ready for the new year. 2015 is the year of the Sheep for the Chinese Zodiac. However, for Volkswagen's calendar, 2015 is the year of the Golf. And with the addition of the Golf family receiving the 2015 Motortrend Car of the Year, this year really will be the Golf's time to shine. From the auto shows to showroom floors, you'll be seeing lots of the Golf family all over. The question now is.. What will you actually be able to buy in 2015? The next couple of weeks I will be covering what models are coming this year, and what models are just to tease our North American imaginations. For a small car, there's just too much to cover in one post.

Golf R - IT'S COMING, FOR REAL.

The Golf R is being launched this month. No longer must we wait every 4 years like the Olympics. We can start revving our engines now. The R will begin pre-order on January 8th at VW.com/GolfR with a $500 deposit for one of the first 500 models. 

The first 500 R models will all be released identical. It will be the top of the line, Golf R with Dynamic Chassis Control & Navigation, and a six-speed DSG dual clutch automatic transmission. The R will have a 292 horsepower 2.0L TSI engine and 4Motion all-wheel drive. The new R is also lighter, but bigger than the previous mk6 generation R, making it not only roomier, but faster than any other generation. Win win win. The first 500 will also be all painted in the Lapiz Blue Metallic, have 19 inch "Cadiz" aluminum alloy wheels with summer performance tires, and Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights. In addition to Navigation, the trim will also include features like Park Distance Control, and the Fender Premium Audio System. 

The first 500 owners will also receive a numbered VW Driver Gear R accessory pack, exclusive to only the first 500 mk7 Golf R owners. This accessory pack will include a serialized and VIN-specific certificate, a serialized Volkswagen R watch, and a serialized carbon fiber and stainless steel keychain.

The Golf R with DCC and Nav will have a starting price point of $39,090 MSRP, plus $820 destination and delivery charge. If this is the exact model you'd like, I'd recommend being very close to a computer on January 8th, or having one of our fantastic Stohlman VW sales guys armed and ready to pre order.

So what about the rest of us who want something other than a Lapiz Blue Metallic R? You can still put an order in for the specific R that you want, by putting a deposit down with a Stohlman VW sales associate. Delivery dates for R models outside of the first 500 have not been specified yet. 

Like to Shift? What About Manuals?

From what I understand and what was last discussed, 6 speed manual transmission models of the R will be launched later in the year as a 2016 model. Now what the exact timing of this is, or if in fact it will be released, I am still not %100 sure. Lets keep our fingers crossed that this information doesn't change in the near future.

Tweet us @stohlmanauto and let us know if you're ready to snag a new mk7 R. Until next time!


Esther Cho
VW Product Specialist
@esther_ch5

In Loving Memory of Harry Fumba Vannie

(Harry's 2013 Golf R - Photo by Alles Gute Designs)

It is extremely sad to share that Stohlman VW Certified Master, Harry Vannie passed away earlier this week. After battling numerous complications, Harry passed Sunday morning. We are all devastated by this loss, and send our thoughts and prayers to his family. Harry was a respected and beloved member of the Nova Dubs community, and will be missed by many. Below is his obituary and information about funeral arrangements. Also, the Nova Dubs community has arranged a final cruise for Harry on Saturday, the 22nd (tomorrow) before his funeral at 7:30am, meeting in Fairfax, VA.

Also, if you haven't already, please donate to Harry's GoFundMe page. Donations will go to directly to his wife Kris to help funeral costs.

http://www.gofundme.com/harryvannie


________________________________________________
Harry Fumba Vannie
January 3, 1975 - November 16, 2014
Our family is deeply saddened to announce that our beloved Harry Fumba Vannie passed away on November 16, 2014 at Georgetown University Hospital, in Washington, DC after valiantly fighting a sudden illness. He is survived by his wife Kristina, and his three children, Avery, Angelina and Winifred, his mother, Winifred Kargbo (Dr. Charles Kargbo), his brother, Sam, and Sister, Jenneh, as well as a host of cousins, uncles and aunts, and a large number of friends who considered him family. He is predeceased by his father Isaac Morlay Vannie. Regarded by all as one of the nicest people you would ever meet, Harry leaves behind a legacy of good will and genuine friendship, his love of family, love of cars and his overall love of life. 

We will all miss Harry and his unique ability to brighten a room, encourage a friend, and revive our spirit. Arrangements to honor Harry’s life are listed below:

Wake held on Friday, November 21, 2014 at 7:00pm – 9:00pm
J.B. Jenkins Funeral Home
7474 Landover Road
Hyattsville, MD 20785

Funeral Service held on Saturday, November 22, 2014 at 10:00am
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
11525 Prospect Hill Road
Glenn Dale, MD 20769

Repast will be held at 3pm
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
11525 Prospect Hill Road
Glenn Dale, MD 20769
________________________________________________

(Thanks to Nick Bottini and Nova Dubs)

If you'd like to share any memories of Harry, tweet us @stohlmanauto. Take care, Harry. You will be missed.


Esther Cho
VW Product Specialist
@esther_ch5

Orange You Happy It's Halloween?

(Pumpkin I carved all morning)

When I think Halloween, I think about candy, costumes, and pumpkins. When I think of pumpkins, I think of lattes, pie, and orange colored VW's. Currently there's no Volkswagen model that offers an orange paint job from the manufacturer, but did you know there were many offered in the past? Here's a handful of orange VW's that have a special place in my heart that are no longer in production. 

1969 Karmann Ghia

Ahh, the beautiful Karmann Ghia. No longer a production model, the Karmann Ghia was a sports car coupe that debuted in 1955, and later released as a convertible in 1957. She was only in production till 1974, but in 1969 was offered in a beautiful Signal Orange and Sunset Orange. The video below features a 69 Ghia that I believe is a Sunset Orange, which was a more brownish Orange than Signal Orange was.

1971 and 1974 Beetle

(Shot by Ian Hufton)

The Classic Beetle is an iconic vehicle for the Volkswagen brand. The original Beetle was many first cars for folks, as well as first loves. In 1971, the Beetle had a beautiful Clementine color available, and Brilliant Orange in 1974. 

Years later when the Beetle was redesigned and reintroduced, the New Beetle would offer Snap Orange in 2002, and Sundown Orange 2003-2005, definitely paying homage to the original Beetle, with a much more modern twist.

1973 and 1974 VW Thing

(Photo by VW Southtowne in Utah)

Yes, there really was a model called the Thing. VW's Type 181 was manufactured from 1968-1983, originally developed for military use. The Thing was a four door, two wheel drive, off road convertible that was all sorts of different. The model didn't last long in the U.S. due to failing to meet safety standards for a passenger vehicle, and was dropped from the line up in America in 1975. 

1990's and 2000's Golf and GTI

(Press release from @VWcanada)

The 90's and 2000's had a slew of orange colored VW's. From the 1996 Cinnabar Orange Cabrio, to Magma Orange in the 2007 Fahrenheit GTI, orange was a fun color for our fun hatchbacks. Tropic Orange was present for several years, beginning with the Golf in 1999, then the 2000 GTI. It even had a variation in 2001, with a Tropic Orange Metallic for the GTI. My favorite orange of the 2000's though was the special edition Fahrenheit GTI. The Fahrenheit GTI was the first special edition for the mk5 generation in North America, and came in a beautiful Magma Orange in 2007. The Fahrenheit GTI had a limited production number of 1200, just like its yellow Fahrenheit GLI counterpart, making this special edition very rare. The Fahrenheit edition was only available as a DSG, and had special Fahrenheit badging, commemorative plating on the steering wheel, body color interior panels, and orange stitching. 

Of course there were other models that featured orange, like the Type 2 VW bus, but the models listed above happened to have a special place in my heart. Which orange VW's do you fancy? Let us know by tweeting us @stohlmanauto. Until next time, Happy Halloween!

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5

The Eos' Swan Song - Farewell Goddess of the Dawn

(Photos provided by VWoA)

Sad to say, but the rumors this time are true. This is the final year for our beautiful Eos. The Eos, our hard top convertible with a sunroof, is approaching the end of its life cycle, and will not be reintroduced with a new design in the immediate future. The Eos was never a target vehicle for most markets throughout the world, so unfortunately this year will be our fair goddess' swan song. But her final year will definitely be one her best, offering brand new special features for 2015.

The Eos gets two new exterior color options for her final year. Candy White will be replaced with Pure White like the rest of the line up, while Salsa Red will be replaced with Flash Red. Flash Red has a brighter tone than Salsa Red did, and is currently only available for the 2015 Eos. Definitely makes it a unique color available only on Komfort and Executive trim levels.

The biggest change point will be that the mid level Sport trim will be replaced with the Eos Final Edition trim. The Final Edition trim will include many of the same features offered in the Sport trim from 2014, with the addition of several unique additions. A special two-tone Cornsilk Beige and Titanium Black Vienna leather interior will be featured, as well as a unique interior trim with black radio surround and "Silver Net" decor stitching detail. A rearview camera will also be available with the standard RNS 315 Navigation system.

What hasn't changed is what the Eos has packing under the hood and its stunning curb appeal. The Eos will continue to have the 2.0L TSI engine (200 hp/207 lb-ft of torque) with a 6-speed DSG transmission. The Eos' unique multi-piece folding hardtop gives our luxurious hard top top convertible the Coupe-Sunroof capability. Perfect for those times when you just want a little bit of air, and a roof still over your head. 

The Eos' well equipped base Komfort model will have a 2015 base price of $35,795 MSRP, with features including dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth with audio streaming, RNS 315 touchscreen navigation system, and a 12 way power adjustable driver's comfort seat. If you've been waiting for the perfect time to pick up the perfect convertible, this may be your moment. The Eos is on its way out, so head out to Tyson's before its too late! In in the meantime, tweet us @stohlmanauto and let us know what you think of the Final Edition. Until next time!

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5

“Introducing Lots of New” for the 2015 Jetta

The 2015 Jetta is about to make everything a little sweeter. The updates can be seen both inside and out, including new driver assistance technology and a curb appeal that is even more irresistible than before. This is the model from the mk6 generation that you've been waiting for, and we couldn't be happier that it's finally here.

Working our way inside out, we begin with our engines. The Jetta will have 5 different engine options for 2015, including the all new 1.8L TSI engine (170 hp/184 lb-ft of torque) and the new 2.0L TDI engine with 10 more horsepower and 10%-15% more fuel efficiency (150 hp/236 lb-ft of torque). The Jetta Hybrid is back with its 1.4L TSI/electric motor (combined 170 hp/ 184 lb-ft of torque) with a big update. Like its Touareg Hybrid counterpart, the Jetta Hybrid will only be available one way - FULLY LOADED. New features for the Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium trim will include:

- Auto headlights with Coming Home/Leaving Home feature

- Rain sensor

- Blind Spot Detection with Rear Traffic Alert

- HomeLink

- Park Distance Control

- Autodimming rearview camera

Man, those features sound fantastic, right? But is Hybrid not your thing? No need to fear, our gasoline and TDI fans now can get the lighting and driver assistance packages too! The 1.8L TSI, updated 2.0L TSI (210 hp/207 lb-ft of torque), and 2.0L TDI SEL trim models can get these awesome new features that weren’t available before.

The Optional Lighting Package will include:

- Interior ambient lighting

- Bi-Xenon headlights w/ AFS

- LED DRLs

- Upgraded multifunction display

- Front fog lamps with static cornering

The Optional Driver Assistance Package will include:

- Updated multifunction display

- Forward Collision Warning system

- Blind Spot Detection

- Rear Traffic Alert

The Blind Spot Detection and Rear Traffic Alert is a unique feature only available currently on the 2015 Jetta. The Rear Traffic Alert will warn you when it detects anything moving more than 3 mi/hr within the scanned radius when in reverse. No need to fear the grocery store parking lot again!

Our base Jetta S with its 2.0L (115 hp/125 lb-ft of torque) engine will also get some variety this model year. The Jetta S gets a new optional Technology Package for those who want to ball out on a smaller budget. The Technology Package for the Jetta S will include:

- Premium 8 touchscreen audio system with Sirius XM satellite radio

- KESSY “GO” featuring push-button Start/Stop only (no keyless entry system)

- Rearview camera (standard on all trim levels for 2015 Jetta except Jetta S)

And of course standard features for all trims for the 2015 Jetta now include Bluetooth, cruise control, and a multifunction steering wheel with audio and telephone controls. 

The exterior has also gotten some updates. Candy White and Tempest Blue are out. Pure White and Silk Blue Metallic are IN. These beautiful new colors are sure to catch anyone’s attention. Exterior design updates include front and rear bumpers, front and rear fascia, newly designed taillight, and new designs for wheels and wheel covers.

And because of all these new design and technology features, the 2015 Jetta has achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and a 5-Star Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

To quote the latest Jetta advertising campaign, VW is seriously “introducing a whole lot of new” for the 2015 year model. Head out to Tyson’s soon to check out the 2015 Jetta, and in the meantime tweet us @stohlmanauto. Until next time!

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5

Pink Polos For A Cure - Stohlman VW for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Stohlman VW is bringing awareness this October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Approximately 1 out of 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their life, an alarming statistic that affects us all.

The staff at Stohlman will be wearing pink polos for the entire month of October, to show support and honor those that have fought the battle. The staff and I have all been affected in some way by this terrible disease, and we hope that local organizations like the National Institution of Health and the National Cancer Institute will find a cure soon.

To find out how to help and support the fight against breast cancer, visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation's website.


Tweet us @stohlmanauto. Until next time.


Esther Cho
VW Product Specialist
@esther_ch5

Stohlman VW and Nova Dub Member in Need - Stay Strong Harry Vannie

(Stohlman VW's Harry Vannie and his wife, Kris)

We have sad news this week from Stohlman VW. One of our Certified VW Sales Consultants, Harry Vannie has fallen ill and is currently in critical condition at Georgetown University Medical Center. After what was thought to be just symptoms of a cold that was going around, Harry sought out treatment at Inova Loudoun Hospital early last week after encouragement from his wife, Kris. Unfortunately, his diagnosis turned out to be more serious than a little cold. He was helicoptered to Geogetown University Medical Center’s Critical Care Center, where his family was informed that Harry had developed a severe infection that led to Sepsis. Sepsis is a potential life threatening complication from an infection. Sepsis occurs when chemicals released into the bloodstream to fight the infection causes inflammation throughout the system. In Harry’s case, his sepsis led to septic shock, triggering multiple organ failure. He is currently fighting for his life in a medically induced coma and life support. 

(Harry's family with his 2013 Golf R - Photo by Alles Gute)

Harry was born in Liberia, a country in West Africa. At home, Harry and his wife Kris, have two beautiful daughters. Before joining Stohlman, he had over 14 years of experience in the automotive industry. A very knowledgable VW Product Specialist and true enthusiast, Stohlman was thrilled when Harry decided to join the the VW team in Tyson’s this year. Harry and his wife are also active members of the Nova Dubs community. He currently drives a beautiful 2013 Tornado Red Golf R. Red was a very limited color produced for the MK6 R, so if you ever saw a red R around Northern Virginia, you could bet it was Harry cruising. Before falling ill, Harry was looking forward to attending H20i with his wife in Ocean City, Maryland, which took place this past weekend. His wife Kris, drives a CC R-Line.

(Harry's 2013 Golf R - Photo by Alles Gute)

With Harry being in a coma, the bills at the hospital and at home are stacking up. In the car business, paid sick days don’t really exist. Ryan Berg, a member of the Nova Dubs community, was generous enough to set up a GoFundMe for Harry and his family. All donations go straight to his wife Kris, to help pay for living expenses and hospital care. Kris has been spending day and night next to Harry, praying for a speedy recovery. Please help us show support for Harry and his family. Because of his current condition, he cannot receive fresh flowers or fruit, so please consider donating to Harry’s GoFundMe instead. Every dollar counts and is appreciated. We’re praying for you Harry, and cannot wait for you to return to Stohlman VW, healthy and happy. 

To Donate for Harry and his family - http://www.gofundme.com/harryvannie

Follow us @stohlmanauto. Until next time.

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5

Rallycross to Classic - Scott Speed Still in the Hunt and Special Edition Beetle Released

(Scott Speed and #77 7UP VW Polo GRC. Photo by VWoA)

It was a big week for our iconic Beetle. The Volkswagen Andretti RallyCross team made some big moves in Los Angeles this past weekend. Both Scott Speed and Tanner Foust had an eventful weekend in the city of Angels, with Speed securing his third win for the Red Bull Global Rallycross Championship during Saturday’s race. Speed experienced engine problems while driving the #77 7Up Volkswagen Polo GRC during the semi finals on Sunday, finishing 6th for the day. He is currently overall third for the series, hoping to gain points in Seattle this weekend to catch up to current leader, Ken Block.

After months and months of teasing, Tanner Foust and Volkswagen Andretti Racing finally debuted the #24 Rockstar Volkswagen Beetle GRC in LA. With the 544 horsepower GRC Beetle, Foust qualified for Saturday’s final by winning the Last Chance Qualifier race despite also suffering from engine problems over the weekend. “The Beetle is fast off the line and very efficient in the corners, and the steering is so quick and direct that it's very easy to drive. The work we are putting into the Beetle is going to make it super competitive in 2015.” said Foust. He’s currently tenth overall in the championship standings, and hoping to widen the gap between him and Rhys Millen this weekend in Seattle. 

(Tanner Foust and #24 Rockstar VW Beetle GRC. Photo by VWoA)

Volkswagen Rallycross Seattle will take place this weekend, September 26-27. NBC will air Sunday’s race, the 28th at 4:30 pm ET.

(Photo by VWoA)

Also to debut this week was the limited edition Volkswagen Beetle Classic model. This new model adds features to enhance the extensive standard equipment already found on the Beetle. The most unique of the new features is a two-toned brown “Sioux” leatherette and checked cloth seating surfaces. These beautiful new seats truly give the car a “classic” look, definitely paying homage to the original with a modern spin. The Classic trim will also include:

• 17-inch “Heritage” aluminum-alloy wheels
• Rear spoiler
• Leather-wrapped shifter knob and handbrake lever
• Sirius XM® Satellite Radio
• RNS® 315 navigation system
• Multifunction steering wheel
• Comfort front seats with driver’s side lumbar support
• Six-Speed automatic transmission

 The Beetle Classic model is scheduled to go on sale this week starting at $20,195 for the 1.8T Coupe. The 1.8L turbocharged and direct-injection TSI four-cylinder engine produces 170 horsepower and 177 lb/ft of torque, with an estimated highway fuel economy of 33 mpg. This special edition will only be available in three colors - Pure White, Black Uni, and Reflex Silver. And for those who prefer a drop top, have no fear. With a starting price at $25,995, the Beetle Convertible Classic will go on sale early 2015, just in time for Spring. 

(Photo by VWoA)

Let us know if you’ll be watching Team Volkswagen Andretti race in Seattle this weekend, and what you think of the new Special Edition Beetle Classic @stohlmanauto. Until next time!

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5

Back To School Shopping? Put the Golf On Your List

It's that time of the year again. The kids are back in school and Fall semester has officially begun. Unless you live on campus or attend boarding school, driving is probably inevitable. Whether you're one of the thousands that commuters at George Mason University, a new high school driver, or you venture to Target and Ikea on the weekends from University of Maryland, new wheels could be on your back to school supply list this year. Here are a few selections from our line up that I believe are straight A's.

A Golf For Your After School Activities

(Pure White 2015 Golf TSI SE at Stohlman)

The redesigned 2015 Golf is everything we've been hyping it up to be. Bigger, sleeker, faster, and more efficient. Perfect for any star student. With the new 1.8L TSI as the standard base engine, fuel efficiency has increased almost 15% from last year, with an estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg city/ 36 mpg highway. Not to mention, premium is not required for the new 1.8L T. That's right, Volkswagen actually recommends 87 octane rating for this new turbo charged engine, so don't feel shy about filling her up! And for those long commuters who'd prefer to go the clean diesel route with our 2.0L TDI engine, you can accelerate faster past fuel stations with the 236 lb ft/tq it's equipped with and the estimated fuel economy of 31 mpg city/ 42 mpg highway. 

(Photo courtesy of VWoA)

The redesigned Golf has definitely grown as well. It's gotten a little bit longer, a tad wider, giving the Golf a bit more room for you and your passengers to get comfortable. But the cargo room is where it's at. Increasing from 15.2 to 22.8 cu/ft, and up to 52.7 cu/ft with the seats down, you shouldn't have too many issues hauling your cello, hockey equipment, or that volcano science project after class.

(IIHS Results for 2015 Golf courtesy of iihs.org)

The 2015 Golf is also an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. The IIHS is the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, an independent nonprofit scientific and educational organization. Based in Arlington, VA, the IIHS can only test 50-70 vehicles a year, selections being based on various factors including model year redesigns/refreshing. Manufacturers have the right to request crash tests (at the manufacturer's expense) as well. Since the Golf was redesigned this year, it was selected to be tested for 2014, and passed with flying colors. The 2015 Golf and GTI were both selected as a Top Safety Pick+ for 2014. With its good looks, smart features, and a base price of $17,995 (Price excludes transportation, taxes, title, other options, and dealer charges), I'd say the Golf is a safe bet for Class President.

For When Your Children Can't Drive Themselves

(Photo courtesy of VWoA)

If the kids haven't left the nest yet, pick up and drop offs are probably a big part of your weekly schedule. From packing lunches to making costumes for the drama club's production of Grease, you do a lot for your children. Why not do something for yourself, and get a car you'll enjoy for when you pick them up from their Model UN meeting. Enter the Volkswagen Passat. It has timeless lines, curb appeal, and a comfortable interior. Options like a Fender Premium Audio System, a wood inlay, and dual leather/suede combination seats, the Passat can offer those little luxuries you long for. The Passat has several engine options including the 2.0L TDI clean diesel engine, 1.8L TSI gas engine, or the naturally aspirated V6. The Passat also offers one of the biggest rear leg rooms in its class, and an astonishing trunk size of 15.9 sq/ft for all their soccer balls, trumpets, and textbooks. The Passat is also a IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2014, and has won countless accolades since its redesign debut for 2012. If the critics love it, why shouldn't we? 

(So much room for activities - Photo courtesy of VWoA)

Honorable Mentions

The Jetta and Tiguan receive an honorable mention since they are both very great options for back to school. Several factors preventing me from selecting them as the #1 & 2 pick include the inevitable 2015 Jetta refresh that's due to hit the market any day now. The Jetta has been a top seller for the Volkswagen brand in the US market since its debut, and we don't imagine that it'll slow down any time soon. A popular choice amongst folks in all age groups, the Jetta is always a reliable choice for a great commuter car, and has been a Top Safety Pick since 2009. The Jetta's 2.5L naturally aspirated engine has already been replaced with the new 1.8L TSI. This improvement makes the Jetta feel zippier while it sips on the gas tank. Once the refresh hits dealerships, I have a strong feeling that the Jetta will rise to become a top pick.

The Tiguan has been a Top Safety Pick since its debut in 2009. This compact crossover SUV brings a little bit of everything to the table. Size, style, luxury, performance, safety, and comfort. The only one on my list with its final assembly point being in Germany, the starting price of the Tiguan is a tad higher than the rest of group, with a MSRP starting price at $23,305 (Price excludes transportation, taxes, title, other options, and dealer charges). That being said, the Tiguan is a genuinely fun, yet safe vehicle. The IIHS conducts a roof strength test for instances of rollovers, and the Tiguan was one of the top performers in this test from the beginning. The following video showcases the roof strength test, and solidifies why I drive Volkswagens now, and will for life.

Let us know what what vehicle you think deserves to be on our honor roll this semester by tweeting us @stohlmanauto. Until next time!

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5