Volkswagen shows updated 2022 Golf R and GTI

For those of you that still imbibe the dino juice, there are still a few interesting cars available today to whet your whistle. Volkswagen just released two of those cars, the 2022 Golf R and GTI. Available this Fall, the performance pair got numerous updates including engines, interiors, and more. The turbocharged I-4 now resides under both hoods with the GTI now rated at 241-hp and the R jumps that up to 315-hp mated to a six-speed manual or seven=speed DSG dual clutch automatic. Both models have improved power numbers with the new R beating previous model's six-cylinder engine. Inside an all-new electronic architecture enhances the interior with standard 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, touch interfaces, and 30-color ambient lighting, New vehicle dynamics settings improve handling, along with standard VAQ torque-sensing limited-slip differential on GTI and torque-vectoring AWD on R. New wheels, colors, and options complete the update. The pics shown on this page are of the R model while comparable GTI images appear after the jump. The GTI has three flavors, S, SE, and Autobahn with prices starting at $29,545 (plus taxes, license, fees, destination) for the S trim and the R starts at $43,645+. Destination is $995 for both. What your money gets you is one of the quickest, best handling, and well-balanced hot hatches. What will these two be like when they convert to electric drive? For more information about the new performance VW Golfs and Golf R intro video, click on "read more." The release even details the equipment by model and trim level.

Source: Volkswagen - media release, pics, and videos

Mini Countryman goes to the "Boardwalk"

Few car companies do special editions better (or as many) as the Mini brand and this is the latest, The Countryman Boardwalk. The Boardwalk edition (I keep hearing the song "Under the Boardwalk" as I type this) comes outfitted with special Deep Laguna Metallic blue paint with black accents and a stripe pattern in Deep Laguna metallic and black metallic with the lettering “BOARDWALK” on the frame of the side trims known as "Side Scuttles." Patterns and inscriptions can also be found on the entry bars. In addition, the side flanks of the roof at the rear side windows and the interior bar on the passenger side each bear a logo with the name of the edition model. The Boardwalk edition will come in three Countryman flavors: Cooper, Cooper S, and Cooper S All4 (with all-wheel drive). A six-speed manual is standard and a seven-speed automatic is optional. All4 models step up to the eight-speed Steptronic automatic. Cooper S and Cooper S All4 models get the turbocharged four (178 hp). Options are available to further enhance your Mini special. Personally, I like the Deep Laguna Metallic paint and the overall look. Now if it was available in the hybrid SE version... For more, check out the media release, general Countryman video, and additional pic after the "read more" jump. Check with your dealer regarding availability.

Source: Mini - Media release and pics

Mini Countryman gets updates for 2021

Okay, so there's some updated shaping, but the basic design stays the same. That's not a bad thing though cause if you like Minis, you love the 2021 Countryman. The cool thing is the expanded availability of the hybrid ALL4 drive that uses an electric motor on the rear axle to provide all-wheel drive and improve efficiency. Minis are small, but the Countryman is the largest Mini available today (or ever) and the Countryman is right-sized for many folks. Mini technology receives updates (see press release) and some new twists have been added like the available Piano (gloss) Black trim that replaces chrome pieces (see pic below and after the jump). In many instances (like headlight surrounds) if you wanted them black you had to do it yourself. I also like the saddle interior color (see pic after the jump). As with past Minis, you can customize your ride as you like and your wallet will allow. The only complaint some have about the Countryman is the stiff ride partially caused by the run-flat tires. Also large wheels don't help if that's an issue for you. I believe a test drive is in order. You can get a Mini Cooper Countryman, Mini Cooper S Countryman, and the John Cooper Works (JCW) version that comes with  a powertrain that's good for more than 300 hp. All Countryman get Mini's eight-speed automatic and ALL4 is available on most trim levels (standard on the JCW model). Parent company BMW is keeping Mini current with the Mini E small EV. Now when they make a Countryman EV... For more check the info after the "read more" jump.

Source: Press release and pics courtesy of Mini