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

The next-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI for MY 2022

Volkswagen is going through a renaissance just as it did several decades ago. Then, VW was phasing out the Beetle and replacing it with the Golf family of cars. Now, evidently, over the course of the next few years, VW is phasing out the Golf line-up and replacing it with the ID.3 EV. Yup. VW is going electric in a big way. Why you ask? Consumers are turning to EVs for efficiency and clean air/climate change reasons. The electrics will also allow VW to meet the tough EU emissions standards. In the US, the Golf line-up will consist of the GTI and the R models. If you want something cheaper and more basic, VW has a Jetta with your name on it. So until the ID.3 EV makes it across the pond, you can have the updated GTI which features a new look, more power, and more standard tech. Horsepower will jump to close to 250hp. The suspension is freshened to maintain the GTI's cred as a well-balanced handler that is the perfect balance between comfort and all-out performance. New tech includes the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, an updated Front Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and pedestrian monitoring, Climatronic, and much more as either optional or standard equipment. And yes, plaid upholstery is still available. More info is outlined in the press release after the jump even though it is Euro-centric at this time. US specifications will be announced closer to the new GTI's intro next year as a 2022 model. VW is having problems with the technology suite on the ID.3 so even though they have begun production of the compact (ish) EV, don't expect to see them in the US for the foreseeable future. In fact, the ID.4 CUV will be the first new EV from Volkswagen in the US. So what do we have to look forward to for now? A good-looking, well-balanced, good-sized performance car that is the answer to many prayers and dreams. I wonder it there'ii be an ID.3 GTI? Stay tuned...

Source: Pictures and press release provided by Volkswagen. More after the "Read more" jump

2019 VW Jetta GLI blows into Chitown Auto Show

Well, this one's a no-brainer. Why Volkswagen doesn't make the Jetta GLI a permanent model is beyond me (the model seems to come and go for no reason). Good news...it's making a comeback for 2019 based on the refreshed Jetta sedan. GLI duty (mustn't dilute the GTI brand after all) gets Jetta buyers the 228-hp GTI engine, a six-speed manual transmission or optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, sports suspension tuning, special 18-inch alloy wheels, black trim accents, limited slip, climate control, and much more. Options include the aforementioned dual-clutch automatic, Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a BeatsAudio® sound system. Tech includes 3 smartphone apps: Apple Carplay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink.  In other words, everything you'd want on your Jetta plus cool styling updates and more based on your judicious use of the options sheet and your checkbook or loan balance. VW's six-year, 72,000-mile, bumper-to-bumper People's Warranty is also on hand. The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI will be available in two regular trim levels and a 35th Anniversary Edition. It is expected to begin arriving at U.S. Volkswagen dealers in the Spring of 2019. Check out the press release after the jump for all of the currently available info. Click on the pics for a closer look. Enjoy...

Source: Volkswagen - Press release after the "Read More" jump.