VW Shoot. Score. Drive. Evening with the Dallas Stars.
Posted on 30 March 2011 by Volkswagen Park Cities
Whoa, Black Beetle. Bam-a-lam.
Posted on 25 February 2011 by Volkswagen Park Cities
In the first spot for The 21st Century Beetle, cutting-edge CGI creative goes entomological, creating a photo-real lush kingdom where the Black Beetle rules, runs, navigates and out performs all the other creatures.
The 2012 VW Jetta GLI partners with Fender
Posted on 25 February 2011 by Volkswagen Park Cities
Driving the all-new performance inspired 2012 VW Jetta GLI is definitely an experience, and the Fender audio system provides the soundtrack. It’s no small honor that Fender, arguably the most iconic name in audio, partnered exclusively with Volkswagen to make sure the new line up of VWs sound as good as they drive.
The GLI already prowls the streets with a rock star attitude. With its aggressive stance, 2.0-liter, 200hp turbocharged engine, interior sticking, honeycomb grill and flashy red caliper breaks the GLI is photogenic and it knows it. And with the addition of the Fender Premium Audio System the final piece of the puzzle is in place. This nine-speaker system is specifically designed to capture the raw emotion of a live performance, making it a “face-melting” audio experience. And according to Brian Tedeschi, Fender’s Business Affairs manager, that’s a technical term.
We had Danielle Gumro catch-up and rock-out (literally) at the Chicago Auto Show with the big brains at Fender to hear the inspiration and science behind the gut-busting sound. This state-of the-art sound system was the product of over three years of research and development to bring unmatched audio clarity at high and low volume to your driving experience. In laymen’s terms this means a lot of really smart people spent a really long time making sure that this audio system is going to be better, louder and generally more “face-melting” than anything you’ve heard before.
Volkswagen: The Making of “The Force” Commercial
Posted on 22 February 2011 by Volkswagen Park Cities
Bloopers and deleted scenes from Volkswagen’s “The Force” commercial.
In true rock star fashion the GLI causes a scene at the Chicago Auto Show.
Posted on 11 February 2011 by Volkswagen Park Cities
On Wednesday Jonathan Browning, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, proudly unveiled the much-anticipated all-new 2012 VW Jetta GLI amidst a firework show of camera flashes. Enthusiasts rushed the car like Justin Bieber at an elementary school to get a glimpse of the details that keep so many drivers coming back for more of the GLI. The cherry red brake calipers, interior stitching, flat-bottom steering wheel, and honeycomb grill were the subject of most of the “oohs and ahhs.”
The beauty of this ride isn’t just skin-deep, the sporty 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine had real drivers chomping at the bit to get out and drive. Fast. And if the performance inspired design wasn’t enough to turn everybody’s head at the Chicago Auto Show – the Fender Audio System was.
The reveal wasn’t open to the general public, but luckily for you we know people who know people. And those people have cameras. Check out pictures of the new Jetta GLI, and the Chicago Auto Show here.
Here it is (the GLI photo gallery). Rock it like a hurricane.
Posted on 10 February 2011 by Volkswagen Park Cities
Yesterday the Jetta GLI rolled onto the stage at the Chicago Auto Show, but its first photos were shot months ago. So while you wait for updates from the big show, see all the Jetta GLI images here.
But before you dismiss these rock band-heavy shots as our attempt to look overly cool, (you know: picture of car next to super model, car next to waterfall, next to large hadron collider), you may want to keep this in mind:
The GLI will be the first model to feature a VW-exclusive Fender audio system. It’s a product of three years in a state-of-the-art sound lab, and, other than traveling with your own private band, it’s is as close as you get to a live performance. This particular GLI, however, seems to have both.
What you can’t see is what lies beneath the hood. The GLI is equipped with VW’s turbocharged, 2.0-Liter engine, and a host of autobahn-ready performance features. With track-tuned four-way Independent Performance Suspension, six-speed manual or optional DSG® transmission, and XDS® cross differential system, this GLI has more performance than the extended version of Freebird.
What can we say? It takes rocking seriously. More pics in the Jetta gallery, here.
This Jetta’s performance-inspired body kit and signature GLI badging are backed by optional DSG transmission, which coincidentally is also this band’s name.
This Jetta’s GTI-inspired honeycomb grill hides an award winning 2.0L, 200-hp, turbocharged engine that delivers a full 207 lb.-ft. of torque at just 1,700 rpm. It’s the VW version of speed metal.
Not all of the GLI’s safety features are as flashy as its red brake calipers. Electronic stability control, disc brakes standard, and Intelligent Crash Response System are only noticeable when it counts.
The GLI’s exclusive Fender sound system features, “lower inter-modulation distortion”, “smooth mid-range response to eliminate harshness”, and is “harmonically complex, with extended range tweeters and properly voiced 16cm speakers.” Aka: It rocks.
Volkswagen Unveils the New 2012 Jetta GLI, a German Performance Sedan at an Accessible Price
Posted on 09 February 2011 by Volkswagen Park Cities
Jetta GLI is the complete Volkswagen package: A well-balanced, fun-to-drive, German-engineered performance vehicle – at an accessible price
HERNDON, Va., February 8, 2011 — Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced the debut of the new 2012 Jetta GLI, which combines the comfort and sophistication of a Jetta with aggressive performance and handling in a sporty yet sleek package. The all-new Jetta GLI is the most differentiated Jetta GLI model ever made by Volkswagen. With a rich heritage that dates back to 1984, the new Jetta GLI is sure to appeal to both automotive enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
The Jetta GLI offers exceptional features and options, for equally impressive pricing. Available in three trim levels, the Jetta GLI has a starting MSRP of $23,495. The GLI Autobahn, with an MSRP of $25,545, adds 18” alloy wheels, sunroof, dual zone climate control, heated V-Tex Leatherette seats and the Fender® Premium Audio System. The top of the line Jetta GLI Autobahn with Navigation adds the RNS-315 navigation system and keyless access with push-button start technology for an MSRP of $26,445.
Engine and Transmission
The sporty Jetta GLI boasts the award winning 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, generating 200 horsepower and a full 207 lb.-ft. of torque at just 1,700 rpm, contributing to drivability and response of the vehicle in both everyday and performance situations. The Jetta GLI is offered with a six speed manual transmission as standard equipment. This new model is significantly lighter than the previous Jetta GLI and it offers power and performance coupled with German sensibilities. While EPA figures are not yet available, the Jetta GLI is expected to deliver 31 mpg highway with the manual and 32 mpg highway with the DSG® automatic.
Additional performance features for the Jetta GLI include:
Track tuned four-way Independent Performance Suspension for superb handling
DSG® automatic gearbox that offers steering wheel mounted paddles shifters, super quick shift times and rev-matched downshifts
XDS® cross differential system that debuted on the Volkswagen GTI, that helps prevent inside wheel spin during cornering
Four wheel disc brakes with floating red calipers
Premium Features
To make life on the road a little easier, the Jetta GLI offers sophisticated, German engineered premium appointments. Features include standard 6.5” touch screen premium VIII radio with Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, standard one-touch up/down power on all four windows, standard multifunction display (for vehicle status, trip, radio and navigation information when equipped), available dual zone climate control, available RNS-315 navigation system and available keyless entry with pushbutton start.
The 2012 Jetta GLI Autobahn and Autobahn with navigation models come standard with a Fender® Premium Audio System, bringing the concert stage to the vehicle for the ultimate music experience. Designed exclusively for Volkswagen, the Fender® Premium Audio System is embedded in the vehicle design and features proprietary Panasonic® speaker technology. The system covers the cabin with directional sound from front door speakers that generate imaging beyond the capabilities of traditional speaker designs. It cuts through the noise and other distractions with front dual voice coil speakers, with extended range for all musical genres.
The sound system features lower inter-modulation distortion and smooth mid-range response to eliminate harshness. It is harmonically complex, with extended range tweeters and properly voiced 16cm speakers revealing original instrumentation timbre and harmonic richness, bringing the raw emotion of live music to the driving experience.
Exterior
The Jetta GLI combines performance, space and comfort in one sleek package. At 182.2 inches long, 57.2 inches tall and 70 inches wide, it is more than 2.9 inches longer than previous Jetta models.
The front end of the car is defined by prominent horizontal lines. The Jetta GLI grille and the car’s trapezoidal headlights help create a distinct look. Below the bumper is a cooling air intake and tray-shaped front spoiler that completes the masculine look of the car. The upper front end section shows a powerful transition from the v-shaped engine hood to the fenders on the sides while the shoulder section provides dynamic and muscular styling.
The aggressive styling of the Jetta GLI is powerfully emphasized by the arches of the wheel wells available with 17” or 18” alloys. Sleek lines and sporty shoulders dominate the rear section. The smoked taillights stand out with two distinct sections extending on either side from the fender into the tailgate above the dual exhaust tips.
Interior
Like the exterior, the interior of the Jetta GLI stays true to its sport and performance roots. Featuring sport bucket seats with red stitching and a sport flat-bottom steering wheel with red stitching, the GLI logo and aluminum accents, the interior styling consistently follows the clean, sporty lines of the car. The Jetta GLI is available in cloth or V-Tex Leatherette and also features sleek alloy pedals, shifter, dash and door trim.
Intuitive controls and well-arranged instruments allow drivers to enjoy a comfortable and ergonomically designed gear shift grip. Further up on the center console are the newly designed and intuitive controls for climate and radio. The console is also slightly inclined toward the driver to heighten comfort behind the wheel.
To increase versatility, the rear bench seatback is split 60/40 and folds. The trunk can also be opened from inside the car by a remote unlock switch.
Safety
The Jetta GLI includes several features designed to enhance driver and passenger safety including electronic stability control, tire pressure monitoring and Volkswagen’s advanced Intelligent Crash Response System, which initiates automatic safety protection in some types of collisions — the electrical supply to the fuel pump is shut off, the doors unlock and the hazard lights switch on.
As part of the equipment package, the Jetta GLI also features driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags in front and Side Curtain Protection® airbags in front and rear.
Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Eos, Golf, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2011 Volkswagen vehicles come standard- equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC). This is important because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or www.media.vw.com to learn more.
Go inside the VW Academy with Bill Hader and the 2012 Passat
Posted on 06 February 2011 by Volkswagen Park Cities
Saturday Night Live comedian Bill Hader and Volkswagen Product Specialist Danielle Gumro compare the 2012 VW Passat to the Honda Accord in a hilarious new exchange that features the Passat’s impressive rear legroom, available remote start and a TDI Clean Diesel option that goes 795 miles on a tank of fuel.
In case you haven’t already, be sure to sign up for more information and check out our Passat videos on YouTube — including the Passat’s exciting debut at the Detroit Auto Show.
Volkswagen Returns to the Super Bowl With Two Spots
Posted on 02 February 2011 by Volkswagen Park Cities
HERNDON, Va., Feb. 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today it will premiere two :30 second spots during the 2nd and 4th quarters of Super Bowl XLV. This marks the second consecutive year Volkswagen has advertised during the Super Bowl after a nine-year hiatus. The ads will showcase two new vehicles, the all-new 2012 Passat and the 21st Century Beetle, months before they arrive in dealerships this fall.
“The iconic shape of the Beetle and its place in pop culture gives us creative license to take a bold and unconventional approach in this spot where viewers only see the silhouette and not the car itself,” said Tim Ellis, Vice President of Marketing, Volkswagen of America, Inc. ”Additionally, we’ve partnered with Lucasfilm for the all-new Passat ad, leveraging the emotional heritage of both Star Wars™ and Volkswagen to create a memorable moment on an unparalleled platform for two of the vehicles most important to Volkswagen’s growth strategy.”
Kicking off months before the vehicles are available, these spots are part of a robust pre-launch advertising and marketing campaign that includes television, digital, experiential, and retail activations to maintain momentum throughout the year. Additionally, throughout pre-launch, Volkswagen will continue to dominate the nation’s most prominent events, with buys and integrations that include The “Oprah” Show, the NBA Finals as well as the NFL, among others.
With its all-new 2012 Passat ad, Volkswagen brings Star Wars™ to one of TV’s most talked about events. Accompanied by John Williams’ iconic “The Imperial March,” the spot features the most infamous villain in the galaxy, a pint-sized Darth Vader who uses the Force when he discovers the all-new 2012 Passat in the driveway. The two iconic brands leverage humor and the unforgettable Star Wars score to create an emotional spot and make Super Bowl ad history.
In “Black Beetle,” the first spot for The 21st Century Beetle, cutting-edge CGI creative goes etymological, creating a photo-real lush kingdom where the Black Beetle rules, runs, navigates and out performs all the other creatures. The ad is an homage to some of the greatest car chase scenes in the history of film and TV. With the fast-paced and explosive song “Black Betty,” rerecorded by Jon Spencer and the Blues Explosion, the Beetle ad revs to life even though it does not feature any actual images of the car, a bold move for any automotive brand. The iconic shape of the Beetle and its performance attributes are prominently showcased in the spot, further building anticipation of the reveal.
“Both spots show the creativity and innovation that people expect from an iconic brand like Volkswagen,” added Mike Sheldon, CEO, Deutsch LA, Volkswagen’s Agency of Record. ”The Super Bowl is unlike any other media platform in the world in terms of its reach and cultural influence. It is tailor-made for big announcements and is the perfect way for VW to engage the American public.”
Both ads will have extensions that live beyond the game. Immediately following the Super Bowl, Volkswagen will execute a digital and social media campaign, including an ESPN mobile takeover, VW.com blog, and Facebook activations, as well as a YouTube homepage takeover for the recently launched walk-around webisodes “Inside the VW Academy.”
The Super Bowl ads were created by Volkswagen’s creative Agency of Record Deutsch LA and follow the 2010 Punch Dub Super Bowl spot, which starred superstar musician Stevie Wonder and comedian Tracy Morgan.
VW interviews Klaus Bischoff and a bunch of car guys in suits
Posted on 22 January 2011 by Volkswagen Park Cities
Most of you know Danielle Gumro, Volkswagen Product Specialist, as someone who can answer just about any question regarding a VW thrown at her. But to keep things interesting, we judo-flipped the script and sent her out on the floor of the 2011 North American International Auto show in Detroit armed with nothing more than a microphone to ask automotive insiders their opinion on the launch of the all-new 2012 Passat, and how it will affect the American mid-sized sedan market.
Danielle fought the crowds, and jockeyed for position with hoards of hungry journalists hunting for a tasty sound bite. When the chaos ended, she had a bucketful of behind-the-scene interviews from some heavy hitters in the automotive world. Check out some of the interviews with VW designers, executives, dealers, and automotive journalists here.
