The world’s most fuel-efficient car, the Volkswagen XL1, which was first unveiled at the Qatar Motor Show in 2011, has now been confirmed for an initial production run of 250 examples.

Pioneering construction techniques, an advanced plug-in hybrid drivetrain and innovative packaging all play a part in allowing the XL1 to return 313 mpg on the combined cycle while emitting 24 g/km of CO2 to set a new benchmark for vehicle efficiency.

Powering the XL1 is a compact 800 cc TDI two-cylinder common rail diesel engine developing 48 PS. It’s linked to an electric motor producing 27 PS, resulting in a total of 75 PS – a modest output yet more than enough when the low kerb weight (795 kg) of the vehicle is taken into account.

The TDI engine is linked to an electric motor and a seven-speed DSG gearbox with an automatic clutch mounted between each unit. The electric motor can either work independently of the TDI engine or in tandem when accelerating. Accelerating from rest to 62 mph can be achieved in 11.9 seconds; the electronically limited top speed is 99 mph. Thanks to its plug-in hybrid system, the two-seater can cover a distance of up to 50 km in all-electric mode and therefore with zero local emissions.

In both its styling and packaging the XL1 draws on lessons learned from the 1-Litre car (2002) and the L1 concept (2009). The XL1 has evolved to feature staggered seating with the driver and passenger placed next to each other in a body structure made from advanced new materials providing immense strength yet weighing just 230 kg.

To make such weight savings possible, and yet viable for series production, Volkswagen developed and patented a new system for the manufacture of the Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) parts on the car called the Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) process.

In total the XL1 weighs 795 kg. In addition to the body structure, the weight is accounted for by the drivetrain (227 kg), the running gear (153 kg), the interior including a pair of bucket seats (80 kg) and the electrical system (105 kg). In total just 23.2 per cent of the car (184 kg) is made out of either steel or iron.

Further savings are made through the extensive use of lightweight materials including magnesium (wheels), ceramics (brake discs) and aluminium (dampers, steering system, brake calipers).

The styling of the XL1 is borne out of functional requirements – easy access to the interior is granted via a pair of elegant scissor doors that hinge on the A-pillar while the profile of the car has been honed in the wind tunnel, the result being a remarkable coefficient of drag figure of 0.186. The XL1’s overall length (3,970 mm) and width (1,682 mm) are similar to those of a Volkswagen Polo yet its height (1,184 mm) is more akin to that of a sports car.

The XL1 will be produced at Volkswagen’s Osnabrück factory in Germany.

Article source: www.volkswagwen.co.uk

Start leasing the Volkswagen you want, today.

If you've got a small business you can lease a car from us to use as your own. Or maybe it's five cars. Or even 50! This way your money isn't tied up in the full cost of a car, it's working for your business instead.

How it works

You make an initial payment to start driving. Then you make monthly payments while the cars are yours. At the end of your contract, simply give them back*.

We've even take care of servicing and maintenance, leaving you to get on with your business. Use the finance calculator to start crunching numbers. You could be driving a new Volkswagen hassle-free before you know it.

* Subject to our fair wear and tear terms & conditions.

 
Article source: www.volkswagen.co.uk

Useful tips when driving on holiday in the UK and abroad

  1. Make sure you are carrying the necessary equipment in your Volkswagen when travelling, particularly abroad, such as a GB sticker displayed on the back of your car.
  2. You will need to make sure you are aware of the speed limits and road rules for all of the countries you are driving through or in.
  3. Fuel prices can be more expensive in certain areas of the UK and in other countries so it is advisable to fill up your fuel tank before you set off.
  4. Driving long distances can be both exhausting and stressful. To avoid feeling this way try planning your journey in advance with planned stops along the way. This insures everybody gets a break from being in the car and the driver can have a short rest from driving.
  5. Road tolls can be quite common, particularly abroad. Make sure you know if the roads you plan to travel on will involve a toll fee and try to have the correct change to make life easier.
  6. Ensure that everyone in your Volkswagen car is wearing their seat belts, car seats are well fitted with child securely fastened in and that all luggage is secure.
  7. Technology such as Sat Nav of Mobile Apps are brilliant when planning a journey but it is also wise to carry a map of the area you are driving in, just in case technology fails you.
  8. Make sure you are carrying all the right paperwork with you such as driving licences, travel insurance, passports and V5 registration document if necessary.
  9. Keep your passengers happy. If you have children take enough toys and music to keep them entertained. Also take a supply of food and drink, this will come in most handy if you have to stop somewhere without facilities.
  10. Finally, make sure before you set off that your Volkswagen is in good condition. There is nothing worse than a holiday being cut short before you have even reached your destination due to a flat tyre or something similar. Take your Volkswagen to your local participating retailer and have a Travel Check done for just £25 for peace of mind.
 
Article source: www.volkswagen.co.uk

Volkswagen’s Polo range now offers Motability customers even greater value for money, thanks to the addition of a new Match Edition which replaced the existing Match trim level last month.  The new Match Edition is available in three- and five-door bodystyles and with Nil Advance Payment on the Motability Scheme.

Prices for the Match Edition start at £12,045 (RRP ‘on the road’) for the 1.2-litre 60 PS three-door manual version, and rise to £15,240 for the 1.4-litre 85 PS five-door with seven-speed DSG automatic transmission.  With low fuel consumption the Match Edition delivers up to 72.4 mpg on the combined cycle while emitting just 102 g/km of CO2.

The Polo Match Edition adds extra specification including rear parking sensors, cruise control and an alarm with interior protection.  Exterior highlights include stylish 15-inch ‘Castille’ alloy wheels, front fog lights and heat-insulating tinted rear windows.  Comfort and convenience are the main focus inside the cabin with manual air conditioning, an RCD 310 radio / CD player, multifunction computer and MDI (Multi Device Interface) with iPod connectivity all standard.  The model is also fitted with electric windows and a comfort pack, incorporating remote central locking and electrically adjustable exterior mirrors.

Naturally all the Polo’s usual safety equipment remains on board with standard specification including four airbags, ABS and ESP.

A wide range of Volkswagen models is available through the Motability scheme, from the up! city car, to the multi-award winning Golf, Beetle, Golf Plus, Golf Estate and Cabriolet, Jetta, Passat, Volkswagen CC, Scirocco and Tiguan to the Touran and Sharan people carriers. 

Motability Operations manages the worry-free Motability Scheme for over 600,000 disabled people and their families.  Anyone who receives the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance or the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement can exchange this monthly payment to lease a brand new car, scooter or powered wheelchair through the Motability Scheme.  For more information on Motability call 0800 093 1000 or visit www.motability.co.uk.

For more information on the Polo and your nearest Retailer, please call 0800 333 666, or to download the brochure or Volkswagen Motability contract hire price guide, visit http://www.volkswagen.co.uk/buying-guide/motability-offers.

 
Article source: www.volkswagen.co.uk

Potential Passat purchasers now have an even wider model choice, thanks to the introduction of a new R-line trim level and a new, more-efficient 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine.

The R-Line trim brings even more style to the Passat range, with a bespoke bodykit that gives a sleek and sporty image.  At the front, the unique bumper includes fog lights with cornering function, while lowered sports suspension (by 15 mm) and side skirts give a ground-hugging look that’s enhanced by the distinctive rear bumper and 18-inch ‘Kansas’ alloy wheels, wrapped in low-profile 235/40 tyres.  At the rear a bootlid spoiler (tailgate spoiler on the Estate) completes the look.  Chrome trim on the bumpers and window surrounds is offset by dark-tinted rear windows, while standard bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights help the R-Line to stand out, day and night.

The Passat R-Line’s equipment is based on that of the Passat S, and includes Bluetooth, USB and iPod connectivity, DAB digital radio and a leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel (with gearshift paddles on DSG models). 

The R-Line is available with a 1.6-litre 105 PS TDI diesel engine with six-speed manual gearbox, a 2.0-litre 140 PS TDI diesel engine with six-speed manual or DSG gearboxes and a new turbocharged and supercharged 1.4-litre 160 PS TSI engine with either six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG gearboxes.  All R-Line models feature BlueMotion Technology modifications with Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems.

The 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS engine is also available in Passat Highline models and the Volkswagen CC, and replaces the 1.8-litre TSI 160 PS unit, while offering lower CO2 emissions and better fuel economy.

The Passat R-Line is now open for ordering, with the first deliveries expected in June.  The R-Line bodykit (bumpers, side skirts and spoiler) is also available for the Passat Highline and Sport, at £900 RRP including fitting.  For more information see www.volkswagen.co.uk.

 
Article source: www.volkswagen.co.uk