Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) and Wei-Ling Gallery successfully raised RM133,200 from the charity auction of Arteon art cars recently, with the proceeds going to the Breast Cancer Welfare Association Malaysia (BCWA).
The auction marked the culmination of the collaboration between Volkswagen and the art gallery to celebrate the launch of the all-new Arteon R-Line. Featuring the talents of 13 Malaysian artists, the collaboration provided the unique opportunity to collectors and art enthusiasts alike to own diecast scale models of the Arteon that have been transformed by the artists into unique one-of-a-kind sculptures.
“It was truly heartening to see Art and Arteon come together at the auction, and to witness how much the bidders recognised the value of owning such collectible art pieces. What more, was that their enthusiasm stemmed from their desire to contribute to charity, in this case, breast cancer awareness and support,” said Erik Winter, the Managing Director of VPCM, who was delighted to see the enthusiasm displayed by bidders.
“The Arteon is more than just a car for Volkswagen. It also represented a way for the brand to engage with art fans around the world, as it has also been described many times as a true work of art. To have been able to work on this collaboration with Wei-Ling Gallery has been an honour for us, and we would like to express our sincerest appreciation to Wei-Ling Gallery and all 13 artists for this,” he said.
The Arteon project was an extension of the recent ‘18@8 Turning Points’ exhibition by Wei-Ling Gallery, curated with this idea in mind and explores the 13 artists’ pasts through different philosophical, technical and aesthetic approaches, in the form of thought-provoking art pieces that reflected on this ideology.
Those who want to view and experience the full-sized Arteon R-Line, priced from RM225,490 (RM220,043.28 with sales tax exemption until the 31st of December 2020), can contact any authorised Volkswagen dealership. To locate a dealership in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.
It used to be that the Golf GTI was the most powerful variant of the Golf range but these days, it is the R version that is eagerly awaited by enthusiasts, and Volkswagen has now revealed the one for the latest 8th generation Golf. As with its predecessor, there is again a boost in output from the engine which is the 2-litre turbocharged TSI unit.
The new figures are 315 bhp, about 9% higher than before, with torque increasing to 420 Nm. This gives a claimed 0 to 100 km/h capability of 4.7 seconds and a top speed that is over 250 km/h but restricted to that speed. Customers can choose from a 6-speed manual transmission or 7-speed DSG, depending on the market.
As before, there is Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system to get all the power to the road through all four wheels. This is a newly developed torque vectoring system with selective wheel torque control on the rear axle, significantly increasing the car’s agility, particularly when cornering.
As a world first, the all-wheel drive system is also networked via a Vehicle Dynamics Manager with other running gear systems such the electronic differential locks and the DCC adaptive damping system. Thanks to this close integration of the different systems, the new Golf R offers optimal traction and neutral handling with precision.
Drift profile available
Among the choice of profiles to customise driving characteristics, there is also a Drift profile meant for track use (or private roads) only. When selected, the parameters for the ESC stability control (change to ESC Sport) and the distribution of power via the all-wheel drive system enable the Golf R to drift.
The car features a strut-type front and a multi-link rear suspension. Compared with its predecessor, the spring rates and anti-roll bar rates have both been increased by 10%. A new aluminium subframe helped to reduce the weight of the front suspension. The transverse link mounts and hub carriers on the rear suspension of the Golf R have also been modified.
Customized body design
Like all 8th generation Golf models, the R is a five-door model and has its own customized design and exclusive and sporty equipment. The new front bumper features a motorsport-style splitter and R-specific air intake grilles, with high-gloss black elements. At the top of the radiator grille is a blue crossbar which lights up as an LED strip as soon as the engine starts and stretches all the way into the fenders to act as the daytime running lights.
The distinctive features of the Golf R’s side design include 19-inch aluminium-alloy wheels (with blue brake calipers), exclusive side skirts, matte chrome exterior mirror caps that project the R logo onto the road when the doors are opened and closed, and lowered bodywork.
The rear bumper is also a unique design element which now incorporates a newly designed high-gloss black diffuser. It is framed at the sides by chrome-plated twin tailpipes for the standard sport exhaust system. A roof spoiler is included to generate downforce for stability at high speeds.
Digitalized interior layout
With the Mk 8 Golf, Volkswagen has digitalized many of the displays and controls. This has given more options for the driver to customise the instrument panel, along with the graphics on the 10-inch Discover Pro touchscreen display.
For better support and body restraint, the driver and front passenger sit in sport seats, with Nappa leather seating surfaces that feature carbon-look elements with blue accents in the side sections, as well as a blue R logo in the backrest.
The multifunction leather-wrapped sport steering wheel has also been given a specific design, with ergonomically shaped DSG paddles, blue contrast stitching, and an R button for direct selection of the various driving profiles. Like the other latest Golf variants, the Golf R has ‘touch’ controls on the steering wheel with haptic feedback to the driver.
Other standard equipment for this sportiest and more powerful Golf includes carbon look dash panel décor, R-specific door trim, brushed stainless-steel pedal caps and driver footrest, and 30-colour ambient lighting for the dash panel and doors that is synchronized with the display.
We await the arrival of the new Golf generation in Malaysia which should be sometime next year. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia has been offering a mixture of variants in the current range which has included the Golf R, so it should also be available in due course.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has taken further steps to ‘digitalise’ its aftersales services with Online Service Booking and Service Cam services.
Owners can now book their service appointments from their homes with Online Service Booking. Available on both desktop and mobile, the process is easy and convenient as customers only just need to select their preferred dealership, preferred date and time and provide their vehicle details. An Aftersales advisor will then be in touch to confirm the appointment.
Service Cam
Another first from VPCM is Service Cam, which complements the next service step to offer convenience to Volkswagen owners. Owners now have more flexibility with their time after sending their vehicle in, while still being able to make informed decisions without having to physically be at the service centre.
With Service Cam, their respective Service Advisors will share a detailed walkthrough video of the vehicle along with recommendations on parts replacements, if required.
This service only highlights parts that are not covered within the scheduled service maintenance, after which the customer can review these parts to decide whether to accept or decline the job.
#Safehands initiative
The two services are part of the Volkswagen #Safehands initiative which is especially important in these days of social distancing and the need to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The #Safehands initiative offers Volkswagen owners safety and peace of mind of Volkswagen customers.
The move towards digitalizing aftersales work provides even more assurance to customers to ‘return’ to Volkswagen dealerships in the ‘New Normal’, especially those who may not feel comfortable waiting at the service centre or being out of their homes.
Current service promotions
Volkswagen owners can make use of the services for the current aftersales promotions, which include Repair Packages for vehicles older than five years. The Repair Package offers owners up to RM1,394 savings on shock absorbers and up to RM992 savings on brakes. Besides professional and complete replacements, there is also a 2-year warranty for the genuine parts supplied.
There may be a CMCO (Conditional Movement Control Order) on now but business goes on and having adapted to the ‘new normal’, some car companies are using the internet to launch their new models. It’s a safe way to do so as there are no crowds in a hall and the reach is also quite wide. Volkswagen Passengers Cars Malaysia (VPCM) was among the early ‘adopters’, having even organised online sessions to talk to the motoring media during the MCO period earlier in the year.
So with a new model – the Volkswagen Passat R-Line – to launch, the company used its social media channels today to do a live telecast with VPCM’s Managing Director, Erik Winter, and Julie Woon doing the presentation.
Priced at RM203,411.18 (without sales tax until the end of the year), the new R-Line variant is the sportier big brother of the Passat Elegance that was launched earlier. It is also assembled at the assembly facility in Pekan, Pahang.
R-Line variants are not new to Malaysia but in earlier years, they were not promoted so much. However, with the high-performance R division in Germany aiming to grow its business, R-Line offerings have increased and VPCM has found the additional sportiness of the variants to appeal to many customers.
While having the same body design as the Passat Elegance, the Passat R-Line has an overall appearance oriented towards sportiness. To achieve this, it has R-Line front and rear bumpers, chrome trim and 19-inch Verona alloy wheels.
The LED lighting is advanced for safer motoring and also generates a ‘signature’ with the day running lights as well as front and rear sequential turn signals.
R-Line identity inside
As for the interior, the R-Line people have chosen Nappa carbon-style black leather upholstery for the seats, steering wheel (with shift paddles) and provide aluminium sports pedals as well as a black roof headliner. The Passat R-Line also sets itself apart with new finishes and materials, including new Dark Diamond Flag decorative trim.
But convenience and comfort are not forgotten and there are also features such as an 11.7-inch Digital Cockpit that can be personalised with different screens, Apple Car Play/Android Auto, and even 14-way adjustment for the front seats. The driver’s seat also comes with a massage function.
VPCM has also added in a complimentary Helix 300W Soundbar (worth RM2,400) which is installed in the 586-litre boot. This Volkswagen Approved Accessory is a 5-channel amplifier with an integrated sound processor and subwoofer, which elevates the vehicle’s already-advanced sound system to a higher level.
New 320-Nm TSI engine
Under the bonnet is a new 2.0TSI turbocharged engine with an output of 190 ps/320 Nm. It is fitted with a new and improved 7-speed wet clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG) that has longer oil change intervals.
In the past, if you wanted to have more dynamic handling, you could only change the shock absorbers to a sports type. Now with more electronic systems, a driver can tune the car’s handing characteristics quite extensively.
With the Dynamic Chassis Control, there are up to 15 selectable increments or the driver can just choose a pre-packaged mode. Additionally, the Driving Mode Selection can vary the powertrain characteristics to suit personal preference from economical motoring to strong acceleration.
This weekend (October 17/18), Volkswagen dealerships nationwide will be hosting a virtual event featuring detailed walk-throughs of the new Passat R-Line where customers are invited to send in their questions and interact with Sales Consultants via Facebook Live from the comfort and safety of their own homes.
Colour choices for the Passat R-Line.
Order online and save money
Customers who place a booking during this weekend will enjoy additional RM2,000 rebate on top of RM3,500 savings currently offer for the full Passat range – via the Volkswagen eShowroom. There will also be an additional RM1,000 rebate on other Volkswagen models, with the exception of the Polo.
Volkswagen’s ID. family, which consists of only all-electric models, releases its second which is a SUV. The first of the ID. models was the ID.3, a hatchback launched in 2019, and this new model is designated ID.4. There are known to be at least 7 models in total, with the others currently planned to go into production within the next 3 years.
“As the first global electric car, this model will roll out our modular electric drive matrix platform that has been developed specifically for electric mobility the world over. Volkswagen is thus once again demonstrating its leading role in innovation, technology and quality on the high-volume market,” said Ralf Brandstatter, CEO for the Volkswagen brand.
The ID.4 is Volkswagen’s first fully electrically-driven SUV and has dimensions which put it within the compact SUV class. This is now a highly competitive segment, especially in Europe where SUVs were once disliked as they were considered to be not environment-friendly due to their higher consumption.
No environmental issues
The ID.4, of course, has no such issue and is a zero emissions vehicle with the space and comfort that any buyer will appreciate. Its 77 kWh battery pack powers a 150 kW (equivalent to 204 ps) electric motor that gives a claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 160 km/h.
The battery pack is installed below the passenger compartment for a low centre of gravity, while the electric drive motor is positioned at the rear axle, which also helps with grip. In the event that the driver wants to wander off the highway, there’s 21 cm of ground clearance with 21-inch wheels.
We Charge anywhere
Volkswagen is launching on the European market a complete package for convenient, connected and sustainable charging of electric cars under the name ‘We Charge’. This provides recharging at home, around town or on a long journey. The ID.4 can be recharged within 30 minutes with at a DC (direct current) quick-charging station to provide a claimed 320 kms of range. On a full battery pack, the range is claimed to be up to 520 kms.
Sleek exterior
The ID.4’s exterior has a clear, flowing design inspired by nature. Aerodynamic efficiency has been tuned to a low 0.28 Cd, which will reduce the wind resistance that needs to be overcome by the electric motor.
The front and rear lighting units use LEDs (partial at the front) and for the most expensive ID.4 version, there are interactive IQ.Light LED matrix headlights. These feature swivelling lens modules and generate an intelligently controlled main beam for optimised spread. At the rear are new 3D LED taillight clusters with a homogeneous appearance that fully illuminates in an intensive red.
MEB for more space
The 4.58-metre long ID.4 sits on Volkswagen’s modular electric drive matrix (MEB) architecture. It divides the space for occupants and technology in a completely new way in favour of passengers. The space available in the cabin is said to be comparable to conventional SUVs in the next category up. Depending on the rear seat backrest’s position, the luggage compartment can have a volume from 543 to 1,575 litres.
The operating concept on the dashboard of this E-SUV, as Volkswagen refers to it, does not depend on physical buttons and switches. There are two displays, one of which diagonally measures up to 12 inches and features touch functionality, as well as a ‘Hello ID’ natural voice control assistant. The new ID.Light – a narrow light strip under the windscreen – intuitively supports drivers.
An augmented reality (AR) head-up display is optionally available to blend a host of displays with reality. Navigation arrows telling drivers to turn off are projected onto the road surface in exactly the right lane. IQ.Drive assist systems help the driver to enjoy safer and more relaxed motoring, while software is part of a completely new architecture and updates can be downloaded ‘over the air’.
Plans for global sale
The ID.4 will be gradually turned into a global model; Volkswagen has plans to produce and sell the E-SUV not only in Europe but also in China and later, in the USA.
Will we see it in Malaysia? Probably not so soon as there are a number of issues which would prevent it from being sold in sufficient numbers. It would be a CBU model and that would push its price up – and it would already be high as it has brand new technology. Malaysians are still not entirely sold on fully electric cars and the recharging network is also limited. While neighbouring countries’ governments are starting to promote EVs, our government is only ‘talking’ about being a hub for ‘energy efficient vehicles’ in the region, but is not doing much to make it attractive for manufacturers to set up here.
Volkswagen’s ID family of all-electric vehicles designed from scratch consists of at least seven models, of which two are ready for the market. The first is the ID.3, a hatchback based on the original ID concept shown 4 years ago. Production is underway and order-taking began in July this year, with first deliveries starting in October 2020.
Now attention is being switched to the ID.4, which will be the brand’s first all-electric SUV, to reach the first customers before the end of this year. Like what some other carmakers have been doing, highlights are being revealed prior to the commercial launch (at the end of this month).
Following a description of the aerodynamic exterior, we are now being told about the interior. Having had the opportunity to start from a clean sheet – or perhaps a clean hard disk might be a more appropriate term – the interior designers have been able to provide plenty of space with a purist approach. This has been partly helped by the use of the new MEB platform, developed for electric vehicles.
Traditional SUV elements maintained
While there is much departure from traditional SUVs, some elements are maintained – like the large door openings, commanding all-round view and high seating position. These are what people have been buying SUVs for and would still expect even if the powertrain is entirely different.
The door handles on the ID.4 lie flush with the body and come with electric unlocking. Inside, the cabin area is a generously planned space with the rear seat bench offering as much space as a conventional SUV in the next higher category. There’s also plenty of luggage space and even with the rear seats in use, the available volume is 543 litres.
The front seats are sporty and comfortable, their design and structure bearing the seal of approval by the German Campaign for Healthier Backs. They will come with a number of electrical adjustment options, while their pneumatic lumbar supports have a built-in massage function.
The materials used underline the character of the ‘feel-good’ lounge. There will be versions with seat covers made from animal-free materials. They are constructed of a combination of leatherette and ArtVelours – a microfibre material that consists of around 20% recycled PET bottles.
Ample sense of space
The ID.4’s interior design underlines the ample sense of space. Similar to the exterior design, it appears flowing and lightweight, focussing on the essential. The dash panel seems to be floating, as it is not linked to the centre console, which has been designed as an independent component.
The steering wheel, steering column, the housings of the display and control panels in the doors come in trendy Piano Black or purist Electric White. The bright colour sets a futuristic highlight throughout the vehicle interior and underlines its clear-cut design.
A large, tilting panoramic sunroof made of glass (optional) gives unrestricted view of the sky. As darkness falls, the background lighting can be adjusted within a 30-colour spectrum to set striking highlights in the vehicle interior.
Klaus Zyciora, Head of Volkswagen Group Design, emphasises that the entire display and operating concept has been designed logically and with a straightforward character. “The intuitive operability of the ID.4 brings a new, electric ease to the crossover SUV category,” he explained.
ID.Light
ID.Light is a new feature that will be offered in all ID. models. This is a light strip below the windscreen which supports drivers in a host of situations with intuitive lighting effects in different colours.
For instance, ID.Light will signal to the driver that the vehicle’s drive system is active and that the car has been unlocked or locked. It accentuates information issued by the driver assist and navigation systems and signals braking prompts and incoming phone calls.
In conjunction with the navigation system, ID.Light helps to smoothly guide drivers through traffic. By blinking, it recommends a lane change and can also warn the driver if their ID.4 is in the wrong lane.
For sale in major regions
The ID.4 will be part of the globally booming, compact SUV segment and Volkswagen’s plans call for it to be produced and sold not only in Europe but also in China and later in the USA. For this reason, the Volkswagen brand will be investing 11 billion euros in electric mobility by 2024 as part of the Transform 2025+ strategy.
You’ve probably seen the beloved Volkswagen Beetle in many different forms. Imaginative creators converted the original bulbous shape into something more unique and head-turning, funny or outrageous.
In Mexico, Rafael Esparza-Prieto created the Wedding Beetle, an enchanting white, wrought iron-bodied coachbuilt car from the 1960s. The talented welder and blacksmith in Mexico City was reportedly working at a local parts shop in 1968 when his boss asked him to create a one-of-a-kind Beetle shell to display and attract new customers.
Using the Beetle as the basis, Esparza-Prieto built the skeleton of the vehicle out of white wrought iron and artistically filled in the gaps with unique floral patterns and decorative swirls. The auto store owner was so impressed with his work that he displayed the finished product on a rotating platform outside his business, where it quickly drew attention.
Even the Volkswagen executives at the newly-built Puebla plant just down the road (where new Beetles were being made daily) came to look. Impressed, Volkswagen commissioned Esparza-Prieto to make two more Wedding Beetle pieces ahead of the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City — and these were drivable.
The wire shell left the vehicle’s simple, yet sophisticated, mechanics fully exposed so anyone – the driver, passengers and even other vehicles on the street – could see under its ‘skin’.
Athletes, artisans and auto enthusiasts from around the world admired the car. As it gained popularity at the Games, Volkswagen commissioned Esparza-Prieto to build an additional 20+ units in a similar fashion to display at different dealerships around the world. The white metal whimsical designs of the car evoked images of Cinderella’s horse-drawn carriage and the cars were loaned to happy couples as picturesque getaway cars for their special day.
After Esparza-Prieto moved to California, he built two more Wedding Beetles on his own. Along with his original creation, there are believed to be around 23 Wedding Beetles in total. Several other welders have since mimicked his work and built their own wrought iron versions of the car using different colours and patterns.
Highly sought-after by collectors, these artistic cars are often used for post-wedding photoshoots. As there is no windscreen or sheet metal to protect passengers from weather or stray pebbles, they are not suitable for everyday use (and would not be road-legal anyway). But the Wedding Beetle created by Esparza-Prieto over 50 years ago still does what it was intended to do: make people stop and stare.
In 2011, to preview the new Evoque, Land Rover also made a wire-frame model that was displayed in many countries, including Malaysia.
‘R’ is a popular alphabet among car manufacturers as it is associated with the word ‘Racing’. Usually, ‘R’ is used it to designate the sportiest variants of their models. Volkswagen began using ‘R’ with the 3.2-litre Golf R32 model some 15 years ago and then decided to have a R variant for each Golf generation that would be the most powerful in its time.
The R branding became increasingly successful and by 2010, the R GmbH division was established to look after the development and marketing of the hottest VW models. And while it has been performance-oriented, the division has this year announced that its direction will follow the trend of electrification. In fact, it has maintained the reputation of high performance even in EVs with the ID. R – the fastest car ever to race up Pikes Peak in America.
Then there’s also the R-Line which draws on the R image but without performance enhancements. The R-Line began as a trim level created by Volkswagen Individual but eventually became a range of its own, managed by the R division.
Golf R32The first R-Line model in Malaysia was the Passat CC R-Line, introduced in 2012.Current Golf R-Line
The first R-Line model in Malaysia was a version of the Passat CC introduced in 2012, followed by Golf Mk.7 a year later. Thus far, the Malaysian market has only had the R-Line available with the Golf but today, additional models have been launched to expand the R-Line to four models. Besides the Golf 7.5, which debuted in the early part of 2018, there is now the new Arteon R-Line, Tiguan R-Line and Passat R-Line.
Arteon R-Line (RM221,065)
The Arteon R-Line is the new flagship of the Volkswagen range in Malaysia. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) obviously expects it to make a strong impression on the market and has invested in local assembly which is done at the plant in Pekan, Pahang.
“As our new flagship, the Arteon elevates the Volkswagen brand for us as it beautifully captures design, performance and function while offering a greater feeling of exclusivity. Having it as an R-Line model adds sportiness even more to the heart of the Arteon,” said VPCM’s Managing Director, Erik Winter.
The Arteon is the direct successor to the Passat CC and has the same sleekness with a fastback profile. It sits on the MQB platform (which made it easier to assemble locally) and comes with a 2-litre TSI turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine with an output of 190 ps/320 Nm.
Power delivery to the front wheels is through a new and improved 7-speed double wet clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG). Drivers can customize performance characteristics with five driving modes – Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport and Individual – as well as Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) which offers up to 15 selectable increments.
As a flagship model, the Arteon R-Line obviously comes with a wide range of luxury items, along with the sporty image. Front passengers can sit comfortably on the 14-way ErgoComfort seats and the driver gets an additional massage function.
For audiophiles, the Arteon is fitted with a 700W Dynaudio sound system that comprises 11 speakers plus a subwoofer, and 16-channel digital amplifier. Adding to the luxurious ambience are Silver Rise aluminium inserts, Titanium Black headliner, an analogue clock and 3-colour ambient lighting.
The 11.7-inch Digital Cockpit keeps drivers well informed with data displayed on customizable screen views (up to 6) and over 30 combination options, including 2D and 3D navigation and a full 100% map view.
For connectivity, the 9.2-inch Discover Pro touchscreen (split view) infotainment system allows drivers to connect wirelessly via Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto and Mirrorlink also available via a Type C USB port. The system has voice control and gesture control for handsfree operation.
A first for Volkswagen in Malaysia is the car’s Easy Close feature which provides a 20-second delayed closing of the boot, giving the driver freedom to remove items in the boot using both hands. Handsfree opening can be easily done by just placing a foot under the rear bumper.
Tiguan Allspace R-Line (RM209,575)
The new Allspace variant signifies the longer wheelbase that makes possible the addition of a third row of seating, so up to 7 persons can be accommodated. While the Tiguan Allspace Highline comes with front-wheel drive and a 1.4-litre TSI engine, the R-Line version has Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system and 19-inch alloy wheels.
Upholding its R-Line legacy, the Tiguan Allspace R-Line has the highest power and torque in its class – 220 ps/350 Nm – generated by a 2-litre TSI turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine. Like the Arteon R-Line, it also has a 7-speed DSG. Besides the 4Motion’s four modes for different conditions, the driver can also customize the powertrain characteristics as well as the chassis to suit personal driving styles and even to stretch each litre of fuel.
With three rows of seats, there’s the possibility of multiple seat configurations to suit different needs. The second and third row backrests can be folded individually and when both rows are flat, there’s a massive boot volume of 1,775 litres.
The interior is a combination of sportiness and functionality with connectivity features such as a Digital Cockpit and 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system with 8 speakers. Standard features include 3-zone climate control, cruise control, powered tailgate, LED lighting units front and rear and a tyre pressure monitor.
Passat R-Line (estimated RM200,000 – RM210,000)
The new Passat R-Line is not available just yet, but Volkswagen dealers will accept bookings from today. Like the Passat Elegance launched earlier this year, the Passat R-Line is also locally assembled. Being assembled locally, like the Arteon and Tiguan, means there is full exemption of the 10% sales tax until the end of the year.
The accessories developed by the R division for the Passat are sportier front and rear bumpers, side R-Line badge and a lot of chrome trim, plus 19-inch Verona alloy wheels. As for the interior, R-Line trim is in the form of Nappa carbon-style black leather seats, steering wheel and aluminium sports pedals.
For connectivity, the Passat R-Line has Volkswagen’s Discover Pro infotainment system with a 9.2-inch touchscreen. Convenient features include voice control, gesture control, a customizable 3-view split screen and Wireless App-Connect with Apple Car Play.
The Passat R-Line is not just about sportier looks but also delivers strong performance with its 2-litre TSI turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine (190 ps/320Nm) paired with the new and improved 7-speed wet clutch DSG.
The other models in the 2020 range
The Volkswagen range for Malaysia this year presently consists of the Arteon, Passat, Tiguan, Golf 7.5, Vento and Polo, with their respective variants. Prices range from RM221,065 to RM74,800 so there should be a Volkswagen to suit your budget.
There’s also the new Tiguan Allspace Highline with 3 rows of seats with only front-wheel drive and a 1.4-litre TSI engine, priced from RM165,000.
As part of its ‘Volkswagen Cares’ initiative, every new unit comes with 3 years of free scheduled maintenance, a 5-year warranty with no limit on mileage and 5 years complimentary roadside assistance.
If you are in the Klang Valley, you can get a closer look at the new Volkswagen R-Line models at the Volkswagen Tour which is on at the 1Utama shopping centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, until Sunday August 16. There’s also an opportunity to experience the cars at the same location, which is what VPCM encourages the public to do.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced a voluntary recall for models produced between 2011 and 2015 to rectify the hydraulic pressure accumulator within the 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) caused by a production deviation.
In individual cases, it has been found that the hydraulic pressure accumulator starts to run at an excessive pressure and this can cause a leak, leading to possible pressure loss. This can interrupt power transmission between the engine and gearbox.
A total of 12,732 Volkswagen vehicles have been identified as being affected by this recall. The affected models are the Beetle, Cross Touran, Golf (Mk 6 and Mk 7), Jetta, Passat (B7), Passat CC, Polo (6R) and Scirocco. This exercise does not affect Volkswagen models produced from 2016 and newer.
Some of the models sold between 2011 and 2015 in Malaysia which are being recalled.
The nationwide campaign will be executed in phases in order to manage the number of cases, and notification to identified owners will be conducted by mail with immediate effect. In the event that you own one of the Volkswagen models mentioned but do not receive any communication from VPCM, it could be that they do not have your contact details because you are not the original owner and their database has not been updated with details of the current owner. Nevertheless, your vehicle will still be accepted under the recall exercise.
Owners can also visit the Volkswagen website to check if their vehicle is affected or call Volkswagen customer care at 1800-18-8947 for further information.
Owners can use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) usually located on the dashboard as shown to check whether their vehicle is affected.
They may then contact any authorised Volkswagen service centre to book an appointment and have their vehicle inspected and parts replaced, if need be. VPCM has taken the necessary steps with its dealer partners to ensure parts availability and that the exercise is conducted smoothly and efficiently. All labour and replacement parts for this service will be at no cost to owners.
Additionally, owners will receive a free Volkswagen Care Plus (VCP) membership card as a token of appreciation from Volkswagen. An integral part of Volkswagen Cares, VCP is an exclusive program for owners with vehicles that are 5 years old and older. Member privileges include three 20% service discounts vouchers, 2 years of complimentary Roadside Assistance, and 24-hour on-site battery support (terms and conditions apply).
“As a responsible car manufacturer, customer confidence and peace of mind is of utmost importance to us, and we hope that our owners understand that this campaign is necessary to ensure their continued confidence in the performance of their vehicles,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.
He expressed his regret for the inconvenience caused to the owners and added that while the affected vehicles have been identified, it is possible that not all the vehicles will require parts replacement. “This is a significant exercise for us, and we would like to ensure that all these vehicles are inspected. This campaign is part of our Volkswagen Cares initiative, and we are committed to a high level of customer safety, service and satisfaction,” he explained.
The Volkswagen Arteon, successor to the CC model, has received an extensive update for its new model year as well as gained a second bodystyle variant in the form of the Arteon Shooting Brake. For readers not familiar with a ‘shooting brake’, it’s actually an old term from the days of horse carriages which were used to carry equipment during hunting sessions. It evolved into the stationwagon but a ‘shooting brake’ is usually more sporty looking.
Volkswagen’s new entry in the shooting brake segment indicates that this segment still has potential in spite of the continued growth in demand for SUVs. There are people who want the extra load-carrying capability but not the tallness and bulkiness of a SUV (although many of today’s crossover SUVs are almost like cars anyway).
The Arteon is Volkswagen’s Gran Turismo — marrying the sleek design of a premium coupe to the space of a midsize sedan. With the Shooting Brake, the difference starts from the B-pillar rearwards. Instead of the coupe-shaped rear end, the roof and window lines are extended towards the rear on the Shooting Brake and end in the new roof spoiler.
At the top, the window line runs parallel to the roof. However, at the bottom, the lines move upwards towards the D-pillars, thus making the window area at the rear narrower and more striking. All elements together form the sporty rear profile typical for a Shooting Brake.
Sharper looks
The latest Arteon has a more a refined front end with sharpened design elements. The long, wide bonnet stretches across the entire front profile to the wheelarches to form the shoulder section. At the front, it reaches far down into the grille, emphasizing the ample width of the car with its crossbars. Aerodynamically, it’s pretty efficient with a Cd of 0.265.
The Arteon can also be configured with an illuminated grille, which was not available before. On certain versions, new LED daytime running lights (DRLs) connect to form a central light bar in the grille, surrounding the new Volkswagen logo and using light as the new chrome. Consequently, the Arteon has been given a new and unmistakable daytime and night-time lighting signature.
The lower section of the front profile, the front apron, has also been modified. Up to now, this area featured four chrome bars. These have now been transformed into three significantly more striking chrome bars.
There are some differences depending on the trim grade. For example, some versions may have two additional, separate air intake openings in front of the front wheels while the R-Line features one larger, continuous, bottom air intake above the front spoiler that is surrounded by a C-shaped section on the outside in front of the front wheels.
2-litre turbocharged TSI engine
Powertrain choices include hybrid
Depending on the market, the Arteon will have at least four powertrain choices – a powerful 2-litre turbocharged TSI petrol engine, 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine, 2-litre turbodiesel or a plug-in hybrid. 4Motion all-wheel drive is also available for some variants. The flagship Arteon has R-Performance Torque Vectoring which distributes torque variably both between the axles and also between the rear wheels depending on the driving situation.
Plug-in hybrid powertrain
Different interior functionality
The two variants differ in functionality inside, with the Shooting Brake having more versatility. With the unique design of its roof section, the Shooting Brake offers more headroom at both the front and rear. As standard, the rear seat backrest can be folded asymmetrically in both variants.
Behind the Shooting Brake’s rear seat bench is a luggage compartment capacity of up to 565 litres when loaded up to the backrest and luggage compartment cover. Loading the vehicle up to the front seat backrests increases the loading capacity to 1,632 litres (fastback: 1,557 litres). In both cases, the load space has a maximum length of 2.09 metres (up to the front seats).
Interior redesigned for refinement
The updated Arteon gets a redesigned cockpit with further refinement. At the topmost level of the dashboard, new leatherette surfaces stand out by having been refined are more pronounced with decorative seams to visually build a bridge to Volkswagen’s luxury SUV, the Touareg. On the second level, new aluminium decor is installed, with midrange versions having translucent aluminium decor and 30-colour ambient lighting. The air outlets, stretching up to the third dash panel level, are fully integrated here.
Like the new Golf, the Arteon has the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. This allows the driver to configure the instrument display on the 10.25-inch display. The driver can quickly and easily switch between three basic layouts using a View button on the multifunction steering wheel.
Volkswagen is also offering a newly developed, high-end sound system made by audio specialists harman/kardon for the very first time. It has been specifically geared towards the Arteon product line. The system uses a 700W, 16-channel Ethernet amplifier to power a total of 12 high-performance loudspeakers.
The range of technical innovations involves powertrains as well as further IQ.DRIVE assist systems. The Travel Assist system, an option, enables partly automated driving within a speed range from 0 km/h to 210 km/h (within the system limits). An integral part of Travel Assist is the ACC with predictive speed control. The adaptive cruise control reacts to speed limits, towns, bends, roundabouts and junctions with corresponding speed adaptation.
In combination with the Travel Assist system, the steering wheel rim additionally features touch-sensitive surfaces which, once the system has been activated, detect whether the driver has at least one hand on the steering wheel for safety reasons.
Launch in Malaysia still pending
The Arteon was expected to be in Malaysian showrooms last year as bookings were being accepted in July. A unit was shown at various dealerships between July and October, with the price then quoted as RM290,000 upwards. However, it’s now been a year and we have yet to see the model.
