These guys had some great Lucha Libre costumes, and they'd probably have made a run at People's Choice if it hadn't been for the impossible-to-beat costumes of the Eyesore Pimps. Their Golf was pretty quick on the track, as you can see in the video below:




Now it's got license plates and lights and the rest off the street-legal stuff, and it sees regular transportation duty. I'm sure it's a real hit with the locals (actually, they probably tolerate it, given that the list of team member names painted on the car includes a couple of prominent Alameda family surnames).


Slap a few gumball-machine decals on that body damage- it's better than Bondo! The Golf for '89 had 85 horsepower, which, given that this car had a curb weight of just 2,137 pounds, isn't as bad as it sounds. The cage probably adds more weight than the not-so-ruthless interior gutting removed, but it also adds chassis stiffness and crash protection that makes airbags look pointless. Perhaps 6-point cages and 5-point seat harnesses will become standard factory equipment!

0-60 come in at a somewhat disappointing 7.2 seconds, while it’ll hit a top speed of 149 MPH. Handling will be boosted by DCC active damping.

There’s also talk of both a 265 HP 4WD R-version to replace the outgoing R32 — the new one will use a turbo-four instead of the heavy V6 — while VW itself is hinting at a GTI version of the 2009 VW Scirocco. Please VW, bring the Scirocco GTI stateside, we’ve been extra good this year.

Maybe. Unlike the VW Golf Twin Drive and Hybrid Diesel Golf, the BlueMotion is actually destined for production. Currently a “concept,” VW intends to offer a BlueMotion Golf for sale in Europe “around mid-2009.” We’re going to assume VW will give the Golf the misjudged Rabbit name when US sales begin some time next year, and while we don’t expect to see a Rabbit pee version sold here, the entry level 2.0-liter TDI still manages to return 52 MPG (US) in the European combined cycle. Expect it to deliver combined fuel economy figures in the low to mid 40s when certified here.

99 G/KM, 74 MPG: GOLF BLUEMOTION CONCEPT SETS NEW BENCHMARKS

Volkswagen has today unveiled the remarkable Golf BlueMotion concept vehicle, a car capable of achieving a combined 74.3 mpg while emitting just 99 g/km of CO2. This matches the economy of the Polo BlueMotion, itself among the most efficient vehicles currently on sale.

The BlueMotion label was first attributed to the Polo in 2006 and represents the most efficient model in each of Volkswagen’s passenger car ranges. Since the Polo made its debut, BlueMotion versions of the Golf Mk V, Golf Estate, Golf Plus, Jetta, Touran, Passat, Passat Estate and Sharan have been launched.

The new Golf BlueMotion concept is powered by a highly-efficient and refined 1.6-litre TDI common rail diesel engine developing 105 PS and 184 lbs ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. Despite the focus on economy the Golf BlueMotion concept can reach 62 mph from rest in a respectable 11.3 seconds before going on to a top speed of 117 mph.

As with all BlueMotion models the Golf BlueMotion adopts a series of changes to drivetrain and aerodynamics in order to maximise the vehicle’s efficiency. A set of low rolling resistance tyres are joined by optimised aerodynamics and revised ratios in the five speed gearbox. The resulting combination of changes works to reduce loading on the engine to drive up economy and reduce emissions.

In common with every diesel model in the forthcoming new Golf range the BlueMotion concept is fitted with a diesel particulate filter.

Even in standard non-BlueMotion form, the new Golf sets new economy standards. The entry-level diesel Golf will be powered by a 2.0-litre TDI 110 PS common rail engine capable of achieving 62 mpg on the combined cycle while emitting 119 g/km of CO2. This matches the economy of the current Golf BlueMotion model.

The new Golf will go on sale in the UK in January next year; the BlueMotion model will follow around mid 2009.

[VW]

Ever-tightening emissions regulations have killed the six-cylinder GTI, but hopefully the boosted four will provide a lighter, less nose-heavy vehicle with equivalent performance. To make up for the price premium both performance models are likely to carry over rivals, the GTI will bring Audi-like exterior upgrades in the form of a handsome bodykit and LED running lights. We'll continue to hold out hope that the 2009 VW Scirocco will make it stateside. [via Autocar]

Other features of the new Golf include an optional Adaptive Chassis Control system that gives the driver a choice of normal, comfort, and sports modes. The settings change up the suspension, steering and throttle characteristics depending on what you select. Also expect a new adaptive cruise control system which has a sensors to slow down, or even stop the car automatically if something jumps in front of you on the road.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: So, it looks like VW's entry-level car (in America at least) is moving upscale. Our question is whether this mean we should expect a new car to slot under the Rabbit sooner than later? Even if that doesn't happen, this new Golf VI will likely be part of a new wave of European cars that change the way Americans think about frugal hatchbacks. Full press release below.

The Best Golf of All Times

Wolfsburg, 05 August 2008 - Golf's high levels of value and comfort nullify class distinctions

* New Golf design points the way to Volkswagen's future
* TDI, TSI and DSG systems improve fuel economy by up to 28 percent
* First Golf with adaptive chassis and automatic distance control

Volkswagen is unveiling its most important automotive secret of the year: the new Golf. The car - Europe's most successful with more than 26 million sold - was improved in all areas. "This sixth generation of Golf cars will completely redefine the quality and comfort level of its class over broad categories, offering more customer value than ever before", says Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board at Volkswagen AG. The European market launch of the new Golf will begin in October; following in succession will be Africa, Asia, Australia and North America. The entry price for the German market is around 16,500 Euros.

Innovative power - the Golf democratizes progress

The clear and powerful design of the new Golf is showing the entire brand the way to the future. Its acoustic properties and the overall comfort of the Volkswagen tear down class distinctions. Innovative engines and transmission technologies lower fuel consumption by up to 28 percent. All gasoline and diesel engines satisfy limits of the future EU-5 standard.

Assistance systems such as "automatic distance control" (ACC), "adaptive chassis control" (DCC) and the "park steering assistant" bring additional top technologies on board the Golf. A new ESP system, with finer response over its control range, further optimized crash properties, seven airbags including knee airbag, the special head restraints (WOKS) that counteract whiplash trauma, a "seatbelt detection" feature debuting in the rear seating area of the Golf and daytime running lights - that are standard equipment - provide for a maximum level of safety.

Exterior design - Precision in a new form

The high value of the new Golf is reflected par excellence in its stylish design; all key body elements were redesigned: "We have cast the Golf's core components in a precise, new mold", explains Walter de Silva. And the Italian design chief of the German corporation emphasizes this: "The Golf is the global icon car making. So the architecture and graphic form of new model are also absolutely clear and unique." At the same time, the sixth Golf has a sportier and more distinctive appearance than any previous generation of the model series. De Silva: "It is more accentuated, more three-dimensional than its predecessor; with precisely defined lines and edges, and with finely proportioned flared surfaces and recesses." And Klaus Bischoff, Chief Designer for the Volkswagen brand, adds: "Every detail is uncompromisingly aimed at improving value."

Especially in a direct comparison of generations five and six, it becomes clear just how much the new Golf has changed. The team headed up by de Silva and Bischoff sought to crystallize out the "essential DNA" of the model series and send it on a trip to the future. These stylistic characteristics include the clear front end of the first generation and the C-pillar that was perfected in the fourth generation.

The roof section now rests - similar to the new Scirocco - on a dominant filled out shoulder section. Responsible for this is a prominent curving line that - like a muscle trained down to the last fiber - extends from the headlights back to the taillights. In its side profile, this line - which Volkswagen Design calls the "character line" - also gives the new Golf a fuller, lower stance on the road from a side perspective.

All body surfaces are generally more relaxed, more athletic. In front the new car takes up the horizontally aligned radiator grille trim strip between the headlights of the first Golf generation; the grille itself is high-gloss black. The lines of the bumper match those of the radiator grille. Beneath this is an adjacent section with another air scoop. Also arranged on a black background are the chrome light housings of the dynamically styled headlamps.

In the rear too is characterized by a dominance of horizontal lines. The taillights - very wide now - are identified among other things by an unmistakably unique night design. Stylistically - with their crystal-clear lines for the turn signal and backup lamps - they bear a resemblance to the taillights of the Touareg. Overall, the image of the new Golf - in the interplay of all of its design characteristics - is one of a significantly wider, flatter and even more high-end car.

Interior - imploding class distinctions

The car's exceptional value also applies to the newly designed interior, whose refined surfaces and features completely transform class distinctions, both to the touch and visually, especially in the cockpit area. The appearance and layout of materials and details such as brushed chrome accents and round instruments derived directly from those of the Passat CC leave the impression that one is actually sitting in a car of the next higher segment. Ergonomic properties of the car's interior were also further developed. For example, all operating controls are even easier to use. They include the control of the automatic climate control system (Climatronic) - presented for the first time on the Passat CC - and the power window controls that are now located further forward in the door trim, making them easier to access.

There is a common thread here: Volkswagen's typical attention to perfection of every detail in the car. Take the example of "seatbelt detection" in the rear: if the Golf is ordered with rear side airbags, the user can recognize on the multifunctional display in the cockpit whether the occupants have their seatbelts fastened in the rear - separately for each seat. Or take the example of leather seats: a new, more robust leather surface is being used. Or the example of the cargo area: four practical hooks ensure that after shopping, the contents of shopping bags are not strewn across the cargo area. Or the example of the outside mirrors: thanks to an aerodynamically optimized shape they get significantly less dirty. They are easier to adjust from the interior, since the power mirror adjustment control is now located further up and more forward in the door trim.

Noise reduction - the quietest Golf since the first model

The new Golf is characterized by first-class acoustic properties. A special damping film in the windshield also reduces driving noises, as does the newly developed seal concept for the doors and side window guides. The new shape of the outside mirrors also significantly reduces wind noise. Furthermore, special modifications were made to acoustically isolate the engine and passenger compartments from one another better. Very quiet rolling tires and new engine bearings round out the noise reduction package.

Diesel engines - migration to common rail injection

Making a significant contribution to the pioneering acoustic properties are the exceptionally quiet TDI common rail engines being used in the Golf for the first time. Two balancer shafts also put an end to undesirable vibrations. Plans call for a TDI power range extending from 66 kW / 90 PS to 125 kW / 170 PS. Right at the market launch, Volkswagen will be offering the Golf with two 2.0 liter TDI engines; they output 81 kW / 110 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS. Always there as production equipment: a diesel particulate filter (DPF).

The new TDIs are exceptionally fuel efficient. The 110 PS strong entry-level diesel is satisfied with 4.5 liters of fuel (119 g/km CO2) per 100 kilometers - that represents a 0.6 liter reduction! Even the 140 PS version only requires 4.9 liters of diesel (129 g/km CO2), which is 0.6 liters less.

Gasoline engines - more economical than ever before

Four variants will define the range of gasoline engines in the launch phase: 59 kW / 80 PS, 75 kW / 102 PS, 90 kW / 122 PS and 118 kW / 160 PS. Starting at 90 kW / 122 PS, the TSI engines come with supercharger and/or turbocharger. The fact is that the gasoline engines too are pioneering when it comes to fuel economy. The optimized 80 PS entry-level engine consumes just 6.4 liters of Super per hundred kilometers (149 g/km CO2) - that is 0.5 liters less than the previous model. The other TSI engines are also taking the stage as prime examples of efficiency: at 122 PS the new Golf 1.4 TSI consumes just 6.2 liters of Super (144 g/km CO2); this yields a fuel consumption advantage of 0.1 liters. Even the new 160 PS top version of the 1.4 TSI attains an excellent value at 6.3 liters. Compared to the retired 150 PS FSI, the 160 PS TSI's fuel consumption was even lowered by 1.6 liters.

DSG - replaces conventional automatic

With the exception of the entry-level versions, all gasoline and diesel engines can be paired with Volkswagen's dual clutch transmission (DSG). Depending on the engine torque, either a 6-s0eed or 7-speed DSG is used. On the Golf, the extremely efficient and agile DSG has thereby replaced the classic torque converter automatic. Just how efficient the alliance of TSI plus DSG can be is demonstrated by the average fuel consumption of the 1.4 TSI with 160 PS and 7-speed DSG: 6.0 liters (139 g/km CO2). This high-tech duo replaces the 2.0 FSI with 150 PS and 6-speed automatic. Average fuel consumption there: 8.3 liters. Savings: 2.3 liters per hundred kilometers or 28 percent - progress in its best form.

Well, Volkswagen will work with the German government in experimenting with a fleet of 20 Twin Drive Golfs in 2010. Though evidently the Twin Drive just isn't green enough as is, so to further reduce emissions, the electrical energy required to charge the batteries of the experimental fleet will be generated from green resources such as windmills and hydro-electric dams. Of course, there are no plans for US export, or for any production at all at this point. But even though we're more easily excited about speed than with being green, we would totally rock one of these as a daily driver.
[carscoop, MotorAuthority]

[Horse Power Tee Shot Tour]

And yes, the changes are a-plenty under the hood, as Abt's tuning team took the base engine from VW and spun the dial to 11 by way of a modified motor management system and the introduction of an Abt compressor kit with supercharger and air cooling system. Those changes bump the base model up 120 horses to a tire-squealing 370 HP. Those changes to the motor also boost the top speed to over 168 MPH, with a 0-to-60 time of a mere 5.0 seconds. Five ain't scratch, but it ain't too shabby either. [via World Car Fans]

Here's the deal, it's going to be a knock down, drag out fight with no elimination rounds, no brackets, no BS — a winner takes all match up between four of the most remarkable hot hatches ever to be tossed around a corner with glee. And in this fight, we'll let age go before beauty.

1963 Mini Cooper S
Arguably the very first hot hatch, despite its lack of said hatch, the Mini itself was a revolutionary leap forward in car design for post-war Britain. When notable F1 race car designer John Cooper approached the legendary designer of the Mini about a higher performance edition, Alec Issigonis thought the idea unacceptable, this was a working mans car after all, not a race car. Undaunted, Cooper went above his head and received the blessing of BMC directly for the project. 1961 saw the first high performance Mini Cooper but it grew into its skin in 1963 when a 1071cc short-stroke, four-cylinder replaced the long-stroke 997cc engine. The '63 Mini Cooper S was a fantastic performer with up to 70 HP from the tiny engine. To say the handling of the Mini Cooper S is the stuff of legend is something of an understatement - how many other compact cars can claim David-versus-Goliath-like wins at Monte Carlo over cars many times its size and power?

1976 Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Mk1 Golf GTI is spoken about in hushed tones and with quiet reverence among fans of the econobox-turned-road-racer. The GTi was a breath of fresh air in a stagnant, malaise-mandated European market. The Golf was a handsome design to begin with, penned in the workshops of Guigiaro, and sporting a 1.5L four cylinder, the GTI got interesting upgrades that took it from everyman transporter to corner carving joy buzzer. Chief among the upgrades was one of the first entry market applications of fuel injection, wider track and tires, uprated anti-roll bars and stiffer springs, along with that famous red-rimmed grille. The Golf was rebadged as the Rabbit and produced in Pennsylvania for the 1978 model year, making it the first domestically produced European car in history. A GTI version followed for the US market in 1983. Though there aren't any Monte Carlo wins under its belt, few cars did as much to beat back the 'car as appliance' mindset which pervaded the '80s era auto industry, and the hot hatch survives today in large part due to it's existence.

1986 Dodge Omni GLH-S
Though Carroll Shelby is better known for his involvement in cars like the Cobra 427, Daytona, and Mustang, it's nut job projects like the GLHS that should really be putting him into the Automotive Hall of Fame. The 1985 Dodge Omni GLH was a bonkers car to begin with, starting with the turbo-four out of the Shelby Charger, but Carroll took the last 500 of the Omni GLH and added some more. Goes Like Hell - Somemore, a name only a speed crazed Texan could come up with, was apt. The already potent, for '85, Chrysler turbo 2.2L four was upgraded with an intercooler, prototype fuel rail and remapped fuel delivery curve and delivered 175 HP and 174 lb/ft of torque. The suspension gained Koni adjustable shocks up front and coilovers in the rear, and some sticky tires on custom wheels. Our favorite modification is a sticker on the speedometer hailing the possibility of 135 mph - it just has such a smirk inducing quality to it. All that added together to produce a real street burner. The GLH-S would do 0-60 in 6.5 ticks and run up to 130 mph. It takes a certain kind of mad man to make a Simca designed econobox run with a Corvette.

2003 Renault Clio V6
Not many cars can make the claim to fame of being one of the ten Jeremy Clarkson would place in his personal fantasy garage. The Renault Clio V6 Renault Sport is an example of what happens when madness reaches its inevitable end. Yes, the DS is a beautiful automotive achievement and the CS has a nearly magical suspension, but this Renault may be the most impressive example ever of the French passion for the automobile. For those who have never seen a Clio in person, it is not a large or imposing car, not by any stretch of the imagination. Somewhere the bean counters fell asleep and the batshit crazy idea of dropping a V6 into the back seat of an econo-car slipped by, and the world is a better place for it. The 255 HP naturally aspirated V6 from a Renault Laguna motivates the Clio from just behind the drivers seat and spills its beautiful music into the open air. 0-60 comes in a quick 5.6 seconds and the car tops out at 153 MPH. Bonkers. Sure it loses pretty much all of its utility as a hatchback, the turning circle is atrocious, it's expensive, and it gulps fuel, but the insanity excuses all of that.

So there you have it, four cars from four decades, each with its own character and achievements. However, there can be only one. We know there will be rants over cars not included in this poll as the hot hatch has been a stalwart of automotive affection for a long time, but these are the four today. So what will it be? The British bulldog, the sharp steering German, a bold and brash American, or proof of France's sporting chops? Have at it folks.

Gawker Media polls require Javascript; if you're viewing this in an RSS reader, click through to view in your Javascript-enabled web browser.

Image sources here, here, here, and here.

The Jalopnik Fantasy Garage:
1978 Aston Martin V8 Vantage | Honda 1300 Coupe 9 | 1931 Daimler Double Six 50 Corsica Drophead Coupe | Ferrari 288 GTO | Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 | 1970 Buick GSX 455 | First Generation BMW M Coupe | Bugatti Veyron 16.4 | Ford GT | Citroen SM | Porsche 928 | Jensen FF | DeTomaso Vallelunga | Audi Quattro S1 | Buick GNX | Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R | Honorary Fantasy Garager: The LS1 Powered Rotus | Lamborghini LM002 | Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe | Ferrari 250 GTO | Bentley Speed Six | Talbot-Lago T150C SS Figoni et Falaschi Raindrop/Teardrop Coupe | Porsche 917 | Audi RS4 Avant | Lamborghini Miura | Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9 | BMW E39 M5 | Jaguar E-type | Mercedes-Benz 300 SL | Dodge Charger/Challenger R/T | Toyota 2000GT | Facel Vega HK500 | Voisin C28 Aerosport | Bugatti Type 41 Royale | McLaren F1 | Maserati Bora | Continental MK II | Tucker 48 | Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato | BMW 507 | Porsche 959 | 1925 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 Jonckheere Coupe | Land Rover Defender | Lotus Eleven | Cadillac Eldorado Brougham

VW ditched the Rabbit nameplate for North American Golfs after the 1984 model year, so this is one of the last of the original Rabbits. I did my high-school driver training in a very loose dual-brake-pedal 70s Rabbit... which, come to think of it, was the last time I've driven a Golf of any sort.


The LS Rabbit for 1983 came with 74 fuel-injected horses... which wasn't all that bad for a Late Malaise Era subcompact. Of course, 74 horses coupled with an automatic transmission- which is what's in this example- made freeway onramp merges a nail-biting experience.


This Rabbit's interior is on the Spartan side, but still in pretty good shape.

It's incredible that this car is dead stock, right down to the brush guard, but totally true. Apparently this was a very popular car with Germany's hunting population, which is both small, and insanely regulated. The little cars could get into and out of the Hinterlands without a problem and still return fantastic mileage. We're thinking US hunters would have a slightly different opinion of the car, probably involving a lot more laughter, but we still want to add it to our collection.

Even better, can you figure out what country this is definitely from? Is it an American Golf? It doesn't look to be GTI... or is it? Have fun with that one. [AVI_ABRAMS via Core77]

Press Release:

First Facts on the Golf BlueMotion:
World premiere of the most economical Golf at the IAA
4.5 liter fuel consumption and 119 g/km CO2: New Golf BlueMotion sets environmentally-friendly benchmarks in the compact class

BlueMotion fireworks: Besides the Golf, Volkswagen will be presenting five other BlueMotion models at the IAA

Wolfsburg, 13 August 2007 - Volkswagen will be firing off the next salvo of its BlueMotion initiative at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt. In total, six new models with technology that is as economical as it is environmentally friendly, will debut at the world's largest car show. One of the highlights there: The new Golf BlueMotion. At just 4.5 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers, its fuel consumption has been reduced by a full 0.6 liters compared to the original model. Similarly, CO2 emissions have been reduced from 135 g/km to 119 g/km. Actions taken on the BlueMotion make it so efficient that now distances of more than 1,200 kilometers are possible on just one Golf tank of fuel (55 liter). Market introduction of the Golf BlueMotion in Germany is scheduled for the end of this year.

Details of the new Golf BlueMotion: After the Polo, Passat and Passat Variant, the Golf is now the fourth Volkswagen to wear the new BlueMotion environmental badge on its radiator grille and rear hatch that identifies it as the most economical model of the car series. The Golf BlueMotion is driven by a TDI with 77 kW / 105 PS and a hefty 250 Newton-meter of torque that has already achieved recognition as an efficient engine.

A software intervention in engine management reduces the idling speed of this diesel combined with a particulate filter and simultaneously improves its emission behavior. With longer gear ratios in third, fourth and fifth gears, engine speed levels are also lower while driving. These actions alone reduce consumption by about 0.2 liter.

Less apparent but no less necessary for a plus in economy are the thoroughly trimmed and thereby flow-optimized underbody as well as the nearly enclosed radiator grille. To ensure that the TDI engine still gets enough cooling air, the Golf BlueMotion has an effective dual fan. Thanks to aerodynamic design measures, including lowering of the chassis, the cW value of 0.32, which in itself is a good value, was further improved to 0.30.

In the hunt for every gram of CO2 Volkswagen is also relying on light-running tires, size 195 / 65 R 15, optimized for low rolling resistance; they are driven at higher air pressure, increased by 0.3 bar. When all of the modifications come together in the end product, the top speed of the Golf rises from 187 km/h to an electronically limited 190 km/h.

When it comes to equipment options, the Golf BlueMotion customer can choose between the Trendline and Comfortline. In addition to basic equipment, special Blue Motion specification is also on board. The base price of the Golf BlueMotion Trendline is 20,615 euro and this makes it just 315 euro more than the base price of a Golf 1.9 TDI Trendline. When adjustments are made for equipment options, the BlueMotion is even more economical than previous TDI versions with 105 PS and soot particulate filter. Besides the aerodynamic modifications already mentioned, standard equipment includes the Multifunctional Display Plus (MFA Plus) with gear recommendation arrow and a sports chassis. Thanks to its attractive price positioning, the purchase of a Golf BlueMotion already pays off from the first kilometer - and not just for the environment, but also for customers' budgets.

Gumball 3000 pilot Nick Morley speaks to the Manchester Evening News regarding the infamous accident, his release on bail, his subsequent re-incarceration and his trial. He also mentions that an appeal to clear his name is to be filed shortly. – Davey G. Johnson

Gumball driver: I'm no playboy [Manchester Evening News, UK via Team Polizei]

Related:
Nick Morley Convicted in Gumball Crash, Gets Suspended Sentence [Internal]

From up close, the turbocharged W12 engine Volkswagen shoehorned into its GTI W12 concept car is probably a visceral experience, not unlike that millisecond before a jungle cat grinds you into meat by-product. In this video, you won't see the steroidal hare perform any feats of strength, like jumping over buses or dodging 75mm antitank rounds. It's all about the motor in all its whooping, coughing glory. Good morning. – Mike Spinelli

[via Carscoop]

Related:
Madness in the Middle: VW GTI W12 650 Reveal [internal]

The UK's Daily Mail is reporting, with typical Fleet Street flair, that the Cepuljoski family has forgiven Gumball 3000 participant Nicholas Morley, who as y'all likely recall, crashed into a MkII Golf driven by Vladimir Cepuljoski that had pulled out in front of his TechArt Porsche 911, resulting in the death of Cepuljoski and his wife. According to a statement released by the family during Morley's trial:

"We ask this court to release young Nicholas. It was ill-fate that made our son and father make that fatal mistake and join the main road without stopping his vehicle. We have experienced a terrible tragedy, but we feel that it would be another tragedy to keep this young man in prison. We think he has suffered enough and his conviction would offer no comfort to our grief."

Let death race Briton go, says victims' family [Daily Mail, UK via Team Polizei]

Related:
Fast as a Shark: East of Eden: The Fall of the Gumball 3000 [Internal]

The trial of Gumball 3000 pilots Nick Morley and Matthew McConville regarding the deaths of two Macedonians during the Athens-to-Tirana stage of the rally begins Friday. If convicted, they face at least four years in a Macedon hoosegow. We'd be fascinated to see what the difference in penalty would have been if the pair hadn't twice tried to flee the country. – Davey G. Johnson

Trial of Briton Nicholas Morley Opens Friday [Makfax vesnik via Team Polizei]

Related:
European Authorities to Crack Down on Rallying [Internal]

The phone rang. "Dude!" my buddy yelled. "What is that thing?" He was talking about this video of the new 650 horsepower W12 GTI concept car which Davey's been all over for the last few days. Yeah, the one with the jacked-up dual-turbo Bentley mill in the middle. And we've been asking ourselves why on earth would Volkswagen create an AWD, mid-engined Golf with that much horsepower? Specifically, that much horsepower? The all too obvious answer comes after you jump. (Thanks to Zero Customs for the video) – Jonny Lieberman

Related:
Fore! 650hp VW Golf | More On the Stonking W12 Turbo Golf From Hell [Internal]

When we ran across the W12 GTI this morning all we had to go on were our rusty German skills. Now we've got, at the very least, a translated press release in hand, as well as more photos of the Rabbit with the heart of a Continent(al). The mid-mounted engine is longitudinal, for added Countach-type radness, and it scoots to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds. And who doesn't want a Golf that'll top 200? We want one. We want one very, very much. More, in fact, than we want a golden bust of Peter DeLuise from his 21 Jump Street days. Press release after the jump. – Davey G. Johnson

Leave conventions behind and let ypur passion awake - since the beginning these were the roots of the GTI idea. Until today they got more than 1.67 million drivers into their spell. Long has the Golf GTI been an icon. A mark for itself.

Since 1982 Golf GTI celebrate it annually in the Austrian Land at the Wörthersee. Thousands come.Volkswagen placed a Golf before them: the Golf GTI W12-650 showcar. This sports car is a inclination before the GTI friends at the Wörthersee, people for whom the GTI is a myth.
Stronger, broader, faster
A Golf was never stronger, broader or faster. It seems that the Golf GTI W12-650 comes directly from the racing course. A Golf that runs like the Pace Car of the 24 hours of Le Mans. Its name means: W12-Cylinder, 650 HP (477 KW with 6.000 rpm). A Showcar, not more, not less. Nevertheless it shows what enormous potential the Golf has to offer.

3.7 seconds, 325 km/h, 750 Newtonmeters
Its 6,0 Liter Biturbo engine is longitudinal and placed directly behind the driver and the front seat passenger. The Golf GTI W12-650 differentiate itself in this way from the classical central engine car. A 6-speed automatic transmission transfers 750 Newtonmeters (at 4.500 rpm) to the rear axle. It catapults the Golf GTI W12-650 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds. With a maximum speed of 325 km/h the Golf GTI W12-650 leaves behind nearly all of the world's supercars.

Width 1.88 m, 235er tire in front, 295er tire in the back
Automotive engineers and designers united under Volkswagen Golf GTI W12 650
its 1.88 meters (series: 1.76 meters) spread and 1.42 meters (series: 1.50 meters) flatten body. The chassis components of the Golf GTI W12-650 were adapted directly from supersports cars. The wheels are of course made from a light alloy and because of the gigantic wheel dimensions a specialy engineered tire had to be made.

70 millimeters lower, 160 millimeters broader
The goal was clearly defined - despite the partially dramatic technical changes the study should
remain completely clear that this is a Golf GTI. Therefore as much parts as possible were taken from tha classical GTI like: the headlights, the doors, the front hood and the tail lamps. The axles were pushed 70 millimeters into the body.

The largest problem was to supply the 6-litre central engine with sufficient air and to produce sufficient drift at the rear axle without watering the silhouette of the Golf GTI W12-650. Therefore the C-columns were re-designed in such a way that they lead air to the engine. The rear side windows run inward, so that two channels develop between the disks and the C-columns on the left and on the right to drive air to the engine.
The Carbon fiber roof is a diffuser
Innovative building of the body also prevented that the lines of the Golf GTI W12-650 to get ruined by a putting on a roof wing. The study carries the wing inward. The roof is part of an enormous diffuser, which provides sufficient drift to the rear axle. It's made from carbon fiber and leads air under the normal tail spoiler.

Interior with racing ambitions
The leather is Alcantara. On the middle range of the armatures are Three rows of auxiliary instruments. Transparent "Flip UP" switch guards for central functions like the disconnectible ESP look like taken derectly from the race track.

Fire extinguishers are integrated in the place of the glove compartment to also remind us of the race. Because of weight reasons "stripped" the door linings are complete; only lattices are used, which grant a complete view of the interior mechanics of the door.

Related:
Fore! 650hp VW Golf [Internal]

It's time to bread us like schnitzel, change our name to Hartmut and toss us off the poop deck of the Admiral Graf Spee, because this thing is absolutely hoontastic. The Herren und Damen over at Auto Zeitung have a bit on this absolutely insane mid-engined, twin-turbo W12 Golf show car built by VW. The absolutely starkers hatch follows in the grand tradition of the Renault R5 Turbo, one of our all-time favorite cars, but adds a sleekness to the package that we really like. A sterling, sterling example of Bruce at its finest. Iron Maiden and the E-Street band together on stage with the decathlete who won the Olympic gold in '76 could not be more Bruce. But that would be weird, wouldn't it? – Davey G. Johnson

Weltpremiere: VW Golf mit 650 PS [Auto Zeitung]

Related: Jackrabbit! Hayabusa-Powered Volkswagen Mk1 Golf [Internal]

Volkswagen showed off its "Thunderbunny" concept at the SEMA show last November, tempting crowds of hatchies with promises of post-R32 hareiness (ouch). Of course, now we know V-dub is introducing a new R32 in the US this year. So what of the bunny? According to VW blog UK MkIVs the Golf RS above was on display at a VW corporate event. Insiders say the RS will see a limited production run of 500 to 900, with a debut expected for the Frankfurt or Essen shows later this year, ahead of a market launch in mid-'08. As for what may be under the hood. Could this be the "R36" everyone's been talking about? After all, are those not Passat R36 wheels? – Mike Spinelli

Could this be the new Golf RS or RSI? [uk-mkivs via World Car Fans]

Related:
Spy Photos: Volkswagen R36; Thunder Bunny! Volkswagen May Build SEMA Concept [internal]

Letter of intent signed in Ingolstadt: Audi acquires extra production capacity

* Audi now holds management responsibility for Brussels plant
* Spotlight on job security and efficient operations
* Capacity at existing plants to rise further in order to meet demand
Audi needs additional production capacity if it is to continue growing vigorously over the next few years. To that end, AUDI AG is immediately assuming management responsibility for the Brussels plant. This is the crux of a letter of intent signed today by the company management and the Belgian trade unions in Ingolstadt. The priority for Audi is to enhance productivity at its existing German locations, while at the same time safeguarding employment. Audi already set the standard in April 2005 with the agreement entitled "Audi's Future" for the German locations; this gave AUDI AG's workforce a long-term guarantee of employment.

"2006 was the eleventh successive record-breaking year for Audi in respect of vehicle sales, revenue and earnings. Profitable growth is the basic ingredient of our corporate strategy. And it is a strategy that is working. We are therefore delighted to be able to add to our capacity through the Brussels plant. It will equip us for continued, vigorous growth over the next few years. We intend to build the new compact Audi model at the Brussels plant," explained Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG.

"The Brussels plant now has the opportunity to become part of Audi's success story. This has all been made possible thanks to the agreement to cut personnel costs by 20 percent. We are using the outstandingly qualified workforce as our basis. It is therefore particularly pleasing that, with 2,200 employees, many more jobs will be preserved than originally envisaged," declared Dr. Werner Widuckel, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG with responsibility for Human Resources. Widuckel added: "The agreement is now valid without any qualification, and will be implemented in every respect."

The framework conditions for a new general collective agreement are laid down in the letter of intent. This declares that the new, compact Audi model is to be built in Brussels from the end of 2009/start of 2010, after the establishment of competitive pay and cost structures. For a transitional period - from 2007 to 2009 - the Audi A3 is to be built in Brussels as well as various Volkswagen models. It was already successfully built there between autumn 2004 and the end of 2005. The plant's future will be safeguarded thanks to the hub principle for products of the Audi and VW brands. Jobs can then be protected long-term at the Brussels plant.

Peter Mosch, Chairman of the General Works Council of AUDI AG, declared: "We are looking to the future in a positive frame of mind. The General Works Council and Audi's employees are confident of rising to the forthcoming challenges. We know and have respect for our new colleagues in Brussels. Together, we now aim to take Audi forward and achieve the targets we are striving for: growth and job security."

"Audi attaches importance not just to competitiveness - among other things based on flexible working hours involving working time accounts and reduced labour costs per hour - but also to the introduction of attractive tools such as employee profit-sharing that incorporates the criteria of productivity, quality, costs per vehicle and attendance figures," continued Board Member for Human Resources Dr. Werner Widuckel. He added that Audi was looking to boost its attractiveness as an employer with health management measures and ergonomic working conditions. "Those also include the introduction of teamwork within the Audi production system, as well as training programmes and a continuous improvement process," explained Audi Board Member for Production Frank Dreves. "If the proposed restructuring measures are implemented at the Brussels plant, those production operations will have a chance to play a leading role in the car industry. Following the restructuring, the Brussels plant should fulfil the criterion "best in class" in the Volkswagen Group," added Dreves.

Representatives of Audi's Board of Management, the plant manager, the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen Brussels and the unions had drawn up the accompanying agreement at the end of February. In a referendum, over 76 percent of the workforce had then voted in favour of it. Plant manager Norbert Steingr ber stated: "That is a clear vote in its favour. The Brussels plant is determined to emerge from the restructuring process stronger and with a secure future ahead of it."

Audi sold around 905,000 cars in 2006. It aims to increase this figure to 1.5 million by 2015. It is embarking on an investment programme worth 11.8 billion euros over the next five years as further evidence of its ambitions. The model range is set to grow from a current 22 models to 40.

If you thought the story was over when Volkswagen announced its latest R32 hot hatch was coming to the US, you were wrong, dammed wrong. All that loose talk about an R36 model may be accurate. Spies say this prototype is the upcoming, 300-hp Golf R36, sporting VW's 3.6-liter VR6. Haldex four wheel drive and DSG-gearbox will complete the ground action. Of course, the odds that this monster is coming to the US aren't in our favor. But that won't stop the betting. – Mike Spinelli

SPY PHOTOS: VW Golf R36 [World Car Fans]

Related:
Chicago Auto Show: US-Bound Volkswagen R32 [internal]

Atwal under investigation following fatal car accident [PGATOUR.com]

Related:
GM And Tiger Woods Engage In Viral Marketing Of The Lame-Ass Kind [internal]

The Car Company of the People will be sending out recall notices in April to 790,000 American purchasers of their product. The reason? A brake-light switch that may either leave the lights on or never illuminate them in the first place upon depression of the wide pedal. Affected? Glad you asked. Follow along and see if you won the lottery: 1999-2005 Golf and GTI; 1999-2005 Jettas and '02-05 Jetta wagons on the Mark IV platform; 1998-2007 New Beetles and '03-07 New Beetle convertibles, plus the '04 R32. Dang ol' dang, that sure is a mess o' switches. – Davey G. Johnson

Volkswagen recalls 790,000 U.S. cars [Monsters and Critics]

Related:
Recall Party! VW Brake Lights, Corvette Roofs [Internal]

Say hello to the Jetta wagon it took Volkswagen two years longer than its sedan variant to introduce. But cut V-dub some slack; it just wanted to get everything right so you'll like them again. It's being unveiled as the Golf Estate in the land of Europe next week at the Geneva show. It'll come with a choice of four engines, including the Twincharger TFSI that sports both supercharger and turbo, and two diesels producing 105 hp and 140 hp, respectively. No word on US release, but expect a launch in New York, according to those who say they know. – Mike Spinelli

[via Motor Authority]

Related:
Over the Back Fence: Jetta Wagon Coming to Geneva Show [internal]

According to Carscoop, Volkswagen will show its long-awaited Jetta (Golf) Wagon at the Geneva show next month. Earlier rumors indicated the blown-deadline wagon would be unveiled at the Frankfurt show in September. But a VW press rep reportedly confirmed the debut would happen on Swiss time. A US launch will likely happen later this year, possibly at the New York show, with the first cocker spaniels bounding inside by fall '07. – Mike Spinelli

VW to unveil 2008 Golf Variant at the Geneva Show [Carscoop]

Related:
Spy Photos: More on the Volkswagen Jetta Wagon [internal]

GTI! Redeem thyself! And in its fifth iteration, the heated up Golf/Rabbit/Golf/Rabbit VW hatch seems to have done just that with the world's motoring press, and the lads and lasses at Automobile are apparently not immune to the car's charms. While the Automobiles don't quite lavish the praise on the DSG that Farago does, they do call it "the best automatic-type transmission we've ever driven." For more superlatives and a rundown of what they've thought of GTIs past, ve haff posted ein link below. – Davey G. Johnson

2007 Automobile of the Year: 2007 Volkswagen GTI [Automobile]

Related:
Automobile Announces Automobile of the Year, All-Stars [Internal]

What's VW doing in the Great White North to stem the tide of new, entry-level cars coming from Nissan, Toyota, and soon Citr en? No, not a new model; they're offering the previous-generation Jetta and Golf, stripped barer than Britney's babymaker, at a major discount over the new models. It's the City Jetta and City Golf, which are the Mk4 versions of those cars, fitted with all the stone-age accouterments that's aged them worse than Best of Bread. Still, it's a brilliant, cheap-o DIY strategy that's typically v-dub. – Mike Spinelli

Volkswagen's Day Old Bread [Automobile]

Related:
Spy Photos: Volkswagen Jetta Wagon [internal]

Volkswagen Individual, the company's in-house accessories shop for European tweakers, revealed its R line models at the Essen show last week, with such packages planned for the Golf, Touran minivan, Passat and Touareg SUV. Some might say the company is irreparably diluting its R performance brand (whither the new R32 in the US, huh?) by associating it with mainly cosmetic treatments, just as Audi does with its S line packs. But VW cares not for such talk, and will move ahead with the R line models for Europe in 2007. They'll include alloy wheels, body kits and interior upgrades, but no engine tuning. We hear the company's plotting something similar for the US market, but no word yet. – Mike Spinelli

Press Release:

In a world premiere Volkswagen Individual GmbH is presenting in Essen newly designed R line packages for the Golf, Touran, Passat and Touareg model ranges. They will first be coming out in Germany in 2007.

So far "R" has exclusively stood for high-performance cars such as the Golf R32 (250 hp), or the new Passat R36 (300 hp), which is also being shown in a world premiere in Essen. Thanks to the new R line models now for the first time exterior and interior equipment can be exclusively customized for sportiness, for the most part independently from the type of engine. The idea behind it: all R line products take up on the characteristic design elements that also distinguish the Golf R32 or the Passat R36. The entry into the world of sporty Volkswagens is becoming significantly more economical. In their implementation the differentiation to these top-notch athletes is however large enough that the independence and exclusivity of each model is maintained.

R line for the Golf

Volkswagen Individual has designed three different R line options for the Golf. For the first upgrade stage starting with the Golf Trendline an R line package is available consisting of sporty 17-inch alloy wheels (of type "Omanyt") with wide tires, a sport leather steering wheel (three spokes, perforated leather, R32-style steering wheel clip), parking brake lever and gearshift knob in leather, R-style pedals, door trims and an identi