Volkswagen Concept BlueSport
The Concept BlueSport is a small, two-passenger soft-top convertible, similar to a Mazda MX-5 Miata or Pontiac Solstice. It shows off several technologies, some Volkswagen is known for (clean diesel) and others it hopes to make common (engine start-stop and regenerative braking, both without using batteries).
CG Says... The fuel-saving ideas employed by the Concept BlueSport are the
exciting news here. Engine stop/start and regenerative braking is a
good way to save fuel. Most impressive is the fact that VW seems to
have done it without having to resort to heavy and expensive battery
packs. Hopefully this technology will filter into mainstream products
in the near future. |
VW says the Concept BlueSport can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds and achieve a top speed of 140 mph, all while achieving fuel economy of 35 mpg city and 50 mpg highway. Such high fuel economy numbers are possible, VW says, because of the car's engine start-stop feature and regenerative braking. These features are normally associated with gas/electric hybrid vehicles, but this convertible doesn't have any additional battery packs. The Concept BlueSport can shut its engine off at a stop and restart immediately when the driver puts his or her foot on the gas pedal. Regenerative braking allows energy created by the brakes to go to the alternator, providing power to the electrical system and a single battery.
Inside, passengers use a touch screen to govern information and entertainment options. A "multifunction steering wheel" is used to operate the transmission.
The Concept BlueSport may hint at an upcoming VW product to rival the MX-5 or Solstice, though officials were mum on the prospect. This convertible was more a design and technology exercise, as one would expect from a concept car.
2009 Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited
The 2009 Touareg Lux Limited is available on all models, including the gasoline V6 and V8 engines, as well as the new-for-2009 TDI, which has a turbodiesel V6. The Lux Limited has 20-inch wheels, additional exterior trim, and specific paint colors. Interior features include two-tone leather upholstery and standard 12-way power front seats.
The 2009 Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited is slated to arrive in showrooms in the coming weeks. No word on pricing, but these models will probably cost at least a couple thousand dollars more than other Touaregs.
For more information on hundreds of new cars of today and tomorrow, check out:
- Detroit Auto Show Home Page
- Consumer Guide's 2009 Auto Show coverage
- Consumer Guide New Car Reviews and Prices: Road test results, photos, specifications, and prices for hundreds of new cars, trucks, minivans, and SUVs from the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide.
- Consumer Guide's 2009 Best Buys and Recommendeds: Our Best Buy and Recommended picks focus on overall vehicle value and take into account performance, economy, reliability, ease of use, comfort, and price.
- Future Cars: Check out what's just on the horizon.
