2012 Volkswagen America Features

The 2012 Volkswagen America will compete in the midsize-car class. The 2009 Volkswagen Passat is shown here.

Sources say the 2012 Volkswagen America is based on VW Group's "MQB" architecture, which is designed for transverse-mounted engines with front-wheel drive and/or all-wheel drive. Like other modern "modular" platforms, this one can be altered in length and width to suit a variety of different vehicle types and production venues. It already serves the compact sixth-generation Rabbit hatchbacks that are now on sale in Europe (under the Golf name) and are expected stateside later in 2009 along with similarly remodeled Jettas.

Company officials have confirmed that the 2012 Volkswagen America will be offered with two engines, each with mpg-boosting direct fuel injection. The expected choices are a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with around 200 horsepower and a turbodiesel 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 140 horsepower. Both are familiar VW fare and already available in the Jetta. However, America prototypes have been spied testing with the normally aspirated 2.5-liter 5-cylinder in the Jetta and Rabbit, so we can't rule that out as a possibility. Transmissions should comprise a standard 5-speed manual and, at extra cost, VW's 7-speed DSG automatic with manual-shift capability. The America should launch with front-wheel drive only, but AWD may be offered later, depending on how things go.

As for other features, the 2012 Volkswagen America should have everything U.S. buyers expect, but not Euro-market doodads that help to make some VWs relatively expensive. Look for standards to include antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, an antiskid system, a full set of airbags, and manual driver's-seat height, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and climate system. VW execs say the America will also offer generous legroom and cargo space, an appropriate number of Big-Gulp-size cupholders, and plug-ins for music players and mobile phones. Of course, power options, upscale trim, and conveniences like a navigation system will be available, but the goal seems to be an attractively priced, well-equipped "base" car that doesn't look or feel like a rental hack.

In all, the 2012 Volkswagen America looks like a strong new challenger for the Accord and Camry, as well as the in-demand Chevrolet Malibu. The only problem we see is overcoming VW's mediocre U.S. track record on reliability and dealer service. But the brand is improving in those areas, which ups the odds for success even in these perilous times.