Volkswagen News - Volkswagen Garage London - London's best independent Volkswagen Garage Specialists http://www.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk We are London's Main Dealer alternative for Audi, Vw, Seat, Skoda repairs and servicing. Proud to be the London's best Independent Audi-VW-Seat-Skoda Specialist Don't waste your time and money ! We know how to repair where others have failed ! Our Audi Vw Specialist Centre has a team of specialists who can sort out anything from basic servicing to advanced technical problems. One of the best Audi/Vw Master Technician on site offering knowledge and experience using the latest Main Dealer compulsory diagnostics equipment. Save up to 50% on Main Dealer prices. We only use genuine parts offering 2 years Warranty. All work carried out without compromising the Manufacturers Warranty. Visit us now for latest offers! http://www.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news Sat, 18 Apr 2026 14:13:16 +0000 Joomla! - Open Source Content Management en-gb Enhanced batteries and vehicle-to-load lead raft of improvements for Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/764-volkswagen-garage-london-enhanced-standard-specification-across-id-4-and-id-5-ranges http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/764-volkswagen-garage-london-enhanced-standard-specification-across-id-4-and-id-5-ranges Enhanced batteries and vehicle-to-load capabilities are just two of the highlights among a raft of improvements for the Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5.

Selected trims in the ID.4 and ID.5 ranges are now available with batteries that have more net capacity, greater power output and longer ranges than previously. The ID.4 Pro 4MOTION variants, for example, now offer a punchier power output of 299 PS along with an even more generous range of up to 341 miles (WLTP combined). The batteries in sporty GTX versions for both models now have a smaller net capacity, but maintain the same potent power levels and – thanks to efficiencies elsewhere – gain a few extra miles of potential range. What’s more, all changes to standard specification come with little or no extra cost.

V2L and bi-directional charging among other changes
Vehicle-to-load (V2L) and bi-directional charging capabilities are among other enhancements to the Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5. When used with one of two new optional adapters, V2L turns the vehicles’ charge points into sources of electricity for other appliances, for instance when camping or using power tools.

Other changes for all ID.4 and ID.5 trims include physical buttons on steering wheels, Traffic Assist now also with Front Cross to help safeguard pedestrians and cyclists, improved One Infotainment and driver attention monitoring systems, and faster inductive phone charging – up from five to 15 Watts. Two more useful enhancements are a more efficient heat pump (optional) and, for ID.4 Pro 4MOTION variants only, an increase in the trailer load limit from 1,200 kg to 1,800 kg (braked 12 per cent).

The entry-level Pure Essential trims for both models gain larger 19-inch steel wheels, while the Pure Match trims are fitted with an electric tailgate as standard. An additional 230-volt power socket is also available as an option across both model ranges.

The ID.4 was Volkswagen’s first fully-electric SUV – and the brand’s first global electric vehicle – when it was launched in 2021. In April that year it was named World Car of the Year following input from more than 90 international motoring journalists in 24 countries. Eight trim levels are currently available in the UK: Pure Essential, Pure Match, Pro Essential, Pro Match, Pro Black Edition, Pro Match 4MOTION, Pro Black Edition 4MOTION and GTX Edition 4MOTION.

The ID.5 was launched in the UK early in 2022; it was Volkswagen’s first electric SUV-coupé and the first Volkswagen to feature USBPD (power delivery) ports. Located in the passenger area, these can be used to charge devices such as laptops with up to 45 Watts of power. Five trim levels are currently available in the UK: Pure Match, Pro Essential, Pro Match, Pro Black Edition and GTX Edition 4MOTION.

Prices for the ID.4 and ID.5 start from £36,995 (OTR RRP inc VAT). The technical specification changes being introduced mean that Volkswagen UK must now re-apply for these models to be eligible for the Government’s Electric Car Grant; qualification for this will be confirmed in due course.

 

Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

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magik@magicallydesigned.com (Super User) volkswagen garage london blog Sun, 12 Apr 2026 07:33:13 +0000
New Caddy: update for urban delivery van and family leisure car http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/763-volksawagen-garage-london-first-pictures-of-the-new-caddy-revamped-customer-favourite http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/763-volksawagen-garage-london-first-pictures-of-the-new-caddy-revamped-customer-favourite First official images of the new Caddy: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV) is enhancing the classic vehicle. The new Caddy’s attractive design reveals changes that immediately catch the eye, such as a new bumper, new exterior paintwork or brand-new alloy wheels. The favourite vehicle of tradespeople, small business owners, families and hobby-lovers alike is getting an update, having already won over more than 500,000 customers worldwide and topping the table of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ most successful individual models in the 2025 financial year with over 110,000 vehicle deliveries.

About the Caddy from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles: since 2003, which marked the launch of the third generation, a total of almost 2.9 million Caddy vans have been built exclusively at the Poznań plant in Poland; more than 500,000 high-roof versions of the current fifth-generation Caddy alone have been produced since its launch at the end of 2020 up to the beginning of March 2026.

The new Caddy has now received a number of changes. These include visually striking features – new exterior colours, wheels with new 16-inch to 18-inch rims and a front apron modified by the new bumper for both grained and painted versions.

With its numerous variants – including cargo and passenger car models, a normal or long wheelbase (Maxi), a basic version, Edition or California models, versions with the Life or Style package as well as Caddy Flexible or special conversions – this model series is also available with a petrol, diesel or eHybrid drive system. The latter provides a range of over 620 km, up to 122 km of which can be achieved using electric power alone.

Across the generations, tradespeople and small business owners have been just as impressed by the cargo van versions of the Caddy and the Caddy Flexible as taxi companies or families with children have by the passenger car versions. A particularly interesting option is the Caddy Flexible, which turns a five-seater passenger car into a full-fledged two-seater van with partition wall or vice versa in just a few simple steps.

Regardless of whether it’s equipped with a boot lid or wing doors, power closing systems as standard for the large sliding doors and boot lid on the Caddy passenger car, a flexible seating concept or a large load compartment, the Caddy offers solutions for almost every application. For example, it can cater to people who want to get out into nature for a while, whether they’re partaking in their hobbies (bikes, surfboards), out with their dogs, or keen to spend the night in the bed in the Caddy California, which is also available with an optional mini kitchen.

Five to seven seats already speak for themselves in the passenger car version with normal wheelbase, while the Caddy Cargo Maxi offers more than 3,100 litres of load compartment volume. It is also the first choice for people with disabilities, whether as active drivers or passengers, thanks to the extensive range of conversion options for the high-roof van. Depending on the model, the Caddy can also tow up to 1,500 kg with a tow bar.

In short: there is the ideal Caddy for almost every need, both as a commercial vehicle or a passenger car, in other words as an urban delivery van or a family leisure vehicle. The Caddy is the vehicle for people with big plans – for example, those who need to transport a lot of material or business equipment, those who want to transport family members and friends, and those who have to be able to move bicycles, surfboards, or pets.

The Caddy is modular, flexible, dynamic and always achieves good resale values. It is a sought-after model both new and pre-owned with millions of satisfied customers. It scores well in comparative tests, in statutory inspections and in terms of maintenance costs. As with other Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles models, the Caddy also comes with a manufacturer’s warranty of up to five years. This helps to prevent unplanned workshop costs.

Two wheelbases, plenty of loading options, the most variable seating concept on the market, 5- to 7-seater versions even for the short Caddy, sufficient towing capacity, plenty of options for your free time and routine jobs, and the ability to drive up to 122 km electrically with the eHybrid version (PHEV).

All in all, this makes the Caddy a functional and reliable companion for day-to-day work and family life. It becomes a part of the family, which is why many people give their Caddy a nickname.

Comprehensive changes are also to be expected in the interior of the new Caddy, including a larger, free-standing central display. Further information on the Caddy’s new interior will follow at the start of pre-sales in the middle of the year.

Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

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magik@magicallydesigned.com (Super User) volkswagen garage london blog Sun, 05 Apr 2026 17:37:07 +0000
Car wash opt-out gives Volkswagen Group customers the choice to be clean or green! http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/762-volkswagen-garage-london-volkswagen-group-is-giving-customers-the-option-to-plant-a-tree-instead-of-having-their-car-washed http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/762-volkswagen-garage-london-volkswagen-group-is-giving-customers-the-option-to-plant-a-tree-instead-of-having-their-car-washed Volkswagen Group is encouraging customers to be ‘green rather than clean’ as part of the expansion of an initiative to swap the standard post-service wash and vacuum for planting a tree. More than 150 retailers from 21 investors across the Group’s Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Škoda and SEAT/CUPRA brands are offering the car wash opt-out as an option at their sites. Since January 2025, five million gallons of water have been saved and over 45,000 trees planted. 

A number of investor groups, including JCT600 and Yeomans, are pioneering the initiative and the results are positive with around a quarter of customers are happy to swap their car wash for tree planting. Volkswagen Group is working with Ecologi, an organisation which aims to inspire and empower businesses to accelerate global climate action, to undertake high-quality tree planting and sustainable projects across the globe.

Jaspal Toor, Aftersales Propositions Manager at Volkswagen Group UK, said: “We’re really pleased to be expanding our car wash swap for customers. We know that sustainability expectations influence customer decisions, from choice of car brand and model, through to aftersales. In fact, our research shows 86 per cent of customers say they would change brands to achieve a more sustainable aftersales choice, so we know environmentally conscious decisions extend beyond the vehicle purchase stage, and driver better customer satisfaction. Our goal is to reduce carbon emissions, conserve water, and offer sustainability-conscious customers a greener choice.”

Volkswagen Group retailers currently use more than 200 million gallons of water on car washes per year, equating to over 300 metric tonnes of CO2e. The initiative has so far saved five million gallons of water resulting in an estimated reduced CO2e impact of 6 metric tonnes. Car wash swap is just one of many ‘goTOzero’ initiatives aimed at minimising the impact of our operations on the environment.

 

Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

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magik@magicallydesigned.com (Super User) volkswagen garage london blog Thu, 26 Mar 2026 20:24:09 +0000
Preview of future electric compact SUV: the new ID. Cross on the streets of Amsterdam http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/761-volkswagen-garage-london-the-id-cross-will-be-launched-on-the-european-market-from-autumn-2026 http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/761-volkswagen-garage-london-the-id-cross-will-be-launched-on-the-european-market-from-autumn-2026 The ID. Cross will be launched on the European market from autumn 2026. The model will be available from a starting price of around 28,000 euros. The five-seater is aimed at customers who want to enjoy first-class electric mobility that is suitable for everyday use and affordable. The ID. Cross can be currently seen in Amsterdam in a striking camouflage wrap.

 

The exterior of the ID. Cross is characterised by the new Pure Positive Volkswagen design language with clear lines, balanced proportions and a high-quality appearance. At the same time, the ID. Cross comes across with a deliberately low-key yet confident look. The interior also conveys a sense of calm and clarity, while the materials and workmanship are oriented towards higher vehicle classes. Five seats, efficient use of space and intuitive functions and buttons as well as large-format displays round off the high-quality overall impression.

As regards the drive system, the ID. Cross is flexibly positioned. The power levels 85 kW, 99 kW and 155 kW are offered, combined with two battery sizes of 37 kWh and 52 kWh (net). This means that the model covers different usage profiles – from predominantly urban driving to regular journeys outside towns and cities. Modern assist systems support the driver and contribute to a high level of comfort. The ID. Cross is also future-proof when it comes to charging, enabling DC quick charging with up to 90 kW – with the larger battery up to 105 kW.

With its combination of compact dimensions, modern technologies and assist systems, high workmanship quality, plenty of space and an entry-level price of around 28,000 euros, the new ID. Cross offers an attractive price-performance ratio.

 

Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

 

01. ID. Cross - Near‑production concept car. The model is not yet offered for sale

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magik@magicallydesigned.com (Super User) volkswagen garage london blog Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:04:26 +0000
The successor to the ID.3 is called ID.3 Neo. Digital product updates for ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/760-volkswagen-garage-london-id-3-gets-extensive-update-and-a-new-name http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/760-volkswagen-garage-london-id-3-gets-extensive-update-and-a-new-name The successor to the ID.3 is in the starting blocks with a new name and will celebrate its world premiere as the ID.3 Neo in mid-April. Thanks to the latest software generation, the electric compact model comes with a host of new functions. These include, for example, the enhanced Travel Assist with traffic light detection and One Pedal Driving, where the vehicle recuperates until it comes to a standstill. The ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 are already available to order as the first models equipped with this software, the above-mentioned functions and the new Innovision infotainment system. In addition, all new ID. models now have the option of supplying power to external devices – from electric grills to e-bikes – with an output of up to 3.6 kW directly from the high-voltage battery using the Vehicle-to-Load function.

 

Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Board of Management responsible for Technical Development, says: “The new software generation brings more performance and an even better customer experience to the ID. models. The new Volkswagen electric models in the small and compact vehicle segments – ID. Polo, ID. Polo GTI, ID. Cross – will also soon be launched on the market with these new innovations, offering more flexibility in everyday life and for leisure activities.”

Software and hardware are designed to meet new or future regulatory conditions. These include the requirements of the European emissions standard Euro 7, the Californian standard ZEV3 (zero emission vehicle) and the EU directive GSR2 (General Safety Regulation 2), which is intended to further increase road traffic safety.

 

Additional services. The new ID. models also feature the new Innovision infotainment system. A new app store has also been integrated into the In-Car Shop of the new infotainment system, which allows functions and services to be activated or extended digitally, flexibly and on a vehicle-specific basis. As with a smartphone, popular apps from areas such as audio, video streaming, parking, charging and gaming are available for download here.

New option – digital vehicle key. A digital key is now also available as an option for all models. This enables convenient access to the vehicle using a mobile device (smartphone, smartwatch).The digital vehicle key supplements the classic vehicle key. Communication takes place wirelessly in a similar way to payment processes with a smartphone; a special app is not required. There is also a change in the operating concept. All future ID. models have buttons on the steering wheel that improve intuitive operation of the various functions.

 

More flexibility thanks to Vehicle-to-Load. With the new software generation, the Vehicle-to-Load function is also being introduced in the ID. models and thus the ability to power electrical devices directly from the vehicle battery. External devices such as an electric grill,coffee maker or even an e-bike can be powered or charged directly from the high-voltage battery with up to 3.6 kW. This is possible using a 230 V socket in the interior and – with a separate adapter – also via the mode 3 connection of the charging socket.

Entry-level models more efficient and with greater range. There are also new developments in the areas of engine and battery: the ID.4 and ID.5 Pure entry-level models are equipped with the APP 350, a new 140 kW (190 PS) drive system that offers increased torque and lowers fuel consumption compared with the previous APP 310 motors. This enables the range of the ID.4 to be increased by up to 40 km (WLTP), for example. In combination with a new lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) high-voltage battery (58 kWh net), this is an impressive package that is robust and very efficient.

 

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

01. ID.3 Neo - Near production concept car. The model is not yet offered for sale

02. ID.3 Neo, ID. Polo, ID. Polo GTI, ID, Cross - Near production prototypes. The vehicles are not yet for sale

03. ID.4 Pure - Combined power consumption 16.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class: A

04. ID.5 Pure - Combined power consumption 15.6 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class: A

05. Range determined on the rolling road test bed in accordance with the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) in the most range-favourable equipment variant. The actual WLTP range values may differ depending on the equipment. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on the driving style, speed, use of comfort features or auxiliary equipment, outside temperature, number of passengers/load, and topography

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magik@magicallydesigned.com (Super User) volkswagen garage london blog Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:44:30 +0000
Safety first! ADAS prevents accidents for almost half of UK van drivers http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/759-volkswagen-garage-london-volkswagen-commercial-vehicles-offers-a-range-of-adas-technologies-to-keep-drivers-safe-on-the-road http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/759-volkswagen-garage-london-volkswagen-commercial-vehicles-offers-a-range-of-adas-technologies-to-keep-drivers-safe-on-the-road Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ latest research reveals that Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) helped almost half (45%) of the UK’s van drivers to avoid one or more accidents in 2025.1

The survey found that drivers are measurably safer on the roads, with one in five (19%) avoiding multiple accidents in the last twelve months, thanks to modern safety assist technology.1

For the drivers who narrowly avoided an accident in 2025, survey respondents said that parking sensors proved to be the most effective technology, preventing accidents for 58% of respondents.1 This was followed by collision warning (40%), park assist (32%), and speed assistance (27%). Lane assist (23%), autonomous emergency braking (22%) and driver drowsiness monitoring (15%) were also shown to be useful technologies when it comes to keeping drivers safe on the road.1

With the UK’s van drivers spending, on average, 5.5 hours inside their vans on a typical working day, being able to depend on their vehicles is essential for long days behind the wheel.2 The survey also revealed that van drivers felt more confident and safe behind the wheel, knowing they are supported by ADAS technology, as three in four drivers (74%) report feeling safer on the roads as a result.1

To keep businesses on the road, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers a wide range of innovative driver assistance technology across its vehicle line-up. The new Transporter, for example, comes fitted with rear parking sensors as standard, as well as lane assist, driver alert system, and intelligent cruise control, and is also available with autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system and radar-camera fusion technology. Together, this saw the new Transporter receive a five-star rating from Euro NCAP.

Simon Jeffreys, Product Marketing Manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “The safety of van drivers and other road users is always a top priority at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. This data demonstrates that safety technology is significantly benefitting drivers in real-world scenarios, while supporting drivers to feel safer on the road. Our vehicles are equipped with a range of the latest safety assist technologies, many as standard, enabling drivers to get back to focusing on what really matters to their business.” 

For more information regarding Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ award-winning range of products and services, please visit: www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk

 

Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

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magik@magicallydesigned.com (Super User) volkswagen garage london blog Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:54:19 +0000
Volkswagen brand delivers two millionth all-electric vehicle to customer http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/758-volkswagen-garage-london-volkswagen-started-its-electromobility-journey-back-in-2013-with-the-launch-of-the-e-up http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/758-volkswagen-garage-london-volkswagen-started-its-electromobility-journey-back-in-2013-with-the-launch-of-the-e-up The Volkswagen brand has reached another milestone in its electrification strategy – delivery of two million all-electric vehicles to customers. The two millionth vehicle is an ID.3, produced at the Volkswagen Zwickau plant. The anniversary ID.3 was handed over to Kirsten Vormbrock at the Transparent Factory in Dresden this week.

 

Volkswagen started its electromobility journey back in 2013 with the launch of the e-up!, and has been systematically expanding its all-electric portfolio ever since. The two million battery electric vehicles (BEVs) supplied therefore include not only models from the current ID. family, but also electric precursors such as the e-up! and the e-Golf. Volkswagen has now taken on a leading position in all-electric vehicles in Germany and throughout Europe, and is among the highest-volume providers. The Volkswagen brand is also one of the largest electric car manufacturers in the world.

Martin Sander, Volkswagen Board Member for Sales, Marketing and After Sales, said: “We laid the foundations for electromobility early on and are driving our transformation to an all-electric future with clear strategic priority. Our strong market position, particularly in Germany and Europe, confirms the attractiveness and competitiveness of our electric portfolio.”

ID.3, ID.4 and ID.7: the pillars of all-electric success

Three models are of primary significance to this milestone:

  • ID.3 (approx. 628,000 vehicles delivered): The ID.3 was the first model based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) and marked Volkswagen’s entry into the new era of electromobility. It was the first model in the ID. family in 2020 and made all-electric mobility accessible to a broad range of customers in the compact class for the first time. A further product upgrade of the ID.3 will soon be launched.
  • ID.4 (approx. 901,000 vehicles delivered*): The ID.4 is a key growth driver for the brand and has played a major part in expanding Volkswagen’s presence on the global BEV markets. Apart from Germany and other European countries, the most important sales markets for the SUV model include China and the United States.
  • ID.7 (approx. 132,000 vehicles delivered): Volkswagen expanded its portfolio in 2023 to include an all-electric saloon, followed by an estate (ID.7 Tourer) in the upper mid-range segment. The ID.7 represents the technological progress of the ID. family and demonstrates how Volkswagen is introducing electromobility to a new segment with long range and a high level of efficiency and comfort.

 

Increased accessibility to electromobility through the ID. Polo

The ID. Polo is the first of four new electric cars to be launched throughout 2026 in Volkswagen’s small car and compact segment. “These new models make electromobility accessible to even more customers”, said Board Member for Sales Martin Sander. “Our aim is to introduce attractive, affordable electric vehicles for everyday use into the high-volume small car segment and, in so doing, take the next growth steps in our transformation.”

Delivery to Transparent Factory – a customer experience

The delivery of the anniversary vehicle in Dresden highlights the close connection between brand experience and customer experience; now that production has been phased out in Dresden, the focus is more than ever on the visitor experience.

New attractions at the Transparent Factory include theme islands and a production demonstration, with the aim of providing as authentic a production experience as possible – even without actual series production.

Around 3,500 vehicles were handed over to customers at the Transparent Factory last year, more than 90 percent of which were all-electric or hybrid. This makes the Transparent Factory Volkswagen’s second-largest national delivery center, after Autostadt Wolfsburg. Brand loyalty is a focal point of the emotional handover process and comprehensive introduction to the new vehicle.

Test drives in Dresden of all ID. models make it easy for customers to try electromobility for themselves. The nearby vehicle plant in Zwickau plays a key role in Volkswagen’s BEV campaign as one of the main production sites for electromobility. Around 212,000 electric cars rolled off the production line here in 2025.

*including ID.5

 

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

 

01. ID. Polo - Near-production concept car

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magik@magicallydesigned.com (Super User) volkswagen garage london blog Sun, 01 Mar 2026 19:33:11 +0000
Volkswagen Passat: Professional Driver Estate Car of the Year http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/757-volkswagen-garage-london-latest-victory-adds-to-eight-awards-for-the-passat-since-start-of-2025 http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/757-volkswagen-garage-london-latest-victory-adds-to-eight-awards-for-the-passat-since-start-of-2025 The Volkswagen Passat is the Professional Driver Estate Car of the Year. The accolade was announced at the annual Professional Driver QSI (Quality, Service, Innovation) Awards evening in Brighton.

The Professional Driver Car of the Year awards are the UK’s biggest reader-judged car awards and regarded among the most rigorous in Britain’s automotive industry. A 100-strong judging panel comprising heads of private hire firms, experienced chauffeurs and journalists joins Professional Driver readers to put more than 40 cars through their paces. Everything from driving to interior space and passenger comfort gets scrutinised in real-world conditions and scored to decide the winners in six categories.

The Volkswagen Passat’s victory in the estate car class adds to an astonishing run of eight awards over the past 12 months from What Car?, the Caravan and Motorhome Club and the Camping and Caravanning Club. They praised the car in particular for its space, comfort, safety and towing capabilities when handing out their awards.

Estate cars are especially popular among private hire operators because of the luggage space they offer for jobs such as airport runs.

Mark Bursa, Editor of Professional Driver, said: “The Passat is one of the roomiest estate cars available, with very good rear legroom and space for several suitcases. Its plug-in hybrid powertrain is ideal for longer journeys, and for the many private hire drivers who don’t have access to home charging.”

Professional Driver is the one of UK’s leading publications for people who earn their living from driving. Its monthly magazine and digital platforms provide extensive news and in-depth analysis for the private hire, taxi and chauffeur sectors, as well as for fleet operators large and small.

 

Article source: www.vwpress.co.uk

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magik@magicallydesigned.com (Super User) volkswagen garage london blog Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:25:53 +0000
New cross-brand steering model for Brand Group Core strengthens foundation for more competitive products and greater efficiency http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/756-volkswagen-garage-london-the-brand-group-core-bgc-within-the-volkswagen-group-is-taking-the-next-step-in-its-successful-cooperation http://lib.volkswagengaragelondon.co.uk/volkswagen-garage-london-news/756-volkswagen-garage-london-the-brand-group-core-bgc-within-the-volkswagen-group-is-taking-the-next-step-in-its-successful-cooperation The Brand Group Core (BGC) within the Volkswagen Group – the organizational unit comprising the volume brands Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Škoda, SEAT&CUPRA and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles – is taking the next step in its successful cooperation. From this January, an overarching steering model lays the groundwork for an efficient and more competitive organization. As the top BGC management body, the newly-formed “Brand Group Core Board of Management” will make cross-brand decisions going forward.
The overall objective is to streamline processes, structures and decision-making paths. Stronger prioritization of decisions in the interest of the brand group will lead to a higher level of efficiency within the BGC. Going forward, the Production (P), Technical Development (TE) and Procurement (B) functions will be managed at cross-brand level by the Brand Group Core Board of Management.

New steering model
Overall, the new steering model with the Brand Group Core Board of Management will streamline the volume brands’ executive bodies: in a first step, the total number of Board members within the four volume brands that make up the BGC will be reduced by approximately one third by summer 2026. Medium-term, the planned reorganization will successively streamline management structures within the Brand Group Core further.

Consistent use of synergies and scaling effects
The new steering model will make even more consistent use of existing synergies and scaling effects – thereby generating cross-brand cost benefits.
Implementation of operational activities within the Brand Group Core will be faster, while the focus at Group level will center on strategic synergy areas such as software and batteries. Responsibility will be spread more evenly going forward – regional and specialist competences will be deployed where they generate the greatest benefits for the entire organization.

Example: Future Production Governance
In Production (P) alone, the approved reorganization of the steering model unlocks cumulative savings potential of one billion euros through 2030. 
The new Future Production Governance steering model plays a part in Volkswagen AG’s ongoing performance program, while at the same time tapping into additional potential. It is characterized by leaner processes at the BGC’s 20+ production locations worldwide that will in future be organized in five production regions. Going forward, regional management will be responsible for cross-brand and cross-national planning, steering and logistics. Within this system, the regions will become more independent, more efficient and more flexible.
The new steering model kicked off on the Iberian Peninsula, where the production plants have been brought together to form a cross-brand cluster.

Key lever for long-term return targets
The approved measures are a key lever for achieving a sustainable increase in BGC’s returns. The new cross-brand steering model with its clearly-defined responsibilities and swift decision-making will boost the competitiveness of the entire Brand Group Core model range.
The principle is: strong business management and individualized branding, driven by a lean and efficient internal powerhouse.

The new steering model starts in January 2026 and implementation will be fully completed by summer 2026.

 

 

Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

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magik@magicallydesigned.com (Super User) volkswagen garage london blog Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:29:29 +0000