VW Sport Coupe Concept GTE 'marks beginning of a new design era'

You didn't think that Volkswagen was going to come to Geneva armed only with a bunch of European-market minivans and wagons, did you?

Of course not. Last week VW gave us our first glimpse at a new show car for the Swiss auto expo, and here it is in full: the Volkswagen Sport Coupé Concept GTE. Set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this week, the Sport Coupé is envisioned as a successor to the current CC, but beyond previewing a specific model, this concept showcases a new design language that's set to characterize all new VWs to come. And judging by how good it looks from the images in the slideshow above, that could prove to be a very good thing indeed.

The concept strikes us as the sleekest iteration yet of the company's flexible MQB architecture that already underpins vehicles as small as the Golf and as large as the new Škoda Superb. It's larger than the current CC in every dimension but height, and pushes the wheels further out on a longer wheelbase. And with a liftgate at the back instead of a trunk, it strikes a form more similar to the Audi A7 than the Passat-based CC.

As with recent past concepts, VW has taken the opportunity to showcase its hybrid powertrain technologies, fitting the Sport Coupé with a plug-in hybrid system that couples a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 to a pair of electric motors and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The internal combustion engine drives 295 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels, while an electric motor integrated into the gearbox contributes another 54 hp and a second one kicks in 114 hp at the rear.

Juiced by a lithium-ion battery housed in the center tunnel and offering all-wheel traction, the combined output of 374 hp is said to be capable of propelling the concept to 62 miles per hour in five seconds flat and on to a top speed of 155 mph. It can travel for 32 miles on electric power alone and on to an overall range of 745 miles, netting the equivalent of 118 miles per gallon on the European cycle.

Inside, the four-seat cabin is laden with digital displays: there's a 12.3-inch unit – dominated by the speedo and power meter – in place of a conventional instrument cluster. The center stack incorporates a 10.1-inch infotainment display, and the rear-seat passengers have access to another 12.3-inch display at the back of the center console and another pair of 10.1-inch displays in the seatbacks. The navigation system will even interface with a smartwatch to determine the driver's mood in selecting which route to take.

We're looking forward to checking out the Sport Coupé Concept GTE in Geneva, but in the meantime you can delve into all the juicy details in the press release below.

VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES PRICING OF 2015 GOLF SPORTWAGEN

• Pricing starts at $21,395 for the S model with manual transmission: a content adjusted reduction of $700 over the previous base Jetta SportWagen
• New TDI® S model reduces base Clean Diesel pricing by almost $2,000
• Newly available driver assistance technology includes Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
• Larger interior than outgoing Jetta SportWagen rivals compact SUVs for size
• Car will be offered with 1.8-liter turbocharged TSI® gasoline and 2.0-liter TDI Clean Diesel engines
• TDI Clean Diesel model offers EPA estimated highway fuel economy of up to 43 mpg, beating all compact SUVs
• Based on flexible Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) architecture, this new car weighs up to 137 pounds less than outgoing Jetta SportWagen
• As much fun to drive as a Golf with the versatility of a compact SUV

Volkswagen of America, Inc, announced pricing of the all-new Golf SportWagen. With a starting Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $21,395 for the 1.8T S model with manual transmission, the latest SportWagen features more standard equipment, increased fuel efficiency, and more space than the outgoing Jetta SportWagen S model. The TDI® Clean Diesel model starts at $24,595, a reduction of almost $2,000 over the previous base TDI model price.

Scheduled to hit dealer showrooms in April, 2015 Golf SportWagen models will be offered with two powertrains: the EA888 1.8-liter, 170-horsepower turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TSI® engine mated to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission; and the EA288 2.0-liter, 150-hp turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TDI Clean Diesel, fitted with a six-speed manual or a six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The 1.8T model with manual transmission has an EPA estimated highway fuel economy rating of 36 mpg, while the TDI Clean Diesel model gets 43 highway mpg according to EPA estimates. These figures better all compact SUVs on the market, while offering comparable cargo volume—30.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 66.5 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.

In addition to a long list of standard amenities, several new comfort and convenience features will be available on the 2015 Golf SportWagen including the Fender® Premium Audio System and Climatronic® automatic air conditioning. Newly available driver assistance systems include Automatic Post-Collision Braking, the Forward Collision Warning System, and front and rear Park Distance Control. An available lighting package includes LED Daytime Running Lights and the Adaptive Front-lighting System.

The Golf SportWagen has grown in size yet dropped in weight by up to 137 pounds (depending on model) compared with the Jetta SportWagen, despite a plethora of new and upscale features. Dimensionally, the Golf SportWagen has grown slightly, by 1.1 inches in overall length to 179.6 inches, and by 0.7 inches in width, to 70.8 inches. However, because the new car is 0.9 inches lower and has a 2.2 inch longer wheelbase, it looks more muscular and has a premium “cab backward” aesthetic.

MODEL LINE-UP
Golf SportWagen TSI S

The SportWagen TSI S starts at $21,395 and features a standard turbocharged and direct-injection1.8-liter engine; 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; Bluetooth® connectivity; a touchscreen radio; Sirius XM® Satellite Radio; a Media Device Interface (MDI) with iPod® integration; leatherette seating surfaces with manual lumbar adjustment; power windows; power door locks; and air conditioning. An automatic transmission is available as an $1,100 option.

Golf SportWagen TSI SE
Available only with the six-speed automatic transmission, the SE starts at $26,995 and adds the following features over the S: 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; front foglights; a panoramic sunroof; KESSY® Keyless access with push-button start; a rearview camera, and the Fender® Premium Audio System. An optional Lighting package is available for $995 and includes Bi-Xenon headlights with the Adaptive Front-lighting System, LED DRLs, and ambient interior lighting with LED interior reading lights. The $695 Driver Assistance package includes the Forward Collision Warning System and front and rear Park Distance Control.

Golf SportWagen TSI SEL
Building on the specifications and layout of the TSI SE, the top gasoline-powered SportWagen trim starts at $29,345 and adds: 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; chrome roof rails; a navigation system; Climatronic® automatic air conditioning; sport comfort seats with a 12-way power driver’s seat; and ambient lighting with LED interior reading lights. The Lighting and Driver Assistance packages are available on the SEL as well.

Golf SportWagen TDI S

The line-up of Clean Diesel Golf SportWagen models largely mirrors its gasoline siblings in terms of features and packages. The base TDI S starts at $24,595 and offers a six-speed manual gearbox and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels as standard, with a dual-clutch DSG automatic available for an extra $1,100. KESSY Keyless access with push-button start and a rearview camera are among the standard features.

Golf SportWagen TDI SE
Starting at $27,995, the TDI SE has the same list of equipment and optional packages as its gasoline-powered counterpart, the TSI SE, including the Fender Premium Audio System, automatic headlamps and a panoramic sunroof. The Lighting and Driver Assistance package are available. The DSG transmission is an $1,100 option.

Golf SportWagen TDI SEL
Starting at $30,345, the TDI SEL’s standard equipment mirrors the TSI SEL, adding features such as a navigation system, Climatronic automatic air conditioning, and sport seats with 12-way power adjustment for the driver. Both Lighting and Driver Assistance options packages are available on this trim. The six-speed manual transmission is standard, with the option of the DSG automatic ($1,100 extra).

THE 2015 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI IS NAMED YAHOO AUTOS CAR OF THE YEAR

The 2015 Golf GTI was named the “Yahoo Autos Car of the Year.” The seventh-generation GTI beat 16 other contenders, from economy hatchbacks to luxury sedans to track-ready sports cars in five categories—performance, value, efficiency, design and engineering.

“Earning Yahoo Autos Car of the Year is further testament that the 2015 GTI is a highly competitive offering—within its segment and beyond,” said Michael Horn, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “We are honored that the experts at Yahoo Autos have recognized the GTI as a no-compromise, quality vehicle that remains true to its enthusiast roots.”

Editors at Yahoo Autos scrutinized dozens of new 2015 model year vehicles for the third annual Yahoo Autos Car of Year award, eventually narrowing down to 17 contenders. Judges selected the 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI after a week-long test by eight experts that included hundreds of miles in driving loops through cities and mountain routes, along with a thorough autocross day.

The 2015 Golf GTI is bigger, lighter, faster, and more fuel-efficient than the previous generation. It redefines the hatchback category with enough space for five adults and more trunk space than any mid-size sedan. It also features Volkswagen’s EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine, providing 210 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which is 10 hp and 51 lb-ft higher than in the previous generation. The optional Performance Package, available later in the model year, adds another 10 hp for a total of 220 hp, larger brakes, and an electronically-controlled torque-sensing limited-slip differential.

The Golf GTI provides a combination of both passive and active safety systems, and has been engineered to meet or exceed all current crash regulations. All Golf GTI models are available with the Driver Assistance Package, which adds a Forward Collision Warning system and front and rear Park Distance Control systems. When equipped with the package, the 2015 Golf GTI 4-door is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK+.

Standard equipment of the all-new GTI also includes a new Driving Mode Selection feature, VW Car-Net® connected services, a touchscreen infotainment system, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, ambient and footwell lighting with LED reading lights, and LED foglights. Pricing for the all-new Golf GTI starts car starts at $24,395.

VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE CLASSIC MODEL GOES ON SALE, PRICED FROM $20,195

Today, Volkswagen of America, Inc., announced that the limited-edition Beetle Classic model will go on sale this week, starting at $20,195 for the 1.8T Coupe. This new model enhances the value story for the Beetle, adding a host of new features in addition to the Beetle’s already extensive list of standard equipment. Currently, this is the lowest priced model in the Beetle lineup, starting nearly $1500 lower than the Beetle 1.8T automatic.

The Classic trim features 17-inch “Heritage” aluminum-alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, a leather-wrapped shifter knob and handbrake lever, Sirius XM® Satellite Radio, an RNS® 315 navigation system, a multifunction steering wheel, two-tone brown “Sioux” leatherette and checked cloth seating surfaces, comfort front seats with driver’s side lumbar support, and a six-speed automatic transmission. The car is available in three colors—Pure White, Black Uni, and Reflex Silver—and has an understated retro look inside and out.

The Beetle Convertible Classic will go on sale early in 2015, starting at $25,995. It adds the same interior and exterior features as the Coupe. Both the Coupe and the Convertible are fitted with the 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® four-cylinder engine that makes 170 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. The Beetle 1.8T Coupe has an EPA estimated highway fuel economy rating of 33 mpg with the six-speed automatic transmission, and the 1.8T Convertible achieves 32 mpg.

2015 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA EARNS TOP SAFETY PICK+ RATING FROM THE INSURANCE INSTITUTE FOR HIGHWAY SAFETY

2015 Volkswagen Jetta TDI

The redesigned 2015 Jetta, when equipped with the optional Forward  Collision Warning system, has been named a 2014 TOP SAFETY PICK+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The 2015 Jetta offers a combination of both passive and active systems and has been engineered to meet or exceed current crash regulations. The Jetta features a number of available driver assistance systems, including Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert and Forward Collision Warning.

Blind Spot Monitor. This system utilizes a flashing symbol in the outer area of the side mirrors to help alert the driver to vehicles that are in the vehicle’s blind spot or approaching from the rear. This is intended to help improve driver awareness when changing lanes. The system uses radar sensors to "monitor" a space around the vehicle with a range of approximately 65 feet. Customers who choose the Blind Spot Monitor option automatically get the Rear Traffic Alert assistance system as well.

Rear Traffic Alert. The new driver assistance system is offered in tandem with Blind Spot Monitor. The system not only helps alert the driver to stationary and moving vehicles directly behind the vehicle; it also detects vehicles approaching from the side which may be difficult for the driver to see. The radar-based sensor module can even detect objects up to 65 feet away. In case of an impending collision, the system gives an acoustic warning.

Forward Collision Warning. This system uses radar sensors to monitor the distance from traffic ahead of the vehicle. The Forward Collision Warning system helps alert the driver of critical front-end collision situations, both acoustically and visually by a clear warning symbol in the instrument cluster. The radar sensor acquires both the position of stationary cars and motorcycles and those moving in the same direction as the vehicle. The sensor is hidden behind the VW logo on the radiator grille.

All Jetta models are equipped with standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), six airbags, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA).

“The redesigned 2015 Volkswagen Jetta not only brings a sleek new design but also offers customers state-of-the-art technology, creating the ideal combination of Volkswagen design, performance, and world-class engineering,” said Mark McNabb, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “To have IIHS recognize the vehicle as a Top Safety Pick + confirms that our commitment to safety and engineering pays off in delivering a standout compact vehicle.”

The 2015 Jetta is already on sale in U.S. dealerships. The lineup will offer three gasoline engines, a TDI Clean Diesel, and a hybrid powertrain, as well as four trim levels—Base, S, SE, and SEL.

The Driver Assistance Package is available on select Jetta models, and includes the Forward Collision Warning system. "Top Safety Pick+" is based on good ratings in the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, head restraint tests; no less than an acceptable rating in the small overlap front test; and at least a basic rating for front crash prevention. For details, visit www.iihs.org.

VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES PRICING OF 2015 JETTA, STARTING AT $16,215

The latest Jetta features new front, rear and interior styling, enhanced content, new driver assistance systems, and improved fuel efficiency

• The entry-level 2.0L trim starts at just $16,215, featuring a standard five-speed manual transmission
• New limited-edition 1.8T Sport trim offers lowered sport suspension, navigation, rearview camera, rear spoiler and darkened taillights, starting at $20,895
• New driver assistance systems available: Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Warning System, and Park Distance Control
• Improved aerodynamics and reduced rolling resistance increase efficiency across Jetta lineup
• Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights and Adaptive Front-lighting System now available on select models

2015 Volkswagen Jetta

Herndon, VA — Today, Volkswagen of America, Inc., announced pricing of its redesigned 2015 Jetta models, which feature a new turbocharged EA288 TDI® Clean Diesel engine, a refreshed exterior, and a host of newly-available driver assistance systems. The 2.0L base trim starts at $16,215 (plus $820 destination and handling), and is available as a factory order only. The well-equipped S model starts at $18,425 with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the entry-level 1.8T model, the SE, is priced from $18,995 with a five-speed manual transmission. The frugal TDI Clean Diesel model starts at $21,640 for the S trim.  

Expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships in the third quarter of 2014, the new Jetta lineup will offer the following gasoline, hybrid and Clean Diesel powertrains:

• 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, as well as 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter versions of the turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine
• 1.4-liter turbocharged hybrid unit
• All-new 2.0-liter turbocharged EA288 TDI® Clean Diesel engine, one of the most fuel-efficient engines in its class, returning an EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating of 46 mpg with the manual transmission

Key design elements of the 2015 Jetta include an extended wheelbase that stretches 104.4 inches; rear-seat legroom of 38.1 inches; gently arcing roofline that enables ample headroom of 37.1 inches for rear-seat passengers; 15.5 cubic feet of usable trunk space; and a new front bumper that helps to reduce air drag, improving aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.

The 2015 Jetta S features the following standard equipment:

• Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
• Bluetooth® connectivity
• Multifunction steering wheel
• Cruise control
• Air conditioning
• One-touch auto up/down power windows
• Power locks with keyless entry
• Aux-in for the radio/CD player
• Power heated exterior mirrors
• Driver and front passenger front and side thorax airbags and Side Curtain Protection® airbags front and rear
• Suite of advanced electronic safety features, including Anti-lock Braking (ABS), Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)

The 2015 Jetta is offered in four trim levels—Base, S, SE, and SEL—with a total of 13 equipment levels.

At launch, Volkswagen will also offer a limited-edition Jetta Sport. Based on the 1.8T SE with Connectivity, this trim adds a sport suspension, front sport seats, RNS® 315 navigation with rearview camera, rear spoiler, and unique interior decor. When paired with a five-speed manual transmission, the Sport starts at $20,895 and costs $21,995 with a six-speed automatic transmission.

2015 Jetta  Pricing
Model	Price	Features
2.0L S (manual) (automatic)	$17,325 $18,425	2.0L 115 hp/125 lb-ft engine, five-speed manual transmission, four wheel disc brakes; 15-inch wheels with all-season tires; power and heatable exterior mirrors; manual A/C; RCD® 310 radio w/single CD player; Bluetooth® connectivity; aux-in and four speakers; multifunction steering wheel; trip computer; cruise control; power locks w/remote keyless entry; power windows w/1-touch up/down on all four windows; cloth seating + Six-speed automatic transmission
2.0L S with Technology (manual) (automatic)	$18,320 $19,420	(includes S features) + a rearview camera, push-button start, and Premium VIII touchscreen radio with SiriusXM® Satellite Radio + Six-speed automatic transmission
1.8T SE (manual) (automatic)	$18,995 $20,095	(Includes S features) + 1.8L, 170 hp/184 lb-ft engine; five-speed manual transmission; 16-inch “Sedona” wheels; heatable front seats; electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering; push-button start; heated washer nozzles; MDI w/iPod® adapter; SiriusXM® Satellite Radio + Six-speed automatic transmission
1.8T SE w/ Connectivity (automatic)	$22,325	(Includes SE features) + 16-inch “Arlington” wheels; chrome front grille and window trim; body-color exterior mirrors with turn signal indicators; front and rear carpeted floormats; V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces; driver lumbar adjustment; rear seat pass-through and armrest; leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and handbrake; sunroof; Premium VIII touchscreen radio; rearview camera; VW Car-Net® connected car features w/six-month no-charge trial period
1.8T Sport (manual) (automatic)	$20,895 $21,995	(includes SE features) + 17-inch “Joda Black” alloy wheels; sport suspension; two-tone heatable sport seats; RNS315 navigation; rearview camera; foglights; black headliner; contrast stitching on leather-wrapped steering wheel, seats, handbrake and shift lever; rear spoiler. +Six-speed automatic
1.8T SE w/ Connectivity and Navigation	$23,650	(Includes SE with Connectivity features) +17-inch “Joda” alloy wheels; Keyless access with push-button start; foglights; RNS 315 touchscreen navigation
1.8T SEL	$25,380	(Includes SDE with Connectivity and Navigation features) +Two-tone sport seats; full power driver seat; Fender Premium® Audio System; soft-touch dash; Homelink; automatic duel-zone climate control
TDI S (manual) (auto)	$21,640 $22,740	+ 2.0L 150hp TDI engine, six-speed manual transmission; electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering; remote keyless entry;16-inch steel wheels; chrome grille; heatable front seats; cruise control; MDI with iPod cable; SiriusXM Satellite Radio + Six-speed DSG transmission
2.0L TDI SE with Connectivity (manual) (automatic)	$24,075 $25,175	(Includes TDI S features) + body-color power heated exterior side mirrors with turn signal indicators; chrome window trim; V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces; driver seat lumbar adjustment; rear-seat armrest with pass through; soft-touch dash; leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and handbrake; sunroof; VW Car-Net connected car features; Premium VIII touchscreen radio; rearview camera; push-button start + Six-speed DSG automatic transmission
TDI SEL (manual)   (automatic)	$26,410 $27,510	(Includes TDI SE with Connectivity features) +17-inch “Lancaster” alloy wheels; six-way power driver seat; RNS 315 navigation system; Fender Premium Audio System; automatic dual-zone climate control; rearview camera; Keyless access w/push-button start; foglights + Six-speed DSG automatic transmission
2.0L GLI SE (manual) (automatic)	$26,920 $28,080	2.0L TSI, 210 hp/207 lb-ft engine; 18-inch “Mallory” alloy wheels; sport bumper (front) and side skirts; red-painted brake calipers; sport suspension; automatic headlights; body-colored; power-adjustable and heatable exterior mirrors; front foglights; LED taillights; automatic headlights; daytime running lights with low-beam assist; rain-sensing wipes with heated washer nozzles; Keyless access with push-button start; rear spoiler; power heated side mirrors; leather-wrapped multifunction sport steering wheel, brake handle and shift knob; heatable front sport seats with power driver seat and lumbar support; Premium VIII touchscreen radio; rearview camera; interior ambient lighting; Fender Premium Audio System; auto-dimming rearview mirror; sunroof; power windows w/1-touch up/down on all windows; automatic dual-zone climate control; Premium VIII touchscreen radio w/SiriusXM® Satellite Radio; MDI w/iPod® cable; Bluetooth® connectivity + Six-speed DSG® automatic transmission
2.0L GLI SEL (manual) (automatic)	$29,280 $30,380	(Includes 2.0L GLI SE features) +Bi-Xenon headlights with Adaptive Front-lighting System and LED daytime running lights; foglights with static cornering light; RNS 315 navigation system; Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert; Homelink + Six-speed DSG® automatic transmission
Hybrid SEL Premium (automatic)	$31,670	+ Seven-speed DSG® automatic transmission; 17-inch “Buenos Aires” aluminum-alloy wheels; Bi-Xenon headlights w/AFS and LED DRLs; aerodynamic body kit; rain-sensing wipers with heated wiper nozzles; rear spoiler; power heated side mirrors; auto-dimming rearview mirror; RNS 315 touchscreen navigation; SiriusXM Satellite Radio; MDI with iPod connectivity; Bluetooth connectivity; VW Car-Net connected car features; Keyless access w/push-button start; upgraded display in instrument cluster; leather-wrapped steering wheel; Homelink; automatic dual-zone climate control; Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert; Forward Collision Warning System; Park Distance Control (front and rear); foglights with static cornering light; Fender Premium Audio System
Destination	$     820	All Prices Exclude Destination Charge

BISMARCK MOTOR COMPANY TO HOST GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY FOR NEW HONDA, NISSAN, VOLKSWAGEN FACILITIES

Aug. 6, 2014 – Bismarck Motor Company, a Kupper Automotive dealership, is hosting a groundbreaking ceremony next week to mark the end of the predevelopment phase of all-new Honda, Nissan and Volkswagen facilities.

“There’s so much activity and expansion in North Bismarck,” states owner, Bob Kupper. “We’re excited to be part of  Bismarck/Mandan’s growth as well as bring all-new state-of-the art import dealerships to Western N.D.”

 

Bismarck’s exclusive Honda, Nissan and Volkswagen franchises’ new locations will be at the property located at the corner of 57^th Ave. NW and HWY 83, directly north of Furniture Row. The three brands will have their own separate facilities; Honda being the largest at 24,000 sq. ft., Nissan 15,000 sq. ft. and Volkswagen 12,000 sq. ft.

“By having three separate facilities, we will be able to focus more on each brand and the customers they serve,” says Chris Schneider, General Manager. “The expansion will help us better serve both our customers and our employees.”

The commencement will be held on Thursday, Aug. 14 at 4 p.m. at the new construction site to celebrate the beginning of a much needed dealership expansion of Bismarck Motor Company sales, service and parts operations. The dealership’s hopes are to increase business by 50 percent as well as expand its staff by 50 employees. 

Meet The Team- Curry Joins Bismarck Motor Company

Brandon Curry, sales and leasing consultant at B.M.C.

Bismarck Motor Company has added a new member to it's sales and leasing staff. Brandon Curry started at the dealership in June, respectively. 

Curry, a native of Fargo, ND, graduated from Fargo North High school. His previous employment includes working for Burger Time for a total of 10 years. In his free time Curry enjoys hunting, fishing, paint-balling, and riding motorcycles. 

Kupper Automotive Returns Support for Mandan Independence Day Parade

Kupper Automotive is excited to be back for the fourth year as the title sponsor for the Mandan Independence Day Parade.

Kupper Automotive will be bringing to life this year’s parade theme “Show Your Colors…Red, White & Blue”, featuring cars from each of our dealerships, including our newest brand, Volkswagen of Bismarck, with our “Peace, Love, ‘Merica” entourage. 

We’re also proud to provide cars for various groups in the parade, such as Governor Jack Dalrymple and First Lady Betsy Dalrymple, the Mandan Progress Organization, and Mandan Cheerleaders.

We strive to be actively involved in the support of our communities, because they provide us our success.

Kupper Automotive in the 2013 Mandan Independence Day Parade with a Medieval float

Meet Your (Auto) Match with the All-New VW.com

The redesigned VW.com website allows consumers to shop desired features and instantly connect to available vehicles at dealerships near them

Volkswagen of America officially launched a newly redesigned VW.com (www.vw.com) today, following a soft launch late last week. This uses functionality influenced by online dating and e-commerce to let consumers easily shop for cars based on desired features, such as color or price, among the available inventory of more than 80,000 vehicles at Volkswagen dealerships nationwide.

“With the new VW.com experience, consumers don’t need to know our product lineup to find a car that's right for them,” said Vinay Shahani, Vice President, Brand Marketing, Volkswagen of America. “Consumers simply select the features they want, and VW.com instantly connects them to a range of options based on both their needs and available inventory in their area. We’re excited to be at the forefront of this type of online innovation that utilizes a truly intuitive approach.”

The newest inventory-led shopping experience in branded auto sites 
Traditional branded car shopping sites invite consumers to configure cars to match their preferences — but those vehicles aren’t always in stock. VW.com combines the buying and configuring tools at each stage of the shopping process, allowing consumers to shop for the features they want, and view a variety of cars available at dealerships near them. The site features more than 80,000 “profile” pages, playing off of popular online dating sites, for instock vehicles nationwide.

“Consumers who come to a dealership because of inventory online are twice as likely to make a purchase as those who came from a configurator that’s not attached to accessible inventory,” Shahani says. “VW.com helps connect people with cars that are actually available for sale.”

VW.com puts the shopper first
Each individual car for sale has a comprehensive profile page with pictures, features, specs, limited warranty, awards, accessories and dealer information—as well as tools, such as a Payment Estimator, on the vehicle detail page where the consumer needs it. Additionally, VW.com was designed for the tablet first, so one of the first things a shopper will notice is a clean, image-rich design that makes it simple to navigate.

“Our goal was to put the consumer’s needs first,” says Winston Binch, Chief Digital Officer at Deutsch LA, Volkswagen’s digital agency of record and the developer of VW.com. “We did that by keeping things radically simple, reducing clicks, and focusing on getting people to real cars quickly—not vehicle configurations that are hard to find in real life.”

Features of the new VW.com
All of the images on a car model page reflect the exact colors and features of that particular model. In addition to gallery imagery, 360-degree views and highlighted features, each model page has all available trims linkable to current inventory. Customers can “favorite” individual cars that interest them, and access those vehicles from the main navigation.

Features of the new VW.com include:

• Inventory-led shopping experience: Customers can specify desired features and find cars near them that match their needs from the VW.com inventory of more than 80,000 vehicle profiles.
• Non-linear shopping flow: Customers can find cars through a variety of search capabilities, from style and color (“red convertible”) to specific features (“premium sound”), and each car has its own profile page−not dissimilar from popular dating site profile pages as well.
• Contextual information and tools: Tools such as the Payment Estimator are built into the shopping experience so users don’t need to leave the profile page to get to them.
• Full model line information: Each model page has all available trims linkable to current inventory.
• Feature-focused inventory pages: Certain high-profile features such as Fender® Premium Audio System have their own pages, which also display inventory.
• Real-time feed with Volkswagen news: All VW social content is aggregated into a single interface, so users can keep their finger on the brand's pulse. Content can be sorted by model.

DealerMatch
The buying process has also become more streamlined for Volkswagen dealers. VW recently partnered with DealerMatch to create an online marketplace where Volkswagen dealers can buy and sell used vehicles among themselves.

VOLKSWAGEN GROUP MAKES A GOOD START TO 2014

• First-quarter sales revenue up 2.7 percent year-on-year to EUR 47.8 billion (EUR 46.6 billion)
• Operating profit rises by 0.5 billion to EUR 2.9 billion despite ongoing challenging environment
• Net liquidity in Automotive Division remains high at EUR 17.7 billion

The Volkswagen Group has made a good start to fiscal year 2014 in a market environment that remains difficult. Sales revenue rose by 2.7 percent in the first three months of the year to EUR 47.8 billion (EUR 46.6 billion) despite negative currency effects. Operating profit grew by 21.8 percent to EUR 2.9 billion (EUR 2.3 billion). The Group's operating profit and sales revenue exclude the activities of the Chinese joint ventures, which are accounted for in the financial result using the equity method and is therefore not included in consolidated operating profit. The share of operating profit attributable to the Chinese joint ventures in the first quarter of 2014 was EUR 1.24 billion (EUR 1.16 billion).

The Volkswagen Group's profit before tax amounted to EUR 3.4 billion (EUR 2.7 billion). The return on sales before tax rose from 5.8 percent to 7.0 percent. Profit after tax was EUR 2.5 billion (EUR 1.9 billion). "The Volkswagen Group has established a strong position in recent years. Our good start to the current fiscal year is an additional proof of this. We must now continue improving our position and maintain our successful course as part of the systematic implementation of our Strategy 2018", said Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, in Wolfsburg on Tuesday.

Global demand for passenger cars continued to rise in the first quarter of 2014. However, market trends were mixed at a regional level. The number of new registrations in the Asia-Pacific region, Western Europe, North America and Central Europe increased year-on-year, while the emerging markets in South America and Eastern Europe recorded lower market volumes. The weak currencies of key emerging economies pushed prices up and thus put pressure on demand. "These challenges mean that it is more important than ever that we focus on three key action areas: firstly, disciplined cost and investment management, secondly, our profitability targets and thirdly, improved profitability in all regions", said CFO Hans Dieter Pötsch.

Net liquidity in the Automotive Division remains high

Net liquidity in the Automotive Division amounted to EUR 17.7 billion at the end of March (December 31, 2013: EUR 16.9 billion). Liquidity was reduced by the capital increase in the Financial Services Division, while the successful placement of hybrid notes strengthened the Automotive Division's capital base. Investments in property, plant and equipment (capex) in the Automotive Division remained virtually unchanged at EUR 1.6 billion (EUR 1.7 billion). The Volkswagen Group maintained its disciplined approach to investment with a ratio of capex to sales revenue in the Automotive Division of 3.9 percent (4.1 percent). Investments were made primarily in production facilities and in the models to be launched in 2014 and 2015, as well as in the ecological focus of the model range.

Brands and business fields

The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand recorded an operating profit of EUR 440 million (EUR 590 million) in the first quarter of 2014. It should be noted that this figure does not include the Chinese joint ventures. Operating profit was negatively impacted by lower sales volumes, negative exchange rate trends especially in South America and Russia and higher upfront investments in new technologies, while lower material costs and improvements in the mix had a positive effect.

AUDI's operating profit was on a level with the prior-year period, at EUR 1.3 billion (EUR 1.3 billion). Operating profit was impacted by high upfront investments in new products and technologies, as well as in the expansion of the international production network.

ŠKODA generated an operating profit of EUR 185 million (EUR 112 million) in the first quarter of 2014, up 65.2 percent on the previous year on the back of volume and mix-related factors.

SEAT's operating loss improved by EUR 10 million to EUR 36 million (EUR 46 million).

BENTLEY's operating profit climbed by 65.7 percent year-on-year to EUR 45 million in the first quarter (EUR 27 million).

Porsche recorded an operating profit of EUR 698 million (EUR 573 million) in the first three months.

At EUR 136 million, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles more than doubled its operating profit compared with the first quarter of 2013 (EUR 60 million).

Scania posted an operating profit of EUR 254 million (EUR 227 million). MAN generated an operating profit of EUR 68 million (previous year: operating loss of EUR 102 million).

Volkswagen Financial Services recorded an operating profit of EUR 353 million in the first quarter of 2014, on a level with the previous year. The division signed 1.1 million new financing, leasing and service/insurance contracts worldwide (+ 17 percent).

Winterkorn: "We are pursuing the goal of offering all customers the mobility and innovation they need."

The Volkswagen Group is well positioned to deal with the mixed developments in the automotive markets. The Group's strengths include its unique brand portfolio covering almost all segments, from motorcycles through subcompact cars to heavy trucks and buses, its steadily growing presence in all major world markets and its wide range of financial services.

"We offer an extensive range of environmentally friendly, cutting-edge, high-quality vehicles for all markets and customer groups that is unparalleled in the industry", said Winterkorn. The Volkswagen Group will press ahead with its product initiative across all brands in 2014, and modernize and expand its offering by introducing attractive new vehicles. "We are pursuing the goal of offering all customers the mobility and innovation they need, thus sustainably strengthening our competitive position", Winterkorn added.

The Volkswagen Group is expecting a moderate increase in deliveries to customers in fiscal year 2014. Challenges for the Volkswagen Group will come from the difficult market environment and fierce competition, as well as interest rate and exchange rate volatility and fluctuations in raw materials prices. Volkswagen believes that the modular toolkit system, which is being continuously expanded, will have an increasingly positive effect on the Group's cost structure.

Depending on economic conditions, Volkswagen is expecting 2014 sales revenue for the Group and its business areas to move within a range of 3 percent around the prior-year figure. In terms of the Group's operating profit, Volkswagen is forecasting an operating return on sales of between 5.5 percent and 6.5 percent in 2014 in light of the challenging economic environment, and the same range for the Passenger Cars Business Area. The Group expects the Commercial Vehicles/Power Engineering Business Area to moderately exceed the 2013 figure. Volkswagen anticipates an operating return on sales of between 8.0 percent and 9.0 percent in the Financial Services Division.

The complete interim report is published on our website:
http://www.volkswagenag.com/ir/Q1_2014_e.pdf

January – March	2014	2013	%
Volume Data
Deliveries to customers ('000 units)	2,442	2,314	+ 5.6
Vehicle sales ('000 units)	2,562	2,375	+ 7.9
Production ('000 units)	2,565	2,388	+ 7.4
Employees (Mar. 31/Dec. 31)	574,900	572,800	+ 0.4
Financial Data (IFRSs), EUR million
Sales revenue	47,831	46,565	+ 2.7
Operating profit	2,855	2,344	+ 21.8
as a percentage of sales revenue	6.0	5.0
Profit before tax	3,357	2,688	+ 24.9
Profit after tax	2,468	1,946	+ 26.8
Automotive Division
Cash flows from operating activities	2,251	3,528	- 36.2
Cash flows from investing activities attributable to operating activities	2,302	3,942	- 41.6
of which: acquisition of property, plant and equipment	1,625	1,672	- 2.8
as a percentage of sales revenue	3.9	4.1
Net liquidity at Mar. 31	17,714	10,649	+ 66.3
Net liquidity at Mar. 31/Dec. 31	17,714	16,869	+ 5.0