The North American International Auto Show, affectionately known as the Detroit Auto Show, has been showcasing the best that the automotive world has to offer for more than 100 years. [Editor’s note: They don’t look a day over 40.] The show officially opens to the public on Saturday, January 14th, and if you make it out to the Motor City, be sure to drop by our booth and check out a few of the latest cars and technologies that Volkswagen has to offer.
VW Jetta Hybrid
The all-new Jetta Hybrid debuted during press days and is located on the main stage at the Volkswagen booth. Unlike other Jetta models, the Jetta Hybrid is powered by a high-tech turbocharged gasoline engine that is paired with a zero-emissions electric motor. It can also be driven in pure electric mode at speeds of up to 44 mph and for up to 1.2 miles, depending on operating conditions. It’s the world’s first hybrid to feature a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and it has a class-leading 0-60 mph time of less than 9.0 seconds. Sure, it’s a hybrid, but it’s safe to say that this is not a typical hybrid. The Jetta Hybrid launches in North America in late 2012, so don’t miss your chance to see it now.
Beetle World
We’ve got something special in store for Beetle fans. Actually, make that three somethings: the 2012 Beetle and two concept vehicles, the E-Bugster and Fender Beetle. By now, you’re familiar with the 2012 Beetle, but feel free to get up close and personal at the show and spend some quality with one.
The E-Bugster is an exciting new concept vehicle: an open-top two-seater with aggressive, sporty looks powered by an electric heart. Its lithium ion battery enables it to drive more than 100 miles at a time, all with zero emissions.
Our other concept car truly rocks. No, really. The Fender Beetle, a collaboration between Volkswagen and classic guitar manufacturer Fender, is the ultimate rock and roll vehicle. Fender’s signature Sunburst coloration lines the cabin’s genuine wood trim, and its Fender sound system offers the kind of light-colored mesh you’d find on an old Fender amp. The HVAC controls are metalized to look like vintage amp knobs, and best of all, there’s an actual tube amp on top of the dash. If all these features have you wanting to grab your guitar and go for it, feel free. There’s a quarter-inch socket and tone adjustments in the hatch area, so plug in your guitar and play it through the subwoofer.
Think Blue
As part of our Think Blue initiative of creating environmentally friendly solutions, encouraging eco-conscious behavior and contributing to a sustainable future, our main stage also features our Think Blue Screen. The interactive touchscreen helps you determine your eco-footprint via a series of questions and lets you know how you can make a change for the better.
Owner’s Lounge
Feeling a little auto show overload? Volkswagen owners are invited to show their car key for entrance into the upstairs Owner’s Lounge. Grab a seat, enjoy snacks and refreshments and take in a bird’s-eye view of all the action. Once you’re feeling fully refreshed, check out the entire Volkswagen lineup, including the Golf R, which arrives at dealerships in early 2012, the Passat, aka the 2012 Motor Trend Car of the Year, and the Passat TDI, which features clean diesel technology and boasts up to 43 mpg. You can also see the Eos, Tiguan, Touareg Hybrid, Jetta TDI, Jetta Sportwagen, Jetta GLI, and the all-new 2013 CC. They’re all looking forward to meeting you.
Tell us: what are you looking forward to seeing?
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