Vag Owners

Each month I put almost 3000 miles on my car and usually change my oil that same month at my local dealership. There is a list of things that I've noticed dealerships could do to improve a customer experience in both sales and service but I wanted to address one that is very apparent. I've never understood why a dealership seems divided into two different divisions; sales and service. It's almost as if there is a civil war between the two and sending customers across the battle lines is something of the past. When did this begin to happen - when was it that a Dealer sat back with his management team and said "Let's divide?" I don't believe that was ever the case, but the fact is that most...

Email marketing solution scan turn these tough times into a positive economic upturn for your used car dealership. As the economy falters buyers are more inclined toward buying used than new in this type of market, so you need to strike while the iron is hot. By growing your mailing list and sending out promotions you can make transition from paper and print ads to online marketing, saving you thousands and expanding your client base while others' shrink. Because you've already mastered the art of customer service, email marketing solutions makes it easy to expand the size of your customer and client base. Here is a three step strategy to help you make the easy transition from expensive paper and...

This is part one of a two part series conducted about the internet customer and how they are changing the selling landscape for automotive salespeople. When you take anyone out of their natural element, the adjustment is always difficult and sometimes impossible to overcome. This theory holds true in the automotive industry. Internet customers are a misunderstood species to the car salesperson and its dealership. There are typically two types of customers who shop for automobiles on the internet. You have the customer that wishes to make the most informed decision possible. They want to see every statistic, every opinion, and any other piece of data they can get their hands on before they begin to...

With many things in this world, there is more than meets the eye. Such is the case with "buy here, pay here" car dealers. The opportunity to obtain guaranteed auto financing without a credit check is very appealing to people that have had a tough time with car credit. Even so, the drawbacks of using this form of car financing can wreak havoc on your immediate and long term financial future. If you are wanting to repair your credit, a "buy here, pay here" dealer isn't going to do it. They don't report to any of the major credit bureaus in 99% of cases. Only a legitimate auto loan will help to improve your car credit. Many people that start using in-house dealer financing never get out of the cycle of...

A car dealership without video surveillance is a dealership waiting for disaster. This is because the very valuable inventory sitting on the lot is susceptible to theft and vandalism. Because Automobiles, depending on their make, model, year, and features, can range anywhere from a few thousand dollars in price to a few hundred thousand. In other words, a car dealership is leaving millions of dollars in inventory on a paring lot. That means millions of dollars is being exposed to the potential of theft, to harmful weather, and to vandalism for hours at a time. The only solution to this is surveillance via an IP camera. What is IP camera surveillance? An IP camera is a video surveillance security...

If you've got the bad credit blues, you're probably thinking that if you want to get financing, that you'll have to get your car loan through a dealership that offers in house financing. This is a common mistake that many people make and you need to know why. You do not have to use in house financing if you have bad credit. Do you want to anyway? Probably not. There are two main reasons that this type of auto financing should be avoided and I'll explain them to you in simple terms. You'll pay more for the car. These types of car lots charge much more for vehicles than they should to be able to sleep at night. When you buy from a normal car dealer, you pay less than retail. When you buy from a dealer...

ATTENTION: My great grandfather started in the auto business over 80 years ago, which means I was brought up hearing about cars all the time! Which is good for you, because I am now passing on the information. The following article will reveal the most unreliable vehicles from model years 1998 to 2005 and alert you to those that have been problematic. This data is compiled by Consumer Reports and ConsumerReports.org readers from April 1, 2004 until March 31st 2005 (the next report comes out in April 2007). This is highly valuable and cost saving information, as you don' t want to buy a car with problems with the transmission or cooling system because these can be serious and expensive to repair. In...

ces jumped right past $3 last year without warning and could do so again anytime. With so many great fuel-stingy cars out there, why take a chance? Below are the ten 2006 cars whose mileage numbers will best protect you from a pinch. Note that this is EPA’s estimated mileage, which comes with the fine print of “results may vary” thanks to its archaic testing procedures. Still, the tests are consistent from car to car, so the finishing order of the cars can be expected to hold up in the real world, even if the exact numbers don’t. City Freeway Average 1. Honda Insight 60 66 63 2. Toyota Prius automatic 60 51 55.5 3. Honda Civic Hybrid 49 51 50 4. Volkswagen Beetle TDI 37 44 40.5 5...

"Diesel engines are more efficient." TRUE New diesel engines in Europe get around 5-10 MPG more than gas engines. Of course, it all depends on how you drive. It also depends on the models you compare. Small economy class cars like the Renault Clio will be light enough that gas engines are still very efficient. The difference is more noticeable with larger vehicles (midsize and up). "Diesel engines aren't as powerful as gas engines." FALSE While this may have been true in the early 1980's when diesel cars were essentially in rough draft form, it is not true at all today. The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI (Turbo Diesel Injection) gives you 140 horse power and produces 236 ft-lbs of torque while still...

ough many of them are now working on hybrids, European automakers’ longstanding response to gasoline-electric vehicles—long championed by Japanese companies—has been to first scoff and then to point to their robust lineups of fuel-efficient diesel powertrains. Of course, diesels represent about 50 percent of the market in Europe, but they have never been offered widely in America. Fluctuating fuel prices are slowly beginning to change that, and while Euro diesels recently launched in the States have been installed in sedans and SUVs, small oil-burners make sense, too. After all, if a premium sedan with the economy of a compact is impressive, let’s see what happens when you drop a...

Beach VW Turbocharged GTI Do not underestimate the performance of the new Volkswagen GTI. Similar to the Rabbit, it shares the same platform and is available in both two and four doors. The new VW is a sleek hatchback that sits slightly lower to the ground than previous years which lowers the center of gravity for improved handling. The new Volkswagen GTI boasts a stiff chassis which is designed to take on curves with ease and precision. VW Power! The new Myrtle Beach VW will feature a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine which produces 200 horsepower to the front wheels through the standard six-speed manual transmission. The new Volkswagen GTI can accelerate 0 to 60 in seven seconds flat. A...

Well, the automotive industry's war on big vehicles just got ugly. But sometimes we have to set aesthetics aside and focus on practicality. In fact, the entire market has been changing so swiftly that smaller cars are poised to inundate the global markets over the next several years. The same goes for fuel efficient vehicles, cars that represent the progression of the industry as a result of increased scrutiny brought on by the global recession. Pugi VW dealers stand stalwart on the front lines of the battle, and the announcement of a new "mini" vehicle has put drivers into a frenzy. The new VW Minis, which will arrive on the market around the beginning of 2011, are based on the 2007 concept "Up...

Last year, a clean diesel topped the ranks according to the Green Car Journal. This year, the same honor was bestowed on another clean diesel car - the Audi A3 TDI. Biofuels are a trend that will not fade any time soon and with fuel efficient alternatives like the Mercury Milan Hybrid, Toyota Prius and Honda Insight Hybrid gracing the roadways while saving the ozone layer, there is little reason to desire otherwise. The 2010 winner of the cleanest fuel based car boasts of an impressive 42 miles to the gallon. The Audi A3 is also offered in a gasoline alternative, but that version offers 50% fewer miles per gallon. Last year, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI won the award, but the Audi squeezed by this year...

Rising fuel cost is everyone's concern. Even though an individual does not own a car, they are still affected with the volatile market of the oil industry. This is why some people would prefer to buy fuel efficient cars because this does not only save them money but it also helps environment. For car retailers who are looking to sell fuel-efficient cars, here is 2009's top 10 list (in no particular order): 1. Ford Escape Hybrid (2009 model -) The Miles Per Gallon (MPG) of this vehicle for City/Highway/Combined is 34/31/32. 2. MINI Cooper (2009 model)- The MPG or City/Highway/Combined is 28/36/32. 3. Toyota Camry Hybrid (2010 model) - The MPG for City/Highway/Combined is 33/34/34. 4. Nissan Altima...

Last week we discussed the new US fuel efficiency standards that were agreed between the White House, Environmentalists and the Auto Industry. We questioned the concerns of those who suggest that US consumers will not spend extra money on a more fuel efficient car unless the cost of fuel increases and remains high. Continuing with this topic, we have also heard from the other side of the spectrum that the fuel efficiency standard of 39 mpg for a passenger car to be met in incremental stages before 2016 is too low. Here they may have a point. The average fuel efficiency of all cars, SUVs and minivans in the US is around 23 mpg. In Europe and Japan that figure is over 40 mpg. So if Europe and Japan...

The environment should be a priority for everyone. For car owners, the options are not that difficult, especially with the price of gas so high these days. For many years, the market has been dominated by gas- powered vehicles. Now, alternatives are available that give consumers environmentally friendly cars aside from the ordinary gasoline automobile. There are different types of green cars. The most impressive of all is the full battery operated vehicle. It doesn't need a single drop of gasoline as it is powered exclusively by electricity. But for the time being, these engines are fairly limited in their mileage as they need to be recharged after less than 100 miles of driving distance...

Which vehicles can provide you with savings on the used car market? Everyone is looking to save money but buying a new car with better mileage is not always the best option. Honda Insight: If you were lucky enough to catch a Honda Insight from 2000-2006 you would have one of the most efficient vehicles on the road. Even though the car is a two seater, it makes a great commuter car. Most people commute solo, so this might be OK. Pros: 70(highway)/61(city)gas mileage, aerodynamic design, Honda quality as a used vehicle. Cons: Small dimensions, some models have no A/C, "low resistance" tire replacement cost, battery pack replacement a possibility. Toyota Echo: The small Echo (2000-2005) never really...

I have written often about the overwhelming importance of design in successfully differentiating and branding products. We all know examples of well-designed products that become standards. The Ferrari sports car, the Rolex watch, the Barbie Doll, a Krups toaster or the PEZ candy dispenser are obvious examples of packaging, or product design that become ubiquitous to consumers around the world. When the rare Ferrari Testarossa roars by on the highway, we instantly know that the "yellow prancing horse" badge sits proudly and desirably on the world's most exotically styled automobile. One of the most famous industrial designers of the 20th century was Raymond Loewy. Born in France, Mr. Loewy became...

In 1990s, midsize SUVs slowly replaced family minivans and sedans. Few models were created at first until it grew to around 35 recognized midsize SUVs at present. Midsize SUVs are proven to be more reliable compared to sedans and minivans on rough roads. The versatility of midsize SUVs in both road and off-road driving gives them an edge. Midsize SUVs are also more convenient to use compared to large SUVs if the size of your family is only average. It is more fuel efficient and can be maneuvered more easily. Out of the 35 recognized models in this class, the VW Touareg and Land Rover LR3 are ideal for middle class families because they are considerably more affordable. The prices of these two do not...

During the early years of the automobile industry your choice of a vehicle largely depended on where you lived. The earliest ones were hand-built in limited quantities and distributed locally. Charles and Frank Duryea built their horseless carriages in Springfield, Massachusetts. Alexander Winton manufactured gas-power vehicles in Cleveland and Albert Pope produced Waverly electrics in Indianapolis. A group of young upstarts led by David Dunbar Buick, Ransom Olds and Henry Ford built a variety of gas, electric and steam-powered runabouts and sedans in Detroit. As automobiles became both more reliable and affordable, they also became more popular. Growing demand meant manufacturers' could no longer...

In the news: Skoda, Volkswagen subsidiary and recipient of VW exhaust part will once again try its luck in the Australian market after 25 years. Volkswagen plans to introduce its Skoda brand in Australia this coming October. Matthew Weisner, Volkswagen Group of Australia general manager, press and public relations have been appointed as head of Skoda Australia and his duty includes the re-launch of the Skoda brand. Although a bit reluctant Weisner said that he will do his best to promote Skoda to the Australian market. Skoda's lineup for Australia includes the following:o Fabia - this Volkswagen Polo-sized light car derived its styling cues from the Mini Cooper and Suzuki Swift. The Fabia was...

When Henry Ford first started producing automobiles to realize his dream of a car for the common man, a car was, well, a car. Although an object of desire, it was still an object. It did not have a persona nor did it have a gender. Although in the early days, most of the drivers were men. However, the invention of the electric starter put women in the driver's seat. And once women started to drive cars it naturally followed that sooner or later women would start to buy cars. So men bought cars, women bought cars and couples bought cars together. However, along with technology, car manufacturing became more and more sophisticated in its effort to appeal to a buying public. At first, we heard the...

The automotive market has been shifting quickly over the past year. Since the problems that the recession caused for auto sales, down huge numbers over 2008-09, fuel efficiency and progression have been primary focuses for manufacturers across the globe, and Pugi VW has been very quick to jump on the bandwagon. It isn't like Volkswagen wasn't poised for the consumer market's shift towards smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles; the manufacturer has had a penchant for the small car segment for as long as it has been around. Still, VW Downers Grove drivers were pleasantly surprised to hear about some of the praise that the new VW GTI has gotten in recent months. As one of the biggest accomplishments a...

iv id="body"> Volkswagen, Europe's largest car maker, showed its new TSI petrol engine (90 kW / 122 PS) along with the world's first seven-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) for the compact and mid-class. These products were presented at the International Vienna Engine Symposium in April 26-27 and will be launched in the half of 2007. These products are Volkswagen's way of continuing its drive train offensive. TSI means maximum power accompanied with minimal consumption. This is done by mixing direct injection and turbo charging with minimal engine capacity. The Golf and Touran can use these TSI engines, which has a power output of 103 and 125 kilowatts. The third option in the engine line-up is the...

Mazda Canada Inc. earlier announced that it has chosen a new preferred parts technology provider –OEConnection LLC, a leading provider of web-based technology solutions for automakers. In its agreement with the automaker, OEConnection agreed to provide Mazda with integrated web-based solutions to help create a virtual in-circulation parts warehouse by connecting each segment in the importer's replacement parts supply chain, including the automaker’s network of 163 separately owned and franchised new vehicle dealerships, its parts distribution centers, and corporate parts operation. The automaker chose OEConnection technology for its ability to provide franchisees with faster, more timely online...

Plan an historic touring vacation in and around Hounslow, Greater London. There are three hotels to choose from within one mile. Days Hotel Hounslow is only five miles from Heathrow Airport. The Continental is a modern 4 star hotel with 67 rooms. All rooms include a mini-bar, air conditioning and room service. It offers exercise equipment, and an on-site beauty salon. The third is a Days Hotel Hounslow (Independent), which has a bar and restaurant. It is a 3 star hotel and also located near the Heathrow Airport. All three will put you in close proximity to many leading attractions. This includes the world famous Stonehenge. Choose from overnight excursions or day trips to visit this mysterious...

Elegance or whimsy, magic or comfort, flowers can deliver the message to those we love and there's no better place to be when giving or receiving a floral gift of love than Orlando, Florida. Vacationers and residents alike rely on Valentine's Day Flower Shops to produce exactly the effect they want with flowers and on time, customized delivery in the greater metropolitan area of Orlando, Florida. The only surprise in a Valentine's Day Flower Shops transaction is on the recipient's face when they receive the stunning flowers which perfectly suit the occasion in their life. There is never any doubt or second-guessing when you order delivery through an Valentine's Day Flower Shop's secure on-line or...

The first ever SUV that Volkswagen manufacturer of high quality VW fan has restyled for the 2008 model year is returning as the Touareg 2. The updated version is scheduled to hit showrooms later this spring and will feature an updated exterior styling, additional list of safety features and vehicle capabilities, plus three powerful engine options. The Touareg 2 made its official debut at the New York International Auto Show. Its base price is $39,320. This new Touareg has derived its design cues from the other Volkswagen model lineup. Its exterior styling reflects the brand's signature design with its new Volkswagen face particularly its chrome front grille. The Touareg 2 was also given a...

you are left handed, you are simply used to looking at the world through a right-handed person's eyes. Everything has been created with them in mind. However, left handed people do make up approximately ten percent of the world's population. That's a lot of left-handers out there, trying to deal with this righthanded world. Left-handed people are also likely to have high I.Q.s, so they have become quite smart at adapting to the world. One of the biggest adaptations is the automobile. However, many automobile manufacturers are responding to the needs of left-handed people and are creating left-handed cars. These left-handed cars are quite popular with this segment of the population. For those of us...

The Volkswagen Beetle was the adorable bug shaped car which started off the retro-futurist design craze. This trend is still going strong even today and the modernized version of this legendary car struck a cord with buyers who had grown tired of the average conservative car designs. The fond memories of the "Bugs" from their youth also helped people to see the new version with a positive mind set. The Current Volkswagen New Beetle is a four-wheel-drive and is available as a two-door hatchback or a two-door convertible. Even though this version is based on the Previous generation platforms, it has less interior space than them and also lesser than most of the others in the compact car segment of the...

Please keep in mind this article has been compiled keeping in mind the stats by the end of year 2008. 4. Ford Escort/Orion (From 1968-2003) In the fourth position we have the Ford Orion. Ford Orion or Escort's production began way back in 1968, and the production stopped in the year 2003. But within this time frame, Ford was able to sell close to 20 million cars. Ford wanted to make the car for European countries, and they came up with the Ford Orion. Specifically built for Europe; its a Saloon car. It was the time when the saloons were being replaced with the brand new hatchbacks. But Ford Orion sold more because of the features it gave to the owner. It had sunroof, locking, electric windows...

Volkswagen formulated another SUV entry for 2008 that spells bold and exotic. The concept vehicle is dubbed as Tiguan, a peculiar name coined from tiger and leguan (German word of iguana). Said name was elected by some 350,000 readers of Germany’s Auto Bild magazine. VW Tiguan debuted at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show held last month. VW Tiguan is a Golf/Rabbit-based concept that hosts a wide variety of powertrain combinations. One of which is the 50-state-compliant 2.0-liter diesel. Said engine will also be incorporated to other VW vehicles like the 2008 Rabbit and Jetta. The engine produces 140 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. Other engine options include the current 200-hp...

Porsche Automobil Holding SE was founded in Stuttgart, Germany in 1931 by Ferdinand Porsche, who also designed the first Volkswagen Beetle. Over time, these two companies have shared automobile manufacturing technologies with Porsche targeting the high-end market and Volkswagen targeting the low-end market. Porsche has gradually purchased larger stakes of Volkswagen and in August 2009, Porsche arranged with Volkswagen to merge by the year 2011. Porsche and Volkswagen have continued to share automobile components. The Porsche Cayenne and Volkswagen Touareg share the same vehicle platform. Porsche is well-known for producing luxury, high-performance, sports cars. Porsche has been very successful in...

Volkswagen’s Touareg has one of the cleanest diesel engines in the world. Its BlueTDI engine with SCR catalytic converter reduces nitrogen dioxide (NOx) emissions by up to 90 percent. Touareg BlueTDI delivers 165kW/225 PS and meets even the strictest “Tier2 Bin5” exhaust emissions standards implemented in the US states particularly in California, Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, and Maine. In the USA economical turbo-diesels like the V6 BlueTDI more than any present day powertrain technology can help in reducing oil consumption and the generation of climate-impacting greenhouse gases. Volkswagen will offer the Touareg with the SCR catalytic converter starting 2008 first in the US as part of...