VW

Volkswagen has expanded the new Tiguan model line-up with the addition of two new engines, 2.0 TDI with 110kW and 2.0 TSI with 140kW. Both engines are offered with a 7-speed DSG transmission.

Since its local launch in August 2024, the new Volkswagen Tiguan has sold 1 190 units. The new Tiguan has striked a good chord with the local motoring journalists who have named it as one of the finalists in the 2025 Old Mutual Car of the Year (COTY) competition. The winner will be announced in May 2025.

The two engines are available in the Life and R-Line derivatives.

The new Tiguan Life features a 10-color ambient lighting in dashboard and doors, leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with shifting paddles, front seats with height adjustment, safety-optimised front head restraints, illuminated molding between headlamps rear combination lamps and illuminated door handle recesses, black roof rails, body coloured bumpers, black trim strips on the side windows, seat upholstery in fabric with inserts in “Life“ pattern including 17-inch Bari alloy-wheels.

The new Tiguan R-Line features sports comfort seats in front, 30-colour ambient lighting in dashboard and doors, illuminated decorative inserts in front, leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel sports, heated, with shifting paddles, bumper in sports style, air intake with glossy black trim, Silver anodised roof rails, chrome trim strips on the side windows, Varenna leather ErgoActive massage seats including 19-inch Coventry alloy wheels.

The new Tiguan 2.0 TDI 4Motion with 110kW engine develops maximum torque of 340 Nm available between 1750 and 3000 rpm. This engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.4 seconds and has a top speed of 207 km/h. The 2.0 TDI engine is available with Life and R-Line derivatives.

The new Tiguan 2.0 TSI 4Motion with 140kW engine develops maximum torque of 350 Nm available between 1500 and 4400 rpm. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint is achieved in 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 225 km/h.

Retail Prices (VAT and emissions tax included)

• Tiguan 1.4 TSI 110kW DSG – R 664,500
• Tiguan 1.4 TSI 110kW Life – DSG R 716,900
• Tiguan 2.0 TDI 110kW Life 4Motion – DSG R 770,800
• Tiguan 1.4 TSI 110kW R-Line DSG – R 781,600
• Tiguan 2.0 TDI 110kW R-Line 4Motion DSG – R 851,500
• Tiguan 2.0 TSI 140kW R-Line 4Motion DSG – R 852,600

The new Volkswagen Tiguan comes standard with a 3 year/120 000 km warranty, 5 year / 90 000 km EasyDrive Service Plan including a 12 year anti corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000 km.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is set to launch the new Crafter in the first half 2025.

The new Crafter will come standard with digital instruments such as the Digital Cockpit and a 10.3-inch infotainment display based on the latest modular infotainment matrix (MIB). The visually freestanding Volkswagen system has a newly developed graphical interface and self-extensive technical update for the now Crafter explanatory menu navigation.

The handbrake and the switch for the automatic gearbox have been redesigned, as well as the controls for the light functions, the buttons in the centre console and all vents.

The range of new standard and optional assist systems raises the successful product line to a new level and thus makes everyday work easier for Crafter drivers.

All new Crafter derivatives will have the following systems on board as standard in future: digital instrument cluster, multi-function steering wheel, keyless start, electromechanical parking brake with hill-hold, 10.3-inch infotainment with manual air conditioning, inductive charging and acoustic Park Distance Control for the front and rear area

The new model offers drivers maximum flexibility and the widest model range in the class: up to three different vehicle lengths are available, depending on the model chosen: 5.9 m, 6.84 m or 7.39 m. Panel van variants also come with one of three different roof heights: 2.35 m, 2.59 m or 2.79 m.

Unlike in the previous generation Crafter, the new model is available with front or rear-wheel drive, 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission, plus 4MOTION four-wheel drive. Its maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) ranges from 3.50 tonnes (35 LCV), 388 tonnes (35 MCV) and 5.00 tonnes (50 MCV) and is available in a wide variety of derivatives.

The new Crafter draws on the design structure and quality of its ‘little brother’, the sixth-generation Transporter: while looking dynamic and contemporary, it offers the greatest possible payload, a cargo volume of up to 17.5 m3 and a maximum cargo space height of 2,096 mm

The line-up will feature new 2.0 TDI engines (103kW, 120kW and 130kW), an 8-speed automatic transmission on the 50 variants as well as a long-wheel base alternative on the 35 4MOTION.

Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has officially taken over the local retail operations of the Ducati Brand in South Africa, effective 1 January 2025.

The announcement of Ducati as the fourth brand in Volkswagen Group Africa’s brand portfolio in South Africa was made at the annual media event hosted in Kariega. The addition of Ducati diversifies VWGA’s brand portfolio which includes Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Audi and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

VWGA’s responsibilities include the management of retail operations and import of Ducati motorcycles, as well as parts and accessories, for the South African market.

Simphiwe Nghona, Head: Sales and Marketing at VWGA, said: “Ducati is a premium international motorcycle brand with a strong and proud heritage. Over the years, it has built a loyal and passionate client base in South Africa which our company is excited and looking forward to servicing from now on. We are confident that the current and future Ducati clients will positively benefit from our established sales and after sales processes, as well as our dealer network.”

VWGA is planning to grow the Ducati brand, and broadened the client reach through integrating the Ducati brand into three dealer sites, which will be located in Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu Natal. The current approved retailer in Gauteng has been retained for the region. A new retailer in Cape Town, which is an existing Audi dealer, has been appointed. The plans are in progress to appoint a retailer in Durban for KZN.

Nghona added: “We have set an ambitious growth target for the brand in its first two years of full operations under the VWGA stewardship. Our target is to achieve a double-digit market share in South Africa by the end of 2026 from the current market share base. The brand growth will be boosted by a range of exciting models which will be introduced in South Africa over the next two years.”

VWGA has appointed Tertius Cronje to head the Ducati Brand in South Africa. Cronje has 24 years of experience in the automotive retail business gained in the local and international markets. His experience includes 10 years in the motorcycle retail business.

“South Africa is the ideal environment for our motorcycles range, either for track use, twisty roads or gravel. I am sure that this, together with the passion and professionalism of our new partner, Volkswagen Group Africa, will allow us to provide great experiences to our Ducatisti, allowing us to expand our presence in the country and getting closer to their needs, also considering that in the country there are some of the greatest collectors in the world of special cars and bikes,” commented Francesco Milicia, Director: Global Sales & After Sales at Ducati Motor Holding Spa.

Volkswagen presents the all-new Tayron, launching in the second half of 2025.

The 7-seater sport utility vehicle is positioned between the Touareg and the Tiguan and the vehicle is engineered and built in Wolfsburg, Germany.

Technology systems that were first developed for the Touareg have been adapted. Examples of the technology transferred to the Tayron include the interactive IQ.LIGHT HD matrix headlights and the seats with a pneumatic 10-chamber pressure point massage function.

Tayron Life – everything on board. The Tayron will launch with two equipment lines: Life and R-Line. The Tayron Life, which comes with an extensive equipment package. Among the features on board are a three-zone automatic air conditioner, 10-colour background lighting, nine airbags, driving experience control (which adjusts driving profiles), an infotainment system with App-Connect Wireless (for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). The vehicle also includes digital instruments, LED headlights with automatic main beam control (Light Assist), illuminated Volkswagen logos at the front and rear, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Standard assist systems include adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane change system (Side Assist), lane keeping system (Lane Assist), an automatic emergency braking system with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring (Front Assist), Park Assist Plus, a rear-view camera system. Additionally, the Tayron comes with a new exit warning system, which can prevent a door from being opened if a vehicle approaches from behind, offering both acoustic and visual warnings.

Tayron R-Line – top version. Above the Life variant there’s the sporty R-Line version. The dynamic Tayron R-Line is characterised by details such as sports comfort seats in Varenna leather with integrated head restraints, extensive use of leather in the dash panel and doors, aluminium-look decorative trim, individual bumpers in an R-Line design and 19-inch alloy wheels. The R-Line is also equipped with LED Plus headlights (including dynamic cornering light), 3D LED tail clusters with dynamic turn signal and 30-colour background lighting including illuminated interior applications in the dash panel and door trim.

Technology highlights – HD headlights. Other optional equipment for the Tayron includes innovative systems such as Volkswagen’s sophisticated IQ.LIGHT HD matrix headlights with interactive lighting functions, a large tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, a Harman Kardon sound system with a music output of 700 W and a high-quality leather package with electrically adjustable ergoActive Plus seats including massage and ventilation functions. Equipment options include innovative assist systems such as Travel Assist, which provides assisted longitudinal and lateral guidance over the entire speed range.

Further details on the engine offering will be shared closer to launch.

On top of achieving a new record production volume for its Kariega plant in 2024, Volkswagen Group Africa also ended last year with its best-ever performance in terms of export.

The company’s plant in Kariega, which has been exporting vehicles since 1992 and manufacturing Polos since 1996, exported 131 485 units of this popular vehicle in 2024. This is a strong increase from the previous export record, set at 108 422 vehicles in 2019. As of July 2024, VWGA is the sole exporter of the Polo for European and Asian Pacific markets, delivering this model to 38 countries. Overall, these Polos accounted for 88% of exported vehicles through the Port of Port Elizabeth last year.

The Polo also performed strongly in the local market in 2024, selling 12 253 units and garnering a 4th position in the segment, while the locally-built Polo Vivo claimed the top spot in the segment with 25 914 units sold. On top of this, both vehicles performed well at the Naamsa Accelerator Awards in October 2024: the Volkswagen Polo was named the Top Locally Manufactured Vehicle of the Year and the Top Exported Vehicle of the Year, while the Vivo landed the coveted Passenger Car of the Year award.

The strong position of the Polo locally and abroad sets Volkswagen Group Africa for a good year, just in time for the 50th anniversary of this beloved car. Since 1975, more than 20 million Polos spanning six generations of the vehicle have been sold worldwide, and the Polo is considered one of the most successful models in its class.

“What a privilege for Plant Kariega to be a part of the history of this fantastic car,” said Martina Biene, VWGA Chairperson and Managing Director. “We love the Polo as much as our customers do – if not more – and as the Home of Polo we will proudly continue building and sending this vehicle to the world.

“The success of the Polo, both locally and internationally, is testament to what an icon this vehicle is. I want to thank every employee for their contribution to that success in 2024; with a team like the Volkswagen Group Africa family, I am confident that 2025 will be a year of achievements as well.”

Volkswagen introduces the new Transporter which is set to launch in the second half of 2025.

The new generation Transporter offers more space, load capacity, more sustainable and economical mobility for all.

Anything is possible: The range of new-generation Transporter models available is impressively large. At launch, the new Transporter will be available in a panel van variant with a long wheel wheelbase and two engine as well asgearbox options (2.0 TDI 81kW 6-spd manual and 2.0 TDI 110kW 8-spd automatic).

Well-equipped Transporter: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has significantly expanded the standard equipment package for its new Transporter models compared with the predecessor versions. The following features now come as standard: LED headlights including Light Assist, an electronic parking brake with Auto Hold function, 12-inch digital instruments (Digital Cockpit), an infotainment system (including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 13-inch touchscreen), a multifunction steering wheel, Keyless Start system, rain sensor, Lane Assist lane keeping system, Front Assist automatic emergency braking system and dynamic road sign display. The panel van is also equipped with a partition as standard.

The new Transporter now has an electronic parking brake plus Auto Hold function. Operation of the electronic parking brake has been moved to the dash panel, freeing up more space in the footwell for through-cab access to the rear (depending on derivative and partition type). The selector lever for the automatic gearbox now takes the form of a steering column switch. As before, the gear lever for the manual gearbox is located in the centre console. The automatic versions have two cup holders in this location; this compartment can be closed with a shutter. There are additional cup holders and practical stowage compartments for items of all kinds in the upper part of the dash panel.

Noticeably better across the board: Compared with the predecessor model (T6.1), the new Transporter offers significantly more space, higher payload and greater towing capacity. The stowage volume of the panel van with long wheelbase and standard roof has increased to 6.8 m3. Three Euro pallets fit into the load compartment of the long wheelbase version. The maximum payload has also increased to up to 1.33 tonnes Volkswagen has also increased the maximum trailer weight, which may now be as much as 2.8 tonnes depending on the drive system and model (previously 2.5 tonnes).

New exterior dimensions: The new Transporter is 5,050 mm long in the short wheelbase version, which is an increase of 146 mm over its predecessor. The wheelbase has been increased by 97 mm to 3,100 mm. The new Transporter is also available with a long wheelbase extended by 400 mm (overall length: 5,450 mm). The dropside version of the Transporter has the long wheelbase as standard. At 2,032 mm, the exterior width (without exterior mirrors) of all models has increased by 128 mm compared with their predecessors.

Front: The T5 can be seen briefly in the shape of the radiator grille, the T6.1 in the headlights and the T1 in the iconic clarity – but all these features have evolved significantly into anew Volkswagen Transporter look. The striking LED headlamps are an important style element, helping to make the new Transporter unmistakable face in the crowd.

Silhouette: The side section shows the clean lines typical of a VW van. Similar to the T6.1, the upper contour of the headlights has been extended as a line into the side section, continuing through to the rear. Above this is the already mentioned Transporter line – a pronounced linear curvature. This divides the upper and lower areas of the body and is the designers’ way of paying homage to the very first generation of the Transporter. The 16-, 17- and 19-inch wheel rims have also been redesigned. Particularly striking is the 19-inch Indianapolis alloy wheel, standard on the Kombi Style: it features a diamond-cut rim flange, as well as six black spokes and inner surfaces.

Rear: The rear of the new Transporter Panel Van, Crew Bus and Kombi has a homogeneous design, giving it the clean look typical of a VW van. As with the T6.1, the Panel Van and Crew Bus derivatives can be alternatively ordered with a boot lid or wing door. Although completely redesigned and technically revamped, the striking shape of the tail lights with LED dots towards the sides creates a stylistic bridge to the T5.

Larger load compartment dimensions: The interior of the seventh-generation Transporter has a considerably larger volume than previous iterations. The maximum width between the wheel housings has been increased by 148 mm to 1,392 mm. The load compartment length on the floor of the short wheelbase Transporter is 2,602 mm – this corresponds to an additional 61 mm; with the long wheelbase, the load compartment length grows to 3,002 mm. Thanks to the increased length, width and wheelbase, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has been able to significantly enlarge the load capacity of the new Transporter.

Improved payload and towing capacity: In all versions of the new-generation Transporter, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has made sure that the vehicles are allowed to carry the weight of what they can carry in volume: the maximum payload is now 1.33 tonnes. And if even that is not enough, the new-generation Transporter can pull trailers weighing up to 2.8 tonnes, depending on the variant, so loads get transported to wherever they are needed. The predecessor model pulled weights of up to 2.5 tonnes. The roof load has also been improved, increasing from 150 kg to 170 kg.

Three new TDI engines. Three newly developed 2.0-litre four-cylinder TDI engines form the basis of the drive system range for the seventh-generation Transporter: They develop 81 kW, 110 kW and 125 kW respectively. The 125 kW TDI is always combined with an eight-speed automatic gearbox with a choice of front wheel drive or 4MOTION all-wheel drive (derivative dependant).

The new Transporter will be available in: Panel Van, Crew Bus, Kombi and Dropside Double Cab derivatives. The Panel Van, Crew Bus and Kombi are planned to be launched in 2025. The Dropside Double Cab will be introduced in 2026.

Volkswagen has added two new derivatives to its best-selling T-Cross line up for the 2025 model year.

The T-Cross has been the best-selling Volkswagen SUV with over 36 000 cars sold since its launch in 2019.

The new two derivatives, the T-Cross 1.0 TSI 70kW manual and 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG are offered as base lines. These derivatives offer a blend of performance, style and advanced features for customers seeking a compact yet versatile SUV.

The T-Cross 70kW, comes standard with 8“Digital Cockpit, App-Connect, Multi-function steering wheel, 2 USB ports in front, 2 speakers, central locking system with SAFELOCK radio remote control, childproof locks on rear doors, interior cloth trim for seats and door trim, air-conditioner, hill assist, 16-inch wheels and Tyre pressure monitoring system.

The 70kW TSI model accelerates to 100 km/h in 11.5 seconds, has a top speed of up to 180 km/h, and achieves a fuel economy of 5.9 liters per 100 km with a manual gearbox.

The T-Cross 85kW includes LED Headlights with LED day time running lights (DTRL), LED rear combination lamps, Driver’s and front passenger airbag with front passenger airbag deactivation, Power-adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, Park distance control, Electronic stability control and advanced driver attention and drowsiness monitor.

The 85kW TSI DSG accelerates to 100 km/h in 10.2 seconds, has a top speed of up to 193 km/h, and achieves a fuel economy of 5.6 liters per 100 km. It is mated to a 7-speed DSG transmission

Prices (VAT and emissions tax included)

• T-Cross 1.0 TSI 70kW Base: R400 700
• T-Cross 1.0 85kW Base DSG: R418 200

The Volkswagen T-Cross comes standard with a 3-year / 120 000km warranty, 3-year 45000km service plan, and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.

The service interval is 15 000 km.

Volkswagen EasyDrive Maintenance and Service Plans are available as options

Volkswagen Motorsport is proud to announce a dynamic partnership with MARACO Management, a Marketing, Racing and Consulting agency, to bring back motorsport in Germany through the Polo Cup Series in 2026.

“Partnering with MARACO Management to introduce the Polo Cup Series in Germany is an exciting milestone for Volkswagen Motorsport. This partnership reflects our commitment to nurturing emerging talent, advancing motorsport technology, and expanding our footprint globally. We are eager to provide drivers with the tools, training, and support they need to succeed both on the track and in their careers, as we continue to build on Volkswagen’s rich motorsport heritage“ said Mike Rowe, Head of Volkwagen Motorsport.

The series will feature a Polo GTI Cup powered by 2.0 220kW turbo engine equipped with a sequential 6-speed gearbox. These cars are proudly built at the Volkswagen plant in Kariega and will be supplied by Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa.

As part of the partnership, a driver exchange programme is being developed between Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa and MARACO Management. This programme will provide young talent with opportunities to grow in the sport.

“This partnership highlights the strength of international collaboration in motorsport, bringing together diverse expertise, innovation, and a shared passion for racing. It showcases how working across borders can create powerful synergies and drive progress in the sport, setting the stage for groundbreaking achievements and a truly global impact“ said Thorsten Williams, MARACO Management.

Additionally, Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa will provide technical support while Maraco Management will offer driver coaching, media training, data coaching, and sports mental training; ensuring that every competitor is equipped with the skills needed to excel on and off the track.

“This partnership marks an important step in strengthening Volkswagen Motorsport’s presence in global motorsport. The Polo Cup Series in 2026 will be a key development for both brands and for the future of motorsport,“ Rowe concluded.

Volkswagen introduces the new entry level Golf, launching in the first quarter of 2025.

The new Golf impresses with a next-generation infotainment system, a more intuitive operating concept, a sharper front and rear end design as well as efficient drive systems.

Revamped front and rear and new light design. The new Golf can be recognised by its new front end. Visually defining features include the Volkswagen logo, which is illuminated for the first time on the Golf, and the newly designed LED headlights. The top-of-the-range IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights incorporate a new high-performance main beam with a range of up to 500 m.

The new Golf is available in the Life, Life +, R-Line and R-Line + equipment lines.

The Golf Life, a perfect blend of style and technology. It features Eco LED headlights for better visibility and efficiency. Stay connected with Wireless App Connect and a Cruise Control System. Inside, it features a 12,9-inch Infotainment Radio, 6-speaker audio system, 10-colour Ambient Lighting Dashboard and 10-inch Integrated Digital Cockpit. The Life derivative comes standard with 16-inch Norfolk alloy wheels.

The Life + derivative features Driver Profile Selection, rear view camera, 30 colour ambient lighting and Art-velours sports comfort seats package.

The R-Line derivative features Multi-Function heated steering wheel with shifting paddles,  Progressive steering with sports suspension, Climatronic 3 zone automatic climate control with allergen filter and controls in the rear, keyless entry, R-Line seat trim covers with head rest intergrated into the seat for a sporty look,  Park Assist with Park Distance Control, body covered bumpers in R-Line style including 17-inch Coventry alloy wheels complimented with LED plus headlamps.

The R-Line + comes standard with IQ Matrix LED Headlights with illuminated VW front logo, power adjustable driver seat, active high beam, heated & cooling front seats, Vienna leather seats with R-Line logo in front, padels in brushed stainless steel and 18-inch Leeds alloy wheels.

The new Golf is powered by a 1.4TSI 110kW engine mated to a 8-speed tiptronic transmission. The engine develops maximum torque of 250 Nm available between 1500 – 4000 rpm.

Prices (VAT and emissions tax included)

Golf 1.4l TSI 110kW Tiptronic Life: 580,900

Golf 1.4l TSI 110kW Tiptronic Life +: R604,500

Golf 1.4l TSI 110kW Tiptronic R-line: R660,000

Golf 1.4l TSI 110kW Tiptronic R-line +: R688,100

Kariega – Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has concluded 2024 on a high note, by celebrating its all-time production record of 167 084 vehicles.

This is the highest number of vehicles produced at the Kariega plant since the first Beetle rolled off the production line 73 years ago. The new production record surpasses the previous production record of 161 954 vehicles, which was achieved in 2019.

Of the 167 084 vehicles produced, 131 485 units were Polos which are exported to over 30 global markets and 35 599 vehicles were Polos and Polo Vivos for the local market.

“This milestone must be attributed to the dedication and diligence of our 4 000 employees and the unwavering support of our customers and stakeholders,” said Ulrich Schwabe, VWGA Production Director. “As we continue to expand our footprint both locally and globally, we remain focused on innovation, sustainability, and delivering quality products which meet the needs of our diverse markets,” added Schwabe.

The new production record comes at a time of continued investment in VWGA’s production infrastructure, employees and product offerings. In April 2024, VWGA announced a R4 billion investment into the Kariega Plant for the introduction of a third model, to be built alongside the Polo and Polo Vivo from 2027.

Plant Kariega is the sole supplier of the Polo GTI for global markets. In July 2024, the plant became the sole supplier of the Polo for European and Asia Pacific markets.

“2024 has been a good year for Plant Kariega. In October 2024, the plant recorded its highest number of units produced in a single month with 16 597 units, exceeding the previous record of 16 453 vehicles set in October 2019 when the previous production record was achieved,” concluded Schwabe.