Is VW looking to buy Malaysia’s Proton?
May 27, 2010
Filed under: Volkswagen, Earnings/Financials, Rumormill
It looks like Volkswagen may be continuing to raid the global buffet of lesser automakers. According to reports, Malaysian carbuilder Proton has been in talks with ze People’s automaker in an attempt to establish some sort of alliance, thought for now details are sketchy at best. Proton has made it clear that it’s more interested in upping its exports than anything else. Given that fact, it wouldn’t surprise us to see Proton-built machines wearing VW badges in some far-flung corners of the globe.
On the other hand, reports have surfaced that claim that VW has already admitted to looking into sharing platforms and engines with Proton as part of some sort of agreement, and that both companies have already explored badging the current Jetta as a new-and-improved Proton Perdana. Either way, we’re told to expect a more solid announcement to come from the two companies by early next month. We’ll keep our ears to the ground until then.
[Source: Canadian Business | Image: David Hecker/AFP/Getty]
Is VW looking to buy Malaysia’s Proton? originally appeared on VW Top News on Thu, 27 May 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta ready for its closeup
May 26, 2010
Filed under: Spy Photos, Hybrid, Sedan, Volkswagen, Diesel
The clearest images yet of the 2011 Volkswagen Jetta have turned up ahead of the compact sedan’s launch this fall. Like the latest MK VI Golf, the Jetta is expected to be built on an updated version of the MK V platform, although the sedan is believed to be slightly longer and wider. This will allow it to be more competitive against the Chevrolet Cruze and next generation Ford Focus.
Under the hood, the 2.0-liter TDI diesel will carry over, but the unloved 2.5-liter inline-five will probably be replaced by a 1.4-liter TSI inline-four. The TSI is a direct injected and turbocharged gasoline engine already available in Europe with several versions from 120 to 180 horsepower being offered.
A hybrid version of the Jetta will join the lineup in 2012 with a full electric version rumored in 2013. The current Jetta Sportwagen, sold as the Golf Variant in Europe, will continue unchanged for at least several more years after getting the MK VI Golf nose and interior for 2010.
[Source: AutoExpress]
Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta ready for its closeup originally appeared on VW Top News on Wed, 26 May 2010 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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