MOTOR RIVALS

The seventh-generation Golf goes on sale in dealerships this August, celebrating 40 years since Volkswagen’s iconic hatchback debuted in the United States. The 2015 Golf will be available with two or four doors and with two powertrains: the EA888 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TSI® engine mated to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission; and the new EA288 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TDI® Clean Diesel, fitted with a six-speed manual or a six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission. This is the first time the entire Golf lineup will feature powerful and efficient turbocharged engines. The Golf TSI gains up to 6 mpg (or 20 percent) on manufacturer estimated highway fuel economy compared to the 2.5-liter model it replaces.

This new-generation Golf has grown in size yet dropped in weight by up to 79 pounds (depending on model), despite a plethora of new and upscale features. The new generation introduces Volkswagen’s versatile MQB (modular transverse matrix) vehicle platform to the U.S. market—a significant step in standardizing, simplifying, and improving the design and creation of products across the entire Volkswagen Group portfolio. The MQB architecture allows for a more cab-backward design, which gives the new Golf a more upscale appearance while retaining classic design cues from the Mk 1 and Mk 4 Golf models.

The new Golf is better equipped than its predecessor, no matter the trim level. The limited-availability entry Golf Launch Edition two-door with manual transmission starts at $17,995 (plus $820 destination and handling) and adds the following over the outgoing Golf 2.5L: a turbocharged and direct-injection four cylinder as the base engine, along with a standard 5.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth® connectivity, a Media Device Interface (MDI) with iPod® integration, and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System (APCBS) is standard on all Golf models, while available new comfort and convenience features include the Fender® Premium Audio System and Climatronic® automatic air conditioning. Fans of Volkswagen’s TDI Clean Diesel engines will be thrilled that the price of the base TDI model has been reduced by more than the $3,000 compared with the previous-generation Golf TDI model.

At launch, Volkswagen will also offer the Golf Sport model. About 650 of these SE four-door models will be built, equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission. Offered in either Pure White or Platinum Gray, the Sport model is visually enhanced with a striking bodykit that includes a front lip spoiler, side skirts, a rear valence, a larger rear spoiler, and chrome exhaust tips. Pricing starts at $26,930, plus $820 destination and handling.

The new MINI Hardtop carries forward its predecessor's aspiration to remaining the leading original of the premium small car segment, underpinning its outstanding position with significant advancements in all areas relating to driving fun, quality and individual flair. The evolutionary refinement of its design signals the more mature character of the new model, reflected in a significant optimization of such aspects as space, safety, fittings, materials and finish quality as well as sportiness and ride comfort. The enhancement of product substance embodied in the new MINI Hardtop derives directly from the BMW Group's outstanding development expertise and takes on a more extensive form than ever before in the history of the brand. A new generation of engines increases driving fun and efficiency, and there is a wider selection of innovative driver assistance systems as well as MINI Connected infotainment facilities. LED headlamps and the MINI Head-Up Display are other highlights in the equipment program only previously found in higher vehicle segments, further underscoring the premium character of the new MINI.

Two newly developed power units featuring MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology are available to choose from at the market launch of the new MINI Hardtop in March 2014. The new MINI Cooper has a 3-cylinder engine with a peak output of 134 bhp. The 4-cylinder engine of the MINI Cooper S mobilizes 189 bhp. Another new feature: the standard 6-speed manual transmission, along with a 6-speed automatic transmission that is optionally available for all engine variants. Increased engine efficiency, extensive MINIMALISM technology, optimized weight and enhanced aerodynamic properties go together to produce a reduction in fuel consumption.

Classic MINI proportions, the characteristic three-way separation of body, all-round greenhouse and roof together with a new take on hallmark design features define the exterior of the new model, which has grown by some 4.5 inches in length. Its interior offers extended spatial comfort on all four seats as well as a luggage compartment volume expanded by 3 cubic feet to a total of 8.7 cubic feet.

A new display and operating concept combines the typical brand-style look and feel of the cockpit with optimized functionality. Road speed and engine speed along with other key driving-related information is shown in the newly designed instrument cluster on the steering column. The characteristic central instrument with an optional color display of up to 8.8 inches in size provides feedback on operations performed using the MINI Controller in the center console as well as giving visual feedback on driving condition and on numerous functions activated by the driver.

The new MINI Driving Modes allow an individual set-up involving not just the characteristic curve of the accelerator and steering but also engine acoustics, and in the MINI Cooper S – provided the relevant features are present - ambient lighting, the shift times of the automatic transmission and the characteristics of Dynamic Damper Control, the latter system being optionally available for the first time. The modes SPORT and GREEN can be activated in addition to the standard MID mode. In conjunction with an automatic transmission, the efficiency-oriented GREEN mode also features a coasting function with decoupled drivetrain.

The range of optional driver assistance systems has been significantly expanded. For the first time there is an extendible Head-Up Display above the steering column available for the new MINI, a Driving Assistant system including camera-based active cruise control, collision and pedestrian warning, high beam assistant and speed limit information, and also a parking assistant and a rear view camera.

Unique within the competitive environment, the MINI in-car infotainment program moves into a whole new dimension. Functions which can be integrated in the vehicle via apps in the areas of social networks and infotainment are now available for both the Apple iPhone and for smartphones using the operating system Android.