VW Group to Launch Key New Models in 2011
Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche and SEAT will introduce a string of new models and updates in 2011, including the Audi RS3, Porsche 911, VW up! and several hybrids.
Volkswagen Group will introduce a series of new and updated models across its brands in 2011, with launches spanning the volume and premium segments. Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche and SEAT are each bringing forward key vehicles or updates through the year, aiming to strengthen their positions in competitive markets.
Audi: RS3, new A6 and hybrid Q5
Audi’s RS3 leads the performance launches, arriving with a 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 340hp, shared with the TT RS. The RS3 targets the premium hot hatch segment and arrives as Audi seeks to close the sales gap with BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The new A6 saloon will make its public debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January, with European sales scheduled from March. The Avant estate follows in September. Audi also plans to expand its hybrid range, with the Q5 hybrid due at the end of May. The compact Q3 SUV, based on Tiguan underpinnings but with new technology and engines, is scheduled for July.
Audi’s smaller models also receive updates. The A1 will gain new engine options, including a 105PS TSI, while the S1 performance version is expected to use a 1.4-litre TFSI engine producing 190hp.
Volkswagen: up! city car, Jetta, and facelifts
Volkswagen’s main launch for 2011 is the up! city car, which will be unveiled in December as a successor to the Lupo. The up! is positioned as an entry-level urban model, targeting buyers seeking efficiency and compact dimensions. Earlier in the year, the new Jetta will go on sale in January, with deliveries starting in May. The Tiguan receives a facelift, along with new engine and transmission options. Volkswagen will also update the Eos convertible, introduce a new Beetle convertible, and bring back the Golf convertible in spring.
Porsche: new 911 and Panamera hybrid
Porsche’s focus for 2011 is the next-generation 911, internally known as the 998. The new model will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, featuring more economical engines and a lower, wider stance. Porsche will also launch a hybrid version of the Panamera in June, using technology derived from the Cayenne Hybrid.
SEAT and Škoda: updates and new branding
SEAT’s Alhambra MPV, a sister model to the Volkswagen Sharan, will be available with all-wheel drive in 2011. The Exeo ST estate will receive a 143PS TDI engine and Audi’s Multitronic gearbox from March. Meanwhile, Škoda is set to introduce a new brand logo in 2011, marking two decades under Volkswagen ownership. For more on Škoda’s rebranding, seehere.
Model launches from the VW Group in 2011
- Audi RS3 (340hp hot hatch)
- Audi A6 saloon (March), Avant (September)
- Audi Q5 hybrid (May)
- Audi Q3 (July)
- Audi A1 new engines, S1 performance version
- Volkswagen up! (December)
- Volkswagen Jetta (January, sales from May)
- Volkswagen Tiguan facelift
- Volkswagen Eos facelift
- Volkswagen New Beetle convertible
- Volkswagen Golf convertible
- Porsche 911 (998) (Frankfurt, September)
- Porsche Panamera hybrid (June)
- SEAT Alhambra AWD
- SEAT Exeo ST 143PS TDI
