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Page 1: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 1

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

Page 2: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 2

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

CONTACT US YOUR COMMITTEE (cont’d)

VOLKSWAGEN CLUB OF WA (Inc) EDITOR: 0407 347 340

MAIL: PO Box 175 Ray Willis [email protected]

Victoria Park CONCESSION LICENCE: (08) 9332 6919

Western Australia 6979 Rod McSwain

ABN: 31 610 140 537 CMC LIAISON OFFICER: (08) 9342 8703

TELEPHONE: (08) 9342 8703 Richard Hines

E-MAIL: [email protected] PROPERTY OFFICER: (08) 9342 8703

WEBSITE: www.vwclubwa.com Richard Hines

MERCHANDISE OFFICER: 0417 173 886

YOUR COMMITTEE Karen Fyfe

PRESIDENT: 0408 183 396 SOCIAL SECRETARY:

Jamie Barrett [email protected] Colin Seth

VICE PRESIDENT: 0415 165 175 SPORTS ORGANISER: Currently grouped under

John Hornby As above “Events Coordinator”

SECRETARY: 0407 347 340 PUBLICITY OFFICER:

Ray Willis [email protected] As above

MEMBERSHIPS: 0407 347 340 GENERAL COMMITTEE: Patrick Spiteri, Dave Moore,

Ray Willis [email protected] Karla & Merrick Paget (country liaison South West)

TREASURER: 0438 819 443 WEBMASTER:

Shane Williams [email protected] Tina Moore [email protected]

Page 3: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 3

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

Page 4: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 4

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

VIAWEST MAGAZINE

VOLKSWAGEN EVENTS

Advertising:

Please send your ‘for sale’ or ‘wanted’ adverts by mail or email to the Editor before the publication deadline.

Normally one event will be nominated as the club run each month. Some months will have more than one event. Not all events attended by the club will be club organised.

Please note that non-members are welcome to come to the club organised events. If you have any friends you would like to accompany us, please bring them along.

If you have any ideas or suggestions for club organised events give a Committee member a call or an e-mail and the committee so we can put it on our calendar.

The VW Events Calendar lists the upcoming events and club runs for some months in advance in chronological order.

Fees:

Members - 1/4 page adverts are free.

Non-Members - 1/4 page adverts are $5.00

Please contact the Editor to find out about commercial advertising in the magazine, inserting flyers or advertising on the website.

Publication Deadline: The ViaWest magazine’s dead-

line for articles for the next issue is . August 31

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Volkswagen Club of WA (Inc), its Committee or members.

Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at John Hughes Volkswagen in Victoria Park, starting at 6:30pm. Committee meetings are open to all members and invited guests.

Membership and Birthdays IN THIS ISSUE page

The Club.............................. p 2

The Club (contd) .................. p 4

President’s Spot .................. p 5

Club Event Calendar .......... p 6

NSW 2013 Bug-In ............... p 7

VW Club Quiz Nite ............. p 9

August Club Run ................. p 10

VW Club Plates .................. p 11

South West News

June Gathering ............. p 12

Cow Town ..................... p 12

VeeDubs @ Drive In ..... p 13

Alfreds ................................ p 14

Annual General Meeting ..... p 16

September Club Run ........... p 16

Volkswagen News

Amarok ......................... p 18

Passat Award ................ p 20

Touareg Record Drive ... p 20

Polo Gti Award .............. p 21

Targa West .......................... p 22

FRONT

COVER:

Split Screen Kombi at Alfreds

Happy

Birthday to the following

MEMBERS for AUGUST

Robin Bailey

Charlie Evans

Kev Ferguson

Revely Gardiner

Tom Glasfurd

Richard Hines

Franzine Karamfiles

Daniel Keillor

Finn Lawson

Alan Martin

Suzanne McKenzie

Lesley McPherson

Justin McPherson

Kaitlyn McSwain

Debra Michael

Denis Pim

Andrew Scogings

Colin Seth

Mark Shepherd

Alex Shepherd

Luke Sitas

James Sitas

Megan Stoney

Lynn Taylor

Ebony Tippett

Lia Verbunt

Ben Verbunt

Welcome to

new members

of the club

Jim Dickenson & Family

Currently 140 memberships

Page 5: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 5

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The club held the annual CMC Quiz Night early this month, it was a very successful night not only financially for the club but the feedback from the 120 or so guests was something to be proud of. The main organisers Shane, Richard & Ray did a stellar job bringing the event to fruition. A big thanks goes out them and the other volunteers on the night - John, Dave, Patrick, Rod & Karen. On behalf of the club thank you very much to the sponsors who donated the prizes and items for the silent auction. [see page 9]

This month is "Ruby Murray" time!!! Curry Night is coming up. This has been discussed around the traps over the last few months so we are expecting this to be popular event so make your booking asap with Rod on 0403 259 719 see the advertisement in this months pages. [see page 10]

2012 Shannons Day of the Volkswagen is fast approaching (especially if you have a project that you are trying to get ready to debut on the day) we are always looking for volunteers not only for on the day but in the lead up to event. There is lots to do, so show your hand and consider coming to our events meeting held at John Hughes showroom monthly. Many hands make light work.

The 2012 Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday 12th September. This is an invitation to ALL MEMBERS to come along and have a say in your club. The AGM is a forum for any ideas YOU have for the club in the coming year. It is also YOUR opportunity to vote for YOUR committee, or to stand for election to a committee position. Come along and have a say in YOUR club. Tea and Coffee provided. [see pages 16-17]

Jamie Barrett

Club President

Page 6: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 6

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

This month... August 2012

# indicates a club run Wednesday 1st ALFRED’S of GUILDFORD

7pm cnr of Meadow & James St Guildford

Friday 3rd QUIZ NITE twenty12 Contact: Richard Hines 9342 8703

Photos page 9

Wednesday 8th MONTHLY COMMITTEE MEETING Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340

6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park

Sunday 12th SOUTH WEST MONTHLY GATHERING Contact: Kim 0408 914 400

BUSSELTON Contact: Mark 0449 947 782

Wednesday 22nd EVENTS COORDINATION MEETING Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340

6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park

Friday 31st BUFFET at the RED TURBAN (INDIAN FOOD) Contact: Rod McSwain 0403 259 719

See page 10

September 2012

Wednesday 5th ALFRED’S of GUILDFORD

7pm cnr of Meadow & James St Guildford

Sunday 9th SOUTH WEST MONTHLY GATHERING Contact: Kim 0408 914 400

BUSSELTON Contact: Mark 0449 947 782

Wednesday 12th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340

Includes MONTHLY COMMITTEE MEETING See pageS: 16 - 17

6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen Training Centre, Victoria Park

Sunday 23rd GERMAN CAR DAY—MYSTERY TOUR Contact: Mercedes Benz Car Club

See page 16

Wednesday 26th EVENTS COORDINATION MEETING Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340

6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park

October 2012 Wednesday 3rd ALFRED’S of GUILDFORD

7pm cnr of Meadow & James St Guildford

TBA BINDOON / GINGIN CAMPING Contact: Rod McSwain 0403 259 719

TBA

Wednesday 10th MONTHLY COMMITTEE MEETING Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340

6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park

Sunday 14th SOUTH WEST MONTHLY GATHERING Contact: Kim 0408 914 400

BUSSELTON Also refer to the Forum on the club website Contact: Mark 0449 947 782

Wednesday 24th EVENTS COORDINATION MEETING Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340

6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park

Page 7: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 7

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

New South Wales Bug-In 2013 The “OLD Buggers “ of NSW have pleasure in announcing & inviting you to what may be the last ever Bug In in NSW, in

the Beautiful Blue Mountains, just outside Sydney from 29th March to 1st April 2013.

Accommodation is available from “Blackheath Caravan Park” Prince Edward St, Blackheath NSW

Telephone: 0247 878101 Website: www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au

They are currently installing 8 brand new cabins, prices & reservations are not available for a few weeks. But you should make an inquiry. Mention the Bug In but unfortunately it will not get you a discount. 4 nights are required @ Easter. Next

door is Lakeview Holiday Park who also have cabins Telephone: 0247 878534 for prices & availability.

Please Note: Easter is a busy time so you should not delay in booking accommodation.

Alternative accommodation try Googling caravan parks Katoomba Blue Mountains or if you want to go a little upmarket try Blue Mountains accommodation for Hotels, Motels, Cottages, B&B’s etc. etc.

DON’T WAIT, BOOK NOW.

Bug In Events

Friday Night will be held @ Blackheath Caravan Park

Saturday we will hold a Car Display on the shore of Wentworth Falls lake with visits to tourist attractions in the area after-wards.

Saturday Night will be left open but we will have a suggestion for a get together probably in the main street of Katoomba where a multitude of restaurants are available.

Sunday Sunday we will be holding a Driver Education Day @ Hampton, aboutwe will be holding a Driver Education Day @ Hampton, about 45 mins run 45 mins run away.away. This will give you the opportunity of practicing your car handling & obstacle This will give you the opportunity of practicing your car handling & obstacle avoidance skills. There may also be the opportunity to do some driving on dirt avoidance skills. There may also be the opportunity to do some driving on dirt roads.roads. All participants will be required to sign an indemnity against all damage & acci-All participants will be required to sign an indemnity against all damage & acci-dent. NO responsibility will be held by the ground owners or organizers. Those not dent. NO responsibility will be held by the ground owners or organizers. Those not wishing to do the driver education canwishing to do the driver education can do a tour indo a tour in Jenolan Caves.Jenolan Caves.

Sunday Night Sunday Night venue has not been finalized as yet, nor has venue has not been finalized as yet, nor has

MondayMonday..

We should have a Bug In shirt, cap & other souvenirs avail-We should have a Bug In shirt, cap & other souvenirs avail-ableable but will be limited to prepaid orders only!but will be limited to prepaid orders only!

RegardsRegards Christopher HarperChristopher Harper

Page 8: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 8

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

V-neck Polo - design for the ladies and girls $30.00 each A name can be added for another $5.00 Polo Shirt - for the men and boys $30.00 each A pocket is an extra $5.00 A name can be added for another $5.00 T-shirt - unique design with the club 3D logo on front and back $25.00 each Stand out in the crowd. VW Club stickers - all are $2.00 each Official club logo 3D club logo “I’M A VW CLUB MEMBER” Day of the Volkswagen Collectors cloth badge and annual stickers (limited numbers) $2.00 each

VW Club Cloth badge $5.00 each VW Club Peak Cap with the traditional club logo - adjustable velcro band at the rear $15.00 each 2011 Toodyay Bug-In 42nd National Bug-In Metal car badge (limited number) $25.00 each 2012 Calendar Now only $5.00

Merchandise Officer: Rod McSwainMerchandise Officer: Rod McSwain

Phone:Phone: (08) 9332 6919(08) 9332 6919

Email:Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Purchases can be made by cash, cheque or credit card Purchases can be made by cash, cheque or credit card (Visa or MasterCard) (Visa or MasterCard) -- postage charges may be extra.postage charges may be extra.

Member Story of the Month wins a $50 fuel voucher .

The VW Club Committee is pleased to announce the competition for the

“Member Story of the Month” IS BACK!

Members will need to send in ‘their’ stories with photos

to the editor at [email protected] (or by post).

All stories received & published will be in a monthly

draw, the f irst drawn winning a $50 fuel voucher.

The adjudged (committee) best story received and published in a f inancial year will earn the member a

free membership.

The Editor and Committee always have the discretion not to pub-

lish stories deemed unsuitable.

Starts from 1 July 2012 until further notice.

Only open to current financial memberships.

Stories or articles from another source are not eligible (although welcome in the maga-zine) nor are stories or articles submitted by

the VW Club Committee.

A ‘multiple part’ story is only counted as one

story in the first month it is published.

There is a limit of 1 fuel voucher per member-

ship per financial year.

GET YOUR STORY IN NOW....

Page 9: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 9

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

Quiz Night

Photographs A compilation of photos taken at the highly successful quiz night held on Friday 3rd August by the Volkswagen Club of WA (Inc).

Photographs provided by Dave

Moore and Jamie Barrett.

Page 10: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 10

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

August Club Run August Club Run -- Buffet at….Buffet at….

Page 11: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 11

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

Here are some sample plates already on VW Club Member vehicles.

The end of VW Club Plates is

coming... About 10 years ago the club came up with the concept of having its own identifying club plates. Since then the club has sold a number of plates to members and they are proudly dis-played on their cars.

Last year we received a letter from the Department of Transport (Government of WA) that they intended to retire our club plates because of falling sales.

DPI has introduced a mini-mum sales requirement of ten (10) sets of plates per annum.

Unfortunately one of the rea-

sons for falling sales is the continual price hikes by the department. Last year they were priced at $315 per set of plates...now they are $327 per set.

Last year the club gained an extension of time to be able to give you, our club members at least one more chance to buy our club plates...the deadline was December 2011.

Now….

The VW Club committee has now been able to negotiate, what appears to be a FINAL EXTENSION, until 2nd

January 2013.

Extension past this date is solely at the

discretion of the Department of Transport, primarily if enough plates are sold.

However, the VW Club committee has decided that when the Department of Transport retire our plates, that will be end of the series. It could be as early as January 2013.

Once more, in an effort to make it easi-er for the club members to afford our

club plates, the club has decided to keep the discount price of $300 per set…yes now you save $27

per set.

If you are interested, you can contact the club at any time for an application

form and information sheet or just to discuss your ideas.

You can purchase these and put them into storage if you do not have a vehicle for them yet.

Page 12: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 12

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

SW Mthly Gatherings in

Busselton From Sunday 8th July...

Yay fantastic sunny day for the

July Busso meet… also fantastic

effort from the northern crew that

came down...a couple of pics

Kim

Great relaxing arvo...thanks to all

all who made the effort and a

couple more pics...

Mark

Reminder:

The next South West meet

is Sunday 9th September

Drive carefully and keep a look

out for black & white cows on the

road camouflaged as Beetles ...

Cow Town Cowaramup, known locally as

“Cow Town" came up with the

idea of placing a whole load of

fibreglass cows in the main

street...July was the big open day

with stalls and competitions in

the hall...so I took my other

Beetle along to add to the day's

event.

Kim

Page 13: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 13

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

Page 14: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 14

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

VDubs everywhere @ Alfreds 1 August VDubs everywhere @ Alfreds 1 August Some lucky conditions and great subjects made it a great night for my style Some lucky conditions and great subjects made it a great night for my style -- Really enjoyed myself and am vey happy Really enjoyed myself and am vey happy with how many shots came out as planned. It was a very good turnout considering the weather.with how many shots came out as planned. It was a very good turnout considering the weather.

Photos by Jamie BarrettPhotos by Jamie Barrett

Alfreds as the night has become to be known hap-

pens on the first Wednesday of every month. Alfreds Kitchen, on Guildford Road, Guildford, attracts a great crowd of around 20 Volkswagens even on the colder rainier nights like this month.

Come the Summer, people park across the road because of the shear numbers are too much for the crowded car park. It is a great opportunity to meet members of the VW Community, get advice, meet new friends, share ex-periences and grab a burger from the busy kitchen.

Worth coming along to get a "fix" even if you're not in a Volkswagen.

PTO...

Page 15: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 15

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

Page 16: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 16

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

2012 German

Car Day Sunday 23rd September

At last, some information straight

off the Mercedes Benz Car Club

website www.mbccwa.org.au/

The 2012 German Car Day is on

Sunday 23rd December, taking it

out of the traditional middle of

winter date for the first year.

The Mercedes-Benz Car Club has

hosted this event for over a dec-

ade. It has seen strong turnouts

of Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, BMW,

Audi and Volkswagen cars, as

well as examples of Borgward,

NSU, Opel and even Messer-

schmitt – and German made

models such as the Ford Focus

XR5.

The event has previously been

held in York and Northam, but

starting this year they are making

it a moving feast, with a different

destination each year.

Start...

The event begins with meeting at

the car park corner of Plain Street

and Nelson Crescent in Perth,

near the WACA at 9.30am, and

from there a drive will set off to

our secret destination.

The convoy should reach the des-

tination in about an hour and a

half. There, cars will be parked by

marque and on public display.

There are plenty of places to eat

nearby, or you’re welcome to

bring a picnic lunch. And no, the

destination will not be divulged

until the day…

Cost...

The cost is just $10 per car - re-

gardless of how many people are

on board - which includes a raffle

ticket with some excellent prizes.

Part proceeds will go to CanTeen.

You don’t have to be a club mem-

ber to participate. And you don’t

need a show-car, all German cars

are welcome. Spread the word –

the more the merrier…

September Club RunSeptember Club RunSeptember Club Run

Date:

Wednesday 12th September

Time:

6:30pm to 8:30pm (doors open 6:00pm)

Location:

John Hughes Training Facility in Victoria Park

22 Teddington Street, Victoria Park (Next to “Office Choice”)

This is an invitation to ALL MEMBERS The AGM is a forum for any ideas YOU have for the club in the coming year.

It is also YOUR opportunity to vote for YOUR committee,

or to stand for election to a committee position.

Come along and have a say in YOUR club. .

Tea and Coffee provided.

2012 Annual General Meeting2012 Annual General Meeting

Page 17: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 17

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

2012 Annual General Meeting

Agenda Outline Meeting Open 6:30pm:

The meeting will be opened and chaired by the President.

Present:

Those present will be required to complete the attendance book.

Apologies:

Secretary to be advised and they are to be announced at the meeting.

Welcome to Visitors:

Visitors are welcome, Secretary to be advised.

Minutes of Previous AGM:

These will be read in summary by the Secretary for acceptance by the meeting.

Business arising from Minutes of

Previous AGM:

Any business listed in the Minutes of the previous AGM to be tabled (action noted).

Correspondence:

Will be acknowledged by the Secre-tary with anything specific for the AGM to be highlighted.

Motions on Notice:

The Committee has not received any motions to place before the Annual General Meeting.

Reports:

Committee members will submit re-ports to the meeting, making copies available to the Secretary.

The Treasurer:

Shall present a summary and report of the accounts for 2011/12, showing clearly the nett surplus or deficit and the financial position of the club.

They will make copies of the Finan-cial Statement available to attending members and a copy for the Secre-tary.

They will present a ‘forecast’ budget for the 2012/13 financial year and make a submission to the meeting on the membership subscription fee for the financial year following the AGM (2013/14).

General Business:

The meeting shall pass by resolu-tion; (a) the subscription fee for the year following the Annual General Meeting (2013/14); and (b) the form of the Membership Card.

Announcements will be made for the Member of the Year; any new Life-time Membership/s and the Member-ship Early Renewal Payment Com-petition Winner.

Other General Business -

Please advise the Secretary of any matters that wish to be discussed.

Election of Management

Committee:

All committee positions become va-cant at the AGM. The club's commit-

tee for the next year will be voted in.

Members can nominate for any com-mittee position in the Club, and obvi-ously we need nominations for any position that is currently vacant or becoming vacant.

The Secretary is to be advised of any committee member/s not renom-inating and of any committee posi-tion/s nominations.

The committee structure is detailed on page two of the ViaWest.

Committee members are required to attend all meetings and undertake all their positions' duties for the club. If you have any query about a posi-tion's role in the club you can contact any committee member for infor-mation. There is also some infor-mation in the Constitution.

Where there are multiple nomina-tions for the one committee position, a vote of attending financial mem-bers will decide who is successful.

Every financial member personally present at the AGM is entitled to one vote for each position to be elected and voting is by secret ballot.

The person receiving the most votes for a committee position shall be elected to that committee position. The elected committee member by the club shall hold that position until the next Annual General Meeting or (if sooner) until their committee membership otherwise terminates.

Wanted Wanted -- New Committee MembersNew Committee Members

ALL MEMBERS

The current club committee already has vacant positions and several committee members that have been serving for many years have indicated they will not be renominating this year. It is time we had some newer / younger ideas, so if you are just a little bit interested in serving your club, please talk to a current committee

member to find out what's involved. Not sure or haven't done this before, the retiring committee members will assist you all the way through a buddy / mentor process to ease you into the roles. Think about it, we are

sure you will enjoy the experience!

2012 Annual General Meeting2012 Annual General Meeting

Page 18: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 18

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

Volkswagen’s Amarok Range

Strengthened Volkswagen has increased the appeal of its award-winning Amarok range with the introduction of an innovative 8-speed automatic transmission on dual cab models, powered by the new TDI420 engine. Meanwhile, a single cab Amarok also makes its Australian debut, expanding Volkswagen’s exist-ing dual cab ute range.

The Amarok is the first ute in Australia with an 8-speed automatic transmis-sion. The additional gearing provides a greater spread of transmission ratios than a conventional five or six-speed automatic gearbox, affording very posi-tive effects: the TDI engine is more effective in every rpm range, while be-ing more fuel efficient and agile.

The 8th gear is configured for over-drive, reducing engine speed and sav-ing fuel, while the low first gear is de-signed for off-road use and towing. This versatile set-up means the auto-equipped Amarok with permanent 4-wheel drive is just as capable in allter-rain use as the manual version, without the need for additional reduction gear-ing.

The benefits of the automatic system, however, go further than just the gear-ing. The new transmission provides a high degree of ride comfort while off-roading and offers a fuel consumption figure of just 8.3 l/100km – up to 1l/100km less than key competitors.

The low rpm speeds generated also have a positive effect on engine noise, keeping volumes within the cabin com-fortable at all times. In order to isolate the drive train as effectively as possi-ble from engine vibrations, enhanced torque converters with optimised vibra-tion dampers are also used.

The automatic transmission is com-bined with permanent 4-wheel drive and a new engine specification: the 132 kW 2.0-litre twinturbo TDI420. This has a maximum torque output of 420 Newton metres, producing exceptional performance and a relaxed ride. When towing a trailer, the ute can handle up to 3,000kg of trailer load with 300kg of downball weight.

Amarok Single Cab Completing the Amarok range is the new single cab version with large car-go bed. The Amarok Single Cab en-joys the same vehicle length and wheelbase as its Dual Cab cousin, yet provides a cargo bed that is 2,205 mil-limetres in length (an increase of 650 millimetres) and also maintains ample cabin space for the driver, passenger and storage space behind the seats.

The cargo bed comfortably takes two pallets loaded sideways, one behind the other, and still leaves a further 60 centimetres of the length clear. With an unchanged loading gap of 1.22 metres between the wheel-arches, the cargo bed provides a total load area of 3.57m2, while six load-lashing rings, fitted as standard, enable even large and bulky items to be transported safe-ly.

(Continued on page 19)

Page 19: Via West August 2012

August 2012 Via West Page 19

Your stories and photos can also be in the magazine...just email them to... [email protected]

Pick-ups with a single cab are regard-ed as the classic ‘workhorse’ for tough jobs in the manual trades, construction and agriculture. What counts above all else in these areas of work is the size of the load space. However, Volkswagen engineers have also fo-cused on providing ample space for the vehicle’s occupants, as well as room enough to easily store items be-hind the two front seats without com-promising the seating position.

The vehicle’s exceptional interior di-mensions make it the most spacious in its class. The vehicle’s finely tuned ergonomics are typical of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and the Amarok.

Easy entry, a generous seating layout and lots of head room characterise the workspace behind the wheel.

Under the bonnet Volkswagen em-ploys the same high-torque 2.0-litre engines found in the existing dual cab manual range: the TSI300, TDI340 and TDI400. Customers can choose rearwheel drive or the selectable 4MO-TION 4-wheel drive with low range (TDI400 only) – in each case coupled to a six-speed manual transmission.

The Amarok single cab’s fuel con-sumption is very low: the rear-wheel drive TDI340 version needing just 7.3 litres per 100 kilometres, CO2 emis-sions of 189 g/km. Meanwhile the two-level regulated bi-turbo charging sys-tem of the TDI400 provides a remarka-bly low average consumption of just 7.8 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres.

In addition to the standard electronic differential lock, a mechanical differen-tial lock on the rear axle comes stand-ard on 4MOTION models and is availa-ble as an option on 2WD versions. The heavy-duty suspension enables the vehicle to carry a payload ranging be-tween 1,174kg and 1,394kg depending on model. When towing a trailer, the ute can handle up to 3,000kg of trailer load with 300kg of downball weight.

Amarok Range Safety remains as ever a top priority across the Amarok range, with stand-ard equipment including ABS and ESP, as well as front airbags for both driver and passenger on all models. Exceeding the market standard, the single cab Amarok is also equipped as standard with side and thorax airbags, mirroring its dual cab counterpart. Also included, of course, are height-adjustable head restraints and three-point safety belts at all seating posi-

tions. In front, the belts have belt ten-sioners and on the driver’s side a visu-al and acoustic belt warning system.

Numerous other features guarantee a high level of active safety on all Ama-roks. For example, the Electronic Sta-bility Program (ESP) with Brake Assist is standard equipment. Another feature contributing to safety is “Off-Road Mode” – activated by the press of a button – which is enabled up to a vehi-cle speed of 130km/h.

In this mode, the ESP system, elec-tronic differential locks (EDL), anti-slip regulation (ASR) and anti-lock braking system (ABS) are all tuned for chal-lenging off-road conditions.

The ABS system can reduce braking distance both off-road and on gravel road surfaces, often significantly de-pending on the road composition. When “Off-Road Mode” is activated while the ute is driven at less than 30km/h, Hill Descent Assist is also activated; it holds driving speed con-stant on steep descents by means of targeted brake actuations. When Hill Descent Assist is activated the driver can individually adapt the vehicle’s speed to a driving situation by accel-erating or braking, including in the neutral gear position.

Amarok comes fitted with Heavy Duty suspension as standard, affording a GVM of 3,040kg for maximum carry-ing capacity.

Meanwhile, those who do not use their Amarok for carrying heavy loads can opt for Comfort springs at no ex-tra charge.

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While this option provides a much more comfortable ride, the GVM is reduced by just 220kg to an impres-sive 2,820kg.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has also taken the introduction of these new models as an opportunity to up-date the Amarok’s equipment, with highlights including stainless steel sports bar and side steps now as standard on the Highline model, Blue-tooth mobile phone connectivity, cruise control and a multi-function leather steering wheel as standard across the entire 4MOTION range.

A style pack is also available for the Single Cab that includes bodycoloured front bumper, 16-inch alloy wheels and fog lights.

Extending the flexibility of the range and affording greater opportunity for personalisation, both the base and Trendline Amaroks can now be or-dered as a Cab Chassis set-up. This will be welcome news for rural and fleet customers who demand a ute that can be configured to their specific needs and requirements.

Volkswagen Passat Wagon

Award Mother & Baby Magazine have an-nounced the Passat Wagon 125TDI as

the Family Car of the Year in this year’s inaugural Australian Mother & Baby Magazine Awards.

The Awards are celebrating the star baby and toddler-related products and innovations across 27 categories which were tested by a specialist pan-el as well as a group of mums.

Fiona Wright, Editor-In-Chief of Mother & Baby Magazine announced: “We are thrilled to launch the 2012 Australian Mother & Baby Magazine Awards. Over the past six months we’ve thor-oughly tested every product, making sure it does its job, and does it well.”

The expert panel recognised the Passat as a great package: “You get premium-car specs, like leather trim, dual-zone aircon and touchscreen dis-play for family-car money.”

The Volkswagen Passat Wagon

125TDI offers harmony between safe-ty and convenience for every family. It comes with a long list of standard fea-tures including eight airbags, the Volkswagen Driver Fatigue detection system and parking distance sensors with the Optical Parking System inte-grated in the radio display.

The standard BlueMotion Technology ensures everyday fuel savings with an integrated Start/Stop System as well as brake energy recuperation and a coasting function.

A particularly practical feature are the optional child booster seats with lateral cushion support and removable lateral head restraints, which can be integrat-ed into the outer rear seats. The 603 litres of boot space turn the Passat into a weekend warrior able to cope with all family members as well as their belongings.

Touareg for World Record

Drive Adventurers choose Volkswagen Touareg for World Record drive from Melbourne to St Petersburg

Renowned adventurer, Rainer Zietlow, and his Challenge4 team will this Thursday, 26th July 2012 depart Mel-bourne’s Town Hall in their Touareg TDI, hoping to arrive a record-breaking 16 days later at their destination: St Petersburg, Russia.

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Zietlow and his teammates will travel 23,000 kilometres on their adventure and pass through nine countries: Aus-tralia, East Timor, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, China, Kazakhstan and finally Russia. The team will be looking to their Volkswagen Touareg to carry them through the most extreme climates and road conditions, ranging from the Australian desert, through the rainforests of Sumatra and Java, the Himalaya Passes and the Kazakh Veldt.

The team of three will drive five-hour shifts in rotation, 24 hours a day. They will carry enough provisions for the entire trip and will stop only to refuel in order to keep to their punishing sched-ule. The only times the Touareg will be at a standstill will be during transport across water.

Volkswagen Group Australia Managing Director, Anke Koeckler, said: “We wish Zietlow and the Challenge4 team the very best of luck in the pursuit of their latest world record. Along the way, this adventure will prove the Touareg can handle the most strenu-ous terrain in the world, while demon-strating Volkswagen’s durability, relia-bility, comfort and fuel efficiency is a match for even the most demanding of driving schedules.”

The Challenge4 team are no strangers to endurance driving, in fact they have already achieved several world rec-ords behind the wheels of Volkswagens. Most recently, Zietlow and his team set a new world record for driving the Panamericana road from Argentina to Alaska. They took just 11 days and 17 hours to reach their goal, and did it all in the same Touareg that will be used in their latest record attempt.

Team Leader, Rainer Zietlow, said: “It feels great to be getting on the road again for this, our latest adventure. Nine countries and 23,000 kilometres in 16 days is a tall order, but thanks to our supporters we have a robust vehi-cle outfitted with everything we need to get us to St Petersburg!”

The world record journey is also one of goodwill: Zietlow will donate 10 Euro cents for each kilometre driven to Plan International, a charity organisation operating a children’s’ rights project in

Laos.

Zietlow and the Chal-lenge4 team have chosen the Touareg V6 TDI for its durabil-ity, high-performance and long-range fuel efficiency. Its turbo-charged 3.0l V6 TDI engine delivers 180kw at 4,000rpm and a maximum 550Nm of torque at 2,000rpm and is designed to perform on rugged terrain and mixed road surfaces at vary-ing altitudes. The ve-hicle has been equipped with larger tyres and heavy duty suspension for com-fort over the undoubt-ed rough terrain, but except for this and an enlarged fuel tank, the vehicle is mechanical-ly standard.

For more information, and for daily updates log on to

www.touareg-russtralia.com

Volkswagen

Polo GTI Volkswagen Polo GTI wins MO-TOR Magazine’s 2012 Bang For Your Bucks Award for Second

Year

Polo GTI wins back-to-back in

2011 and 2012

Volkswagen GTI models win

three years in a row

Volkswagen’s Polo GTI has once again claimed victory over 17 other competitors in MOTOR Magazine’s annual Bang For Your Bucks award.

First, Volkswagen’s Golf GTI won MO-TOR Magazine’s 2010 Bang For Your Bucks award. Then, in the following year, Volkswagen’s Polo GTI received the same recognition. Now, in 2012, the Polo GTI has defended its title, winning back-to-back honors as MO-TOR’s best-value performance car.

Announced in the September issue of

MOTOR, the Polo GTI beat a range of new and returning competitors, im-pressing judges with its performance, handling and extensive list of standard equipment.

The praise remains high for the return-ing victor, with MOTOR stating the Po-lo GTI was an “elegantly stylish, roomy, comfortable, refined, safe, beautifully finished small car that also happens to be a fantastic all-round hot-hatch”.

According to MOTOR: “What the Polo GTI aces without question are the fun-damentals of not just every great hot hatch but every great car.”

Standard technical equipment in Volkswagen’s hottest Polo include 7-speed DSG transmission, ESP and XDL extended electronic differential lock, as well as signature GTI interior trim, badging and iconic red-framed GTI grille.

The Polo GTI is powered by a 132kW/250Nm 1.4-litre TSI engine, and is priced from $27,790*.

* Recommended price before statutory and de-livery charges for three-door Polo GTI

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2012 QUIT Targa 2012 QUIT Targa

West Tarmac RallyWest Tarmac Rally 16th to 19th August

www.targawest.com.au

The 2012 QUIT Targa West Tarmac Rally, one of the most prestigious events on the Australian tarmac rally calendar.

QUIT Targa West rally action starts on Thursday 16th August 2012 in Whiteman Park and finishes on Sunday 19th August with the Killar-née City of Perth Super Stage grand finale on the Swan River foreshore along Riverside Drive in the heart of the City of Perth.

Four days of action packed rallying includes brand new closed tar-mac road Special Stag-es along with existing stages in some of the best locations in Perth, Kalamunda, Toodyay and Bullsbrook. The

best news is that all spectating is total-ly FREE.

Celebrating its 8th year, QUIT Targa West 2012 will boast a diverse field of cars and is one of the few events where motorsport fans can see such a wide range of competition vehicles from classic Australian built Holdens and Fords to the very quick modern Porsches, Subarus, Mitsubishis, Nis-

sans and Lotus’.

The rally will provide local residents and spectators with a visual feast of live rally action and static car displays, providing opportunities to admire the cars, view the action and meet your favourite drivers and co-drivers.

Best of all for residents located in the various Special Stage areas, the action is delivered right to your doorstop, where you can invite over your family and friends for a great social gathering and enjoy the spectacle unfolding be-fore you

A Spectator Guide which contains all the information you will need to make the most of this QUIT Targa West weekend will be published by Autotrad-er Magazine just prior to the event.

QTW Photo WebsiteQTW Photo Website If you intend taking photos of the 2012 event, then go to

www.targawestphotos.com.au

and upload your best to enter the com-petition to win a brand new Toshiba laptop computer valued at $1500.

1956 VW Beetle - $8,000 Daily driver with strong 1776cc engine and 4000km on the clock. Good brakes - type three discs on the front and drums on the rear. Repainted 3 years ago in Porsche Guard red. Dual brakiing circuit & 1600 gear box. Pedrini wheels (Porsche 914/6). New roof lining and carpet. New rubber seals all round. Full service 100km ago. Custom club plates. 10 months rego.

FOR SALEFOR SALE

Stuart Rundle Mobile: 0403 877 642 Email: [email protected]

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