The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan--A First Glimpse.

In case you missed it, VWVortex.com, Volkswagen's Enthusiast site has recently released an article discussing the launch of the Volkswagen Tiguan (pronounced Tee-goo-ahn) in Germany. Now a part of the full line-up of Volkswagen models offered in Volkwagen's home market, this compact SUV will contend with the Honda CR-V, RAV, and Hyundai SantaFe. Due out mid-year in 2008, this 2009 model is currently offered in three trim levels named 1) Trend&Fun 2) Sport&Style or 3) Track&Field.

There are a number of firsts VW can claim in the launch of this new-ute including, but never limited to: a forced-induction engine, a Park Assist feature of this caliber, and off-road capabilities with a network of safety systems like no other available with the touch of a button. The Tiguan also offers a trailer (towing) load of over 55oo lbs (!) which is handled by a new swiveling trailer hitch. "In a class by themselves," according to VWVortex.com, "are the touchscreen radio and navigation systems [which] offers a standard 30 gigabyte hard disk memory, as off-road navigation mode and rearview camera. All exciting features indeed, not to mention, a panorama sunroof that allows for a view of the sky from the front and back seats.

Revisiting the engine selection currently available in Germany, and what we can only hope will become available in the US, are the five engine options in Germany. While it is doubtful that the US consumer will be able to choose from one of the following engines, it is exciting to contemplate their availability in the US.

- TSI with 150hp (27.9 mpg)

- TSI with 170 hp (25.86 mpg)

- TSI with 200hp (25.86 mpg)

- TDI with 140hp (32.67 mpg)

- TDI with 170 hp (33.5 mpg)*

*These ratings are based on fuel efficiency ratings in Germany.

For more information and detail regarding the launch of this exciting, new model from Volkswagen, you can read the original article from VWVortex.com here.

Offset Your Carbon Footprint

A unique program has been recently announced by Volkswagen of America this month. For all new Volkswagen car owners that purchase from September 1, 2007 to January 2, 2008, Volkswagen will donate a calculated amount of money to http://www.carbonfund.org/, to offset the amount of carbon emitted from the new car customer's vehicle. Touted as "one of the most ambitious carbon-offsetting projects in the US," Volkswagen has agreed to apply the funds from the entire Volkswagen community in the reforestation of the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley. This area was chosen as a site of reforestation as, according to carbonfund.org, it is where "the region’s carbon absorption rates are among the highest of any area in the United States. It is for this reason why the organization feels it is the perfect place in which to combat global warming.

To calculate your carbon footprint, visit http://www.carbonfund.org/ where you can input some simple information such as your vehicle's make, model and miles driven per year in order to determine what it would take to offset your environmental footprint. "You can also feel good knowing you’re replenishing a ravaged wetland ecosystem," says Carbonfund.org, "and restoring a natural habitat for tons of species like the Louisiana Black Bear."

Visit http://www.vw.com/ for more information today, and join the community that’s working together to help the global community."