Volkswagen's New Compact Coupe Hybrid Wins AutoWeek's 'Best Concept' Editors' Choice Award at 2010 North American International Auto Show

DETROIT, Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. is proud to announce that their latest concept, the New Compact Coupe (NCC) Hybrid, has been named the "Best Concept" by AutoWeek at the 2010 North American International Auto Show. Every year, editors from AutoWeek search the halls of the world's biggest auto shows, and pick their favorite vehicles on display. The NCC, with its advanced TSI gasoline-electric full hybrid system, fresh styling, and a Grand Touring-style interior, is Volkswagen's latest alternative fuel powertrain concept with an eye to the future. Along with the winning vehicles in three other categories from the show, the NCC was announced as winner of the "Best Concept" Editor's Choice award this morning, at the 2010 AutoWeek Design Forum held in Detroit.

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgI'i-bin/prnh/20100114/DE37910)

"There are many worthy concepts at the 2010 NAIAS," said Wes Raynal, editor of AutoWeek and AutoWeek.com. "In the end, the Volkswagen New Compact Coupe takes the top concept award. We were struck with how finished the car looks considering it is a concept – it looks very close to being production-ready. That it is also a hybrid is a bonus."

"It is a tremendous honor to have the NCC declared as the best concept among the dozens of other inspiring designs being shown here at the 2010 NAIAS," said Stefan Jacoby, President, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "The NCC stands as Volkswagen's most realistic vision for how full hybrid vehicles will be able to satisfy the everyday needs and desires of today's drivers.  Volkswagen showed how you can have fuel efficiency, excellent design, and a dynamic driving experience all in one vehicle."

The New Compact Coupe is powered by a combination of Volkswagen's 1.4L TSI turbocharged and intercooled gasoline engine, making 150 horsepower and a usable 177 lbs.-ft. of torque, and an electric drive motor with 27 hp. Both units can work together, with the electric motor providing an added boost of power, or the NCC can run in full electric mode. All told, the NCC is capable of achieving a combined fuel economy rating of 45 mpg. A seven-speed Direct Shift Gearbox® (DSG®) transmission keeps power on tap while aiding efficiency, and the electric motor can help to recharge the lithium-ion battery pack during braking.

Outside, the NCC features an aggressive front end with all-new Bi-Xenon headlights, LED running lights, and large, inset cooling ducts. An elegant profile is developed through emphasized curves, a high tornado line, and large 19-inch wheels. The fastback roofline flows into a integrated rear spoiler, while a lowered stance, wider track, and "Tungsten Silver Metallic" paint finish the dynamic looks.

Plush sport seating covered in light leather awaits all four occupants, accented by darker, "Grigio Quartz" elements. A leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with multifunction controls stands next to the 8-inch touchscreen entertainment system. The rear passengers have access to the center console that extends through the cabin with built-in climate controls, armrest, and hidden storage.

To learn more about the Volkswagen New Compact Coupe Hybrid and more, please stop by the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, or visit www.vw.com and media.vw.com.

About Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Golf, GTI, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Eos, Passat, Passat Wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2010 Volkswagens come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or www.media.vw.com to learn more.

SOURCE Volkswagen of America, Inc.