by Cheryl Jensen

(1999-05-10)

Volkswagen is introducing a more powerful New Beetle, the 1.8T, along with three newly redesigned models in 1999. This offering rounds out the updating of the model range that began with the Passat and the New Beetle.

However, Volkswagen's all-wheel-drive system, called "Syncro," will not be offered as planned on the 1999 Passat GLX sedan. The company has delayed introduction of the system until the 2000 models start arriving this summer. Volkswagen executives say they are doing this to avoid creating market confusion, since beginning with 2000 models the all-wheel-drive system will be called "4motion."

The New Beetle 1.8T is equipped with a 1.8-liter 20-valve turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the same engine that powers the Passat GLS. It is rated at 150 horsepower (hp) and 155 pound-feet of torque. It goes on sale in the first half of 1999 in GLS or GLX trims. With a top speed of 120 mph, Volkswagen says it can go from 0-60 mph in less than 8.0 seconds. Price is expected to be around $19,000. All 1999 New Beetles get standard anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes and special "ring" type head restraints that provide better visibility.

The fourth-generation Jetta gets a more rigid body structure as part of its complete redesign and front side-impact airbags. Available in three versions, the GL, GLS and top-of-the-line GLX, the Jetta comes standard with VW's new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 115 hp. For the first time, the Jetta will be available with the 174-hp VR6 engine as an option in the GLS; previously this engine was found only in the GLX.

Later in the year, VW will offer an optional 1.9-liter turbocharged direct-injection diesel engine with an EPA rating of 49 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway. The engine has 155 pound-feet of torque at just 1900 rpm.

The fourth-generation Golf has been completely redesigned with slightly larger exterior and interior dimensions and a more rigid structure. The Golf is powered by a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 115 hp, the same as in the Jetta. Later in the model-year, it gets the same optional 1.9-liter turbocharged direct-injection diesel as the Jetta. New to the Golf's list of standard features are front side-impact airbags and an advanced anti-lock braking system.

The all-new GTI, based on the new Golf, comes in two versions for 1999: a high-powered VR6 GLX version and a sporty 115-hp four-cylinder GLS. The 2.8-liter VR6 delivers even more high-end horsepower and torque, Volkswagen says, rated at 174 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, delivering 85 percent of its power between 2000 and 6000 rpm.

The Cabrio, which now bears a stronger family resemblance to the new Golf, will come in two versions: a base-model GL priced just under $20,000 and a well-equipped GLS. Both come with the new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 115 hp. The GLS adds a power-operated top.

Volkswagen adds what it calls a "supremely" equipped Passat GLX sedan the first quarter of this year as a front-wheel-drive model. A Passat GLS V-6 wagon will not join the lineup this year as previously planned.

Last, but not least. It seems appropriate that, as the '60s have become a made-for-television miniseries, the EuroVan returns to the U.S. market as a 1999 model with the VR6 engine