Volkswagen Golf I (1974-1984), la voiture-miracle de Wolfsburg, dès 3 500 € (2024)

À la fin des années 60, même si les ventes sont très élevées, elles chutent, et l’ambiance n’est pas au beau fixe chez Volkswagen. Vu l’insuccès des 411/412, on comprend que l’ère du moteur arrière touche à sa fin. L’irremplaçable Coccinelle devra être remplacée! Et là, on vasouille. En 1968, on fait étudier par Porsche une auto très originale techniquement, l’EA266, dotée d’un flat-four en position centrale, mais son développement coûte très cher et son esthétique laisse perplexe. Du coup, au moment de l’industrialiser, on renonce.

Parallèlement, on a pensé à une traction, mais dotée du moteur de la Coccinelle. Celle-ci arrivera à terme, mais se réservera à l’Amérique du Sud: ce sera la Gol. En fait, pour l’Europe, la révélation viendra de pays latins, où on produit des modèles très réussis et populaires, la Simca 1100 et la Fiat 128. La crue vérité s’impose: il faut passer au moteur avant y compris en Europe!

Heureusem*nt, Volkswagen dispose d’ingénieurs connaissant cette technologie, la marque ayant racheté Auto-Union en 1964 (qui deviendra Audi) avant d’avaler NSU en 1969. C’est en fin de cette année-là qu’est lancé le projet EA337 qui débouchera sur la Golf en 1974. Pour préparer le terrain à cette dernière, car il s’agit bien là d’une révolution culturelle, Wolfsburg appose en urgence son logo sur la K70, une berline à traction avant conçue par NSU et qui devait être commercialisée par ce dernier. Quand elle sort en 1970, c’est la stupeur chez les vendeurs Volkswagen, habitués à vanter les mérites du moteur arrière. Ils rechignent à vanter les mérites de la K70, qui ne rencontre donc pas son public.

Mais arrive en 1973 la Passat, une Audi 80 modifiée par Wolfsburg. C’est encore une traction, et cette fois, le succès est au rendez-vous, tout le monde s’étant habitué à voir une VW entraînée par ses roues antérieures. Cette familiale inaugure un autre élément-clé pour son constructeur: elle a été dessinée par l’Italien Giugiaro. Or, c’est lui qui va créer les grandes lignes de la Golf (finalisées par Herbert Schäffer), ainsi que du coupé Scirocco qui en annoncera la mécanique, sortant juste avant. La Golf devant être commercialisée aux USA, on soigne sa sécurité passive, pour l’économie de carburant, on peaufine l’aérodynamique et afin d’offrir une fiabilité impeccable, on réalise 3,7millions de kilomètres de tests. Tout ceci coûte horriblement cher, et en 1973, VW perd 800millions de marks, cependant qu’Opel lui ravit la 1re place dans les ventes en Allemagne. Il y a le feu! Pourtant, alors que la Golf est prête, on la peaufine jusqu’en mars1974.

Quand elle sort, elle ne révolutionne en rien la catégorie, réalisant plutôt une synthèse de ce qui se fait de mieux. Moteurs à arbre à cames en tête (conçus par Audi) montés en position transversale avec boîte en bout de vilebrequin et suspension avant McPherson (exactement comme la Fiat 128), hayon et banquette rabattable (comme sur la Simca 1100), essieu arrière de torsion. Initialement proposée en 1500 (70 ch), la Golf se décline quelques mois plus tard en 1100 (50 ch), la carrosserie très réussie laissant le choix entre 3 et 5 portes. Proposée à partir de 14990F (soit 12300€ actuels), la VW est relativement compétitive, mais au prix d’économies parfois risibles: la 1100 a des freins à tambours… à l’avant!

Coiffée au poteau au concours de la Voiture de l’Année 1975 par la Citroën CX, l’allemande remporte néanmoins un très grand succès, ce qui n’a rien d’étonnant. Elle se situe au meilleur niveau par ses qualités routières, ses performances et sa praticité. Ensuite, elle va évoluer constamment, recevant de nouveaux sièges quelques mois après son introduction.Fin 1975, elle révolutionne la catégorie des sportives compactes avec sa version GTI (qui mérite un article à elle toute seule), et troque son 1500 contre un 1600 de 75 ch. Fin 1976, la Golf 1100 se civilise, en abandonnant les tambours avant. En même temps, apparaît une finition plus étoffée GLS (qui garnit par exemple le bas du tableau de bord), ainsi qu’une Diesel. Dotée d’un 1,5l de 50 ch, celle-ci offre les mêmes performances que la 1100, consomme moins et ne fait pas plus de bruit. Une réussite!

Fin 1977, l’insonorisation améliorée s’accompagne du retour du 1500 de 70 ch (en remplacement du 1600), alors que les pare-chocs s’épaississent en 1978. En 1979, un cabriolet fabriqué chez Karmann fait son apparition: c’est le premier dans la catégorie des compactes modernes! Par ailleurs, grâce à un nouveau procédé de fabrication, la protection contre la rouille s’améliore, ce qui permet à VW d’offrir une garantie anticorrosion de 6 ans. Un nouveau moteur apparaît: un 1,3l de 60 ch, alors que le 1,5l n’est plus disponible qu’avec la boîte automatique ou sur le cabriolet.

Pour 1981, la gamme Golf bénéficie de modifications plus importantes. Outre des feux arrière agrandis, elle reçoit un tableau de bord plus cossu, celui de la Jetta présentée l’année précédente. En 1981, le 1300 disparaît, le 1500 revient en boîte manuelle et le diesel passe à 1,6l pour 54 ch. Une boîte 5 est proposée sur le 1500, alors qu’est introduit le système Formel E sur le moteur 1100 censé économiser du carburant. Taux de compression augmenté, allumage électronique, boîte longue (3 + E), indicateur de changement de rapport, Cx abaissé de 0,42 à 0,40, ça fonctionne…

En 1982, la Golf frappe un grand coup: c’est la première compacte à se doter d’un moteur turbo-diesel, un 1,6l de 70 ch, offrant des performances inédites à ce niveau de gamme (vitesse maxi de 160km/h). Cela dit, c’est le chant du cygne de la Volkswagen, qui en août1983 cède la place à la Golf II, esthétiquement assez similaire mais techniquement renouvelée de fond en comble. Plus de 5millions d’unités ont été produites: c’est un succès! Pour sa part, le cabriolet va poursuivre sa carrière jusqu’à la fin 1993.

Combien ça coûte?

Des Golf, il y en a à tous les prix. Celui-ci sera plus établi en fonction de l’âge, de l’état et de l’authenticité de l’exemplaire, que de sa version.On dégotte un exemplaire sain, sans corrosion et parfaitement fonctionnel, à partir de 3000€. Ce sera un exemplaire un peu défraîchi, à gros pare-chocs et gros feux, peu importe le moteur ou la finition. Les meilleurs modèles dépassent allègrement les 5000€. Les Golf à gros pare-chocs mais petit* feux sont plus chères, à partir de 4500€ en état correct, et plus de 7000€ si l’auto est impeccable. Quant à celles dotés des petit* pare-chocs, elles se négocient à des tarifs encore plus élevés, à partir de 6000€. Une belle GLS 1,6l se revendent ainsi plus de 8000€. Mais si, par exemple, vous tombez sur une 1,1l dotée des freins à tambours avant, attendez-vous à dépenser 15000€ si elle se trouve en parfait état!

Quelle version choisir?

Pour un usage régulier, optez plutôt pour une des dernières, à gros feux, et dotée d’un moteur suffisamment puissant, idéalement le 1,5l en boîte 5. Elle sera plus performante et agréable, tout en étant moins sensible à la rouille.

Les versions collector

N’importe quelle Golf en strict et parfait état d’origine (rare car les golfistes adorent modifier leur voiture) affichant moins de 100000km est un collector.

Mais les plus recherchées sont les toutes premières, de 1974-1975, surtout avec l’équipement minimal car ce sont les moins répandues.

Que surveiller?

Pour son époque, la Golf est une auto très bien fabriquée, ne souffrant pas de tare particulière. Les mécaniques sont même particulièrement endurantes, à condition de ne pas oublier de changer régulièrement la courroie de distribution.

Seulement, comme toutes les autos des années 70, la Golf rouille copieusem*nt (même si ses rivales sont encore plus mal loties) jusqu’en 1979, année où le rythme du pourrissem*nt ralentit sérieusem*nt. Donc, les exemplaires les plus anciens seront à inspecter minutieusem*nt, surtout s’ils sont fraîchement repeints!

Sous le capot, les carburateurs dysfonctionnent régulièrement, et dans l’habitacle, le soleil endommage parfois gravement le tableau de bord. Mais là encore, c’est tout à fait dans la norme des autos de cette époque. Gros avantage: de très nombreuses pièces sont refaites, par VW Classic. Mecatechnic est aussi une bonne source d’approvisionnement.

Au volant

J’ai pu récemment prendre le volant d’une Golf de 1980 équipée du petit moteur 1,1l. Par rapport aux actuelles, elle est minuscule! Et son habitacle, solidement assemblé, est d’un minimalisme surprenant. Si la position de conduite semble bien étudiée, devant soi, on n’a qu’un seul cadran intégrant le tachymètre, une jauge à essence, quelques voyants… Et c’est tout. À la mise en route, le moteur est très présent dans l’habitacle, et le devient encore plus ensuite.C’est le défaut principal des Golf I, fort bruyantes même dans leurs déclinaisons les plus récentes (ayant pas mal roulé en Golf 1,5l de 1982, mes oreilles peuvent témoigner).

Dommage, car ce petit moulin ne manque pas de bonne volonté, prenant ses tours sans jamais rechigner. Évidemment, on n’avance pas car il n’y a que 50 ch, mais on s’amuse tout de même car l’auto profite d’une bonne commande de boîte, communique tout ce qu’elle fait, et offre une excellente tenue de route, permettant d’adopter un rythme intéressant sur tracé sinueux. Surtout que comme elle est étroite, la Golf I peut lisser ses trajectoires bien mieux qu’une moderne 20cm plus large. Pas étonnant que la GTI se soit montrée si efficace et impitoyable avec ses rivales!

La direction, légère et précise, pourrait se montrer un poil plus rapide, alors que le roulis apparaît important malgré la fermeté de la suspension. Quant au freinage, il est fidèle à la réputation des Golf I: notoirement insuffisant. Reste la consommation moyenne, inférieure à 7l/100km si l’auto est bien réglée.

L’alternative youngtimer

Volkswagen Golf II (1983 – 1992)

Comment succéder à ce succès que fut la Golf? C’est simple, en créant une autre Golf, bien dans sa lignée esthétique mais améliorée sur tous les plans. C’est ainsi qu’apparaît la Golf II, à l’été 1983. À part le nom et les mécaniques, tout est nouveau. Cette compacte, spacieuse, silencieuse, accrochée à la route et très bien fabriquée se pose dès sa sortie en référence de la catégorie, malgré ses prix élevés. Développant de 54 ch à 112 ch en GTI, elle passe à 136 ch quand apparaît la GTI 16 soupapes en 1985. Légèrement remaniée fin 1987 (calandre, élimination des déflecteurs de porte avant), elle bénéficie d’une étrange version 4x4 surélevée Country (sur base Syncro) en 1990 et d’une peu convaincante G60 à compresseur en 1990. Elle cède sa place fin 1991 à la Golf III, établie sur la même plate-forme, plus cossue mais moins bien fabriquée. 6,3millions de Golf II ont été produites: un très beau succès pour celle qui est peut-être la meilleure des Golf, toutes proportions gardées.

Volkswagen Golf 1100 (1980), la fiche technique

  • Moteur: 4 cylindres en ligne, 1083cm3
  • Alimentation: carburateur
  • Suspension: jambes McPherson, ressorts hélicoïdaux (AV); essieu de torsion, ressorts hélicoïdaux (AR)
  • Transmission: boîte 4 manuelle, traction
  • Puissance: 50 ch à 6000tr/mn
  • Couple: 78 Nm à 3000tr/mn
  • Poids: 775kg
  • Vitesse maxi: 140km/h (donnée constructeur)
  • 0 à 100km/h: 15,8 s (donnée constructeur)

>Pour trouver des annonces de Golf, rendez-vous sur le site de La Centrale.

Volkswagen Golf I (1974-1984), la voiture-miracle de Wolfsburg, dès 3 500 € (2024)

FAQs

Is VW killing the Golf? ›

So, the decision to kill off the Golf isn't that surprising. It's not all bad news, though, as VW will bring the all-new eight-gen Golf GTI and Golf R to the U.S. for the 2022 model year.

Which year Volkswagen Golf is the best? ›

Here Are The Best And Worst Volkswagen Golf GTI Models Over The Years
  • 10/10 Best: 1983-1984 Rabbit GTI Mk 1.
  • 9/10 Best: 1985-1992 Golf GTI Mk 2.
  • 8/10 Best: 2007-2009 Golf GTI Mk 5.
  • 7/10 Best: 2015-present Golf GTI Mk 7.
  • 6/10 Best: 2000-2006 Golf GTI Mk 4.
  • 5/10 Best: 2009-2013 Golf GTI Mk 6.
  • 4/10 Worst: 1993-1999 Golf GTI Mk 3.
31 Dec 2021

How good is a VW Golf? ›

Is the Volkswagen Golf a good car? The Volkswagen Golf hatchback is one of those rare family cars that manages to be both classless and impressively classy all at the same time. It's just posh enough that you could consider it as an alternative to the likes of the BMW 1 Series, the Mercedes A-Class, or the Audi A3.

What years did VW make the Golf? ›

Volkswagen Golf
ManufacturerVolkswagen
Production1974–present
Body and chassis
ClassCompact car/small family car (C)
5 more rows

Why did they stop making Golf? ›

Volkswagen has ended production of its Volkswagen e-Golf electric hatchback as it prepares to build a new production line for the ID 3 at its Dresden factory.

When did VW stop making Golf? ›

Volkswagen Discontinues Golf TSI in US

The 2022 model year will bring about a new generation of Golf models, dubbed the Mk8. Along with the new design, the US will also see the return of the Golf R, which did not have a 2020 or 2021 model.

How long do Volkswagen Golf engines last? ›

The VW Golf is a strong and trustworthy car that is well known for its grit and determination, so it's unsurprising to find out that they can do up to 200,000 miles before the engine begins to reach its upper limit.

Are Volkswagen Golfs expensive to maintain? ›

The huge problem with buying and maintaining European cars, such as the Volkswagens, is that the cost of parts is so expensive. All parts have to be imported and with the shipping costs and the import taxes, the cost of these parts can skyrocket.

Which model VW Golf is best? ›

The Golf Mk7 is probably the best Golf generation thus far – even with the Mk8 on sale. The Mk7 was introduced in 2012 and was updated in 2016 to create the Mk7. 5. Along with the model refresh, VW created two versions of the GTI with uprated performance and styling.

Is a VW Golf worth the money? ›

Is the Volkswagen Golf a good car? Yes, it's still one of the best choices in the family hatchback class because it's comfortable, refined, good to drive and well-equipped. There's also a range of excellent engine choices from a 1.0-litre petrol right up to a 320PS 2.0-litre in the Golf R.

What is a VW Golf worth? ›

2020 Volkswagen Golf Value - $17,112-$25,348 | Edmunds.

Is VW Golf a premium car? ›

While Volkswagen is not generally considered a luxury brand, they do make models that enter realms of near-luxury outfitting. This is particularly true on many of their vehicles' upper trim levels.

What does Golf stand for? ›

The word 'golf' is not an acronym for anything. Rather, it derives linguistically from the Dutch word 'kolf' or 'kolve,' meaning quite simply 'club. ' In the Scottish dialect of the late 14th or early 15th century, the Dutch term became 'goff' or 'gouff,' and only later in the 16th century 'golf. '

What does GTI stand for? ›

GTI stands for Grand Touring Injection. Volkswagen uses for its direct fuel injection system. Over 40 years ago, GTI technology was first deployed in the 1976 Volkswagen Golf GTI. GTI was meant to power long-distance journeys without sacrificing performance by using a new direct fuel injection system.

Why is a VW Golf called a Golf? ›

Several VW models take their names from winds, a pattern that's more of a historical accident than a planned strategy, and many think that trend continued with Golf. But “Golf” isn't a type of wind – it's the German word for the Gulf Stream ocean current.

Can you still buy e-Golf? ›

And while the e-Golf can't be bought new anymore, there are some good second-hand deals to be had. So, before you decide to write it off out of hand in favour of the flimsy futurism of the Tesla Model 3 or proven Renault Zoe, let us spell out the good, the bad and the ugly of the Volkswagen e-Golf.

Is e-Golf still made? ›

Volkswagen ended e-Golf production about a week ago, but unlike many other discontinued EVs (electric vehicles), the e-Golf is being replaced with a newer EV in the same class: the ID. 3. End of Production of the VW e-Golf on 17.12. 2020 in Glaeserne Manufaktur von Volkswagen in Dresden.

Is VW E-Golf discontinued? ›

VW confirmed that the production of electric e-Golf ends today at the Transparent Factory in Dresden. It will be replaced by the new ID. 3 electric car. The VW e-Golf was, by most people's description, a compliance electric car.

Is Volkswagen Golf all wheel drive? ›

The Volkswagen Golf and Golf GTI models do not feature 4-wheel drive. The Golf R, Golf Alltrack, and Golf SportWagen come with Volkswagen's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, either standard or available as an upgrade.

Where are VW Golfs built? ›

Volkswagen cars are now built all across the globe, but Golf, Rabbit, and GTI models are still made in the company's home town of Wolfsburg, Germany.

What replaced the VW Rabbit? ›

Years later, they would also introduce the VW Fox, carrying on that theme. The Rabbit stayed on the US market from 1974 to 1983, when it was finally replaced by the MK2 Golf, which kept the same Golf shape, but it was longer and wider.

How many miles is too much for a Volkswagen? ›

Volkswagen cars typically last around 150,000 miles as long as it is serviced and taken good care of. VW cars you buy today usually last longer than VWs that are just 10 years old as they are built better and easier to maintain.

Are VW engines good? ›

When they first came out, the Volkswagen engine was placed in military vehicles, making them strong, sturdy, and durable. Nowadays, the 888 1.8L is one of the most reliable engines. It's said that, with proper maintenance, the Volkswagen can last more than 100,000 miles.

Can a Volkswagen last 300000 miles? ›

No. Most modern VW will not last , without being a money pit, until 250.000 miles(402.336 km's). It's 2021 , and most cars are design to withstand the elements up to 200k miles, if you service it yearly and follow the manufacturer recommended maintenance/replacement periods.

Is it expensive to fix a Volkswagen? ›

As you can see, Volkswagen lands about middle-of-the-road for annual repair fees. Compared to average vehicles like Hondas or Toyotas, Volkswagen maintenance costs are high. However, they're not as expensive as luxury car brands like BMW or Audi.

Is it more expensive to repair a Volkswagen? ›

Is Volkswagen Maintenance Expensive? According to RepairPal, Volkswagen maintenance costs are only slightly more expensive than average. New 2021 model vehicles are less expensive to maintain than similar models from other brands, as well.

Are Volkswagens good on gas? ›

A hefty chunk of the Volkswagen lineup gets at least 30 highway miles per gallon. The Beetle, Golf, and Jetta lineups are especially efficient with their fuel economy.
...
Volkswagen models that get over 30 MPG.
Beetle 1.8T34 Hwy MPG
Eos 2.0T30 Hwy MPG
Golf 1.8T (2-door and 4-door)37 Hwy MPG
13 more rows
26 Feb 2016

Which is the most comfortable VW Golf? ›

Supremely comfortable and quiet inside, the Golf Mk7 also impresses with the sheer class of its interior design and construction. Interior quality has always been a Volkswagen strong suit and the Golf Mk7 is no exception to this rule.

Which is the most economical VW Golf? ›

The 113bhp diesel engine can only be specced in the lower 'Life' or 'Style' trim levels with a six-speed manual gearbox. It's the most frugal engine in the Golf range with claimed economy of 62.8-67.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 117-122g/km. While it does have a high price tag, the Golf GTE is desirable.

Is a VW Golf a good family car? ›

The Volkswagen Golf is a great five-seat hatch as a BabyDrive! For a family of up to five, this would be a very comfortable and practical family car. In the rear seats, there are ISOFix points in the two outer seats and top tether anchorages on the back of all three rear seats.

Is a Golf a good second hand car? ›

The Volkswagen Golf is a great secondhand car thanks to its hatchback practicality, rock-solid build quality and sophisticated image.

Which Golf engine is most reliable? ›

If you're looking for a reliable Volkswagen engine, the 1.8T EA113 and EA888 should be on your watchlist. One Volkswagen engine consistently appears on 'most reliable' discussions and lists: the 1.8T. Haynes calls the 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine the best VW engine.

Which used Golf should I buy? ›

For best value, we recommend the 2020, 2019, or 2015 model years for the Volkswagen Golf Mk7. With the 2020, for example, you would only pay approximately 79% of the price as new, with 92% of the vehicle's useful life remaining.

Do VW cars hold their value? ›

Volkswagens tend to hold a good amount of value over time, with certain models depreciating only about 40% after three years of ownership. Mileage: Your car's mileage directly relates to its condition. If you've racked up 100,000 miles or more, you might have to bring the price down.

How many miles to the gallon does a VW Golf do? ›

Fuel economy
Petrol engines47.1 - 54.3 mpg
Diesel engines58.9 - 67.3 mpg
Plug-in hybrid petrol engines235.4 - 313.9 mpg
17 Jun 2022

How much does a new Volkswagen Golf cost? ›

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf is priced about the same as it was last year. An entry-level 2021 Golf TSI starts at $24,115 with a manual transmission and $24,915 with the automatic.

Why is VW Golf so popular? ›

The design and functionality made it a winner right from the start. Of course, VW is one of the most popular, historic car brands on the planet, synonymous with reliability and great performance. That has never changed and accounts for much of its popularity.

Is Volkswagen Golf a good first car? ›

The Volkswagen Golf Is A Great First Car

The Golf debuted in 1974 and is currently in its eighth generation. Over the years, this car has evolved from a weird-looking hatchback to a modern weird-looking hatchback that can go months without maintenance.

Is VW Golf comfortable? ›

The interior of the 2021 Volkswagen Golf earned it a spot on the U.S. News list of the 12 most comfortable cars of 2021. Its cabin is crafted from quality materials to give it an upscale vibe. Furthermore, it has a lot of passenger space, particularly in the back seat, and a generous amount of cargo space.

What does FOB stand for in golf? ›

The name "LIV" refers to the Roman numerals for 54, the score if every hole on a par-72 course were birdied and the number of holes to be played at LIV events. The first LIV Golf Invitational Series event started on 9 June 2022, at the Centurion Club near London, England.

What does 🏌 mean in text? ›

The Golfer emoji 🏌️ depicts a person swinging a golf club. It is commonly used to represent the sport of golf or sports in general. It is frequently used alongside the Flag in Hole emoji ⛳.

What does golf mean in slang? ›

A common misconception is that the word GOLF is an acronym for Gentlemen Only Ladies Forbidden. This is a 20th century joke and definitely not true. It is now generally accepted that the 'golf' is derived from an old word meaning 'club', though this in turn may have older cognate roots dating back to ancient times.

What does R stand for VW? ›

R-Line/Golf R: What does the R stand for here? The quick answer is “racing.” The Golf R is a performance model, while R-Line options offer sportier styling that are meant to remind you of the track. Read More: What are Volkswagen R-Line trims?

What makes a GTI special? ›

The GTI Has A Sublime Steering Feel And A Powerful Engine That Provides A Good Driving Experience. Under the hood, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque.

What does GT stand for in GTI? ›

The GTI in the Volkswagen GTI — as well as other cars with the GTI acronym — stands for Grand Tourer Injection. It originates from the Italian Gran Turismo Iniezione. Generally speaking, the GTI acronym indicates that a car has a direct fuel-injection system.

What does Volkswagen mean in German? ›

The German motor vehicle manufacturer Volkswagen is a well-known brand, but many aren't aware of what Volkswagen stands for. Volkswagen is German for “the people's car.” This makes sense because Volkswagen is well known for its reliability.

What does TDI mean on a Golf? ›

TDI stands for Turbocharged Direct Injection. Direct injection is when fuel is sprayed directly into a car's cylinder rather than delivered through an intake manifold. Direct injection diesel engines tend to be more efficient and produce less soot than older types of engines.

What's the nickname for a Volkswagen? ›

Bug or Beetle-Bug in the US. Käfer (beetle) in Germany, Austria and Alemannic Switzerland.

What year cars are affected by VW scandal? ›

These settlements resolve allegations that Volkswagen violated the Clean Air Act by the sale of approximately 590,000 model year 2009 to 2016 diesel motor vehicles equipped with “defeat devices" in the form of computer software designed to cheat on federal emissions tests.

What did Volkswagen do that was unethical? ›

You are most likely familiar with the most recent Volkswagen “ethics scandal,” in which VW engineers programmed computers in their diesel cars to detect emission tests. During the tests, the vehicles would alter their engine operations to meet legal emission standards.

Has Volkswagen recovered from scandal? ›

However, the brand is still in recovery for four years. Before the Dieselgate broke, the score of the brand was 25.3. However, after the scandal, the score dropped significantly to -1.6. From the time the brand has been in recovery, getting a score of 20.5.

Why did the Volkswagen scandal happen? ›

In September 2015, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that in over 590,000 diesel motor vehicles, Volkswagen had violated the Clean Air Act as the vehicles were equipped with “defeat devices” in the form of a computer software, which was designed to cheat on federal emissions tests.

Who is eligible for VW settlement? ›

You may be able to join the Claim if your car was manufactured by Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT, Skoda or Porsche and: It is a 1.2, 1.6, 2.0, or 3.0 litre diesel vehicle with engine EA189, EA288 or EA897.

Is it too late to claim against VW? ›

So far the case against VW is the only one to reach an out of court settlement. However, it is not too late to make a claim if you believe you are eligible owner of an Audi, Seat, Skoda or VW vehicle.

How much compensation will VW owners get? ›

Thousands of VW owners in line for £2,100 payout – see if you're one of them. THOUSANDS of Volkswagon owners are in line to get an average of £2,100 in a payout following the emissions scandal.

How did VW cheating device work? ›

The software sensed when the car was being tested and then activated equipment that reduced emissions, United States officials said. But the software turned the equipment down during regular driving, increasing emissions far above legal limits, most likely to save fuel or to improve the car's torque and acceleration.

Which car company lied about emissions? ›

In 1996, GM had to pay a near-record fine of $11 million, and recall 470,000 vehicles, because of ECU software programmed to disengage emissions controls during conditions known to exist when the cars were not being lab tested by the EPA.

Who was responsible for Volkswagen scandal? ›

Hanno Jelden, who prosecutors said was in charge of the development of the illegal software at the heart of the scheme, attributed the long silence over the software malfunction in part to Volkswagen's company culture, which he described as one where problems were to be solved quickly rather than analysed.

How much will I get from the VW emissions scandal? ›

Each claimant will receive on average of more than £2,100. It will also make a contribution to cover claimants' legal costs and other fees. The action, which was launched in 2019, claimed that cars made by VW, including brands such as Audi, Seat and Skoda, emitted more nitrogen dioxide than the company said it did.

What did VW do to cheat emissions? ›

It turned out that Volkswagen had installed software that changed how the engine ran when it was undergoing an emissions test to make it look like a low-emissions vehicle. The rest of the time? The cars were emitting dangerous pollutants at levels up to 150 times that of a normal car.

How much did the VW scandal cost? ›

(Reuters) — Volkswagen AG said its diesel cheating scandal has cost it 31.3 billion euros ($34.69 billion) in fines and settlements, and the German carmaker expects cash outflows to continue until 2021, adding that these have already been provisioned for.

How do I know if my VW is affected by the emissions scandal? ›

You can also check whether your car is affected by entering its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) details on the Volkswagen, Audi, Seat or Skoda websites. You can make a claim even if you no longer own the car, as long as you still have proof of ownership and know the car's VIN number.

Which VW vehicles are affected by the emissions scandal? ›

According to the EPA, this means that the cars under investigation could be emitting up to 40 times the national standard for nitrogen oxide (NOx), which is linked to asthma and lung illnesses. The cars affected are 2009-2014 Jettas, Beetles, Golfs, Audi A3s, and VW Passats built from 2014-15.

Which VW models are being recalled? ›

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback, Q5, 2022-2023 Volkswagen Atlas FL, and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The engine connecting rod bearings may become damaged, which can result in engine failure.

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