Volkswagen Group Operating Profits Soar 86 Percent in the First 9 Months of 2011

Whereas the rest of the European carmakers such as PSA Peugeot and Citroen and the Fiat Group are facing troubled times, the German auto industry is enjoying one of its most prosperous eras ever.

On Thursday, Europe's largest automaker, the Volkswagen Group, announced that it has earned more in the first nine months of 2011 than in the whole of 2010.

The company's operating profit surged to €9.0 billion (US$12.5 billion) from January through September, up from €7.1 billion in fiscal 2010 and €4.8 billion in the same period last year, which represents a staggering 86 percent increase.

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Seat Exeo ST

From the autumn 2011, SEAT Exeo's distinctive design will be further enhanced and the powerful TDI engines become even more efficient. The new upgrade adds even more appeal to the sporty, comfortable SEAT Exeo and the spaciously dynamic SEAT Exeo ST. All diesel versions benefit from a decrease in CO2 emissions of around 7 grams per km - resulting in a CO2 figure of 129 grams per kilometre (Exeo ST, 132 g/km), making the Exeo one of the most efficient, low-emission vehicles in its class. Fuel consumption will also drop below the current combined figure of 5,2 l per 100 km (5,3 l on the ST).

And the introduction of these improvements to SEAT Exeo's efficiency are just the first step, with additional improvements to Exeo's efficiency scheduled to arrive in 2012 thanks to the fitment of SEAT's Start/Stop engine technology.
The addition of this technology - which stops the engine when the car is stationary, such as when waiting at a red traffic light - will significantly reduce consumption and emissions, with a target figure of sub-120g for CO2. SEAT Exeo's dynamic driving performance will not be compromised despite the reduction in consumption and emissions.
This low level of emissions will make SEAT Exeo one of the most efficient cars in its class and will further enhance its competitive appeal, particularly for fleets where emissions are a key purchasing factor.
The many strengths of the SEAT Exeo include its clear design language. With the redesigned front end, both the saloon and the estate are now even more expressive. The new, optional bi-xenon headlamps adopt the "arrow" theme that is so characteristic of SEAT design. The integrated daytime running lights in energy saving LED technology are sculpted into sharply defined, angular "wings", giving the SEAT Exeo a precise and dynamic look.
The sophisticated design of this light unit is clear evidence of the detail with which the SEAT Exeo was designed and developed. Together with the new, honeycomb grille insert, the LED rear lights and the all-new 17 and 18-inch alloy wheel designs, the SEAT Exeo now has an even more athletic and dynamic appearance - by night and by day. The interior is further enhanced with new upholstery. The redesigned leather steering wheel now sports an even more premium look-and-feel - further evidence of the passion that SEAT dedicates to every single detail.
Reduced fuel consumption and emissions across all TDI models
From a technical perspective, the focus was on further efficiency improvements. Systematic refinements to the power units enabled the CO2 emissions of all TDI versions to be reduced by around 7 grams per kilometre. The 88 and 105 kW (120 and 143 hp) saloon models with manual transmission now both come in below the 130 grams per kilometre mark.
SEAT Exeo combines driving fun and quality with low costs
This latest generation makes the SEAT Exeo an even more attractive proposition for business class people who set just as much store by driving fun and a premium feel as they do by efficiency, utility and low costs. The Exeo unites distinctive and elegant design with state-of-the-art technology, outstanding quality and excellent value-for-money.
Exceptional precision and premium feel
Alongside sporty dynamics, the SEAT Exeo is distinguished primarily by its precision and premium feel. The exceptionally stiff bodyshell structure is the fundamental factor in the high-quality feel, the exceptional bodyroll characteristics and precise road manners. The excellent fit and finish both inside and out bear testament to the attention to detail and the high precision with which the SEAT Exeo is built in Martorell near Barcelona. Add to that the premium materials and surface finishes, plus the very latest comfort and information systems
SEAT Exeo ST with significantly enhanced utility
At a length of 4.66 metres, the SEAT Exeo is the prestigious athlete of the mid-size class. It offers space for five passengers and a generously proportioned luggage compartment. The SEAT Exeo ST estate version delivers significantly enhanced utility. With its luggage volume ranging from 442 to 1,354 litres, its wide rear opening and its high level of variability, the Exeo ST is the perfect partner for all the challenges posed by an active, sporty lifestyle or a successful business day.
State-of-the-art technology for dynamics and safety
The application of state-of-the-art technologies underpins the hallmark sporty SEAT driving experience. The engine line-up ranges from 88 to 155 kW (120 to 210 hp). The latest TDI power units with common-rail direct injection ensure excellent pulling power, smooth running characteristics and outstanding efficiency. For particularly comfort-oriented drivers, the multitronic transmission with steering-wheel shift paddles presents an alternative to the manual gearbox. This efficient automatic is available as an option for the 2.0 TSI with 147 kW (200 hp) and for the 2.0 TDI with 105 kW (143 hp).
The SEAT Exeo is also a very safe vehicle in its class. Alongside the crash-optimized bodyshell structure, its standard equipment list also boasts seven airbags - including driver knee airbag - ESP system with ABS and electronic brake force distribution and automatic tyre pressure monitoring system. The list of hi-tech options is extensive and includes a DVD navigation system, bi-xenon headlamps with dynamic cornering light and a Bose sound system.

Seat Exeo

From the autumn 2011, SEAT Exeo's distinctive design will be further enhanced and the powerful TDI engines become even more efficient. The new upgrade adds even more appeal to the sporty, comfortable SEAT Exeo and the spaciously dynamic SEAT Exeo ST. All diesel versions benefit from a decrease in CO2 emissions of around 7 grams per km - resulting in a CO2 figure of 129 grams per kilometre (Exeo ST, 132 g/km), making the Exeo one of the most efficient, low-emission vehicles in its class. Fuel consumption will also drop below the current combined figure of 5,2 l per 100 km (5,3 l on the ST).

And the introduction of these improvements to SEAT Exeo's efficiency are just the first step, with additional improvements to Exeo's efficiency scheduled to arrive in 2012 thanks to the fitment of SEAT's Start/Stop engine technology.
The addition of this technology - which stops the engine when the car is stationary, such as when waiting at a red traffic light - will significantly reduce consumption and emissions, with a target figure of sub-120g for CO2. SEAT Exeo's dynamic driving performance will not be compromised despite the reduction in consumption and emissions.
This low level of emissions will make SEAT Exeo one of the most efficient cars in its class and will further enhance its competitive appeal, particularly for fleets where emissions are a key purchasing factor.
The many strengths of the SEAT Exeo include its clear design language. With the redesigned front end, both the saloon and the estate are now even more expressive. The new, optional bi-xenon headlamps adopt the "arrow" theme that is so characteristic of SEAT design. The integrated daytime running lights in energy saving LED technology are sculpted into sharply defined, angular "wings", giving the SEAT Exeo a precise and dynamic look.

The sophisticated design of this light unit is clear evidence of the detail with which the SEAT Exeo was designed and developed. Together with the new, honeycomb grille insert, the LED rear lights and the all-new 17 and 18-inch alloy wheel designs, the SEAT Exeo now has an even more athletic and dynamic appearance - by night and by day. The interior is further enhanced with new upholstery. The redesigned leather steering wheel now sports an even more premium look-and-feel - further evidence of the passion that SEAT dedicates to every single detail.
Reduced fuel consumption and emissions across all TDI models
From a technical perspective, the focus was on further efficiency improvements. Systematic refinements to the power units enabled the CO2 emissions of all TDI versions to be reduced by around 7 grams per kilometre. The 88 and 105 kW (120 and 143 hp) saloon models with manual transmission now both come in below the 130 grams per kilometre mark.
SEAT Exeo combines driving fun and quality with low costs
This latest generation makes the SEAT Exeo an even more attractive proposition for business class people who set just as much store by driving fun and a premium feel as they do by efficiency, utility and low costs. The Exeo unites distinctive and elegant design with state-of-the-art technology, outstanding quality and excellent value-for-money.
Exceptional precision and premium feel
Alongside sporty dynamics, the SEAT Exeo is distinguished primarily by its precision and premium feel. The exceptionally stiff bodyshell structure is the fundamental factor in the high-quality feel, the exceptional bodyroll characteristics and precise road manners. The excellent fit and finish both inside and out bear testament to the attention to detail and the high precision with which the SEAT Exeo is built in Martorell near Barcelona. Add to that the premium materials and surface finishes, plus the very latest comfort and information systems
SEAT Exeo ST with significantly enhanced utility
At a length of 4.66 metres, the SEAT Exeo is the prestigious athlete of the mid-size class. It offers space for five passengers and a generously proportioned luggage compartment. The SEAT Exeo ST estate version delivers significantly enhanced utility. With its luggage volume ranging from 442 to 1,354 litres, its wide rear opening and its high level of variability, the Exeo ST is the perfect partner for all the challenges posed by an active, sporty lifestyle or a successful business day.

State-of-the-art technology for dynamics and safety
The application of state-of-the-art technologies underpins the hallmark sporty SEAT driving experience. The engine line-up ranges from 88 to 155 kW (120 to 210 hp). The latest TDI power units with common-rail direct injection ensure excellent pulling power, smooth running characteristics and outstanding efficiency. For particularly comfort-oriented drivers, the multitronic transmission with steering-wheel shift paddles presents an alternative to the manual gearbox. This efficient automatic is available as an option for the 2.0 TSI with 147 kW (200 hp) and for the 2.0 TDI with 105 kW (143 hp).
The SEAT Exeo is also a very safe vehicle in its class. Alongside the crash-optimized bodyshell structure, its standard equipment list also boasts seven airbags - including driver knee airbag - ESP system with ABS and electronic brake force distribution and automatic tyre pressure monitoring system. The list of hi-tech options is extensive and includes a DVD navigation system, bi-xenon headlamps with dynamic cornering light and a Bose sound system.

VW Group Surpasses Six Million Sales in the First Nine Months of the Year

The Volkswagen Group is defying the economic crisis and gearing up to set a new sales milestone this year. For the first time in its history, the German maker sold 6.11 million vehicles (5.36 million if you exclude the Scania truck division) in the first nine months of the year, marking a 13.9 percent increase over the same period in 2010. Read more »

Seat Mii

SEAT is unveiling the SEAT Mii city car - the perfect vehicle for today's urban lifestyle. Quite simply, the SEAT Mii makes life easier - with compelling practicality, exceptional driving fun, high efficiency and innovative technology.
The Mii combines SEAT's sporty Mediterranean design with the very best craftsmanship and enormous scope for personalisation. Moreover, the outstanding value-for-money and low maintenance costs make the joy of driving a SEAT Mii easily attainable.

Spain, SEAT's home market, will begin sales of the Mii before the end of 2011, with the rest of Europe following in Spring 2012.
At a length of 3.55 metres, the SEAT Mii is the perfect size for modern-day urban use. The Mii comes to market at the end of 2011 as a three-door; the five-door version follows in 2012.
The new SEAT will be offered with all-new 1.0-litre petrol engines of 60 PS and 75 PS outputs. Combined with the vehicle's low weight of 854 kg these guarantee nimble agility and exemplary efficiency. The Mii Ecomotive has a CO2 figure of just 97 g/km.
The SEAT Mii is also a leader when it comes to innovative technology. The City Safety Assist for instance, adds an extra dimension of safety in the city, while the SEAT Portable System brings together entertainment, navigation, phone and vehicle functions in an entirely new way.

'The new Mii is the perfect partner for everyday urban life. It is young and fresh, thought through to the very last detail and built to the finest quality. The Mii brings clear SEAT identity to the sub-compact segment and is set to win a significant share of the market,' said James Muir, President of SEAT S.A. 'This is why the Mii is an important addition to the SEAT portfolio and a clear next step in our company strategy. With the Mii, we are starting the most comprehensive model offensive in SEAT history.'

Even though the SEAT Mii fits neatly into almost every parking space, its optimum use of space means it still offers plenty of space for four people. With a volume of 251 litres, the Mii offers the largest luggage compartment in its class. With the rear seat back folded, this increases to as much as 951 litres.
Yet the SEAT Mii doesn't stop at the city boundaries. Its spaciousness, excellent comfort levels and sporty dynamics - a direct result of its low weight - also make the Mii a compelling companion over longer distances.
'At just 3.55 metres long, the SEAT Mii combines innovative technologies with an incredibly well-balanced overall feel,' said Dr Matthias Rabe, SEAT Vice President for Research and Development.
'With its low weight and modern drivetrains, the Mii is both sporty and efficient at the same time.'
Design - Mediterranean modernity with clear character
Characteristic and unmistakable - the Mii is clearly recognisable as a member of the SEAT family. Its front end carries forward the typical arrow visual, while its profile is distinguished by powerful wheel arches and slender roof pillars.

The rear end shows a new form of light design with triangular lamp units. The perfect proportions are a key element and comprise a width of 1.64 metres, a long wheelbase of 2.42 metres and exceptionally short overhangs front and rear. The steep rear end facilitates the Mii's excellent spaciousness - optimal functionality is particularly important in the super-compact segment.
'The Mii breathes the very spirit of its remarkable hometown, Barcelona,' says Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, the new Head of SEAT Design.
'It is modern, it has a strong personality, but it isn't loud. The Mii has the feel of a modern yet timeless product design. Every detail is precisely defined, but with not a line too many. With the Mii, we are making sporty chic and design quality attainable for all.'
Modern clarity and compelling functionality are defining aspects of the interior, too. The perfect ergonomics of the instruments and the control elements fit beautifully with the premium surfaces that can be individualised using coloured trim from the various equipment lines. Its seats are also new - with integrated head restraints they offer sports car flair, while being very comfortable and well-suited to long-distance driving.
Safety - the SEAT Mii monitors the road and brakes for itself
A unique innovation in this class of vehicle is the SEAT Mii's City Safety Assist. In the event of danger the Mii warns its driver, or even brakes automatically. A laser sensor recognises other vehicles in front, whether they are driving or stationary. The system warns the driver when there is the imminent threat of an accident at speeds of less than 18 mph (30 km/h). If he does not react, the Mii brakes automatically. In many situations this is sufficient to avoid an accident altogether but will, at the very least, mitigate its consequences. ESP is also available, and is always combined with City Safety Assist when specified.
Systematic lightweight design means that the base weight of the SEAT Mii is only 854 kg. Its bodyshell is a piece of high technology formed largely from high-strength and, in places, form-hardened steels. Thanks to exceptional stiffness, it delivers a high-quality feel and excellent passive safety. The side airbags are standard equipment and are particularly large for optimum protection of head and upper body.
Drive - sporty agility with low fuel consumption
Beneath the short bonnet of the Mii is a completely new generation of engines. The three-cylinder petrol powerplant with a one-litre displacement is very light, compact and smooth-running. With two outputs of 60 PS or 75 PS, it ensures agility and compelling dynamics both in the city and on the open road.
Top speeds stand at 99 mph (160 km/h) and 106 mph (171 km/h) respectively, while fuel consumption on the combined cycle is measured at 4.5 and 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres. With a generous 35-litre tank volume, it offers considerable range between fill-ups and long-lasting driving fun.
There are two Ecomotive versions of the Mii. Thanks to a start/stop system, brake energy recuperation and further consumption-lowering initiatives, they make do with just 4.2 litres of fuel per 100 km, which equates to a CO2 figure of just 97 g/km.
In Continental Europe the little SEAT will also be offered with CNG engineering. This lowers CO2 emissions to just 86 g/km, making the SEAT Mii one of the cleanest cars in the world.
Furthermore, as an alternative to a manual transmission, the Mii is also available with an automated manual box that boasts two electric motors to help manage the smooth gear change.
Infotainment - unique technology to boost efficient driving
SEAT is a young brand and the unique new SEAT Portable System is, of course, part of that. This innovative technology includes a five-inch screen - it is removable for mobile use and yet perfectly integrated into the vehicle electronics. Its many functions include a state-of-the-art navigation system, hands-free phone system with voice control and an on-board computer. The device can be combined with the integrated radio and speaker system.
'The Mii offers enormous intelligence in a compact format,' said Dr Matthias Rabe, SEAT Vice President for Research and Development. 'The SEAT Portable System shows how it is possible to offer fascinating technology and innovative functions with tangible added value at an attractive price.'
The unique features of the SEAT Portable System include an 'Eco-trainer' function. Gearshift display, engine speed recommendations, average values and consumption profile all help the SEAT Mii owner to drive particularly economically. Plus, the SEAT Portable System is fully integrated into the vehicle electronics. It can be kept up-to-date via internet downloads, while tailor-made apps will offer additional functions in the future.
Equipment - sporty chic
Offered in its home market with three equipment lines, two Style Packs and a wide array of optional equipment and accessories, the Mii can be adapted perfectly to suit individual lifestyles and preferences.
Even the base model has all the key elements for safety and urban driving fun such as ABS, an adjustable steering column, side airbags and Isofix points with Top Tether. Reference and Style are the names of the two other equipment lines in Spain, with Style offering features such as power windows and central locking.
Prefer more chic or more sporting character in your SEAT Mii? The two equipment packages Chic and Sport offer the choice, with special colour and trim elements for interior personalisation. Alloy wheels and a leather steering wheel are always part of the package - the chrome package in the Chic version adds a special touch, while the Sport version offers tinted windows and a sporty suspension set-up for an even more dynamic feel.

New Seat Mii: Volkswagen Up! City Car Spawns Third Derivative

The world premiere of the VW Up! at last month's 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show last month was only the beginning for the German group as after the recent presentation of the Skoda Citigo, Seat is next in line to gain its version of the small city car with the Mii.

The new Mii is the Spanish firm's first offering in the segment after the termination of the Arosa mini in 2004, which was also based on a VW model, the Lupo.

As is the case with the Skoda Citigo, the only visible differences between the Seat Mii and the VW Up! are their front end styling, alloy wheel designs, tail lamp graphics and the interior trim colors and options.

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