Volkswagen: What's New for 2010

2010 Volkswagen CC: Changes to the 2010 Volkswagen CC are minimal this year. Base 2.0T models now get a Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) as standard in place of the previous automatic transmission. All models add standard Bluetooth connectivity, an upgraded touchscreen audio system, additional rear badging and an optional iPod connector. Heated exterior mirrors have been eliminated on 2.0T Sport models, while VR6 and VR6 4Motion models now get standard "Vavona" wood trim.

2010 Volkswagen Eos: All models get an upgraded touchscreen radio, Bluetooth connectivity, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a revised instrument cluster. Luxe versions get standard chrome grille louvers and optional 18-inch Veracruz wheels.

2010 Volkswagen Golf: The Rabbit is dead; long live the 2010 Volkswagen Golf. Renamed and redesigned, this Golf is all-new inside and out. The changes are subtle, though, so don't expect a drastically new hatchback. Base models will offer the same 2.5-liter 170-horsepower five-cylinder as before, but a new TDI trim will offer the 140-hp 2.0-liter diesel engine currently available in the Jetta. For transmissions, 2.5 models will continue with a standard five-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic, while the TDI will use a standard six-speed manual or optional six-speed DSG. The two models get similar standard equipment levels, although the TDI is the sportier of the two as it adds 17-inch wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a sport suspension.

2010 Volkswagen GTI: Like the new Golf, the 2010 Volkswagen GTI is all-new. You would be hard-pressed to spot the differences, however, as the new GTI is much like the previous model in terms of its size and drivetrain. The 200-hp 2.0T engine returns along with a standard six-speed manual or optional six-speed DSG transmission. Both two- and four-door models will be offered along with an Autobahn package that adds leather upholstery, sport seats and a moonroof. Additional options include Bluetooth connectivity, 18-inch wheels and a Dynaudio sound system.

2010 Volkswagen Jetta: With a full redesign expected next year, the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta received only minor upgrades this year. All models get a revised instrument cluster, upgraded interior trim and new climate controls. On the base 2.5 S, the standard 16-inch wheels have been redesigned, while 16-inch "Sedona" alloy wheels are optional. Additional options include an iPod adapter, Bluetooth and a new cloth interior color (Latte Macchiato). On the 2.5 SE, 16-inch alloy "Sedona" wheels are now standard along with Bluetooth connectivity and an upgraded touchscreen radio. An iPod connector is optional along with new V-Tex upholstery in either black or beige. Upgrading to the 2.5 SEL model adds 17-inch "Avignon" wheels and a standard iPod connector. TDI models get all the same upgrades as the 2.5 SE except for the "Sedona" wheels.

2010 Volkswagen New Beetle: Other than a few new color options, the 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is unchanged this year. Tossau Blau is a new exterior color, while White V-Tex can now be paired with Salsa Red, Black or Tossau Blau. Convertible models now get standard covers for the folded soft top.

2010 Volkswagen Passat: The biggest change for the 2010 Volkswagen Passat sedan and wagon is the new DSG, which replaces the previous automatic transmission as standard equipment. New 17-inch "LeMans" alloy wheels are also standard while 18-inch "Budapest" wheels are optional with the sport suspension. A leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel is now standard along with Bluetooth and an upgraded touchscreen audio system. Passat wagons get standard foglights now, while rear sunshades have been eliminated on sedans. An iPod connector is a stand-alone option now while Cobalt Blue is no longer an exterior color option.

2010 Volkswagen Routan: For 2010, the Volkswagen Routan lineup has been simplified into seven trim levels with no options — S, SE, SE with rear-seat entertainment (RSE), SE with navigation and RSE, SEL with navigation, SEL with navigation and RSE, and SEL Premium with navigation and RSE. On the base S, three-zone climate control is now standard, but RSE in no longer optional. All SE models now feature standard V-Tex cloth upholstery, heated first-row seats, adjustable pedals and Bluetooth connectivity. SEL models get a standard sunroof, power third-row seat, remote start, foglights and a tow prep package. All models get a revised onboard computer with white lighting in place of blue lighting.

2010 Volkswagen Tiguan: There are only minimal changes for the 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan. All trim levels get an upgraded touchscreen audio interface and a revised instrument cluster. SE and SEL models get standard Bluetooth connectivity, while an iPod connector is only available with the optional navigation system.

2010 Volkswagen Touareg: The 2010 Volkswagen Touareg has been trimmed down this year. Discontinued options include the V8 engine, four-corner air suspension and rear differential lock. On the plus side, "Walnut" wood trim is now standard along with Bluetooth connectivity. The optional Luxury package now includes 19-inch "Terra" alloy wheels, a heated steering wheel and Vavona wood trim. The Technology package now includes bi-xenon adaptive headlights and keyless ignition.