The German brand definitely made a statemnet with theirperformance-driven and uncompromisingly advanced hybrid/electric vehicles at the Johannesburg International Motor Show.

Although in a country where saving energy is not yet second nature, it’s going to be interesting to see how these models succeed in the market, if they ever get here. Here’s what the brand had to offer petrol heads and “eco-warriors” at the show.

Volkswagen’s hyperefficient model line up

They really took preserving energy to another level. Not only were their hybrid and electric vehicles a feast for the eyes, but their energy efficient photo booth integrated with a bicycle was a sure winner. This instalment let you ride on the bicycle till you made enough energy/electricity to take a photo in the booth – showing you how much energy you use (or as they say ‘waste’) by taking just one picture on your phone.

On stand was the special edition iBeetle which is based on a full integration of the iPhone and Beetle, and the fuel-efficient Cross Coupe powered by an alliance of a turbodiesel direct-injection engine (TDI) and two electric motors. This concept SUV is based on the new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) from Volkswagen AG and features design elements that are much sportier than in conventional SUVs.

Their list of energy efficient models included the Jetta Hybrid powered by a high-tech petrol engine (TSI with 110 kW) and a zero-emissions 20kW electric motor. The Golf TDI BlueMotion which has a top speed of 200 km/h, a 50-litre fuel tank and 3.2 l/100 km fuel consumption, and a theoretical driving range of over 1000 kilometres.

Volkswagen also presented brand’s first production electric vehicle, the e-up! which premiered at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show in September – creating a double impact on the e-mobility stage.

Making its first appearance in SA was the sporty special edition Scirocco GTS based on the Scirocco Mk2 which rolled off the production line nearly thirty years ago. Distinctive features of the GTS then as they are now include individualised exterior and interior in a sporty style. The Scirocco GTS will only be available with the 2.0 TSI 155 kW engine mated to 6-speed DSG transmission.

Demanding attention in the Light Commercial Vehicles stand, were both the Amarok Edition and Amarok Worthersee single-cab concept in their lowered body, big wheels, massive load box and shining exterior paint.

The motor show only ends on Sunday, so there’s still a chance for you to view these models and others such as the Toureg R-Line, Passat R-Line, S200 Sasol Racing car, Golf GTI Cabriolet and the Polo Vivo Maxx.

Volkswagen JIMS gallery