Volkswagen Group Japan (VGJ) exhibited at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show (until December 1, Tokyo Big Sight). The booth theme was "Surprises you haven't seen yet are here."
The company displayed a total of 17 vehicles, including nine models making their Japanese debut. These featured the world premiere of the plug-in hybrid concept car "twin up!", the "XL1" achieving unprecedented environmental performance, and the new Golf Variant soon to arrive in Japan.
President Shigeru Shoji stated, "In this commemorative year marking 60 years since we began sales in Japan in 1953, we are on track to achieve our highest-ever sales volume. We are very pleased to be able to introduce many new vehicles at the Tokyo Motor Show."
twin up! and President Shōji (right), Heinz-Jakob Neusser, Member of the Board of Management for Product Development, Volkswagen Brand
twin up! features the same plug-in hybrid system as the XL1. It achieves overwhelming fuel efficiency, capable of traveling 100 kilometers on just 1.1 liters of fuel. It successfully combines energy efficiency with driving enjoyment.
The XL1 can travel 100 kilometers on just 0.9 liters of fuel. Its lightweight yet highly rigid body features a unique form that drastically reduces air resistance.
The new Golf Variant, soon to arrive in Japan, was also unveiled.
The 34th Japan Car of the Year award ceremony was held on November 23 at Tokyo Big Sight. The new Golf, imported and sold by VGJ, won the "2013-2014 Japan Car of the Year" award. This marks the first time an imported vehicle has won this award. Launched in Japan this past June, the car was highly praised for its clean, sharp design and advanced safety features.