National Press Release

HERNDON, Va., July 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today the 2009 Tiguan has earned a 5-star crash test rating from the government's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). NCAP is part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which is affiliated with the U.S. Department of Transportation, and they have provided consumers with vehicle safety information since 1978.

NCAP has primarily provided front and side crash test ratings, and more recently added a rollover rating -- all aimed at helping consumers in making their vehicle purchasing decisions. The rating results are relayed to consumers using an easily recognizable star rating system from 1 to 5, with 5 being the best a vehicle can achieve.

"Volkswagen is thrilled that our Tiguan has earned the highest crash test rating, 5-star, by the government -- providing further validation that Volkswagen produces some of the safest vehicles in the industry," said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "Our vehicles have numerous safety technologies that work to help prevent accidents whenever possible, and help protect our occupants when an accident is unavoidable," added Barnes.

Along with being one of the safest compact SUVs currently available in the marketplace the Tiguan also features the fun-to-drive handling and performance expected from a Volkswagen. The Tiguan comes with the award winning 2.0-liter TSI engine that delivers turbocharged acceleration and responsible fuel efficiency. European tuned suspension enables precise handling, while also providing a smooth and compliant ride. Just like all 2009 model year Volkswagen vehicles, the Tiguan includes a standard electronic stability control system that Volkswagen brands Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP).

Tiguan, like all 2009 model year Volkswagen vehicles, is also included in the no-charge Carefree Maintenance Program. Under this program all of Tiguan's scheduled maintenance, as described in its maintenance book, is covered for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty -- three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

About Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Eos, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg 2 and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2009 Volkswagen models come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com or www.media.vw.com to learn more.

SOURCE Volkswagen of America, Inc.