Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 34,311 units sold in October, a 22.4 percent increase over prior year sales, a 35.6 percent year-to-date increase and the best October since 1972. In just 10 months of sales, this marks the best calendar year since 1973.
“In the wake of the East coast disaster, we would like to express our thoughts and concern for all affected,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “In light of the difficult aftermath of hurricane Sandy, the Volkswagen of America Foundation is providing aid in the form of a donation to the American Red Cross in order to help with the relief efforts. Despite over 25 percent of our dealers being impacted by the severe storm conditions, Volkswagen was able to increase sales by over 20 percent and deliver the best October in nearly 40 years – a testament to the resilience and strength of our dealer body.”
The Volkswagen of America Foundation announced yesterday that it would make an immediate donation of $500,000 to the American Red Cross for Hurricane Sandy relief to provide support for affected areas across the northeast. The donation will help cover costs of shelter, food, recovery and other assistance to families affected by the storm. Additionally, Volkswagen will provide matching funds to any employee donations made to the American Red Cross or the organization of their choosing.
The Volkswagen Passat, which was recently added to Consumer Reports recommended list, continues its successful year with 8,355 units sold in October.
Jetta sedan, including the enthusiast GLI model, remains the volume leader for Volkswagen with sales totaling 11,253 while Jetta SportWagen totaled 2,223. The Jetta turbo hybrid, which will go on sale later this year, recently achieved a Land Speed Record at Bonneville, posting 187 mph, a record speed for hybrid vehicles.
The Beetle continues to gain momentum with 2,439 units sold. The Beetle convertible will make its debut later this month at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Golf/GTI/Golf R had total sales of 2,914 units. The Tiguan sold 2,752 units, the best October ever for the vehicle, while the Volkswagen Touareg sold 965 units, a 33.1 percent increase.
Volkswagen continued sales success with its TDI models, the Passat, Tiguan and Golf all had the best year-to-date sales ever with 75,779 TDIs sold, a 29.9 percent increase year-to-date.