Weekend Destinations to Unwind During Winter

Top 6 Places to Visit After Visiting Your Volkswagen Dealer
Finding time to relax can be difficult with a busy schedule, and squeezing in an extra vacation during the holidays is almost impossible. Fortunately, you live in an area that has great winter destinations.
Look at all the ways you can take advantage of these six close getaways to enjoy your weekend to the fullest in your Volkswagen!
Invigorate Your Senses at Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
This fascinating winter destination is less than 150 miles away in Bannock County, Idaho. With a small population of about 400 people, this tiny resort town is the perfect location to unwind. Take a dip in the world famous hot springs, and experience therapeutic waters filled with minerals like bicarbonate, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Even better, these hot springs come without the off-putting smell of sulfur, because the water filters through an ancient volcano before they enter the springs. Many people enjoy a secluded winter wonderland during colder months of the year, as the snow is extra enchanting from the warmth of a hot spring.
You can find five year-round hot springs to soothe your soul, or check out the many health and wellness centers within this small town. Pamper yourself with a massage or other spa services.
Dinosaur Monument, Utah Is a Perfect Place for the Whole Family
Do you have a dino lover in your family? Then you need to take a trip to peek into the Jurassic Period at Dinosaur National Monument, which is conveniently about 150 miles away. This national park spreads across 20,000 acres and is packed with dinosaur fossils, footprints, and prehistoric sites that will surely fascinate every member of your family.
Check out scenes like the Wall of Bones, which houses more than 1,500 fossils embedded in a cliff from millions of years ago. If stargazing is your passion, grab a campsite, a cozy blanket, and your telescope, because Dinosaurs Monument is officially designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association.
Find winter fun by exploring the art of snow shoeing, enjoying some time skiing, or riding a snowmobile for a little extra excitement. Get your winter camping in, too, because Split Mountain Campground is open throughout winter.
Goblin State Valley Park, Utah for an Extraterrestrial Experience
Goblin State Valley is a fun and spooky trip just a few hours away from home, near the town of Hanksville. You can see soft sandstone eroded into shapes that look like goblins and ghouls. Explore mazes full of natural wonders and feel like you’re out of this world.
You can even reserve two heated yurts to enjoy winter stargazing, because this is another Utah park that has been designated a dark sky park by the International Dark-Sky Association. Other than being closed occasionally because the staff is out for lunch, this park is open all year. Just make sure you check seasonal hours before you take off.
Travel Highway 12 to Experience the Ultimate Driving Experience
What better way to enjoy your Volkswagen than driving the All-American road? Highway 12 in Utah is a scenic byway that connects two of America’s most famous parks: Capitol Reef National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. As you drive between these two beauties, you’ll notice sites like the Dixie National Forest and the Escalante Petrified Forest.
In the winter, Bryce Canyon’s Ruby’s Inn puts on a spectacular winter festival. You can see the bright orange rock that gives this Utah town its glow, snow capped and gorgeous. This winter event includes skiing, a human-powered sled race, and winter archery.
You’ll be driving this highway for a relaxing 124 miles, both ways. So, make sure you visit your Volkswagen service center before you hit the open road. Just search “Volkswagen near me,” and you’ll get directions to the nearest Volkswagen dealer at VW SouthTowne to help you set up an appointment for your vehicle.
Take Your Drone Out on Antelope Island
Did you know that you can visit an island in the contiguous United States? That’s right: in a day’s drive to Salt Lake, you can see Antelope Island, where there are more than 20 miles of hiking trails, hundreds of bison, and historic ranch houses.
Have you been itching to take your drone somewhere scenic? Get to Antelope Island and send your drone into the sky to catch breathtaking aerial views. You can only fly your drone in the winter and need a permit, so make sure you plan ahead.
You can soak up some sun and scenery by using an electric bicycle to pedal you through Antelope Island or catch a ride on a horse to explore the open range. Head back to Salt Lake City after your fun day out, and relax in a luxury hotel room before heading home.
Sometimes, the Best Vacation Is at Home
When your week is long, and you’re exhausted, your home can be the best place to unwind. Head to the grocery store and fill your VW up with all your favorite things, switch off your smart devices, and just take the time to slow down for a moment. Those incredible winter destinations will wait for you on your next adventure.
Find the Best Volkswagen Dealer at VW SouthTowne to Get You on the Road This Winter
If you’ve been searching for the “best new and used car dealerships near me,” then turn to Volkswagen SouthTowne. We are passionate about Volkswagen and dedicated to getting you into a car that meets every one of your needs. You can find sedans, SUVs, and crossovers in a variety of trims to suit your individual style. Contact us at (801) 988-5825 to schedule an appointment for a test drive today!
3 Reasons to Check out the New VW ID. LIFE

A Preview of Great Things to Come from Volkswagen
We operate in an industry where we always have to be thinking in a few phases of time all at once. Not only do we need to ask ourselves, “Which vehicles have worked for us in the past?” and “Which vehicles are appealing to buyers right now?” We also need to think in terms of the future.
“When people are shopping for new cars in the next five or six years, what will they gravitate to?” It’s a tough nut to crack because vehicles take years and large teams of people to design, develop, and manufacture. Automakers that make too many bad predictions don’t make it in this business long.
Fortunately, Volkswagen has had way more hits than misses. Case in point: the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, which is our all-new all-electric subcompact SUV. As a company, we always knew that one day we’d end up in the EV space, but we were only interested in releasing a vehicle we were certain hit all the right notes. It had to be well-designed, packed with safety and convenience features, fun to drive, and perhaps most importantly, capable of going the distance on a single charge. When it all came together, the ID.4 ended up being one of our biggest hits yet, earning us the 2021 World Car of the Year Award.
So, what’s next? How do we possibly top that? Volkswagen is already working on an answer to that. It’s called the VW ID. LIFE.
The VW ID. LIFE – Our Next Gen EV Subcompact SUV
Volkswagen recently gave people a sneak peek at the new VW ID. LIFE at the Munich Auto Show last month. Like the VW ID.4, it is also an all-electric subcompact, however, it fully leans into the futuristic design scheme like something out of a movie. No other SUV looks like the ID. LIFE. Not even close. It’s, as the saying goes, “Ahead of its time.”
Volkswagen executives are projecting a 2025 release date for the VW ID. LIFE. And at Volkswagen SouthTowne we’re pretty excited about it for several reasons:
Reason #1 – It Will Be One of the Most Competitively-Priced EV Vehicles to Date
We all know one of the biggest complaints about all-electric vehicles. They’re simply too expensive for most people. Even with the tax credit and savings at the pump, there are several American car buyers that can’t handle a big car payment and the upfront costs of an EV vehicle. The VW ID. LIFE aims to change that.
As of right now, the starting price tag for the VW ID. LIFE is estimated to be around $24,000, which is significantly lower than many similar competitors. This means that getting an all-electric vehicle will finally be a viable option for car-buyers, allowing them to break free from the pump once and for all.
Reason #2 – The Most Environmentally-Friendly SUV Yet
If all the VW ID. LIFE did was give car-buyers an affordable option for an all-electric vehicle, that would be enough, but why stop there? If we’re going to put out an environmentally-friendly car, we might as well go all in on it. So, how does the ID. LIFE accomplish this? Recycled materials.
The ID. LIFE uses several different renewable and recycled materials all throughout its construction. There’s no compromise in quality or safety. VW has simply gotten better and repurposing materials that already exist. For instance, the car’s paint is colored using wood chips and the car’s roof is made from recycled bottles. Additionally, the tires are made from biologically based oils, rice husks, and natural rubber.
Ready #3 – The ID. LIFE Will Be Future-Forward
Prepared for some features and upgrades that have never been seen before on a vehicle. Although the ID. LIFE is still just a prototype (lots could change), the goal is to make this the most technologically advanced Volkswagen ever released. Some of the ideas being developed are cameras and imaging being used in lieu of mirrors, which will give drivers the ability to have more control over what they see. Additionally, the ID. LIFE is prioritizing smartphone integration. Early images show smartphone devices being utilized as the vehicle’s control panel and in the steering wheel column. Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto have been great for connecting phones to vehicles, but there are bigger and better things on the horizon.
Ready to Test Drive the World Car of the Year?
The VW ID. LIFE is years away from being a reality. Creating the perfect VW electric car takes time, and our design and engineering team is putting in the work to ensure only the very best EV SUV makes it to the showroom floor.
The good news is the 2021 World Car of the Year is available for you to test drive right now. We’re, of course, talking about the ID.4, our Volkswagen electric car for sale that has been wowing drivers and reviewers alike. Or, if you want to go with a traditional SUV, Volkswagen has an entire family of them. The VW Tiguan, Taos, Atlas, and Atlas Cross Sport are all perfect options for tackling winter here in South Jordan.
The best way to try out any of these vehicles is by giving them a test drive. If you’ve been searching “ Volkswagen dealership near me” or “ used car dealership near me,” then look no further than VW SouthTowne, conveniently located at 11000 South 290 West in South Jordan.
We have plenty of brand-new cars and certified pre-owned used cars that have passed a 100+ point inspection. Contact us online or swing by our dealership and we’ll find the perfect VW for you.
VW Beetle Designs That Were Scrapped

Eight Beetles That Were Nixed Before Production
Ever since the arrival of the original Beetle was made back in 1938 to provide German workers an affordable and reliable car to drive, Volkswagen knew they had something special on their hands. As far as iconic cars are concerned, the Beetle ranks right up there Aston Martins and Ferraris of the world. It’s sales figures along with its cultural relevance throughout the decades support that. The Beetle is a vehicle that has sold millions and millions of units and is instantly recognized in all corners of the world. Volkswagen dealers had a hit on their hands with the loveable bug.
However, not every VW Beetle was a smash success. For every Beetle that made it to market, there are several others that never made it past the prototype phase. To give you a brief history lesson, we’re breaking down the top eight Volkswagen Beetles that got squashed before they made it to production.
VW Model EA47-12 (1955-1956)
During the time period of 1953 thru 1956, Volkswagen created exactly fifteen prototypes of what was to be the next big thing in VW vehicles. Model number EA47-12 was the twelfth of those prototypes, and the first official attempt by Volkswagen to create a vehicle worthy of taking over the Beetle mantle. Italian car designer Karmann Ghia essentially took the current Beetle and elongated it, making it look more like a traditional compact. It generated 30 horsepower and had a top speed of 50 mph, however, VW decided to bail on Ghia’s concept.
VW Model EA48 (1955)
In the 1950’s, Volkswagen was working in conjunction with Porsche, relying on them for design and engineering work. However, in the case of prototype model EA48, VW decided to take a crack at these things using their own internal resources. Starting completely from scratch, the VW engineering and design team aimed to create a car for the common commuter. However, they did so under the pretense that EA48 couldn’t exceed the Beetle in terms of price or performance. Ultimately, the project was scrapped and EA48 remains nothing more than a prototype.
VW Model EA97 (1960)
What makes model EA97 special is that it’s one of the few Beetle replacement prototypes that had more than a few units in circulation. In fact, the EA97 saw 200 cars built in its likeness, all assembled by hand. Everything appeared to be full steam ahead for the EA97. Then, just as mass production was about to kick off, the executives at VW decided to kill the project. Their thinking on the matter was they weren’t quite ready to try to replace the Beetle just yet. The EA97 also happened to be too closely positioned to the VW Type 3.
VW Type 3 Cabriolet (1961)
The VW Type 3 Cabriolet was to be an upgraded, slightly more posh variety of the traditional bug that drivers knew and loved. It was also a convertible, which was primed to hit big with the summer driver crowd that enjoyed having their radio at full blast with the wind in their hair. There was one slight hiccup that brought the Cabriolet project to a grinding halt; it was far too similar to the Karmann Ghia. Rather than have the Cabriolet compete with the Karmann Ghia for sales, VW decided to scrap it altogether.
VW Model EA128 (1963)
The big draw for the VW prototype model EA128 was that it could seat six people, although it would be a very tight squeeze. As far as potential Beetle replacements go, the EA128 was going for capacity. Perhaps they were going for larger families that required the extra space. The EA128 ran on the same 2.0 liter air-cooled horizontally opposed engine that was used in the Porsche 911. However, just like all of our previous prototypes, the EA128 got nixed before it could make it to mass production.
VW Model EA142 (1966)
It was in the 1960’s that VW started to get experimental with the body styles and shapes of their cars, and the prototype model EA142 was a fantastic example of that outside-the-box thinking. Oddly enough, going outside the box led to a highly boxy hatchback in the EA142. In the rear of the vehicle, the EA142 housed a 1.7-liter engine, which is the only part of the car that VW would end up using later in a different model. That part of the EA142 was transferred to the Type 4.
VW Model EA276 (1969)
There are times with vehicles where one car never makes it to the assembly line, but serves as a rough draft of things to come. That was the exact case with the EA276 prototype. It was boxy, small, and speedy, but definitely not the Beetle replacement that VW execs were looking for. Much of the design and engineering elements ended up being used as the primary inspiration for the VW Golf, which was released in the U.S. as the VW Rabbit.
VW Model EA266 (1969)
The EA266 prototype was unique in that it was a joint creative venture between VW and the Porsche team, which was led at the time by Ferdinand Piëch. Under the hood, the EA266 prototype ran on a water-cooled four-cylinder 1.6-liter engine that was located under the rear seat. Although it never made it to production, people were still impressed by this well-designed, sporty little hatchback.
Fast-Forward to Now with a Brand-New Volkswagen
As you now know, sometimes it takes more than a few practice swings before finally getting a hit. The Volkswagen Beetle is just one of many examples of the trial-and-error process that goes into automobile making. Fortunately, the Volkswagen catalogue of vehicles is as diverse and technologically advanced as it’s ever been. Our current line-up includes the award-winning VW Tiguan, the fuel-efficient VW Jetta, and the all-new all-electric VW ID.4, which recently took home the accolade for 2021 World Car of the Year.
If you’ve been searching terms like “Volkswagen near me” or “ used car dealerships near me,” then look no further than VW SouthTowne, conveniently located at 11000 South 290 West in South Jordan. We have tons of great deals on both new and certified pre-owned Volkswagen vehicles that have undergone a 100+ point inspection. And don’t forget to check out our specials.
Need a repair or routine maintenance performed on your VW vehicle? No problem. Visit the Volkswagen service center, located right here at the VW SouthTowne dealership. Use our Contact Us form for any questions or to make an appointment.

Features that Come in Handy When Things Get Cold in South Jordan
As they say in Game of Thrones: “Winter is coming.”
Those words hold true right around this point in the year. Fall will be in full swing in no time. Sweaters and jackets will officially be back in rotation. Football will be back on. And, of course, it’s never too early to start thinking about Halloween costumes. It’s also never too early to think about if your car is ready for another round of winter here in South Jordan. As us locals know, we regularly see below freezing temps and get more than our fair share of snow. If you’re going to be on the road battling the elements, you might as well have the best car for the job.
If you’ve been endlessly searching phrases like “new cars for sale” or “used cars for sale” trying to find the perfect vehicle before the first frost hits, you can’t go wrong with a Volkswagen. Here are six reasons why drivers love VW during cold and snowy weather.
Remote Start
You never really appreciate a feature like remote start until it’s below freezing and all your windows are iced over. Fortunately, every vehicle in the Volkswagen line-up offers the remote start option so that you can sit comfortably indoors while your car heats up. For those of you that have an older model VW and feel like you’re missing out, simply drop by our VW service center. We can upgrade your current VW with the remote start feature.
Heated Seats and Steering Wheel
We all know the problem when warming up the car: the air is warm but the seats and the steering wheel remain ice cold. It’s not uncommon to see South Jordan residents driving with parkas and gloves on. Fortunately, there’s a solution for this as well. In recent model year Volkswagen vehicles, both heated seats and heated steering wheels are an option in certain trim packages. They will make your ice-cold morning commute far more comfortable.
Heated Front Washer Nozzles and Side Mirrors
Another challenge with winter weather driving is the frost that will accumulate on your windshield along with your side mirrors becoming foggy due to the cold. Fortunately, the good folks at VW have come up with some new solutions to this common problem. With heated washer fluid, you can easily melt down that pesky frost to keep your view of the road crystal clear. Additionally, the heated side mirrors offer fog-free viewing of the road behind you.
4Motion All-Wheel Drive
Staying warm and maintaining visibility are nice, but it’s the ability to drive in inclement weather that makes the new line-up of VW vehicles stand out among competitors. We get all sorts of weather here in South Jordan – rain, sleet, snow – and your vehicle needs to be able to handle all of it. 4Motion all-wheel drive ensures you can do just that by adapting to the conditions of the road. It will send power to the front wheels, however, that power will be shifted to the back wheels when necessary. This gives drivers far more control of their vehicles during inclement weather and prevents wheelspin and traction issues.
Snow Mode
As part of the 4Motion system, many of the new VW models feature Active Control. This feature allows drivers to select a specific vehicle profile based on the current driving conditions. In the event of a blizzard, you can engage in Snow Mode with your VW. This signals the transmission to upshift earlier in the power cycle so that you get optimal traction. Additionally, the Traction Control System (TCS) will reduce your engine’s power when it detects slippage via the wheel sensors and then immediately adapt. This comes in handy when you’re dealing with any dicey corners or curves.
Driver Assistance
When you’re dealing with snowy conditions with decreased visibility, you need all the help you can get. That’s why VW is proud to offer drivers the most advanced set of Driver Assistance features in the auto industry. Think of them as having another few pairs of eyes out there on the road for you. The current suite of Driver Assistance features includes
- Dynamic Road Sign Display?
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Traffic Alert
- Park Distance Control with Maneuver Braking
- Light Assist
Tackle Winter in Style with a Brand-New VW
Volkswagen vehicles are true all-season vehicles built for all styles of driving, but they show their true potential when the weather turns to less-than-ideal conditions. The best way to get to know more about how a VW handles is by taking one for a spin. We have a full line-up of SUVs and sub-compact SUVs that are perfect for winter weather driving. To test drive a new VW, you can search “Volkswagen near me” or come directly to VW SouthTowne, your friendly local Volkswagen dealer. We’re conveniently located at 11000 Frontage Rd. in South Jordan.
All new makes and models of VW vehicles come with Carefree Coverage, which includes maintenance, roadside assistance, limited warranty, and Car-Net remote access. In the event that you ever need VW parts, service, or routine maintenance, you can simply stop by a VW service center.
Are you in the market for a used car? You can stop Googling “used cars near me.” VW SouthTowne has plenty of used cars that fit any budget. Make sure to check out our specials for great deals.

One Last Opportunity to Get the Volkswagen Passat for Sale
It is the end of an era for the Volkswagen Passat. For those that keep up with their automotive history, you’ll remember that this vehicle was originally introduced in the U.S. in 1974 as the Dasher. It would then be renamed the Quantum in 1982. Eight years later in 1990, it would finally become the Passat. It’s been a great run, but the 2022 edition of the Passat will be the final chapter in this vehicle’s illustrious history.
Per a statement issued from Scott Keogh, Volkswagen Group of America CEO, he said, “With the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport in high demand, and the North American production launch of the all-electric ID.4 SUV next year, our future in Chattanooga looks brighter than ever.”
Chattanooga, of course, is the location of the plant where the Passat has been assembled since 2011. Now that the Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, and ID.4 are certified hits for the VW, the plan is to pivot away from the Passat after the final 2022 run and focus on production of the three SUVs. The move makes sense because cars/sedans make up about one out of five new vehicle sales, according to analysts. However, even though VW will be shifting its focus over to SUVs, there is still one final chance to get a Passat. The 2021 iteration of the Passat is on the market right now to be followed by the 2022 limited edition final release of this model.
2021 Passat
Often called one of the best mid-size sedans in its class, the 2021 Passat is a true comfort ride with an extremely spacious interior and luxury seating the whole family will enjoy. It comes in three distinct trim levels: S, SE, and the R-Line. The starting MSRP for the base trim level is $23,995, which makes it one of most affordable sedans you can get. It’s also got a fair amount of power under the hood, boasting a 2.0L engine that offers drivers 174 horsepower and 206 Lb-ft. of torque. It does well in the fuel economy department as well, clocking in at an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
Other notable features of the 2021 Passat include:
- Premium color multifunction display
- LED projector headlights, daytime running lights, and tail lights
- Heated sideview mirrors
- 17-in. ten-spoke alloy wheels
- Cloth seating surfaces
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob
- Driver memory settings
- Composition Media infotainment system
- SiriusXM® Satellite Radio capability (with subscription)
- Premium color multifunction display
- Rear view camera system
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind spot monitor with rear traffic alert
- Pedestrian monitoring
2022 Passat
When we say that the 2022 Passat Limited-Edition is a vehicle that only a very lucky few will own, we mean it. Only 1,973 will be manufactured and sold in the U.S. market that features unique badging, special seat tags, and premium alloy wheels and black mirror caps. Each of the Limited-Edition Passats will also be uniquely numbered (ex: 1 of 1,973). Of the 1,973 Limited-Editions being built, 423 of those units will come in racing metallic green paint, typically only offered on the VW Atlas. The starting MSRP for the Limited-Edition Passat is $31,290. However, in the event you’re unable to claim one of the Limited-Edition vehicles being made, there are two lower trim levels available: the SE and the R-Line.
Since these are the very last of the Passat line-up that will ever be built, VW is pulling out all the stops. Expect an impressive standard package of safety and convenience features along with a sleek and modern interior/exterior design. Some of the most notable features include
- Automatic headlights with Coming/Leaving Home feature
- LED projector headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
- Power tilting/sliding sunroof
- Heated side mirrors
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- 8-way power driver’s seat with power-adjustable lumbar support
- Climatronic dual-zone automatic climate control
- Premium color Multifunction Display (MFD)
- Rear View Camera System
- Active Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- App-Connect
- Bluetooth technology with audio streaming for compatible devices
- Front USB data port and 2 rear USB charging ports
- Keyless access with push-button start
- Lane Keeping System (Lane Assist)
- Pedestrian Monitoring (included in Front Assist)
- Remote start
- Volkswagen Car-Net
Finding the 2021 and 2022 VW Passat for Sale
Now that we know the Passat is officially riding off into the sunset, we know many nostalgic car buyers are going to want one final look at this car before they’re gone. The best way to find a Passat near you is by searching the phrase “VW dealership near me.” Or, you can come to the VW SouthTowne dealership, conveniently located at 11000 Frontage Rd. in South Jordan.
For those looking to check out one of our many popular SUVs or new compacts, VW SouthTowne carries a wide selection of new cars and used cars for sale. Make sure to check out our specials for great deals.
If you are a current VW owner needing routine maintenance or repairs, feel free to visit our VW service center. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have.
Why Sports Car Lovers NEED the 2022 Golf

Introducing the New Mk8 Line-Up: The Golf GTI and Golf R
When people think of the most iconic hatchback vehicles of all time, they immediately think of the Volkswagen Golf. The very first Golf rolled off the assembly line way back in 1974 in Wolfsburg, Germany. Since then, the VW Golf has seen many different iterations and sold tens of millions of units, both in Europe and here in the U.S. People love the Golf. It’s small yet speedy and great on gas mileage. When a savvy car buyer sees a Volkswagen Golf for sale, they give it a serious look because they have a long-standing history of being highly reliable cars that are fun to drive.
Having said that, it probably comes as no surprise that a new generation of the VW Golf will be available for the U.S. market by the end of 2021. Car buyers will have two versions of the Mk8 edition of VW Golf to choose from: the 2022 Golf GTI and the 2022 Golf R.
Per Hein Schafer, Senior Vice President, Product Marketing and Strategy, Volkswagen of America, “The previous Golf GTI and Golf R models were widely regarded as the best hot hatches you could buy, but the Mark 8 versions up the ante. Now built in Wolfsburg, the cars have more performance, better handling, more standard equipment and improved tech features, yet minimal price increases.”
Similarities Between the Golf GTI and the Golf R
What long-time fans of the VW Golf will notice immediately is the change to the Golf’s look and design aesthetic. It’s not a complete overhaul. The new Golf will still be recognizable as a Golf, however, there’s a sportier vibe about it now. This is pulled off via the steeply raked hood, new signature LED headlights, and grille lightbar on either side of the updated VW logo.
Under the hood, both the VW Golf GTI and Golf R will run on the same 2.0L turbocharged direct-injection TSI engine. It can be paired with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG dual clutch automatic transmission. For those wondering how these new Golfs compare to prior versions, the GTI and Type R will officially be the most powerful versions of the Golf ever released.
The wheelbase of the Mk7 version of the Golf sits at 103.6 inches. That will remain the same for the Mk8 versions. Regarding the exterior dimensions, the VW GTI and the R are nearly identical. The Golf GTI is 168.8 inches long and 57.6 inches in height. Comparatively, the Golf R is 168.9 inches long and 57.7 inches in height. Both cars are the same exact width at 70.4 inches. On the interior of both Mk8 versions, there is 91.9 cubic ft. of space for passengers, 19.9 cubic ft. of cargo space (34.5 cubic ft. with the seats folded up). As is the Golf’s signature, the famous hatchback remains in place.
Of course, no Golf would be complete without a full suite of the most advanced safety and convenience features ever assembled. Both the Type R and GTI will feature a brand-new electronic architecture that will enable drivers to digitally network their displays and controls. Also in the new Golf will be the 10.25-in Digital Cockpit Pro that will show drivers their vehicle’s status, driving data, driver assistance features, and more. Technologically-speaking, this is one of the most significant leaps yet for the Golf.
Finally, both the GTI and R models feature the IQ.DRIVE suite of driver assistance features for hands-on semi-automated capability. The sensors and cameras that have been installed will be your extra pair of eyes out there on the road. In the event that there’s someone in your blind spot or you’re getting dangerously close to a nearby cyclist, the intelligent system will give you a heads-up, allowing you to take corrective action.
Main Differences Between the Golf GTI and Golf R
We’ve covered what’s the same about the Golf GTI and the Golf R. Now let’s talk about the differences.
The Golf GTI has a starting MSRP of $29,545 and comes in three distinct trim levels (S, SE, and Autobahn). As previously mentioned, it runs on a 2.0L turbocharged engine and will feature 241 horsepower (up 13 hp from the previous iteration) and 271 Lb-ft. of torque.
The GTI comes with an electronically controlled torque-sensing limited-slip VAQ differential. The system offers a variable degree of intervention depending on the actual driving situation and ESC, EDS and XDS+ functions. This allows drivers to avoid steering corruption. The VAQ differential optimizes grip and handling in fast corners, which enhances the performance and helps decrease understeer, which is usually a problem for FWD cars.
The Golf R has a starting MSRP of $43,645 and is available in one fully-loaded trim level. It runs on a 2.0L turbocharged engine and will feature 315 horsepower and 280 Lb-ft. of torque, officially making it the highest performing Golf ever released. If you like sports cars, you’ll love this iteration of the Golf.
The brand-new Golf R features 4Motion all-wheel-drive system with rear-axle torque vectoring, which is going to give drivers more control when dealing with dicey road conditions. The new torque vectoring system uses a rear differential with two multi-plate clutches that can distribute up to 100% of the rear torque to an individual rear wheel. When needed, the system will direct more power to a specific wheel, thereby reducing cornering radius.
Coming Soon to a VW Dealership Near You
The brand new Mk8 iterations of the VW Golf aren’t quite available yet, but they will be soon. Volkswagen announced that they’ll hit the showroom floor by Q4 of 2021, which is just around the corner. The best way to stay up to date on the release of the new Golf is to keep checking back with our site. The moment we have them in, we’ll make sure to share that the new VW Golf is for sale at our dealership on the main homepage.
In the meantime, if you’re looking for new cars for sale or used cars for sale, your friends at VW SouthTowne have you covered. We are conveniently located at 11000 Frontage Rd. in South Jordan. Or, if that’s outside your range, you can search the phrase “VW dealership near me” and your local dealerships should pop up on your map. Additionally, you can always stop by the VW service center for any routine maintenance or repairs that your VW might need.
Make sure to check out our specials for great deals, and feel free to contact us with any questions that you may have about your current VW vehicle or one that you may be interested in test driving.
Picking The Right Trim Package With Your VW Taos

Figuring Out if the S, SE, or SEL Trim is the One for You
When it comes to car shopping, there’s a lot of lingo that we use here on the lot when referring to Volkswagen vehicles. One of the terms we use often that you may not be familiar with is “trim level,” which refers to the vehicle’s specific set of equipment and features that it contains. Generally speaking, the higher the trim level, the more advanced and packed full of features you can expect the car or SUV to be. For instance, our best-selling Volkswagen Tiguan comes in five distinct trim levels so that drivers can really customize what they want out of the vehicle. The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport and standard VW Atlas also come in multiple trim levels. A higher trim level also means it’s going to cost a little bit more, so just keep that in mind when doing your car shopping.
Regarding the all-new Volkswagen Taos, it comes in three distinct trim levels: S, SE, and SEL. The S is the base model. The SE dials things up a notch with its features and design. Finally, the SEL is the most advanced and feature-stacked of the bunch. If you want the most luxurious VW Taos money can buy, the SEL trim is the way to go.
In order to break down what’s included per trim level, we’re going to detail all the trims of Taos. We’ll start with the S and then move our way up to the SE and the SEL. Whenever there’s a feature upgrade on a new trim, we’ve made a note of it so it’s nice and easy to track.
Volkswagen Taos S trim level (starting MSRP $22,995)
Exterior features
- 17″ alloy wheels
- Automatic headlights with Coming/Leaving Home feature
- Black roof rails
- LED headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
- LED tail lights
- Power-operated side mirrors
Interior features
- 6-way manually adjustable front seats
- 60/40-split folding rear seat
- Cloth seating surfaces
- Front center armrest with storage compartment
- Manual air-conditioning
- Multi-function steering wheel
Safety features
- Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution, and Hydraulic Brake Assist
- Crash-optimized front end
- Driver and front passenger, front and side thorax airbag supplemental restraint system
- Electronic Stability Control, Anti-Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, and Engine Brake Assist
- Front safety belts, height-adjustable, with pretensioners and load limiters
- Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS)
- LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child seat anchor points
- Rear View Camera System
- Side Curtain Protection® head airbags, front and rear
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Technology
- 2 front USB-C data ports
- App-Connect
- Bluetooth® technology with audio streaming for compatible devices
- Composition Color touchscreen sound system with 6.5″ color display, and AM/FM radio
- Push-button start
- Volkswagen Car-Net®
- Volkswagen Digital Cockpit
Volkswagen Taos SE trim level (starting MSRP $27,245) **upgraded features from the S trim level are noted**
Exterior features
- 18″ alloy wheels (1” upgrade from S)
- Automatic headlights with Coming/Leaving Home feature
- Heated windshield washer nozzles (upgrade from S)
- LED headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
- LED tail lights
- Power-operated, heated side mirrors (S does not include heat feature)
- Silver roof rails (S uses black roof rails)
Interior features
- 60/40-split folding rear seat
- 8-way power driver’s seat including power-adjustable lumbar support (upgrade from S)
- CloudTex seating surfaces (upgrade from S)
- Front center armrest with storage compartment
- Heated front seats (upgrade from S)
- Leather-wrapped gear shift knob (upgrade from S)
- Leatherette-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel (S is not leatherette-wrapped yet still multi-function)
- Manual air-conditioning
Safety features
- Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution, and Hydraulic Brake Assist
- Crash-optimized front end
- Driver and front passenger, front and side thorax airbag supplemental restraint system
- Electronic Stability Control, Anti-Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, and Engine Brake Assist
- Front safety belts, height-adjustable, with pretensioners and load limiters
- Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS)
- LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child seat anchor points
- Rear View Camera System
- Side Curtain Protection® head airbags, front and rear
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Technology
- 2 front USB-C data ports and 1 rear USB-C charging port (upgrade from S)
- App-Connect with wireless capability (upgrade from S)
- Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert (upgrade from S)
- Composition Media touchscreen sound system with 8″ color display, proximity sensor, AM/FM/HD radio and voice control (upgrade from S)
- Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) (upgrade from S)
- Keyless access with push-button start (upgrade from S)
- Pedestrian Monitoring (included in Front Assist) (upgrade from S)
- Remote start (upgrade from S)
- SiriusXM® with 360L with 3-month trial subscription (upgrade from S)
- Volkswagen Car-Net®
- Volkswagen Digital Cockpit
- Wireless smartphone charger and Bluetooth® technology with audio streaming for compatible devices (upgrade from S)
Volkswagen Taos SEL trim level (starting MSRP $31,490) **upgraded features from the S trim level are noted**
Exterior features
- 18″ black alloy wheels
- Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) (upgrade from SE)
- Automatic headlights with Coming/Leaving Home feature
- Heated windshield washer nozzles
- Illuminated grille (upgrade from SE)
- LED headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and low-speed corner-illuminating feature
- LED tail lights
- Power-operated, heated side mirrors
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers (upgrade from SE)
- Silver roof rails
Interior features
- 60/40-split folding rear seat
- 8-way power driver’s seat including power-adjustable lumbar support
- Auto-dimming interior rear view mirror (upgrade from SE)
- Climatronic® dual-zone automatic climate control (upgrade from SE)
- Front center armrest with storage compartment
- Heated front seats
- Interior ambient lighting (upgrade from SE)
- Leather seating surfaces (upgrade from SE
- Leather-wrapped gear shift knob
- Leatherette-wrapped, heated multi-function steering wheel
Safety features
- Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution, and Hydraulic Brake Assist
- Crash-optimized front end
- Driver and front passenger, front and side thorax airbag supplemental restraint system
- Electronic Stability Control, Anti-Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, and Engine Brake Assist
- Front safety belts, height-adjustable, with pretensioners and load limiters
- Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS)
- LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child seat anchor points
- Rear View Camera System
- Side Curtain Protection® head airbags, front and rear
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Technology
- 2 front USB-C data ports and 1 rear USB-C charging port
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (upgrade from SE)
- App-Connect with wireless capability
- BeatsAudio® (upgrade from SE)
- Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert
- Discover Media touchscreen navigation system with 8″ color display, proximity sensor, AM/FM/HD radio and voice control
- Dynamic Road Sign Display (upgrade from SE)
- High Beam Control (Light Assist) (upgrade from SE)
- Keyless access with push-button start
- Park Distance Control (upgrade from SE)
- Pedestrian Monitoring (included in Front Assist)
- Remote start
- SiriusXM® with 360L with 3-month trial subscription
- Travel Assist, Lane Assist, Emergency Assist (upgrade from SE)
- Volkswagen Car-Net®
- Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro (upgrade from SE)
- Wireless smartphone charger and Bluetooth® technology with audio streaming for compatible devices
Carefree Coverage
On top of all the great equipment and features you get with the VW Taos, we also offer Carefree Coverage to our drivers. Consider this a way of further protecting your brand-new investment so that you can feel confident out there on the road. Carefree Coverage through VW includes
- Scheduled Carefree maintenance for 2 years/20,000 miles
- Roadside assistance for 3 years/36,000 miles
- New vehicle limited warranty for 4 years/50,000 miles
- Car-Net remote access for 5 years
Speak to your local Volkswagen dealer for further details about Carefree Coverage and how to take advantage.
Take the New 2022 VW Taos for a Spin Today!
What drivers love about the new VW Taos is that it has a ton of those classic SUV advantages as seen in the Tiguan and Atlas, but in slightly reduced packaging. It’s reinventing the subcompact SUV game and drivers all across the country can’t get enough of its nimble handling combined with all the storage it provides for camping trips and cross-country adventures.
The best way to experience the VW Taos for yourself is with a test drive. You can either search the phrase “VW dealership near me” and our dealership will pop up, or, you can come to the VW SouthTowne dealership conveniently located at 11000 South 290 West in South Jordan. Use the contact form to schedule your appointment to test drive the new VW Taos today! Or check out our current Taos specials here.

Hiking Trails and Other Outdoor Attractions to Enjoy
Summer in Utah means getting outdoors and enjoying the fresh air. So why not take your brand-new Volkswagen out for a spin with one of the many activities that the great Salt Lake Valleyarea of Utah offers? There’s nothing better than hitting the road to visit any of these five landmark locations for a bit of hiking, climbing, or leisurely walking.
Jordan River Parkway Trail
Located a stone’s throw away from Volkswagen SouthTowne in South Jordan is the Jordan River Parkway Trail, which features 7.9 miles of path with lots of wildlife and waterfront views to enjoy. The nearly eight-mile trail is paved, so it’s perfect for those that want to take their bikes out for a joy ride. The Jordan River Parkway Trail is rated as easy in difficulty, so folks of all ages are encouraged to come out and experience its stunning views.
Big Cottonwood Canyon
For those wanting to get the most out of their Volkswagen Tiguan or Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, nothing beats packing the family into the car for a little micro-road trip on the 190 to enjoy Utah’s many great natural wildlife features. A drive through Big Cottonwood Canyon will remind you why Utah is one of the most beautiful states to live in. Use some of the ample cargo space you have in your VW Tiguan or VW Atlas to pack up some picnic necessities and have a sun-drenched lunch in one of three picnic areas located along the way. For you adventurers, there’s plenty of opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and skiing. Packing up that additional gear is where your SUVW really comes in handy.
Storm Mountain Picnic Area Rock Climbing
Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, there’s plenty of adventure to be had at the elevation of over 5,700 ft. It is said that Storm Mountain has some of the highest concentration of quality climbs in the Big Cottonwood area, featuring several different variations that range from traditional to top rope to ice climbing. There’s a challenge out there for everyone at Storm Mountain. Make sure to pack your SUVW accordingly with the right gear.
Red Rock Rock Climbing
This crag offers a wide assortment of moderate routes for climbers who want the rock-climbing experience without too much difficulty or danger. The routes are said to be great for beginners who are just learning the ropes (pun intended), even though the names of the routes may suggest otherwise. Don’t let titles like Facial Fracture and Bloody Impaction throw a hitch in your plans. The bark of these climbs is worse than their actual bite. You can find this crag conveniently located slightly to the west of the South Mountain Golf Course in Draper.
Mountain View Corridor Trail
Located directly west of South Jordan is the lengthy Mountain View Corridor Trail, which stretches north/south for a distance of nearly thirty miles. The trail starts south of Herriman and expands all the way up to West Valley City. The Mountain View Corridor Trail is considered moderate level difficulty for its occasional steep inclines, which means it’s perfect for hikers that want a little bit of a challenge that’s not too over-the-top. The Mountain View Corridor Trail consists of mostly asphalt and concrete that’s lined with natural wild flowers, so it’s suitable for cyclists and those with strollers who want to enjoy the great outdoors. It’s also pet-friendly.
Find Your New or Used Volkswagen Today at VW SouthTowne
If you’re looking for new or used cars for sale, the dealership at Volkswagen SouthTowne has plenty of sedans and SUVs to choose from. The VW Atlas and VW Tiguan are two crowd-favorites for their storage and feature packages, but the VW Jetta and VW GTI Golf are great choices if you want to go small and speedy. No matter what your weekend plans are here in Utah, there’s a Volkswagen for you. Let the team at VW SouthTowne help you find the perfect one.
The best way to experience any of our vehicles for yourself is with a test drive. Visit us online to start chatting, or check out our new lease specials on our many VW vehicles. You can either search the phrase “VW dealership near me” and VW locations in your local area will pop up on your map. Or, you can come to the VW SouthTowne dealership conveniently located at 11000 South 290 West in South Jordan. Use the contact form to schedule your appointment to test drive a Volkswagen today!

Choosing the Right VW For Your Upcoming Camping Trip or Cross-Country Excursion
Most people consider their vehicles as part of the family because they spend so much time in them. Think about it…this is the place where you and your loved ones will spend countless hours commuting to and from school and cruising along the highway on long-distance trips. It’s almost like a second home. When it comes to selecting the perfect vehicle for your upcoming summer adventure or cross-country road trip, you have plenty of options. The challenge is finding the perfect one for you and your family dynamic, which is where Volkswagen comes into play.
If you’ve been searching for used cars for sale in the Utah area, then you’ve probably already come across some of the top VW favorites among customers who require plenty of power and space for their summer adventures. To illustrate what your options are, we’ll break down the top three VW SUVs that families love.
The Volkswagen Tiguan
We’re putting the VW Tiguan at the top of the list because, quite frankly, it’s been at the top of a lot of lists when it comes to best-in-class SUVs. The Tiguan has already claimed an editor’s choice award from Car and Driver in addition to being voted a top safety pick by IIHS. This is an SUV that both drivers and reviewers love, and when you start factoring in all the space, features, and power the VW Tiguan touts, it’s easy to figure out why.
With a starting MSRP of $25,245, the Tiguan is easily one of the most affordable full-sized SUVs in the industry. You get a lot of power with the 2.0L Turbo engine, and fuel economy isn’t half bad either sitting at an estimated 23 city/29 highway. The Tiguan seats seven people and is packed with tons of safety and convenience features, which is perfect for long drives. Included with the VW Tiguan’s base trim level are one USB-C data port, App-Connect (Apple CarPlay or Android Auto), Bluetooth technology, a comprehensive series of blind spot monitors and impact detectors, and a 6.5” inch color display.
The Volkswagen Atlas
If you want to go a bit bigger than the Tiguan – okay, a lot bigger – the Volkswagen Atlas has you covered. It’s our largest SUV of the SUVW family, comfortably seating up to seven people. It can handle any large camping trip or big family adventure you can throw at it. The VW Atlas was Volkswagen’s answer to making the perfect large-capacity vehicle for the modern American family. In that regard, the Atlas has lived up to its promise by claiming the Best Family Car of 2021 from Parents Magazine.
With a starting MSRP of $31,545, the Atlas is the most expensive of any of the SUVs on our list. However, you’re getting a ton of extra space for passengers and cargo with that price tag. You’re also getting a ton of power and features for that as well. The VW Atlas is available in a 2.0L Turbo or 3.6L V6 variety, clocking in at 21 miles per gallon city/24 highway when it comes to fuel economy. And, of course, it’s packed with the latest in safety and convenience features such as 2 front USB-C ports, App Connect (Apple CarPlay or Android Auto), Bluetooth technology, a 6.5” color display, and tons of coverage with blind spot monitors and traffic alerts. The Atlas also provides drivers with tons of storage. With the third row of seats folded down, Atlas owners will have nearly 97 cubic ft. of storage to stow away camping gear or luggage.
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
As you’d expect from the name, the VW Atlas Cross Sport is extremely similar to the VW Atlas with a few notable exceptions. The first major one is that the Cross Sport is about 5” shorter in length with a little bit lower roofline, so the overall packaging is slightly reduced. The other notable difference is that the Atlas Cross Sport seats five people – not seven – so the result is a back row that is moved towards the rear of the vehicle a bit compared to the Atlas, which gives back row passengers way more legroom. And although the Cross Sport has a little less space for cargo, it’s still more than enough SUV for you to pack heavy when it comes to gear and luggage. A family of four or five should have no issue packing in all the items they need.
Mechanically, the Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport are identical with the same VW parts and equipment under the hood. You have a choice between Volkswagen’s 235 hp 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and its 276 hp 3.6L V6 engine – no difference there. Even though the Atlas Cross Sport is about a couple hundred pounds lighter, drivers aren’t going to notice this when accelerating or when taking sharp corners. Both of these SUVs handle almost exactly the same. However, the Atlas Cross Sport is considered sportier with its two-toned interior and is a hair more affordable with a starting MSRP of $30,855.
Test Drive a New VW SUV Today!
You really can’t go wrong with any of the choices in the SUVW family of vehicles. All of them are packed to the gills with storage space, all the latest in convenience and safety features, and plenty of power under the hood.
The best way to experience any of these SUVs for yourself is with a test drive. You can either search the phrase “VW dealership near me,” visit our website, or come to the Volkswagen SouthTowne dealership conveniently located at 11000 South 290 West in South Jordan. Use the contact form to schedule your appointment to test drive the all-new Volkswagen Taos today!

Inexpensive Ways to Keep Dust, Dirt, and Grime Off Your Ride
With summer upon us, many folks are already hitting the road in the pursuit of cross-country adventures, and Volkswagen cars are perfect for both interstate travel and off-road driving. The Volkswagen Jetta and Volkswagen Golf are two of the speediest most fuel-efficient cars in the industry, which makes them great for traveling long distances without going broke on gas. Not to be outdone, the VW Tiguan is one of the very best SUVs in a competitive class of vehicles that require a ton of cargo space for those big family camping trips. No matter what your summer fun consists of, Volkswagen cars can help you get where you need to go. However, with travel comes the challenge of keeping your car clean.
Whether you’re a highway driver or chugging along though country roads, your vehicle is bound to get dirty out there. Dust, grime, bugs, and mud are all part of the driving experience, but that doesn’t mean you have to let them lessen your vehicle’s appearance. In fact, there are plenty of ways to safeguard your vehicle against the great outdoors and Mother Nature. It’s simply a matter of being prepared for what may be thrown your way. Here are three items that can help protect your vehicle from getting dirty.
Seat Covers
If you’ve ever had your hike or other outdoor adventures suddenly ruined by rain, you know what your first instinct is – to get back to the car ASAP. The problem is that you don’t want to get into your own car sopping wet. Even if you have leather seats, getting moisture and mud everywhere can really make a mess of the car’s interior.
That’s why we recommend seat covers as a way to protect your vehicle from whatever rainy day hazard you may encounter. Not only can they protect against whatever foreign elements you may bring back into the car, they’ll also protect against pet fur and pet scratches as well. You can pick up several different types in a variety of colors and fabrics starting at around $30. You can spend more obviously, but seat covers don’t need to be a huge investment since you plan on getting them dirty.
Rubber Floor Mats
If you’re getting seat covers, you might as well get floor mats, too. There’s absolutely nothing worse than getting caught out in the rain and then caking your own floor mats and pedals with mud. This is an especially common problem for those that work outdoors and/or go on camping and fishing trips on a frequent basis. Your shoes end up carrying a lot of stuff back into the car you’d rather keep out.
When it comes to floor mats, there are plenty of high-quality models that are laser cut to fit your Volkswagen car or SUV like it’s straight from the manufacturer. These keep the mud and moisture from getting to your floor mat and are made from materials that are easily cleaned. You should be able to spray them off with a hose or at the car wash – no problem. Be prepared to spend at least $100 for high-quality floor mat molds that can stand the test of time.
Window Tinting
When people think of window tinting, most don’t consider it to be anything more than an aesthetic upgrade. Granted, window tinting will make your car look cooler, but it does far more than that. Many of the top window tints in the industry protect you and the car’s interior from up to 98% of the sun’s UV rays. That not only keeps the interior temps of your car down to a minimum on hot sunny days, but it also helps protect your steering wheel, dash, and seats from being eaten up by the sun slowly over time. If you want to protect your vehicle from getting sun damage and maintain the most amount of value on the car possible, invest in tinted windows. It’s a small price to pay that yields years of benefits.
Come Test Drive a VW Today!
If you’re looking for used cars for sale that you can take on your upcoming summer camping trips and cross-country vacations, VW SouthTowne has plenty of choices from new vehicles like the VW ID.4 and Taos to several reliable used vehicles. We also have the ever-popular Volkswagen Golf on sale in addition to the larger vehicles like the VW Tiguan. No matter what you need your vehicle for, the team at VW SouthTowne can find the perfect match for you. We are consistently recognized by customers as one of Utah’s top new car dealerships in the area.
The best way to see which VW is best for you is by setting up a test drive in one of our many new or used vehicles that we have on the lot. You can either search “VW dealership near me” or you can come directly to the VW SouthTowne dealership, conveniently located at 11000 South 290 West in South Jordan. Use the contact form to schedule your appointment to test drive any of our new 2021 or 2022 models.


