Volkswagen World

FAQs - New Owners

• What is Euro NCAP?

  Euro NCAP (the European New Car Assessment Programme) provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe. By law, all new car models must pass certain safety tests before they are sold. But legislation provides a minimum statutory standard of safety for new cars; it is the aim of Euro NCAP to encourage manufacturers to exceed these minimum requirements. To find up-to-date ratings please visit the official Euro NCAP website by clicking here.

• My vehicle does not produce the same fuel consumption figures as shown in the 'New Car Fuel Consumption and Emission Figures' published by Volkswagen.

  There are a number of reasons why the two figures may not be the same – and they are primarily due to the nature of the standard tests which are used to produce the figures, which do not necessarily reflect real-world driving conditions.

  The current mpg tests were designed to give accurate results, but they also need to be cost-effective and easily repeatable in order to give a ‘level playing field’ on which all manufacturers can be tested.

  This means that the huge range of variables which affect fuel economy – including terrain, vehicle loading, temperature, aerodynamic effects and personal driving style – cannot be taken into account, as it would be impossible to replicate all these elements and produce consistent and fair publishable results. For more information on how fuel consumption is calculated and other fuel consumption related questions, please see the FAQ section on the VCA Web Site.

  If you believe your car is not performing as it should and that there could be a technical reason for this, please contact your Volkswagen Retailer; or for advice on how to improve your mpg please read our information on driving in a more fuel efficient manner.

• How do I obtain a certificate of Conformity?

  In order to gain a certificate of Conformity, you need to download and complete the following form and return to the Volkswagen Group Vehicle Compliance Department.

  Download the application for a certificate of conformity

• I want to buy a new Volkswagen Passenger Car – how long will it take to deliver?

  For a bespoke new car that is ordered directly from the factory, lead times will vary depending on which model and specification you choose, and where your car is being built due to extended shipping times. Your Retailer has up-to-date information on lead times and we encourage you to discuss this with them if a short lead time is important to you.

  Volkswagen UK operates what is called a 'managed supply' system for most models, to ensure a fair distribution of available production across the Retailer network. This means each Retailer is allocated a set number of cars on a rolling three month basis. So when you place an order, it’s advisable to check which month's allocation your car is intended for – and if allocation is not available, whether it’s possible to order from another Retailer or when more vehicles may become available.

  We have a number of new vehicles built and available in our Retailer and central stocks, covering the majority of our range. If a short lead time is important to you, flexibility on some of your choices such as colour and optional extras could mean you are driving away with a new car sooner than you think. Please talk to the Retailer with whom you placed your order to discuss options available to you.

• Why are some models subject to longer lead times?

  There are two main reasons: one is high demand and factory production line capacity; the other is component suppliers and the problems they face when demand increases.

  Volkswagen is one of the biggest car manufacturers in the world so you can be assured we are working hard with our suppliers to reduce the impact, and planning to improve the future situation. Please discuss your order with your Retailer to discuss potential alternative options if a short lead time is a key priority.

• Can I speed up my order by changing the spec of my car?

  When ordering your car certain choices can speed up or slow down the process. Due to huge demand worldwide, DSG gearboxes, certain sat nav systems and engines and some components for BlueMotion and R models are in short supply, meaning the waiting times for these vehicles will be longer than for standard cars.

  If there's a particular option you want, ask your Retailer if this will have an impact on your delivery time - at least that way you have all the facts before you make the decision.

• Do I have to wait for my vehicle to be built in the factory?

  No, in many cases it's possible you could buy a car which is already built and maybe in the UK.

  If a short lead time is important to you, can you be flexible on colour, engine or spec choice? Could you even try a model you weren't thinking of? Talk to your Retailer about finding the car that meets all your needs.

• Will delays affect the price of the vehicle I agreed with the Retailer?

  Once your order is placed in the system and you have an order number, your order is price protected. This means that you will pay the price agreed with your Retailer at the time of placing the order.