In Germany, the VW Jetta could never quite match the success of the other VW models. The situation on the North American market is quite different. Here the Jetta is still the most popular vehicle of European origin, and has earned itself a good reputation of a sporty sedan.

Since spring 2018, the Jetta VII, the latest VW Jetta has been on the market in North America. It was first presented at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, MI in January 2018, and sales started in the middle of the year, built within the VW plant in Puebla, Mexico. VW did one better though and presented the Jetta GLI as a sporty version at the Chicago Auto Show in early 2019. This version has been sold in the USA for a good year now.

Compact car with attractive price-performance ratio - VW Jetta

The VW Jetta VII is unfortunately not offered within Europe, and if you must have it, you have to import it. Under certain conditions though, this can be quite worthwhile as the Jetta of the latest generation impresses with a favourable price-performance ratio. Similar to it's predecessor variants, the VW Jetta VII is a typical representative of the compact class. This is also reflected in the dimensions, with a length of 4.7 metres, 1.8 metres wide and 1.47 metres high, as the car fits in well with our road conditions.

A big plus is the generous amount of space in relation to the size of the car. With a wheelbase of 2.69 meters, there is no feeling of tightness inside and is sufficient in legroom. The trunk offers 400 litres of storage space, enough for the luggage of a family on holiday. Not to mention, the interior has a solid finish and meets common demands without being too extravagant. Those who are looking for sophisticated elegance will probably be less enthusiastic about the VW Jetta VII. But on the other hand, if you are looking for functionality, you are well served!

In the "normal version", the VW Jetta VII is powered by a 1.4 litre petrol engine with 110 kW (150 PS), with the maximum torque being 250 Nm. The vehicle is normally offered with a 6-speed manual transmission, but higher equipment versions have an 8-speed automatic transmission. In the "sporty" Jetta GLI, the two-litre petrol engine similar to the Golf VII GTI powers the car with 169 kW (230 PS). A 6-speed manual transmission is also provided as standard, as well as a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission available as an option.

Import most lucrative for recently used cars

The list price for the VW Jetta VII starts at 22,500 US dollars. At US dealerships, you can find offers up to 1,000 dollars below that. That is cheap for a vehicle in this class - compared to the German price level.Though the costs for the import are not included, such as transport to the next major port, shipping, customs clearance and import sales tax. You can get a total price around 30.000 Euro. There is another alternative though!

Importing used jettas can be worthwhile for those who have only a few kilometers to go. Here, a purchase is possible with a total budget of 23,000 euros - import costs included. A car of comparable size and equipment at this price - that's what you have to look forward to with us! Good to know when importing, is that you can rely on our expertise as a long-standing importer of US vehicles.

Photo: Volkswagen

The VW Atlas is a five-seater, all-terrain sedan produced at the VW plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee; for the North American market. In Russia, the Middle East, China, and Mexico, the vehicle runs as the VW Teramont. With the VW Atlas Cross Sport, Volkswagen has launched a somewhat "slimmed-down" version which, with its slightly smaller dimensions, is also ideally suited to our domestic roads.

Differences between the "original version" and the Cross Sport variant are largely limited to "looks". With a length of 4.95 meters and a width of 1.99 meters, the VW Atlas Cross Sport is missing only a few millimetres compared to the VW Atlas. The exterior height is also somewhat lower. Nevertheless, the dimensions remain impressive - especially if you compare them with our usual vehicles. In terms of shape, the hatchback stands out in comparison to the Atlas pure version. The seven-seater becomes a five-seater - with plenty of space and seating comfort "in the 2nd row". Also, if the rear seat is folded down, a loading area of around 2,200 litres capacity spreads out. A lot can be stowed away here!

Generosity is the key

The technology is practically identical. Like the VW Atlas, the VW Atlas Cross Sport has two engine versions, buyers can choose between a (TSI) four-cylinder petrol engine (235 PS output) or a VR six-cylinder petrol engine (276 PS output). There is also a choice in terms of drive: front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The interior equipment is functional and without exaggerated luxury, but still appears generously proportioned. What is striking is the comparison to cars from domestic production: due to the larger mass, there is no feeling of confinement, even when fully occupied. Every passenger has enough legroom and freedom of movement - in the front and in the back.

For European car buyers, it might take some getting used to, as there are no extras for the VW Atlas Cross Sport. The vehicle is offered in a total of eight equipment lines, and the buyer must decide which one is best for them. Each equipment line includes a certain spectrum of functionalities. Those who value certain functions, such as parking assistant or digital cockpit, must choose the appropriate equipment line and then, if necessary, accept features that are less in the personal focus.

Inexpensive to have - Import from the US or Canada

The price of the VW Atlas Cross Sport ranges from 30,545 US dollars (entry-level version) to 49,765 US dollars (VR6 engine, four-wheel drive, full equipment), depending on the drive and equipment. Converted into euros (exchange rate 1.125 US dollars/euro), this results in a price range from around 27,150 euros to approx. 44,250 euros. So all in all, a strong vehicle with big interior, a lot of comfort, and a favourable price compared to cars of this class that we offer.

At a normal German VW dealer, you will only yearn when it comes to the VW Atlas Cross Sport. The vehicle is officially intended for the North American market and is only offered there. Good thing that there is the possibility to import cars from the USA. For this, you are exactly at the right place with us. We carry out the import for you at attractive conditions and support you in the purchase - from the conclusion of the sales contract to the delivery of the vehicle directly to your door.

Photo: Volkswagen

One thing you can't blame Donald Trump for - that he doesn't keep his promises from the US election campaign. All those who had relied on moderation and a "natural grinding down process" in office have been proven wrong. On hardly any other point is this more evident than in Trump's trade policy. Barely a week has gone by without new headlines in the international trade dispute since the US President initiated the first punitive tariffs in February. Car imports and exports from Europe to the USA and vice versa are, so to speak, in the middle of the action.

The German car industry has a bad feeling about it, at least since Donald Trump declared in April during the visit of French President Macron, that he would continue his trade policy until no Mercedes could be seen on New York's Fifth Avenue. At the same time as Macron's visit, an inspection order was issued to the US Department of Commerce to check whether vehicle imports threatened US national security. If the results of the check were positive, the US president would have the power to impose punitive duties on cars almost single-handedly.

Customs policy and protectionism - not only by Donald Trump

Only a few days ago, Donald Trump repeated his threat of punitive duties on European cars. In one of his infamous Twitter messages, he waved a 20% penalty on car imports from the EU in response to the European customs sanctions on some US products, which in turn were in response to US punitive tariffs on steel and aluminium from Europe. This is what an escalation spiral looks like.

[Tweet from Donald Trump]

Based on the Tariffs and Trade Barriers long placed on the U.S. and it's great companies and workers by the European Union, if these Tariffs and Barriers are not soon broken down and removed, we will be placing a 20% tariff on all of their cars coming into the U.S. Build them here!

- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 22, 2018]

Should the punitive tariffs become reality - whether 20 percent or 25 percent, as already been read - this would be a severe blow to the German automotive industry. Last year, Germany exported vehicles worth 22 billion euros to the USA. A total of 1.35 million vehicles from German production were sold in the United States in 2017. However, the majority of these were produced in their own factories in the USA - where punitive tariffs would probably not apply. But around 493,000 vehicles came across the Atlantic to the United States, and some manufacturers such as Porsche or Audi are even 100 percent dependent on this route as they have no US production facilities. Penalty duties would make car imports significantly more expensive and have a negative impact on sales - an effect Trump wanted.

Despite all the criticism of the US President's approach and justified doubts as to whether protectionism can even be effective - customs policy is by no means an invention of Donald Trump. The EU has always been a master in controlling trade flows via customs duties. There are also remarkable "inconsistencies" - especially when it comes to car trade with the United States. For passenger cars, the EU levies an import duty of 10 percent on US car imports, while in the opposite direction, the duty is currently only 2.5 percent. The "customs balance" is more balanced for many pick-ups and light trucks. Here, the EU demands 22 percent for US imports of certain pick-ups, while the US demands 25 percent for vehicle imports from Europe.

Incidentally, the 25 percent rule has a history. In 1963, the then EEC had imposed punitive tariffs on chicken meat imports from the USA. The Americans retaliated with higher customs duties - including on flatbed trucks and light trucks from Europe. The import duty here was raised from 8.5 percent to 25 percent. This hit the VW Bulli, which was very popular in the USA at the time, particularly hard. The dispute cost Volkswagen an estimated 50 million D-Marks. The customs tariff still applies. The "chicken war" could even be considered a blueprint for new US punitive duties on vehicles. It is probably no coincidence that a 25 percent rate is again being discussed. Trump has the argument on his side in the case of car tariffs, that the EU has so far burdened US car imports more than vice versa.

TTIP would have been a chance

But it is not only customs duties that hinder free car trade across the Atlantic. US car imports to Germany are subject to an additional 19 percent import turnover tax, because the tax is also levied on the customs duty. But these are by no means the only import costs. Not to forget, that these are not inconsiderable costs for technical conversion, such as tests, expert opinions, proof, permits, etc. for the operation of US vehicles on German roads, and can easily add up to around several thousand Euros. It remains to be seen whether the extensive regulations for conversion, operation and approval are exclusively factually justified or whether the intention behind them was also not to create non-tariff trade barriers. One thing is certain though: US car imports to Europe already present hurdles that not need be necessary.

The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) would have offered an opportunity to remove such obstacles. With the establishment of a free trade area between the US and the EU, tariff and non-tariff trade barriers on both sides would have been removed in the long term, and would have opened up completely new prospects for car imports from the US. The history of TTIP is well known. The negotiations were launched in 2013, and by October 2016, no decisive breakthrough to an agreement had been achieved, while at the same time, resistance to TTIP was spreading in many EU countries. With the election of Donald Trump as the new US President, further negotiations became obsolete. Since then, TTIP has officially been on ice. Many even believe that the agreement is dead for good. Today, some would be grateful for such free trade agreements.

Soon EU punitive duties on US car imports?

How can things go on now? If Donald Trump makes good on his threat and actually imposes punitive tariffs on car imports from Europe, the EU is likely to respond with countermeasures again. Then car imports from the USA could also be burdened with higher duties. The acquisition costs for popular models such as the Chevrolet Corvette, Camaro, Dodge Charger or Ford Mustang could then rise noticeably - by ten percent or more, depending on the penalty duty chosen. Real US car fans will certainly not be frightened by this either, but the penalty duties would be painful.

But, this would not mean more than a pinprick for US foreign trade. Last year in Germany, just over 19,000 imported vehicles from the USA were registered. Vehicles from US production have a negligible market share of 0.6 percent in this country. This contrasts with the almost 500,000 cars from German production, which are heading in the opposite direction. This is where the German trade surplus with the United States is particularly noticeable.

It remains to be seen whether there will actually be a further escalation. It is difficult to assess the actions of the US president - as well as the European reactions to them. In this respect, much is currently speculation. It would be wrong, however, to see Trump's announcements and threats exclusively as "momentary inspirations". There is already a deliberate policy behind them. The fact that Trump is determined and has no consideration for others, should have become clear since the last G7 summit.

Rising dollar makes US car imports even more expensive

In addition to the discussion about punitive tariffs, the dollar has gained significantly in recent months, while the euro is weakening. Compared to the beginning of the year, it has lost 2.7 percent against the dollar, and even 6.6 percent against the euro from its high in February, when the euro was just over 1.25 euros, and as a result, US car imports have become more expensive. The strength of the dollar is primarily due to the flourishing US economy and rising interest rates in the United States. In Europe, on the other hand, interest rates remain at zero and uncertainty is growing. Against this background, the euro could become even weaker. Therefore, now would be a good opportunity for US car imports, before the dollar becomes even stronger and punitive tariffs are possibly added on top. The issue of free trade between Europe and the USA will probably only come up again in the post-trump era.

Ford is one of the traditional brands in the automotive industry in Germany. The US car manufacturer entered the German market as early as 1925. Today, new Ford cars are manufactured in Europe at the main plant in Cologne and other EU production sites. With models such as the Ford Mondeo, Focus, Fiesta, Ka and many others, Ford offers its customers primarily mid-range and small cars in numerous equipment variants.

Reimports: thanks to differentiated pricing policy

Re-imports are now used by many car buyers as a low-cost alternative than buying through the local dealer. This also applies to new Ford cars. Reimported cars were originally produced for other EU markets. Car manufacturers pursue a differentiated pricing policy in the individual national markets, depending on purchasing power or tax regulations, vehicles are often offered there at significantly lower prices than in Germany. Reimports allow these price margins to be exploited despite the transaction costs, and a re-imported new Ford car can therefore be significantly cheaper than a normal dealer's vehicle despite the discounts granted. The price advantage can be in the range of 20 to 30 percent.

Watch out for EU vehicles

It is important for re-imports that the vehicles are EU vehicles. Then, thanks to the EU regulations regarding warranties and guarantees, the same regulations apply as in Germany, with the buyer receiving the usual two-year manufacturer's warranty. With other re-imports, the situation is different. Incidentally, re-imported Ford EU new cars do not differ in quality from normal Ford vehicles. Only the standard equipment may vary slightly depending on the conditions in the original target countries. If necessary, longer waiting times for ordered vehicles may have to be accepted for re-imports.

Ford EU new cars: there are many possibilities

There are many dealers in Germany who carry new EU cars in their range or who have specialised completely in such re-imports. EU vehicles at autoport-koeln.de for example, the customer can even take advantage of a wide range of services.

The advantage of buying from an EU vehicle dealer is that many models are in stock and can therefore be purchased without long waiting times. Many dealers are present with their offers on the Internet and you can even find some search engines with which you can search online for new EU cars.

The 65th IAA from September 15th to the 22nd of 2013 is casting it's shadow. At the Frankfurt trade fair, Chevrolet will officially present the revised Camaro as a convertible and for the first time in Europe, the coupé. Both vehicle models will be presented in an innovative aerodynamic exterior with many new details.

A powerhouse with over 400 hp

Engine cooling and driving stability have been further improved on the Camaro. This was achieved by reducing lift at the front end - made possible by additional air vents that allow engine heat to dissipate more easily. A 6.2-litre V8 engine with variable valve timing VVT and cylinder deactivation used to power the Camaro. In the six-speed automatic transmission, the engine delivers 405 hp, and while combined with a six-speed manual transmission, up to 432 hp. Thus the Coupé accelerates within 5.2 seconds, and the convertible within 5.4 seconds to 100 kilometers per hour.

Facelift provides even more aesthetics

There are also some changes to the external appearance of the Camaro. The headlights are narrower than before, while the rear is now equipped with one-piece wide lights. The antenna - previously an aesthetically unattractive stub - is now completely recessed into the tailgate. These changes in detail make the Camaro even sleeker and, with its clear contours, powerful bodywork and balanced proportions, it presents itself as a sports car in a class of its own.

More comfort and technology

Inside both models offer additional equipment for more driving comfort. An engine start function integrated into the remote control is available at extra cost, while coupé owners can order Recaro leather sports seats as an optional extra. There are also a number of innovations in the technical interior equipment. The Camaro is equipped with the new My-Link technology, this makes it possible to connect smartphones with corresponding compatibility much better. A seven-inch touchscreen colour monitor displays content such as address directories, music, and photos in a clearly arranged form. The text-to-speech function is also innovative as it allows text messages to be read aloud by the system.  As well as a head-up display that projects important driving data directly and clearly onto the windshield.

Pleasantly affordable: Camaro via US direct import

Especially pleasing is the price for the Camaro remains the same. The convertible costs 44,990 Euros, and the coupé, 39,990 Euros (prices in conjunction with the six-speed manual transmission). Whether as a coupé or a convertible, the Camaro thus remains affordable for men who love a sporty driving style in a vehicle with a correspondingly professional design. The new Camaro is scheduled to be available from dealers at the end of 2013. It is likely to be even more affordable if it is directly imported from the USA. The cost advantage of a direct import may outweigh any downside of the Camaro- such as it's considerable fuel consumption despite improved aerodynamics, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation. But, necessary for a car with this kind of engine power!

For all US-Car enthusiasts among you, here is a small overview of what the upcoming Street Magazine has to offer!

"THE mandatory reading" for all fans of US cars, muscle cars & Co.

Content Street Magazine No. 2-2013:

35 RAT ROD FIAT | Falling Apart? Ha!

'61 BUICK ELECTRA CUSTOM | Lowrider is a little higher ...

'56 COMMER PICKUP CUSTOM | Uncommon Pickup ...

72's PLYMOUTH BARRACUDA | Muscles and Sexappeal

70's CHEVROLET NOVA SS | The Sleeper - Compact with Power

'77 CHEVY CAMARO LT | Now an Exception

'69 PLYMOUTH GTX | Big Block Boss ...

FORD 1928/ 1932 HOT ROD | Model A and B in one?

MUSCLE CARS II | Mustang Mach1 Boss, Cobra Jet 1969-71

ON TOUR | With Camaro private on Route 66

TECHNOLOGY | Carburettor overhaul

TÜV | Street Legal?

DRAG RACING | Tierp Drag Racing Arena, dates

SATIRE | Helges Punks and Cars

Plus meetings, appointments, scene, classifiications, and so forth...

In stores April 2nd, 2013!

Read it – experience it: “STREET Magazine“ and “STREET Mag Shows“ – the perfect couple, when it comes to American car culture and the newest trends in the scene!

For nearly 20 years, the “STREET Magazine“ is the specialist magazine of the German-speaking world, when it comes to the American car scene and those associated lifestyles. If you are interested in the many-faceted American car culture – such as hot rods, customs, muscle cars, lowriders, new-age cars, NASCAR race cars, dragsters, or whether you prefer classics from the twenties to the seventies, –, the “STREET Magazine“ is a strong recommendation for you.

In addition to the very detailed and informative articles about the finest American cars of the decades, or to the many sought out vehicles from Europe, such as Germany, Switzerland, Austria and many more, this also including from the United States, the “STREET Magazine“ also offers an excellent overview of all kinds of lifestyles associated with the German and international American car scene. From Rock ’n’ Roll to tattoos, and pinup-art to the latest trends, you're sure to find something that keeps you wanting more!

On top of that, you get exciting photo reportages about all the American motorsport sectors. Including information on the German and international trade shows, useful hints from our tech specialists, and a detailed overview of all the well-known used and new American car dealers. As well as auto shops, importers, parts and accessory suppliers, and even event hints. Or maybe you are looking for an American car, a rare part, or simply want to sell some parts or even your car– and for that we have a large classified section for you to browse through!

The “STREET Magazine“ is the only specialist magazine of the German-speaking world, hosting a series of events within Germany, Switzerland and Austria every year – and with remarkable success for more than two decades. But the “STREET Mag Shows“, involving more than 2,000 American cars and motorcycles all over Europe– just know, that these are not your regular American vehicle events.

Our diverse program includes many events such as: a moderated stage presentation, a car contest with an expert panel, live music, show acts, drag racing performances, and different American foods. The “STREET Mag Shows“ are always an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Not to mention a must for everyone who is enthusiastic about the American way of driving, thundering Harley-twins and that unique sound of big-bore American V8 engines!

The “STREET Magazine“ is packed with more than 100 pages, comes out six times a year and is available to you in gas stations, kiosks, newspaper stands at airports and railway stations, and at the periodicals rack in the supermarket in the German-speaking world. In case you prefer the easy way (especially if you are not from Germany, Switzerland or Austria), you can also order your subscription worldwide, and you will always find your newest copy waiting for you in your mailbox.

And don’t forget to visit our website!

www.street-magazine.com

This year's Detroit Motor Show showcased many impressive vehicles, but one undeniable highlight is the new Chevrolet Corvette C7, which once again bears the legendary "Stingray" moniker.

The impressive 6.2-liter V8 naturally aspirated engine promises a consumption of less than ten liters per 100 kilometers. This could position the Corvette as a real "fuel saver" compared to some German sports cars. Boasting a proud 450 horsepower and a torque of 610 Newton meters, it sprints to 100 km/h in less than four seconds. This potentially places it as a rival to the Porsche 911. While concrete figures are still pending, American sports cars have often shown us in the past: top performance doesn't always come with a high price tag.

The C7 doesn't just bring a new engine. It also features a modern six-speed automatic transmission, a seven-speed manual gearbox, rev control, and advanced lightweight construction technologies. Chevrolet has clearly taken cues from Chrysler and the revamped Viper. The C7 is equipped with a sophisticated suspension, dynamic driving control, and a luxurious interior adorned with carbon, aluminum, and the finest leather.

We eagerly await the third quarter of 2013 when this gem officially hits the market. It will be particularly interesting to see what additional performance the ZR1 version will offer.

The world of classic cars is both fascinating and diverse. Whether you're drawn to American cruisers or European classics, the market has something to offer for every taste. But how does one navigate this vast sea of options, especially when considering importing a classic car from overseas?

Why purchasing Classic Cars from the USA or Canada?

Since the favorable exchange rate in 2008, many classic car enthusiasts have turned their gaze across the Atlantic. The USA and Canada are not just the birthplaces of many iconic American models, but they also house numerous European models that were sold there. These vehicles often fare better than their European counterparts, having been exposed to drier climates and thus less prone to rust. Moreover, many models that are rare in Europe can be more commonly found in North America, making them attractive import options.

Every Fourth Classic Car in Germany is Imported

The popularity of foreign classic cars in Germany is evident. Statistically, nearly three-quarters of classic cars in the country are of German origin, while the remaining quarter is imported from other countries. The UK, USA, Italy, and France are the primary suppliers. But why is this the case?

Various reasons account for this trend. The domestic market often cannot provide the desired models or the condition that buyers seek. Hence, many enthusiasts and collectors turn to the international market. The USA, being the world's largest car market, is a treasure trove for venerable rarities. But other countries have their gems too.

Tips for Buying Classic Cars:

• Research and Caution: The importance of thorough research cannot be overstated. There are many platforms, like Classic-Trader, offering a plethora of classic cars. However, it's crucial to remain skeptical, especially when confronted with deals that seem too good to be true. Some sellers might be tempted to offer vehicles at a price significantly below market value. Here, caution is advised.
• Vehicle Condition: Before purchasing a classic car, ensure you know as much as possible about its condition. A preliminary inspection by an expert can be invaluable. This not only provides a clear overview of the vehicle's state but also signals to the seller your genuine interest.
• Availability of Spare Parts: Some classic cars, especially rare models, can be challenging to repair due to the unavailability of specific spare parts. It's essential to consider this in advance and ensure you have access to the necessary parts.
• Shipping and Transport: Transporting a classic car, especially from overseas, requires special care. Various shipping methods are available, and it's crucial to choose the one that offers the best protection for your vehicle. While RoRo transport might be more affordable, container transport often provides better protection.
• Vehicle History: A classic car with a traceable history can enhance its value. Original purchase documents, photos of repairs, and restorations can help trace the vehicle's lineage.

Import Challenges and Advantages:

When purchasing a classic car from abroad, the challenge of importing the vehicle arises. Logistically, this is generally straightforward. There are ample ways to transport classic cars across borders safely and reliably. The administrative hurdles are more challenging. Importing a vehicle incurs customs duties and taxes. Classic cars often benefit from specific regulations that make importing them more affordable. It's crucial to familiarize oneself with these regulations and ensure the classic car meets the criteria.

Final Thoughts:

Buying a classic car is an exhilarating journey, filled with both joy and challenges. With the right preparation and research, you can ensure you make an informed decision and find a vehicle you'll cherish for many years to come. It's always wise to take your time, study the market, and seek expert advice before making such a significant investment.

In order to keep the risk of damage down as much as possible during shipping and unloading from the container, we placed particular importance to professional loading in the USA and unloading without the aid of forklift trucks. Since the majority of the unloading companies in the Netherlands unfortunately do not forego the use of fork lift trucks, we have switched to importing all vehicles to Europe via Bremerhaven. In addition to the cheaper costs for port handling and possible stand fees, we can thus guarantee our customers proper unloading. Of course, when importing via Bremerhaven, there is also the option of customs clearance at reduced import taxes for vehicles that are more than 30 years old. Customs clearance takes place at the Dutch border in the course of delivery. The costs incurred are the same as the costs for an import via the Netherlands, but with the reduced risk of damage we strive for and the full control of the entire import process.

Should you have any further questions or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email!