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When you’re shopping in an incredibly popular (and crowded) vehicle segment, it might seem difficult to find the perfect fit for your next new-car purchase. Comparing features across several brands, models, and multiple trim levels may be an intimidating task. Fortunately, professional editors and evaluators at automotive publications regularly sample new cars and trucks to help educate shoppers. Recently, Cars.com compared eight different compact SUVs priced under $45,000 together and declared a champion: the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo. This top-of-the-line Tiguan is truly ahead of the class, and the editors at Cars.com apparently agreed. Powered by a high-output 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 268 horsepower, it was the most powerful SUV in the group. The performance alone certainly excited the enthusiasts watching this comparison. But the 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo is more than just what’s underneath the hood: it’s also what you find beneath the surface, especially within its stylish, spacious cabin. Cars. com editors described the Tiguan interior as boasting “premium amenities” and “upscale quality” - characteristics that invite, if not implore you to spend more time behind the wheel.  The dashboard is well-organized and neatly designed, and includes both a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster, along with a large 15-inch center touchscreen display. The multi-function knob on the center console controls more than just the volume on the audio system. It also acts as a drive mode selector, as well as the controller for the Atmospheres feature, which can help change the mood inside your 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo with the right ambient accent color. These are among some of the things Cars.com pointed out in their evaluation of the 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo. They also cited its “great comfort,” which includes features such as massaging seats that ease the tension of longer drives. The elevated quilted two-tone leather upholstery delivers a new level of luxury for our popular SUV. Plus, they found the cabin to be quiet. It also welcomes child seats inside with no problem. Overall, the Cars.com judges were impressed with the 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo. They said that the “overall victory is a result of its impressive combination of upscale quality and amenities, passenger space and driving performance — coupled with no losses in any of our scoring categories. It is, without question, the nicest vehicle here for the money.” Cars.com finds the 2026 Tiguan a compelling crossover, and we think you’ll agree once you see it – or, better yet – drive it for yourself. Contact us at Sisbarro Volkswagen to see for yourself why it won the Cars.com Compact SUV Challenge.

The Sisbarro dealerships are celebrating a milestone anniversary—45 years serving the automotive needs of Las Cruces, Deming, and the communities of southern New Mexico. “It’s hard for me to believe, but for nearly half a century, Sisbarro has been more than just a place to buy a car; we’ve become a trusted partner for families, businesses, and drivers across southern New Mexico,” said Lou Sisbarro, President of the Sisbarro dealerships. Founded in 1981, Sisbarro Buick-Pontiac-GMC quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the Las Cruces automotive market. Over the years, the organization has grown to include Sisbarro Volkswagen (1985), Sisbarro Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram (1995), Sisbarro Truck Store, Sisbarro OnSale Tires, and CreditCars. “As southern New Mexico’s only locally owned and operated dealership group, we have a responsibility to give back,” Sisbarro said. “And today, with well over 125,000 vehicles sold, one of my proudest achievements is our 45-year connection to the community.  The dealerships have consistently supported local events, charities, and organizations, helping strengthen the fabric of Las Cruces and Deming. Whether it’s sponsoring youth programs, participating in community fundraisers, or simply providing reliable transportation options, Sisbarro has made a lasting impact beyond the showroom floor.” “A milestone like this wouldn’t be possible without our family of loyal customers and dedicated employees,” Sisbarro continued. “Most of my management team have been with the dealerships for decades, bringing experience, consistency, and a personal touch to every sales and service customer.” While Sisbarro reflects on its history, he is proud of his organization’s designation as the top volume car dealer south of Albuquerque and between Tucson, Arizona, and El Paso, Texas. “Being number one doesn’t happen by accident.  We take care of our customers, and that’s why we have been successful,” Sisbarro added. With rising costs everywhere from the grocery store to the dealership showroom, Sisbarro remains committed to affordability and value—things that have always mattered to the communities it serves. Whether customers are searching for a dependable used vehicle, exploring new models, or taking advantage of service specials, Sisbarro continues to prioritize options that fit a wide range of budgets. As Sisbarro celebrates 45 years, it’s not just about looking back—it’s about moving forward with the same dedication that started it all. A brand-new showroom at Sisbarro Volkswagen will open in late 2026. With strong community ties, a focus on customer satisfaction, and an eye on the future, Sisbarro is well-positioned for many more years of success.

For their day, the original Volkswagen Beetles didn’t have a poor safety record, but Volkswagen is not likely to put the gas tank in front of the cabin again. And the original Type 2 Bus? Well, it didn’t exactly have a front crumple zone, did it? But that was a very different time for the industry. Today, Sisbarro Volkswagen wants you to know that every current model comes with many safety features to help you avoid a collision in the first place and to better survive one after the fact. As Volkswagen says on its site regarding safety, a lot goes into a VW before you do.  Volkswagen may not tout its safety features in all its advertising, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t there.  Every model includes a version of IQ.Drive, an array of safety and driver assistance technologies. To start, every model has a front sonar system. It can detect not only vehicles but also pedestrians, cyclists, and objects in front of you. It is the key sensor for the Front Assist Systems (Forward Collision Warning & Autonomous Emergency Braking w/ Pedestrian Monitoring). It is also key to the very useful Adaptive Cruise control, which lets you use the convenience of cruise control not just on the open highway but also on city highways with moderate traffic, where you can easily keep pace while automatically maintaining a proper distance. There is also a forward-facing camera, a key component of the Lane Assist feature. Lane Assist monitors lane markings on both sides and gently steers the vehicle back into the lane if it drifts outside the lane with no signal engaged. You are expected to keep your hands on the wheel, but it can be particularly useful for those brief moments when you take a drink or briefly turn your attention away from the road. Volkswagen tries to keep blind spots to a minimum, but recognizes that some areas may still be obscured at a glance. The Blind Spot Monitor alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots with a light on the inside housing of either side mirror. Using the same sensors, Rear Traffic Avoidance is particularly useful in a parking lot with large adjacent vehicles blocking your view. It will give you visual and audio alerts if a vehicle is approaching from either side while Reverse is engaged. There are stability-enhancing systems, such as Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution (EBD), which help maintain appropriate stopping power during hard braking. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can adjust engine throttle and apply corrective forces to the wheels that need them most. All Volkswagen vehicles are equipped with a total of six stability-enhancing systems. A modern VW is likely to look awful after a moderate to severe front or rear collision. That is a good thing, as the front and rear of the vehicle are designed with crumple zones that will do just that: crumple to absorb energy and help distribute forces away from the very rigid laser-welded cabin structure. They may look awful, but a closer look may reveal an intact cabin with doors that still open properly. After a collision, the vehicle may still be moving, and the driver may be too dazed to react immediately. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System can help slow the vehicle further after an impact, reducing the risk of additional collisions. In most collisions, the Intelligent Crash Response System will automatically turn off the fuel pump (on gas-powered models), turn on the interior lights, unlock the doors, and activate the hazard lights. Of course, there are a few items you expect because they are required, such as front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, and side curtain airbags to protect the heads of both front and rear occupants in a side collision. ABS keeps the tires from locking up and losing traction. Also found on every model is the rear-view camera system, which displays what is behind you on the center screen the moment Reverse is engaged. When you are visiting Sisbarro Volkswagen and looking at new models, your attention will likely be on the feel of the seats, the feel of the controls, and, on a test drive, all of the European-derived vehicle dynamics. It is hard to test the safety features, and we would rather you not, but just know that they are always there.

The awards keep on coming for Volkswagen. MotorTrend named the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R their 2026 Car of the Year, while Car and Driver added both of them to this year’s 10Best Cars list. The accolades continue to roll in for both the 2026 Golf GTI and Golf R, as they were named to Car and Driver’s 2026 Editors’ Choice list. They are also joined by the 2026 Tiguan, making it three Volkswagen models on this esteemed list of the magazine's best automobiles. This list is based on Car and Driver’s extensive and exhaustive testing of every vehicle they work with. Based on instrumented testing, the magazine’s editors convene to pore over data and impressions to create a list of 131 of their highest-rated and well-loved vehicles for this roster—that is, 131 vehicles out of 450—across 47 segments. The criteria they use are based on the editors’ assessment of each 2026 model-year vehicle’s “intended mission” and the value it brings to consumers and enthusiasts. Each vehicle receives a ranking of up to 10 stars. To make the list, they have to earn at least nine of them. Considering how well the Volkswagen Golf has done with the editors of Car and Driver over the past 50-plus years, it is no surprise that the 2026 Golf GTI and Golf R have made this list. Over eight-and-a-half generations, the groundbreaking hatchback evolved into a pair of sports compact/hot hatch heroes. The benchmark they set over the past 50 years has earned them an international following amongst enthusiasts of all stripes. The 2026 Golf GTI and Golf R continue this tradition as the “go-to” sports compacts/hot hatches, delivering excitement and precision in two different packages. While they share the basic EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, their tunes and drivelines deliver distinctive driving experiences for their drivers. The 2026 Golf GTI features a 241-horsepower, front-drive drivetrain that delivers a pure driving experience that engages the driver no matter where they go. The 2026 Golf R does so with a more powerful 328-horsepower unit, coupled with a 4Motion all-wheel-drive system that delivers superb grip for maximum traction. The best acknowledgement of how the 2026 Tiguan has been elevated is Car and Driver’s inclusion of it on this list. This year, VW doubled down on the power offerings from the same EA888 turbocharged engine. Most models get the 201-horsepower version, delivering efficiency while adding fun along the way. For enthusiastic families looking for more excitement, the 2026 Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo raises the power band to 268 horsepower for a sporting drive with you and the family or your friends. All three of these vehicles are the result of the great work Volkswagen has done in producing and offering great experiences. That is why you are invited to answer our call for “Drivers Wanted.” You can check out all three of these Editors’ Choice winners at Sisbarro Volkswagen. Contact us to find out which winning combination is right for you.

Safety is important for every vehicle, but the concern goes up a notch or two for vehicles that carry your family. Thus, Sisbarro Volkswagen is proud to announce that the two most family-oriented vehicles in the Volkswagen model line, the 2026 Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport, were each named a TOP SAFETY PICK + by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The TOP SAFETY PICK + is the highest safety award from IIHS, and these models have received it for the third time since their 2024 redesign. To qualify for the 2025 award, a vehicle must score “Good” (their highest rating) in the Institute’s updated moderate overlap front and side tests, as well as the small overlap front test. This is where only part of the front of the vehicle strikes an immovable object, thus putting far more load on the structure of the impacted side than an impact with the full front end. In addition to being more challenging, this also represents the majority of front-end collisions. All trims must have standard acceptable or good headlights, and the vehicle must also earn an acceptable or good rating in pedestrian front crash prevention. The 2026 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport come equipped with a standard front crash prevention system that earned an acceptable rating for pedestrian crash prevention and standard LED headlights that received a good (their highest) rating. These headlights also feature the Adaptive Front-lighting System, which swivels with steering input to improve illumination during cornering. In addition to the advanced chassis and body structure that effectively allows the vehicle to crumple strategically while preserving the cabin, both models benefited from the standard IQ.DRIVE® suite of safety and driver assist features. For example, Front Assist uses ultrasound sensors to help warn drivers of potential frontal collisions (Forward Collision Warning) with vehicles and pedestrians, and it can sometimes automatically activate braking (Automatic Emergency Braking). It can also identify cyclists or pedestrians traveling alongside or crossing in front of the vehicle. The system warns the driver of potential imminent front-end collision situations, both acoustically and visually via a warning symbol in the instrument cluster, when the car is traveling above 18 mph. If the vehicle is moving under 18 mph and a potential front collision is detected, Automatic Emergency Braking activates immediately without prior acoustic or visual alerts. Additionally, if the driver lightly presses the brake pedal, the system increases the brake pressure. The system also features Active Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor), Rear Traffic Alert, and driver convenience functions like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and resume when suitable. Lane Assist helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, especially useful when the driver temporarily takes their eyes off the road or hands off the wheel, such as when removing a jacket. It is also worth mentioning that both the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport model lines earned an Overall 5-Star Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which is their highest rating. So, the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are not only stylish and spacious vehicles for transporting your family, but they also scored the highest safety ratings available from the two most comprehensive testing institutions. Visit Sisbarro Volkswagen in Las Cruces to test drive either the 3-row Atlas or 2-row Atlas Cross Sport. And bring the family.

To celebrate the 50 th anniversary of the Volkswagen GTI, it and the Golf R have been named to Car and Driver’s annual 10Best list. This marks the 20 th time the GTI has been on the list since its introduction in 1976. The Car and Driver 10Best List The Car and Driver 10Best list is the magazine’s annual selection of the best vehicles driven on the same roads at the same time by the magazine’s journalists. Each car has to be on sale by January of the new year and go up against the previous year’s winners. For 2026, Car and Driver welcomed over 100 vehicles to go head-to-head, including the Volkswagen GTI and Golf R... and only 10 cars and 10 trucks/SUVs can be called the best. Introducing the 2026 GTI Volkswagen offers the 2026 GTI to customers at a starting price of $36,320, featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that puts out 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, mated to a smart, quick-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. In the hands of Car and Driver’s hot shoes, the GTI gets to 60 mph in only 5.6 seconds. Performance and Practicality Go Hand in Hand While speed is fun, it’s not the only thing the GTI is known for. As a hatchback that can be used every day, owners will have 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. Folding the rear seats down gives you 34.5 cu.ft. of space, which is comparable to a crossover. The EPA estimates that owners can expect 24 mpg in city driving, 32 mpg on the highway, and an average of 27 mpg between both driving cycles. A Word from Car and Driver “We’ve always loved the current Volkswagen GTI’s mix of value, practicality, performance, and personality, but it’s the interior improvements that Volkswagen made for 2026 that helped land it a spot on the 10Best list,” said Car and Driver Editor-in-Chief Tony Quiroga. “And, the Golf R’s design looks and is practical, but under that conservative shape is a sports car that’ll rip to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds.” Meet the 2026 Golf R For those who want more, the Golf R offers the same usability as the GTI, with more power and all-wheel drive. Starting at $50,730, the Golf R also features a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine, delivering 328 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. With its 4Motion all-wheel-drive system and a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, Car and Driver achieved 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Faster Without Compromises Fear not, though, because all of that power does not mean that you will pay more at the pump, since the EPA says the Golf R will get you 22 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, while averaging 25 mpg between the two. Adaptive Suspension Damping One similarity between the two vehicles is the addition of adaptive dampers. They are standard on the Golf R and optional on the GTI, and with them, drivers can custom-tune the ride of their car with 15 different settings. A Word from Volkswagen "Golf models have a special place in the hearts of drivers—they’re practical, but they also bring real joy behind the wheel," said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO of Volkswagen of America. "The GTI created the hot-hatch legend, and the Golf R shows just how far that idea can go. It’s no surprise these cars keep winning awards and winning over new generations of enthusiasts." Sisbarro Volkswagen Has the Right Vehicle for You When you’re ready for a new or used Volkswagen, there is no place like Sisbarro Volkswagen. With excellent customer service, their knowledgeable sales staff will find you the right vehicle to fit your needs and budget. Why Choose Sisbarro Volkswagen Sisbarro Volkswagen is proud to offer the prices and services on new and used Volkswagen models. Our sales team will work to find you the car you want, and our finance department will help you get the best possible price. When it’s time to service your car, our service department will work hard to ensure your car or SUV receives the best care imaginable. We thank you for trusting us, and we look forward to serving you soon.

America in the post-World War II era experienced a cultural renaissance in automobiles. Americans were used to large, loud, inefficient cars. However, troops returning from the war, along with Europeans immigrating to America, began importing small cars, such as the Volkswagen Beetle, which itself became a bona fide movie star with the Herbie the Love Bug franchise. The Start of Volkswagen of America In 1949, a Dutch entrepreneur named Ben Pon landed in New York with two VW Beetles, planning to show Americans what they had been missing. Little did he know that he would help to start a cultural evolution. Later, in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. was created with its headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. By the end of 1956, the company had found nearly 50,000 customers for its smaller, more efficient, and more affordable Bug (nickname for the Beetle). Amazing Sales Americans quickly fell in love with Volkswagen, buying more than 160,000 vehicles by 1960 and 569,696 by the end of 1970. In 2025, Volkswagen of America sold 329,813 cars and crossovers, proving that buyers want affordable, safe, and reliable German cars that are both luxurious and beautifully designed. A Word from Volkswagen “For 70 years, Volkswagen has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to American drivers and the cars they love,” said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “The VW family has grown from the first imported Beetles to fit families of all shapes and sizes, always with the original mission of the brand—to be ‘the people’s car.’” 70 Years Young Over the past 70 years, VW has become an iconic brand in America, dedicated to vehicles for enthusiasts, families, and buyers seeking a reliable vehicle with great safety and technology. With such cult classics as the Beetle, Microbus, GTI, and the modern Golf R, Tiguan, ID.4, and more, few car companies can say they have had a more positive impact on American car culture. Great Standard Safety Thanks to standard IQ.Drive, Volkswagen vehicles are among the safest on the market, with features like Emergency Assist, Front Assist, Travel Assist, Adaptive Front Lighting System with LED headlights, Active Side Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Intelligent Crash Response System, and more. The Intelligent Crash System automatically shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and turns on the hazards in the event of an accident. Sisbarro Volkswagen Has the Right VW for You The 2026 Volkswagen models are some of the best the brand has ever produced. And with something for pretty much every buyer, there has never been a better time to buy a new or used car from Sisbarro Volkswagen. The knowledgeable salespeople will not only make you feel comfortable but also ensure you get the best possible price. Why Choose Sisbarro Volkswagen Get a jump on summer by getting behind the wheel of a new and used Volkswagen from Sisbarro Volkswagen. Our sales team will work to find you the car you want, and our finance department will help you get the best possible price. When it’s time to service your car or SUV, our service department will work hard to ensure your vehicle receives the best care imaginable. We thank you for trusting us, and we look forward to serving you soon.

At Sisbarro Volkswagen, being part of the Las Cruces community has always meant more than what happens on the showroom floor. It’s about showing up, giving back, and supporting the people who make this place home. That’s why Sisbarro is proud to partner with Las Cruces Public Schools (LCPS) on the revived Count Me In high school attendance initiative, which is underway across the district this school year. Count Me In is built on the simple but powerful idea that students do better when they’re in school. As with many arenas of life, it all begins with showing up, right? While attendance challenges are nothing new, the program brings renewed energy and real incentives to encourage students to stay engaged and keep showing up, even when it’s hard. Through a $10,000 contribution from Sisbarro Dealerships, the initiative provides $1,000 awards at each participating LCPS high school. These funds support quarterly, semester, and end-of-year prize drawings that recognize students who make attendance a priority. Just as important, the program now includes a “Growth Award,” which celebrates students who show meaningful improvement over time—not just perfect attendance. “Our students can’t thrive if they’re not in school,” declared LCPS Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz. “Reviving ‘Count Me In’ gives us the opportunity to reinforce the importance of daily attendance, while also celebrating students who are putting in the effort. Sisbarro’s support sends a powerful message that our community and local businesses are invested in student success.” That message matters. When students see local businesses stepping up, it reinforces that their efforts are noticed beyond the classroom. It shows that the broader Las Cruces community believes in them and wants to see them succeed. Michael Tourtillott, Director of Sales for Sisbarro Dealerships, shared why the initiative hits close to home. “Education is the key to our community’s future, and regular school attendance is where it starts. If we can play even a small role in motivating students to prioritize their education, that’s a win for everyone.” At Sisbarro Volkswagen, community support isn’t about one-time gestures. It’s about long-term commitment to local families, local schools, and the future of Las Cruces. Programs like Count Me In help students build habits that last far beyond high school, and we’re proud to be part of that journey. If you’re looking to support a local business that gives back, we invite you to visit Sisbarro Volkswagen. Whether you’re shopping for a new Volkswagen, a quality used car, or trusted service and parts, you’ll find a team that cares just as much about this community as you do.

For the third time since 1985, the editors at MotorTrend selected the Volkswagen Golf GTI as their 2026 Car of the Year. Not just the Golf GTI. They also named the Golf R alongside it for one of the most prestigious annual awards in the automotive business. As the definitive duo of sports compacts, the Mk8.5 2025 Golf GTI and Golf R offer that perfect balance of practicality, superb driving dynamics, and exciting performance. It is a tradition that now spans 50 years worldwide as Volkswagen defined what a “hot hatch” should be. The Golf R simply moved the bar by adding 4Motion all-wheel drive for extraordinary traction and grip with a higher performance threshold. Since 1949, MotorTrend’s editors have convened to review eligible candidates consisting of either all-new or significantly revised vehicles for this prestigious award. They evaluate six key items: advancement in design, engineering excellence, performance of the intended function, value, safety, and efficiency. The Golf GTI and Golf R stood out based on the merits that made them heroes among the enthusiast crowd. The editors at MotorTrend said that they were “authentic and spirited, the Golf continues to inspire the same enthusiasm it has since its debut. A recent update refined this eighth generation, sharpening its capabilities while preserving the engaging character that makes it a joy to drive. The GTI and R pursue different goals, yet each fulfills its mission with precision and confidence.” For 2025, the Golf GTI and Golf R received a refreshed exterior and interior, along with updated technology. That includes a larger center display touchscreen and a few exterior and interior updates. The 2025 Golf GTI continues to be available in three trims – S, SE, and Autobahn. Each trim level offers plenty of comfort without compromising its essence. That 241-horsepower turbocharged engine will keep you engaged on the road. The Golf GTI previously won the MotorTrend Car of the Year award in 1985 for the Mk2 model and in 2015 for the Mk7 model. The Golf R was added to the 2015 award, as well. The significant change for the 2025 Golf R was an increase in power, now up to 328 horsepower.  The 4Motion all-wheel drive puts that power down on all corners.  In addition, the Golf R now comes in a Black Edition trim and the Euro Style package, which includes the Akrapovic™ titanium exhaust system and European sports seats in cloth, while deleting the standard sunroof to save weight. Bringing home a winner is what we do at Sisbarro Volkswagen. Contact us for a closer look at the reigning MotorTrend Car of the Year – the Golf GTI and Golf R!