Vw

[TV74911S]

Interesting article on VW's approach to the marketplace in this Reuters piece. If you read further down they mention that they are looking to adapt some of their same globalized platform practices - in a limited way - to Porsche production.

I wonder if this is good or bad thing. The good is that it might address some of the quality issues 911s have had over the years. The bad might be a potential impact on engineering innovation.

Insight: Has Volkswagen discovered the Holy Grail of carmakers? | Reuters

[hbueno]

It's not really new, it's just a refinement of what all auto manufacturers have been doing for half a century or more. Is anyone fooled by the small differences between a Cayenne and Touareg? Back in the 70's the difference between a Cutlass and Century were minimal. I believe the sameness of product was a major factor in GM's slow motion crash over 30 years.

Once Porsches become a VW platform variation, their soul is lost and my desire to own one lost along with it. It's an academic question, though, a new Porsche is way way beyond my means.

Lamborghini is already a goner with it's Audi engines and gauges/switchgear. Great cars, but not really Lambo's anymore.

Hugo

[CCM911]

Unfortunately, Hugo may be spot on. It seems like Lambo has lost their way. And even Ducati, to some extent will be watered down after having been brought into the Audi fold.

As the years pass, I find myself more and more attracted to older cars and motorcycles. This corporate design structure has me way turned off to the new stuff.

[TV74911S]

I had the same reaction myself - GM and Chrysler has been doing this for years although with less diligence and with less of focus on global markets.