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2015 VW Golf Providence RI How many models can you count that are virtually indistinguishable from the vehicle segment they represent? It’s nearly impossible to separate the Volkswagen Golf from the idea of a hatchback, and with good reason; during its 40-year run, it has inarguably acted as the foremost representative of the segment. While many competing models have come and gone during that time, none have been so implanted on gearheads’ brains quite like the Golf. And now, with the release of the seventh-generation 2015 VW Golf near Providence RI at Speedcraft VW, all of this effort and evolution has come full-circle. So let’s break down the performance and design of the 2015 VW Golf, shall we? The Performance. What has long separated the Golf from many hatchback competitors has been its steadfast dedication to top-notch athleticism, and this is true of the 2015 VW Golf as well. The latest Golf offers two excellent engine options, both in keeping with the model’s dual goals of top performance and excellent fuel economy. The clean, efficient interior provides ample space for five passengers. First is the 1.8-liter Turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, that produces 170 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. With the automatic-equipped model zipping from zero to sixty mph in under eight seconds and a fuel economy better than 36 mpg on the highway, this option holds a special place in many drivers’ hearts. However, it’s the diesel-powered 2.0-liter TDI four-cylinder that really gets the juices flowing. With an output of 150 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque, the TDI pairs with either a six-speed manual or automated manual transmission (DSG) to produce a sterling 42 mpg on the highway. The Design. To pick up where the incredible performance leaves off, the 2015 VW Golf rewards drivers with a host of attractive amenities as well. Standard features on the latest Golf include a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, a 5.8-inch touchscreen with iPod/satellite radio connectivity, and Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity. Available on the higher level trims, meanwhile, are such amenities as VW’s Car-Net emergency services system, a rearview camera and a premium Fender audio system. The Golf features best-in-class interior cargo storage. As for the feel of the interior cabin itself, the Golf rewards up to five occupants with top-quality upholstery materials and class-leading cargo space, a generous 52.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded flat. Additionally, the distinctly European styling makes the most of each inch, with leg and shoulder room among the finest available. For a vehicle with such a rich and storied history, there’s little doubt that the 2015 VW Golf is forward-thinking as well. Its ride is quick and smooth, and with excellent interior visibility and easy-to-use dashboard features, it’s pretty apparent why it continues to be among the most popular hatchbacks available today. The 2015 VW Golf is now available at Speedcraft VW, and in addition to its ease of ownership, it is also easy to outfit with items from our VW OEM Parts and Accessories eStore. To learn more about the latest Golf or to schedule a test drive, visit Speedcraft VW today!

2015 VW Golf Providence RI How many models can you count that are virtually indistinguishable from the vehicle segment they represent? It’s nearly impossible to separate the Volkswagen Golf from the idea of a hatchback, and with good reason; during its 40-year run, it has inarguably acted as the foremost representative of the segment. While many competing models have come and gone during that time, none have been so implanted on gearheads’ brains quite like the Golf. And now, with the release of the seventh-generation 2015 VW Golf near Providence RI at Speedcraft VW, all of this effort and evolution has come full-circle. So let’s break down the performance and design of the 2015 VW Golf, shall we? The Performance. What has long separated the Golf from many hatchback competitors has been its steadfast dedication to top-notch athleticism, and this is true of the 2015 VW Golf as well. The latest Golf offers two excellent engine options, both in keeping with the model’s dual goals of top performance and excellent fuel economy. The clean, efficient interior provides ample space for five passengers. First is the 1.8-liter Turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, that produces 170 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. With the automatic-equipped model zipping from zero to sixty mph in under eight seconds and a fuel economy better than 36 mpg on the highway, this option holds a special place in many drivers’ hearts. However, it’s the diesel-powered 2.0-liter TDI four-cylinder that really gets the juices flowing. With an output of 150 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque, the TDI pairs with either a six-speed manual or automated manual transmission (DSG) to produce a sterling 42 mpg on the highway. The Design. To pick up where the incredible performance leaves off, the 2015 VW Golf rewards drivers with a host of attractive amenities as well. Standard features on the latest Golf include a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, a 5.8-inch touchscreen with iPod/satellite radio connectivity, and Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity. Available on the higher level trims, meanwhile, are such amenities as VW’s Car-Net emergency services system, a rearview camera and a premium Fender audio system. The Golf features best-in-class interior cargo storage. As for the feel of the interior cabin itself, the Golf rewards up to five occupants with top-quality upholstery materials and class-leading cargo space, a generous 52.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded flat. Additionally, the distinctly European styling makes the most of each inch, with leg and shoulder room among the finest available. For a vehicle with such a rich and storied history, there’s little doubt that the 2015 VW Golf is forward-thinking as well. Its ride is quick and smooth, and with excellent interior visibility and easy-to-use dashboard features, it’s pretty apparent why it continues to be among the most popular hatchbacks available today. The 2015 VW Golf is now available at Speedcraft VW, and in addition to its ease of ownership, it is also easy to outfit with items from our VW OEM Parts and Accessories eStore. To learn more about the latest Golf or to schedule a test drive, visit Speedcraft VW today!

Tips to Extend Engine Life Without playing favorites, one of our favorite events within the ranks at the Speedcraft Volkawagen Service Department has to be when an older VW model comes in, still running like a champ after 200,000 or 250,000 models. ( Note: Another favorite? When customers bring in a VW Thing.) But despite the regularity of seeing well-travelled VW vehicles, this sort of lifespan doesn’t happen by accident. There are a number of ways to help extend engine life in your vehicle, and we at Speedcraft VW are far too generous to keep them to ourselves. Tip #1: Break her in easy. We understand the temptation, but believe us when we tell you that vehicles require a little stretching before they endure top performance. For the first thousand or so miles, essential engine parts such as piston rings are still working themselves into shape. In those early driving sessions, give your VW a good runabout at various speeds and RPM levels to help work out any growing pains. Tip #2: Warm your car up when its cold. It happens to every one of us, where you’re late for work or a dinner reservation and just want to get in and go. However, even five minutes of idling will help boost oil viscosity and allow gasoline to burn more effectively. A few extra minute in extreme cold will add untold miles further down the road. How many miles do you suppose this Beetle can handle? 150,000? 200,000? More?! Tip #3: Drive the speed limit. We aren’t fun-hating, we promise. After all, we have “speed” right there in the name of our dealership. But regular high-speed driving makes pistons and engine parts work overtime, and puts undue stress on all parts of your vehicle. Avoid the lead foot whenever possible, for the sake of your engine. Tip #4: Eliminate excess weight. You’d be shocked how frequently we see vehicles that are weighed down by an old weight set for no good reason whatsoever. Excess cargo, old boxes, sandbags left over from the winter--it all puts more work on your engine, work that it doesn’t need. Put those old weights in the shed, for Pete’s sake. Tip #5: Make a maintenance schedule. A no-brainer, right? With regular scheduled maintenance to replenish necessary fluids and analyze often-overlooked mechanical systems, your vehicle will get the most out of every available mile.  Our service department will happily assist with the creation of a maintenance schedule, which will add extra years and boosted confidence in your VW vehicle. Take advantage of Speedcraft Volkswagen's Oil Change Program. Sounds easy enough, right? For any additional information regarding engine life, or to simply schedule a visit with our friendly service staff, feel free to pay a visit to Speedcraft VW, located a short drive from Providence and Newport!

Tips to Extend Engine Life Without playing favorites, one of our favorite events within the ranks at the Speedcraft Volkawagen Service Department has to be when an older VW model comes in, still running like a champ after 200,000 or 250,000 models. ( Note: Another favorite? When customers bring in a VW Thing.) But despite the regularity of seeing well-travelled VW vehicles, this sort of lifespan doesn’t happen by accident. There are a number of ways to help extend engine life in your vehicle, and we at Speedcraft VW are far too generous to keep them to ourselves. Tip #1: Break her in easy. We understand the temptation, but believe us when we tell you that vehicles require a little stretching before they endure top performance. For the first thousand or so miles, essential engine parts such as piston rings are still working themselves into shape. In those early driving sessions, give your VW a good runabout at various speeds and RPM levels to help work out any growing pains. Tip #2: Warm your car up when its cold. It happens to every one of us, where you’re late for work or a dinner reservation and just want to get in and go. However, even five minutes of idling will help boost oil viscosity and allow gasoline to burn more effectively. A few extra minute in extreme cold will add untold miles further down the road. How many miles do you suppose this Beetle can handle? 150,000? 200,000? More?! Tip #3: Drive the speed limit. We aren’t fun-hating, we promise. After all, we have “speed” right there in the name of our dealership. But regular high-speed driving makes pistons and engine parts work overtime, and puts undue stress on all parts of your vehicle. Avoid the lead foot whenever possible, for the sake of your engine. Tip #4: Eliminate excess weight. You’d be shocked how frequently we see vehicles that are weighed down by an old weight set for no good reason whatsoever. Excess cargo, old boxes, sandbags left over from the winter--it all puts more work on your engine, work that it doesn’t need. Put those old weights in the shed, for Pete’s sake. Tip #5: Make a maintenance schedule. A no-brainer, right? With regular scheduled maintenance to replenish necessary fluids and analyze often-overlooked mechanical systems, your vehicle will get the most out of every available mile.  Our service department will happily assist with the creation of a maintenance schedule, which will add extra years and boosted confidence in your VW vehicle. Take advantage of Speedcraft Volkswagen's Oil Change Program. Sounds easy enough, right? For any additional information regarding engine life, or to simply schedule a visit with our friendly service staff, feel free to pay a visit to Speedcraft VW, located a short drive from Providence and Newport!

2015 VW GTI Best Cheap Speed Car You know, we could really get used to this. It’s only been a little over a week since we found ourselves basking in the praises of Car & Driver magazine, who found cause to celebrate four of our favorite models at Speedcraft VW for being among the finest vehicles under $30,000. But why stop the love parade there? We also recently received word that the 2015 VW Golf GTI has been named Cars.com’s “Best Cheap Speed Car,” a designation given to high-performance vehicles available for under $30,000. (Note: Are we seeing a theme here? High quality, low cost?) Going through a list of the criteria for consideration, and especially looking at the roster of competing vehicles, it’s clear that this is no small accolade. And after a grueling five-day test that included both a day at the drag strip and a day on a road course, the 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI has proven yet again to be much more than just a product of the considerable hype. The unique and expressive styling of the GTI carries over to its performance profile. So which competitors had the singular misfortune of looking down the barrel of the 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI? No undistinguished names here: the Suburu WRX, the Ford Fiesta ST, the Hyundai Veloster Turbo and the Nissan Juke NISMO, to name a select few. And, despite this impressive roster of competitors, to say that this victory for Volkswagen was ever in doubt would be a comical overstatement. Vehicles were graded on fourteen different rubrics, including a wide swath of performance and styling benchmarks. And of these fourteen, care to venture a guess which ones awarded top honors to the GTI? Seven. A full half of the categories gave highest marks to the GTI, including braking performance, interior quality, ride quality and fuel efficiency. Basing the rankings on factors that are popular with younger drivers and those who desire energetic performance, there was little doubt regarding which model stood out. (Read full details of this competition here.) The 2015 VW GTI is now available at Speedcraft VW, and we’re standing by hoping to assist any prospective shoppers with a test drive today. See you soon at Speedcraft VW near Providence RI!

2015 VW GTI Best Cheap Speed Car You know, we could really get used to this. It’s only been a little over a week since we found ourselves basking in the praises of Car & Driver magazine, who found cause to celebrate four of our favorite models at Speedcraft VW for being among the finest vehicles under $30,000. But why stop the love parade there? We also recently received word that the 2015 VW Golf GTI has been named Cars.com’s “Best Cheap Speed Car,” a designation given to high-performance vehicles available for under $30,000. (Note: Are we seeing a theme here? High quality, low cost?) Going through a list of the criteria for consideration, and especially looking at the roster of competing vehicles, it’s clear that this is no small accolade. And after a grueling five-day test that included both a day at the drag strip and a day on a road course, the 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI has proven yet again to be much more than just a product of the considerable hype. The unique and expressive styling of the GTI carries over to its performance profile. So which competitors had the singular misfortune of looking down the barrel of the 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI? No undistinguished names here: the Suburu WRX, the Ford Fiesta ST, the Hyundai Veloster Turbo and the Nissan Juke NISMO, to name a select few. And, despite this impressive roster of competitors, to say that this victory for Volkswagen was ever in doubt would be a comical overstatement. Vehicles were graded on fourteen different rubrics, including a wide swath of performance and styling benchmarks. And of these fourteen, care to venture a guess which ones awarded top honors to the GTI? Seven. A full half of the categories gave highest marks to the GTI, including braking performance, interior quality, ride quality and fuel efficiency. Basing the rankings on factors that are popular with younger drivers and those who desire energetic performance, there was little doubt regarding which model stood out. (Read full details of this competition here.) The 2015 VW GTI is now available at Speedcraft VW, and we’re standing by hoping to assist any prospective shoppers with a test drive today. See you soon at Speedcraft VW near Providence RI!

Five Day Trips near Providence RI When we talk about the exceptional traits found in our vehicles at Speedcraft VW, we certainly touch on all the tangible factors such as fuel economy, cost of ownership and the overall inexpensiveness of purchasing a Volkswagen. Just last week, in fact, we discussed the abundance of terrific and top-rated vehicles available at Speedcraft VW for under $30,000. But when we talk about what draws us to a vehicle, there is often something more unspoken that exists, and that is this: road-trip readiness. Granted, this is a convoluted concept. Fuel efficiency, dependability, interior comfort and convenience features all certainly play a part. Luckily, these are all areas where Volkswagens unquestionably excel. Rhode Island drivers are doubly lucky, however, because the area is also loaded with exciting destinations. So where to take your road-trip ready Volkswagen? Enjoy these five Providence-area day trips, from your friends at Speedcraft VW! The Watch Hill Lighthouse was first constructed in 1745. Watch Hill, RI — One Hour from Providence -- For a quiet beachgoing experience, few can touch what is found in Watch Hill. You won’t experience the crowds associated with the more metropolitan locations, and there are a large array of great sights to see. Visit the Flying Horse Carousel, the oldest continuously operated carousel in the United States. Also stop by the famed Ocean House Hotel, the Watch Hill Lighthouse first built in 1745, and try to keep a watchful eye open for Conan O’Brien, who reportedly keeps a home there. (So does Taylor Swift, if you must know.) Bristol, RI — ½ Hour from Providence -- Bristol is less of a secret than Watch Hill, though no less impressive. Apart from the terrific hotels, shopping and restaurants, it also offers great views of Narragansett Bay and a number of fascinating historical tidbits as well. Visit the Herreschoff Marine Museum as well as the America’s Cup Hall of Fame, as well as the beautiful Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum. Mystic, CT — One Hour from Providence -- Located just across the Connecticut state line, Mystic is certainly a town all its own. The history of Mystic shapes its present, with evidence of its shipbuilding past informing the Mystic Seaport, complete with museum and variety of seagoing vessels. With attractions such as the Mystic Aquarium and Groton Submarine Museum also located nearby, there are no shortage of activities to easily fill up an entire day. The area's rich history of whaling and shipbuilding is evident in Mystic, CT. New Bedford, MA — ½ Hour from Providence -- Another significant history lesson can be found in New Bedford, understandably nicknamed “The Whaling City.” Visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum, set within the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. Also available is the Ocean Explorium, which provides the entire family with an up-to-date understanding of the oceans of today, fully rounding out the experience the area shares with the seafaring life. And, last but not least… Speedcraft VW, Wakefield, RI — ¾ Hour from Providence --  A can’t-miss trip! Visit our dealership to view our full inventory of new and used Volkswagen vehicles, and enjoy the top-rated service found in the area. And, with a full service department, let us help to create a maintenance schedule that will keep your vehicle running at optimum levels for years to come! We trust that these recommendations will help with any day-trip planning coming up this summer; pay us a visit soon at Speedcraft VW!

Five Day Trips near Providence RI When we talk about the exceptional traits found in our vehicles at Speedcraft VW, we certainly touch on all the tangible factors such as fuel economy, cost of ownership and the overall inexpensiveness of purchasing a Volkswagen. Just last week, in fact, we discussed the abundance of terrific and top-rated vehicles available at Speedcraft VW for under $30,000. But when we talk about what draws us to a vehicle, there is often something more unspoken that exists, and that is this: road-trip readiness. Granted, this is a convoluted concept. Fuel efficiency, dependability, interior comfort and convenience features all certainly play a part. Luckily, these are all areas where Volkswagens unquestionably excel. Rhode Island drivers are doubly lucky, however, because the area is also loaded with exciting destinations. So where to take your road-trip ready Volkswagen? Enjoy these five Providence-area day trips, from your friends at Speedcraft VW! The Watch Hill Lighthouse was first constructed in 1745. Watch Hill, RI — One Hour from Providence -- For a quiet beachgoing experience, few can touch what is found in Watch Hill. You won’t experience the crowds associated with the more metropolitan locations, and there are a large array of great sights to see. Visit the Flying Horse Carousel, the oldest continuously operated carousel in the United States. Also stop by the famed Ocean House Hotel, the Watch Hill Lighthouse first built in 1745, and try to keep a watchful eye open for Conan O’Brien, who reportedly keeps a home there. (So does Taylor Swift, if you must know.) Bristol, RI — ½ Hour from Providence -- Bristol is less of a secret than Watch Hill, though no less impressive. Apart from the terrific hotels, shopping and restaurants, it also offers great views of Narragansett Bay and a number of fascinating historical tidbits as well. Visit the Herreschoff Marine Museum as well as the America’s Cup Hall of Fame, as well as the beautiful Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum. Mystic, CT — One Hour from Providence -- Located just across the Connecticut state line, Mystic is certainly a town all its own. The history of Mystic shapes its present, with evidence of its shipbuilding past informing the Mystic Seaport, complete with museum and variety of seagoing vessels. With attractions such as the Mystic Aquarium and Groton Submarine Museum also located nearby, there are no shortage of activities to easily fill up an entire day. The area's rich history of whaling and shipbuilding is evident in Mystic, CT. New Bedford, MA — ½ Hour from Providence -- Another significant history lesson can be found in New Bedford, understandably nicknamed “The Whaling City.” Visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum, set within the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. Also available is the Ocean Explorium, which provides the entire family with an up-to-date understanding of the oceans of today, fully rounding out the experience the area shares with the seafaring life. And, last but not least… Speedcraft VW, Wakefield, RI — ¾ Hour from Providence --  A can’t-miss trip! Visit our dealership to view our full inventory of new and used Volkswagen vehicles, and enjoy the top-rated service found in the area. And, with a full service department, let us help to create a maintenance schedule that will keep your vehicle running at optimum levels for years to come! We trust that these recommendations will help with any day-trip planning coming up this summer; pay us a visit soon at Speedcraft VW!

VW Vehicles Under 30k Providence RI “Yeah, but you have to say that.” This is the common response from the average auto shopper, enduring yet another verbal barrage of options and amenities that would seem to distinguish one car from another. And, at Speedcraft VW, we understand this position; after all, would you expect us to intentionally steer you toward another vehicle? We are here to provide inquiring minds with all the information regarding Volkswagen vehicles, and to that end, I suppose we might sometimes come across as mildly biased. Thankfully, we aren’t the only ones singing the praises of Volkswagen vehicles as well-built, affordable options. Car and Driver magazine recently released their “30 under $30k” list--a rundown of the top vehicles available under $30,000--and we’re proud to announce that four of our models at Speedcraft VW have made the cut. The Beetle R-Line features athletic performance to match its iconic styling. First among them is the 2015 VW Golf GTI, which was recently released to gushing reviews. Recognized among the top entries in the ultra-competitive “hot-hatch” segment, the GTI received high marks for painstaking craftsmanship and execution, which C&D referred to as VW’s “terror of imperfection.” Well, if that can be taken to mean that resulting GTI was worth all the precise planning, we’d call that a win, no? Next among our vehicles to be recognized was the Beetle R-Line, the iconic coupe’s turbocharged sport model. C&D applauded the R-Line’s 210 horsepower and multilink rear suspension, which give the vehicle a curve-hugging, aggressive performance profile. C&D also gave a little love to the 2014 VW Tiguan, our acclaimed crossover SUV option. The magazine likened the Tiguan to a natural extension of the GTI--okay, the exact words used were “What happens when a GTI sucks on an air hose”--but the point was made. The Tiguan is just as advertised, boasting the agility of a car in the body of an SUV. The Jetta SportWagen TDI is spacious, fast and efficient. Our final entry in the “30 under $30k” list was the Golf SportWagen TDI, a remarkably versatile vehicle that rewards drivers with over 40 mpg on the highway along with 67 cubic feet of cargo space. C&D described the SportWagen as “Roomy, Zoomy and Not-at-all Fumey,” which we’ll just paraphrase as “spacious, fun to drive and efficient.” All of these great vehicles are now available at Speedcraft VW, located near Providence in Wakefield, RI. To learn more about these or any of our vehicles or to schedule a test drive, we eagerly await your visit at Speedcraft VW!

VW Vehicles Under 30k Providence RI “Yeah, but you have to say that.” This is the common response from the average auto shopper, enduring yet another verbal barrage of options and amenities that would seem to distinguish one car from another. And, at Speedcraft VW, we understand this position; after all, would you expect us to intentionally steer you toward another vehicle? We are here to provide inquiring minds with all the information regarding Volkswagen vehicles, and to that end, I suppose we might sometimes come across as mildly biased. Thankfully, we aren’t the only ones singing the praises of Volkswagen vehicles as well-built, affordable options. Car and Driver magazine recently released their “30 under $30k” list--a rundown of the top vehicles available under $30,000--and we’re proud to announce that four of our models at Speedcraft VW have made the cut. The Beetle R-Line features athletic performance to match its iconic styling. First among them is the 2015 VW Golf GTI, which was recently released to gushing reviews. Recognized among the top entries in the ultra-competitive “hot-hatch” segment, the GTI received high marks for painstaking craftsmanship and execution, which C&D referred to as VW’s “terror of imperfection.” Well, if that can be taken to mean that resulting GTI was worth all the precise planning, we’d call that a win, no? Next among our vehicles to be recognized was the Beetle R-Line, the iconic coupe’s turbocharged sport model. C&D applauded the R-Line’s 210 horsepower and multilink rear suspension, which give the vehicle a curve-hugging, aggressive performance profile. C&D also gave a little love to the 2014 VW Tiguan, our acclaimed crossover SUV option. The magazine likened the Tiguan to a natural extension of the GTI--okay, the exact words used were “What happens when a GTI sucks on an air hose”--but the point was made. The Tiguan is just as advertised, boasting the agility of a car in the body of an SUV. The Jetta SportWagen TDI is spacious, fast and efficient. Our final entry in the “30 under $30k” list was the Golf SportWagen TDI, a remarkably versatile vehicle that rewards drivers with over 40 mpg on the highway along with 67 cubic feet of cargo space. C&D described the SportWagen as “Roomy, Zoomy and Not-at-all Fumey,” which we’ll just paraphrase as “spacious, fun to drive and efficient.” All of these great vehicles are now available at Speedcraft VW, located near Providence in Wakefield, RI. To learn more about these or any of our vehicles or to schedule a test drive, we eagerly await your visit at Speedcraft VW!

2014 Newport Folk Fest Overview The last weekend in July means different things to different people. For some, it signals the beginning of what is generally accepted to be the hottest stretch of the year. Others recognize this weekend as the kickoff for NFL training camps. However, for those among us in southern Rhode Island--or those of us who just have a keen artistic and musical interest--it heralds the return of the Newport Folk Fest, perhaps the area’s greatest cultural contribution (narrowly edging out the Farrelly Brothers, of course). But what is the Newport Folk Fest all about, really? Enjoy this brief overview of the Newport Folk Fest, from your friends at Speedcraft VW! Joan Baez and Bob Dylan are among the unofficial founders of the Folk Fest. Folk Fest’s Iconic History -- Founded in 1959 just as folk music was gaining a wider audience, the Folk Festival was introduced as a sibling to the established Newport jazz Festival. In short order, it became the launching pad for a number of world-famous folk musicians such as Joan Baez and Bob Dylan, and grew to feature multi-genre musicians such as Johnny Cash, Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. Although it went on hiatus from 1971 to 1985, it has run continually since then, drawing over 10,000 fans each time. Dylan Goes Electric -- It may seem comical today, but in the mid-1960s, folk musicians were expected to remain acoustic, and Bob Dylan was the patron saint of such belief. So, when he went onstage on July 25th, 1965 and played an all-electric set, the reaction was that of stunned shock. However, evidence suggests that the fans at Newport--generally a genial group, if we may say so ourselves--weren’t nearly as upset as was reported, and that the majority of the uproar belonged to those who read about it later. Either way, Dylan’s reputation as a trailblazer--and as an always-welcome addition to the Folk Fest roster--was secure. Great music, great weather, great people-watching. Newport Folk Fest has it all. This Year’s Fest -- To the surprise of no one, this year’s Folk Fest features a diverse and talented lineup, with many acts we at Speedcraft VW can personally recommend. Friday sees such can’t-miss performers such as reggae legend Jimmy Cliff, ethereal popsters Band of Horses and up-and-coming folk wunderkinds PHOX. On Saturday, you can enjoy the genre-bending style of Jack White, pop-bluegrass titans Nickel Creek, and actor-cum-troubadour act John Reilly & Friends. Finally, Sunday closes out the weekend with shows from Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy, acoustic magicians Rodrigo y Gabriela, and midwestern bluegrass fan-faves Trampled by Turtles. Overall, a lineup as great as any on record. Some Quick Tips -- If you plan on attending, know some basics. Attendees are allowed one small hand-held cooler per person, with no alcohol or glass containers permitted. Also, to provide ample room and visibility for all who attend, you may only bring a blanket 8’x10’ or smaller, and only low-backed chairs are allowed. And, if you plan on bringing a beach umbrella or your dog, leave them at home, because they aren’t allowed. We hope everyone has a wonderful time at this year’s Newport Folk Fest! And, when you’re ready to view a vehicle roster as diverse as any Folk Fest lineup in recent memory, pay us a visit at Speedcraft VW, located in nearby Wakefield, RI!

2014 Newport Folk Fest Overview The last weekend in July means different things to different people. For some, it signals the beginning of what is generally accepted to be the hottest stretch of the year. Others recognize this weekend as the kickoff for NFL training camps. However, for those among us in southern Rhode Island--or those of us who just have a keen artistic and musical interest--it heralds the return of the Newport Folk Fest, perhaps the area’s greatest cultural contribution (narrowly edging out the Farrelly Brothers, of course). But what is the Newport Folk Fest all about, really? Enjoy this brief overview of the Newport Folk Fest, from your friends at Speedcraft VW! Joan Baez and Bob Dylan are among the unofficial founders of the Folk Fest. Folk Fest’s Iconic History -- Founded in 1959 just as folk music was gaining a wider audience, the Folk Festival was introduced as a sibling to the established Newport jazz Festival. In short order, it became the launching pad for a number of world-famous folk musicians such as Joan Baez and Bob Dylan, and grew to feature multi-genre musicians such as Johnny Cash, Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. Although it went on hiatus from 1971 to 1985, it has run continually since then, drawing over 10,000 fans each time. Dylan Goes Electric -- It may seem comical today, but in the mid-1960s, folk musicians were expected to remain acoustic, and Bob Dylan was the patron saint of such belief. So, when he went onstage on July 25th, 1965 and played an all-electric set, the reaction was that of stunned shock. However, evidence suggests that the fans at Newport--generally a genial group, if we may say so ourselves--weren’t nearly as upset as was reported, and that the majority of the uproar belonged to those who read about it later. Either way, Dylan’s reputation as a trailblazer--and as an always-welcome addition to the Folk Fest roster--was secure. Great music, great weather, great people-watching. Newport Folk Fest has it all. This Year’s Fest -- To the surprise of no one, this year’s Folk Fest features a diverse and talented lineup, with many acts we at Speedcraft VW can personally recommend. Friday sees such can’t-miss performers such as reggae legend Jimmy Cliff, ethereal popsters Band of Horses and up-and-coming folk wunderkinds PHOX. On Saturday, you can enjoy the genre-bending style of Jack White, pop-bluegrass titans Nickel Creek, and actor-cum-troubadour act John Reilly & Friends. Finally, Sunday closes out the weekend with shows from Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy, acoustic magicians Rodrigo y Gabriela, and midwestern bluegrass fan-faves Trampled by Turtles. Overall, a lineup as great as any on record. Some Quick Tips -- If you plan on attending, know some basics. Attendees are allowed one small hand-held cooler per person, with no alcohol or glass containers permitted. Also, to provide ample room and visibility for all who attend, you may only bring a blanket 8’x10’ or smaller, and only low-backed chairs are allowed. And, if you plan on bringing a beach umbrella or your dog, leave them at home, because they aren’t allowed. We hope everyone has a wonderful time at this year’s Newport Folk Fest! And, when you’re ready to view a vehicle roster as diverse as any Folk Fest lineup in recent memory, pay us a visit at Speedcraft VW, located in nearby Wakefield, RI!