It Pays to Play: Ohio Resident Wins Limited-Edition Volkswagen GTI MkVI by Playing Real Racing GTI Mobile App

HERNDON, Va., Nov. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced that Joseph Chase of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio was the first to win one of six, limited-edition GTI MkVI vehicles as part of its wildly popular and free new gaming app, Real Racing GTI. Volkswagen became the first automobile manufacturer to launch a vehicle exclusively on a mobile device, and since its debut two weeks ago, the Real Racing GTI app continues to be one of the hottest free apps on iTunes with more than 2 million downloads.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091109/DE07763 )

"Consumer response to Real Racing GTI has been phenomenal, and thanks to fans like Joseph Chase, the game is still one of the top free apps on iTunes," said Tim Ellis, Vice President of Marketing, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "More than 2 million consumers have already downloaded the free app, and we are thrilled they have reacted to it with such enthusiasm and in such a short time frame."

The Real Racing GTI App, created by leading developer, Firemint, in conjunction with digital agency, AKQA, marks a departure from traditional vehicle introductions by utilizing a gaming app as the sole medium for the launch. By introducing the all-new 2010 GTI through Real Racing GTI, Volkswagen struck a chord with tech-savvy consumers who enjoy social networking, playing games and spending time on their mobile devices.

The free Real Racing GTI App is available worldwide and spares no detail, allowing players to experience every thrilling aspect of the all-new 2010 GTI right in the palms of their hands on iPhone® and iPod touch®. From the redesigned exterior with more aggressive headlights and the famous red-striped grille, to the sporty interior with a race-inspired steering wheel, the all-new 2010 GTI races its way to life on the screen for a thrilling gaming experience.

"I downloaded the Real Racing GTI App the minute I first heard about it and I haven't stopped playing since - it's just such a fun game," said Mr. Chase. "But now I can't wait to hit the real streets in my new GTI!"

U.S.-registered players enjoying the action of the Real Racing GTI App can put their skills to the test for a chance to win one of the remaining five, limited-edition 2010 GTI models. The more people play, the more chances they have to win. Continuing over each of the next five weeks, one player will be chosen to win the ultimate racing prize: the exclusive GTI MkVI, an individually-numbered, specially-tuned version of the legendary hatchback. Each model includes the GTI's 2.0T 200hp four-cylinder engine, a performance tuned suspension finished with black, Volkswagen motorsport 18-inch all-new wheels, and special interior touches, including carbon fiber-look trim, a numbered dash plaque, and unique stitching in the front headrests. Winners will be selected and notified by ePrize, Volkswagen's interactive promotions partner. For more information on the competition please visit: www.vw.com/RealRacingGTI.

The Real Racing GTI App is available for free from the App Store on the iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/. No purchase is necessary to enter the contest, which officially ends on December 2 at 11:59PM.

For more about the 2010 Volkswagen GTI, the Real Racing GTI game, and an in-depth look at the six GTI prize editions that are waiting to hit the streets, please visit www.media.vw.com.

About Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Through its Volkswagen division, VWGoA sells the Golf, GTI, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Eos, Passat, Passat Wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2010 Volkswagen models come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or www.media.vw.com to learn more.