Selector Lever, Manual Release

Do not remove the handle.

-- Press the brake or set the parking brake.

In case of an emergency: 

-- Hold the leather boot and remove the trim.

Vehicles through 02.09: 

Fig 1: Identifying Leather Boot And Trim

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

-- Press in on the yellow plastic piece from the right to the left.

Vehicles from 03.09: 

-- Unclip the shift cover and move it to the side.

Fig 2: Identifying Shift Cover And Yellow Plastic Piece

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

-- Push down -arrow- on the yellow plastic piece.