Volkswagen Crossblue Coupe revealed
* SUV concept car at Shanghai motor show * Powered by a plug-in hybrid system * Indicates styling for next Tiguan and Touareg...
This is the Volkswagen Crossblue Coupe SUV concept car that will be on display at the Shanghai motor show tomorrow.
The VW Crossblue Coupe is a Touareg-sized, five-seat SUV that is powered by a plug-in hybrid system and built on the company's new MQB chassis technology, like the latest Golf.
A V6 turbocharged petrol engine is combined with two electric motors to put out 409bhp, sending the Crossblue from 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 147mph. It's also capable of a theoretical 94mpg and can drive on battery power for 20 miles at up to 70mph.
The petrol engine drives the front wheels, while a battery powers the rear axle to give optional four-wheel drive.
The Crossblue's exterior styling is sportier than any current Volkswagen SUV's, while the interior gives clear clues to the company's next generation of cabins. A large touch-screen controls most of the major functions and drivers can also choose what information is displayed by the instrument cluster.
There are no plans to put the Crossblue into production, but senior VW sources have admitted to What Car? that it gives a clear nod to the look of the next Tiguan and Touareg, both of which will go on sale in 2015. They also have the option of a plug-in hybrid system for both cars.
The company also plans to make a sportier, lower version of the Tiguan, which will use Golf mechanicals and be a rival to the Range Rover Evoque. An Up-based SUV was also previewed at the Sao Paolo motor show last year.
