Volkswagen's new six-seat sport utility vehicle (SUV) concept has been unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
A decision is yet to be made on whether or not the vehicle will go into production, but it is likely to stand alongside the Tiguan and the Toareg in the manufacturer's SUV lineup if it is given the green light.
Boasting a TDI engine with two electric motors, the CrossBlue has a plug-in hybrid powertrain, as well as an electric all-wheel-drive system.
This setup has been labelled Popshaft by Wire and comes in addition to the car's economy offering of 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres or 134.5 miles per gallon.
Should the vehicle be made on a large-scale, it could prove popular among those searching among the latest Volkswagen deals for the best SUV models.
The vehicle has taken its name from the CrossBlue Glass Flake colour it comes in, with a stainless steel trim running along its lower section to give it a contrasting aesthetic.
A couple of fuel doors are included on the model, with the first a diesel tank positioned on the passenger side and the other based near the driver, where it covers two electrical sockets.
While the first door is used to charge the lithium-ion battery, the other is able to connect electrical devices.
Jonathan Browning, president and chief executive officer at the Volkswagen Group of America, said: "The CrossBlue concept is exactly the right type of vehicle for the US market."
Mr Browning stated: "It combines a truly versatile interior layout with sophisticated Volkswagen design, to give a unique and supremely stylish offering in this segment."
The SUV's six seats are lined up in three rows – and the carmaker explained the final version of the concept is likely to have an optional three seats in the second row in order to turn it into a full seven-seater.
Headroom of 1,077 mm is provided towards the front of the SUV, while it stands at 1,020 mm in the middle row and 954 mm in the rear.
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Posted by George Davis