The Volkswagen SUVs, in the shape of the CrossBlue Coupe will make its debut. The CrossBlue Coupe is based on Volkswagen’s new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) components set. This would give any production version a large amount of flexibility when it comes to potential power: conventional drive systems with four- or six-cylinder engines could also be used, configured for a variety of fuels (petrol, diesel, CNG). The TSI engine produces 500 Nm (368 lbs ft) from just 1,800 rpm, while the electric motors produce their torque – 180 Nm (133 lbs ft) at the front and 270 Nm (199 lbs ft) at the rear – immediately. Combined, the system can produce up to 700 Nm (516 lbs ft).
At the front, the radiator grille trim – consisting of two polished aluminium struts and the VW logo – is a 3D element extending into the headlights. The lateral ends of the upper strut are used for the daytime running lights, creating a distinctive light signature. Along the side – under the steeply raked C-pillars – the ports for the fuel tank and battery were uniformly integrated into the design of the CrossBlue Coupe. As is usual with Volkswagen, the fuel filler neck is located under a lid on the right side of the vehicle, while the cover for the electrical outlet is located symmetrically on the left side. It consists of one socket for charging the high-voltage battery and another for connecting electric devices; this interface (16 A, 230 V) makes the CrossBlue Coupe a generator, too.
As well showcasing the future for Volkswagen design, the CrossBlue Coupe also highlights future drivetrain possibilities, in this case a plug-in hybrid system consisting of a V6 turbocharged direct injection petrol engine and two electric motors (40 kW front and 85 kW rear), together producing up to 415 PS (305 kW). Via a six-speed DSG gearbox, that power enables this 4,889 mm-long SUV to accelerate like a sports car: zero to 62 mph takes a mere 5.9 seconds, and the top speed is 146 mph. Even with this level of performance, fuel economy is impressive with a combined cycle figure of 3.0 l/100 km, or 94.1 mpg. In hybrid mode, with a depleted battery powered by the TSI engine, the CrossBlue Coupe returns 6.9 l/100 km (40.9 mpg). This efficiency gives the CrossBlue Coupe, with its 80-litre fuel tank, a theoretical range of 1,190 km (740 miles).
Key facts
- Five-seat SUV concept
- Innovative petrol-electric plug-in hybrid powertrain offers fuel economy of
- 3.0 l/100 km (94.1 mpg)
- Concept is built using the MQB Modular Transverse Matrix components set
- Range in all-electric mode is 20 miles
- 415 PS; 700 Nm (516 lbs ft); 0 to 60 mph estimated at 5.9 seconds
- Dimensions: length 4,889; width 2,015 mm; height 1,679 mm;
- track widths: front/rear 1,709 mm/1,726 mm
- Unladen weight: 2,220 kg (concept car with battery system)
- Drive units / power / transmission: V6 TSI 220 kW; E-motors: front 40 kW, rear 85 kW; system power (TSI + battery) 305 kW; 6-speed DSG
- Battery: eight lithium ion modules; energy capacity 9.8 kWh