The six-seater Volkswagen CrossBlue SUV Concept with its new plug-in hybrid diesel powertrain was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this week. The CrossBlue SUV concept was specifically designed for the U.S. and Canada and if it makes it into production, it will slot in above the Tiguan and below the premium Touareg.

Volkswagen CrossBlue SUV Concept goes clean

The CrossBlue SUV concept is powered by a 141kW 2.2-litre TDI Clean Diesel engine along with a 40kW electric motor up front and a 85kW electric motor mounted in the rear with a 9.8kWh lithium-ion battery. The combined power output is at 228kW with a maximum torque figure of 700Nm and the system is mated to a six-speed DSG dual clutch automatic transmission that accelerates the CrossBlue to 100km/h in 7.2 seconds.

The diesel-electric plug-in-hybrid powertrain offers a manufacturer estimated fuel economy rating of 2.6-litres/100km in full electric mode and 6.7-litres/100km as a hybrid.

Exterior Features

The Volkswagen CrossBlue concept is equipped with 21-inch aluminum alloy wheels and flared wheelarches. The body colour is in ‘CrossBlue Glass Flake’ and contrasting stainless steel trim runs all around the lower body section. It also features a long hood that integrates the engine’s air intakes and a long roof line with a short frontal overhang. The radiator grille trim consists of two solid aluminum struts and a centrally positioned VW logo and is a three-dimensional element that extends into the headlights. The upper aluminum strut frames the dual headlights while the lower strut transitions into a line that extends across the entire grille.

The taillights are sculpted in the form of an ‘E’ and feature aluminum trim elements. The prominent tailpipes have a stainless steel look and are integrated in a trim panel that features underbody protection.

Interior Features

The CrossBlue concept with its six individual seats, combines SUV styling with the flexibility and spaciousness of a minivan. Leather and wood are used to finish the interior and designers opted to use dark stained banana tree accents that flow from the gear lever area and ascend the centre console and across the lower instrument panel to the door trims. ‘Marble Grey’ leather is used above the wood accents and on the centre armrest while ‘St Tropez’ leather, trim pieces and fabric are used below the wood accents and on the seats. Aluminum is used as one of the predominant materials in the interior and is used for the air vent surrounds and the array of switches as well as for features such as the steering wheel spokes.

A 10.2-inch touchscreen framed with an aluminum surround is positioned on the centre console. Onboard entertainment includes iPad mini devices integrated as monitors behind the front-row head restraints and a Fender Premium Audio System ensures concert hall quality sound throughout the vehicle.