Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept Unveiled

Volkswagen has now unveiled the new CrossBlue Coupe Concept at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show, giving hints at the future and at a new era of SUV design. The CrossBlue Coupe has a plug-in hybrid powertrain that is as fuel-efficient as it is sporty. A turbocharged direct-injection (TSI) V6 gasoline engine works together with two electric motors to produce as much as 415bhp. This SUV can thus perform like a sports car, with a 0 to 100kmph time of just 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 236kmph.

Klaus Bischoff, Head of Design for the Volkswagen Brand, says: "The disproportionate growth in the SUV segment gives designers the opportunity to implement an even greater diversification of models. The CrossBlue Coupe shows the potential of our Volkswagen design DNA and will undoubtedly have an influence on future SUV models." 

Despite its impressive performance, the CrossBlue Coupe has a combined fuel consumption of just 79 mpg in the new European driving cycle (NEDC). Even when the battery is fully discharged and the vehicle is running with just the TSI engine, the gas mileage is still impressive, at 34.1 mpg. With a 21.2 gallon gas tank, this gives a theoretical range of around 720 miles.

The CrossBlue Coupe can be driven as zero emissions EV for up to 21 miles at a maximum speed of 75 mph: to intentionally use this eco-friendly mode in urban areas, the driver simply pushes a button. The concept vehicle is based off the new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) and could, if it were produced, be fitted with conventional four- and six-cylinder engines running on a variety of fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and CNG. Equipped with five comfortable seats and a spacious trunk, the CrossBlue Coupe definitely belongs to the SUV avant-garde.