Let's get one thing straight: This is not a coupe. Not even close. But ever since BMW kicked off the bastardization of the word 'coupe' with its X6 crossover, automakers seem to think that any vehicle with a sloped roofline can be classified by this word that has always been – and should always be – reserved exclusively for two-door cars. That's a whole different rant, though. In the meantime, we'd like to introduce you to the Volkswagen Cross Coupe concept.
Debuting at the Tokyo Motor Show, the Cross Coupe is the first vehicle to ride on Volkswagen's new modular transverse matrix architecture, and it previews the future of the automaker's crossover range. It may look large, but the Cross Coupe is actually smaller than the current Tiguan, closer in size to that of a Nissan Juke. It certainly isn't bad to look at, even with that big, grinning face. The compact shape is well-proportioned, though it appears that the chrome wheels were ripped right off a loaded Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The Cross Coupe is powered by a unique all-wheel-drive hybrid drivetrain, with two electric motors (one for each axle) paired with a turbocharged gasoline engine. Volkswagen estimates that this powerplant will produce around 262 horsepower, but will be able to drive on pure electricity for about 25 miles. Running to 60 miles per hour will take around seven seconds.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Related Posts