01 Mar 06
Get ready for the Volkswagen compact SUV, to be unveiled later this year.
This Golf-based model, so far known as the Beduin or Marrakech has been delayed, but it is finally on its way. In the meantime, Volkswagen is previewing it in Geneva with the Concept A, which it describes as a crossover between a sports car and a compact SUV.
Concept A is 144mm longer, 95mm wider and 66mm taller than the mainstream Golf hatchback, with a wheelbase 24mm longer so nearer the size of the Jetta saloon and Eos coupe-cabriolet. Its raised suspension makes its SUV intentions clear, but its still reasonably sporty-looking with its sleek profile. The production version is unlikely to have the suicide clamshell doors, however, or the pick-up-style rear tailgate though the company says, somewhat cryptically, elements of the study will be clear when Volkswagen reveals its forthcoming new compact SUV.
This show prototype is fitted with the new 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine, both turbocharged and supercharged, modified to run on clean-burning natural gas. It also features the six-speed DSG transmission and 4Motion four-wheel drive.
