12 Jan 09 10:49
Video: Volkswagen Concept BlueSport
This is Volkswagen's 'Boxster' - the much-rumoured mid-engined roadster which had originally been due to debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November.
But it's been worth the wait: this looks to be an affordable, accessible and easy-to-run alternative to the next-generation Boxster and upcoming Audi R4 (though all three models will share the same basic structure, we hear).
The Concept, dubbed BlueSport, is fitted with a 180bhp diesel engine with nitrous oxide-storing catalytic converter, necessary to meet the US diesel emissions legislation.
It gets the six-speed DSG sequential-shift gearbox and rear-wheel-drive, and is said to be capable of 0-60mph in 6.6 seconds and a top speed of over 140mph. It'll return, however, 65.7mpg, aided by stop-start and brake energy regeneration.
Finished in Flex Silver paint with an orange fabric convertible roof, the styling of the Concept Bluesport is 'reduced to the essentials', says chief designer Walter de Silva. Its interior has two lightweight leather seats with single-piece backs and a touchscreen interface.
This show car is actually a driveable prototype, and is beautifully-finished - it looks ready to hit the road right now.
Volkswagen is thought to have already scheduled production for 2011, outsourcing it to coachbuilders and long-time collaborators Karmann.
Though the same basic structure will be shared with the Audi and Porsche models, the three cars will probably have different engines, and will be tuned for different handling characteristics. The Volkswagen will be offered with engines including a four-cylinder, turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol as well as a diesel.
Check out the rest of our Detroit Motor Show coverage.
