Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept revealed

Volkswagen is giving a glimpse at the future and at a new era of SUV design with the U.S. debut of the CrossBlue Coupé concept at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The CrossBlue Coupé 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 415 horsepower. This SUV can thus perform like a sports car, with a 0 to 60 mph time of just 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 147 mph.

Despite its impressive performance, the CrossBlue Coupé has a manufacturer estimated combined fuel consumption of 70 MPGe. In hybrid mode, it allows for a theoretical range of around 570 miles.

The CrossBlue Coupé can be driven as a zero emissions EV for up to 13 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 Coupé definitely belongs to the SUV avant-garde.

The CrossBlue Coupé is exactly 192.5 inches long, 79.3 inches wide, and 66.1 inches high. The vehicle thus has a confident, low slung, and four-square stance that is enhanced by the wide tracks (67.3 inches at the front, 68.0 inches at the back), the relatively long 117.3-inch wheelbase, and large 22-inch aluminum-alloy wheels that are shod with 285/40 tires that were specially designed for the concept car.

The 22-inch polished aluminum-alloy wheels also feature a new design, with five V-shaped dual spokes that have a matte finish on their inner surfaces. Five trim pieces that are painted in the “CrossOrange Metallic” body color surround the central VW badge, presenting yet another design element.