2008 Volkswagen Tiguan Concept

Volkswagen has unveiled its compact 4x4, the Concept Tiguan, at the Los Angeles Auto Show, and has announced that the production units will be delivered to customers by the end of next year.

At 4.4 metres long, 1.85 m wide and 1.69 m high, it is very similar in size to the Touran compact MPV (4.4 m, 1.8 m, 1.6 m). Klaus Bischoff, who was responsible for the exterior design of the car said: "It was very important for us to have the car appear powerful and muscular. For us that was a higher priority than anything else. An off-roader needs a long hood and an upright position. That lends the vehicle self-assuredness and power."

Under the hood is a BLUETEC diesel engine developed in partnership with Audi and Mercedes-Benz. This 'Clean TDI' will comply with the strictest emissions standards in the world and is one of the first components of the BLUETEC offensive. Gallery after the jump...