With rising fuel prices curbing sales of big trucks and SUVs, it’s almost surprising to hear VW is adding another SUV to its line-up. But news comes from Europe of VW developing an all-new SUV that will slot in above the Tiguan but below the Touareg in its range, and it will have room for seven, with a possible on-sale date some time in 2011.
Not surprisingly, VW’s decision to build the new SUV is believed to have been spurred by US dealers who complained the Tiguan is too small and expensive for North American SUV buyers. As it’s supposed to be a competitor of the Volvo XC60 , we expect it will be marketed as another crossover with ‘all-weather capability,’ thanks to an all-wheel drive system, as an alternative to a minivan.
According to Autocar, the new, yet unnamed SUV will ride on a low-cost next-generation Passat platform, code-named PQ47 and not share a floorplan with the Audi Q5. Likewise, the use of the Passat platform, a shorter variation of which will also underpin the new Golf / Rabbit, features a transverse engine layout, which will likely result in a FWD-biased “active” AWD system and the possibility of just FWD in base models.
The use of the low-cost platform and resulting production line availability could also lead to Skoda and Seat SUVs based on the same platform and mechanicals in Europe, further offering mass-production cost savings.
