VW Cross Coupé to become Evoque rival

Volkswagen has recently unveiled the Cross Coupé concept at the Tokyo Motor Show. The vehicle has been well received and it may well become a competitor for the Range Rover Evoque. According to VW R&D boss Ulrich Hackenberg the compact SUV concept, which sits on the same platform as the next Audi A3 and VW Golf was a test to the public’s reaction.

“We think the SUV segment will grow, and the number of SUV variants will grow,” said Hackenberg. “Customers are showing that they like SUVs with a sporty, muscular image, and especially because of the high seating position.” However, he conceded the car’s radical interior was less likely to make production than the exterior styling.

The VW R&D boss also explained that the vehicle can lead to several variants if it goes into production, which would include a more sporty three-door version. The hybrid four-wheel drive system debuted in the Cross Coupé might also reach production in the long term.

Klaus Bischoff confirmed that the Cross Coupé is a design preview of future SUV’s from VW and that it will definitely inspire the front-design of the new Tiguan. He added that there is also the possibility of the arrival of a new seven-seat SUV targeted at the US market.