VW introduces Tiguan GTE Active Concept
This will be the first crossover model to use Volkswagen’s ‘MQB’ chassis
DETROIT— Volkswagen introduced its Tiguan GTE Active Concept, a teaser for the next-generation Tiguan compact crossover that will be an important part of VW’s portfolio going forward.
Although heavily based on the justlaunched European five-seat Tiguan, the version that is due to appear here for 2017 will be a longer-wheelbase, seven-passenger capable model. The first crossover model to use VW’s “MQB” modular chassis architecture (which underpins the latest Golf, among others), it is an all-new vehicle.
The GTE Active Concept features off-road styling cues, including aluminum/polymer skidplates, a roof storage module with LED floodlights, a raised ride heigh, and fender flares enclosing what may be the only use of an off-the-shelf tire (245/70/ 16 BFG All-Terrain T/A’s) on a concept vehicle in recent memory.
It also displays the company’s latest infotainment unit, a 9.2-inch touch and gesture-controlled interface that will soon be on most VW dashes.
Of greater importance is the combination electric/turbocharged gasoline engine plug-in hybrid drivetrain featured by the concept, which much like existing hybrid models from Toyota, provides all-wheel drive by powering the rear axle with an elec- tric motor, eschewing the transfer case and rear driveshaft that would otherwise be required.
Volkswagen — in particular the company’s upscale Audi brand — has become a considerable force in electric and hybridized powertrain technology. In the show car, a pair of electric motors (one front, one rear) are capable of providing propulsion, though in its default all-electric mode, only the rear wheels are driven. That motor is rated at 114 hp. If additional power is needed — or in one of several driver-selectable modes — the 54 hp front electric and 148 hp gasoline engine can also contribute, up to a combined total output of 221 hp, allowing 0-96 km/h sprints in 6.4 seconds and a v-max of 193 km/h.
With its 12.4 kWh battery fully charged, the concept’s claimed allelectric range is approximately 32 km, with a very reasonable top speed of just over 110 km/h.
Much of the press conference dealt with the company’s efforts to clean up the emissions of non-compliant diesel models. Said Volkswagen CEO Matthias Mueller:
“We all know that we have let down customers, authorities, regulators and the general public here in America. We are — I am — truly sorry for that. And I would like to apologize once again for what went wrong with Volkswagen.” Freelance writer Brian Early is a regular contributor to Toronto Star Wheels. To reach him, please email wheels@thestar.ca and put his name in the subject line.