Volkswagen previews Tiguan GTE Active concept

VW plans to expand its so-called MQB modular platform – the base for most of the group’s small and medium front-wheel-drive models – to build long-range plug-in hybrids and electric cars. The prototype also serves as a preview to the North-American Tiguan – which is different from the Euro-spec version because of a larger wheelbase and seven-seat cabin.

There’s more inside. vehicle magazine says the show auto gives us an early sneak peek at Volkswagen’s next generation infotainment system. And to help silence any placard-waving critics, it’s a plug-in hybrid with petrol and electric power.

Volkswagen has also made changes to the exterior design to make this Tiguan more off-road friendly.

Since even compact SUV owners sometimes expect some off-road capability, Volkswagen chose to embrace that side of the GTE Active’s personality. Because of this, the ground clearance has been improved by 45mm to 225mm, while the approach and departure angles are up from 25.6 to 26.1 degrees and from 24.7 to 29.9 degrees respectively.

This concept uses a plug-in hybrid system with a 148 horsepower gasoline engine and two electric motors, one on the front that makes 54 horsepower and one on the rear that makes 114 horsepower. Based on last year’s Tiguan GTE Concept, it brings rugged styling with plastic body cladding, off-road tires, and higher suspension.

Energy to run the electric motors is provided by a 12.4kWh lithium ion battery mounted in the floor of the luggage compartment at the rear. In full hybrid mode, the Tiguan’s front motor acts as a generator for its battery packs, tucked in the rear above the axle. When all-wheel-drive traction is needed, it can kick on automatically when the vehicle senses slip, or at the whim of the driver via the 4Motion Active Control.

The combustion engine fires to further enliven performance when required.

In gas-only mode, the front wheels alone are driven. With all three power sources contributing to the drive process, Volkswagen claims a 0-62mph time of 6.4sec and a 120mph top speed. A rotary dial in the center console allows you to switch between six driving modes: On road (Comfort or Eco); Offroad (Rocks, Sludge & Sand, or Gravel); Sport; Snow; Charge (battery is charging while driving); and Battery Hold (maintaining a constant battery charge).

Europe’s biggest automaker is putting increasing emphasis on electric cars following its cheating of diesel emissions tests, which analysts think could hit demand for diesel vehicles, and a focus on SUVs makes sense given their growing popularity.