
Three years after Volkswagen debuted its CrossBlue concept at the North American International Auto Show, pics of the production model wearing camouflage have surfaced online. And, what’s exciting for us is that the new SUV was spotted right here in Arizona.
While we’re unsure of the model’s final production name, we do know that the new SUV will offer three rows, making it a threat for competitors like the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander. In addition, it will utilize Volkswagen’s innovative MQB platform. Volkswagen has also confirmed that later versions of the 2017 Tiguan will be available with a third row, giving shoppers yet another 7+ passenger option in the VW lineup.
The CrossBlue-inspired SUV is expected to go into production near the end of 2016 and it could arrive as a late 2017 model year vehicle or a 2018MY. Like the CrossBlue, we expect Volkswagen’s all-new SUV to feature a turbocharged engine, which could be paired with a six-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission.
The concept sported a hybrid powertrain, but sources guess its production variant may offer both a gas and hybrid model. Additionally, the concept included a drive-mode selector and available all-wheel drive, which we hope to see on the production model, as well.
Sizing should also be similar to the CrossBlue, which was 196.3 inches long, 79.3 inches wide and 68.2 inches tall. For now, those are all the details we have about the new model, but as soon as more info is revealed you’ll find details on our blog!