Automotive

New VW CrossGolf combines SUV and MPV

New VW CrossGolf combines SUV and MPV
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September 28, 2006 Volkswagen will be showing a new crossover version of the Golf at the Paris Motor Show which opens today. The CrossGolf merges the can-do qualities of a compact SUV with the versatility of a small MPV into a new model. SUV means “Sports Utility Vehicle”, denoting a significantly more “civilian” stage on the path to the “tough” off-road vehicle. Approximately 480,000 compact SUVs were sold in Europe in 2005. MPV means “Multi Purpose Vehicle”, referring to a van. With its versatile and spacious interior, the CrossGolf also bridges this segment which sold 1.4 million compact SUVs in Europe in 2005. As a combination SUV and MPV, the new CrossGolf is precisely positioned between these poles and has no direct competitor in this class due to its positioning and conception.

The front-wheel drive only CrossGolf is based on the Golf Plus Sportline. And that’s why the CrossGolf also features practical details such as a foldable back seat that can even be moved lengthwise, folding tables on the backs of the front seats and pigeonholes below, an elevated seating position and the basic four doors and large hatchback. The new kid on the block features parallels to the SUV world on the outside. Characterizing the CrossGolf here are special side coverings, independent bumpers and 20 mm higher ground clearance, including 17” wheels and much more. For the European market launch in November the Volkswagen will be available with two gasolinepowered engines (1.6 + 1.4 TSI) and two turbodiesel engines (1.9 TDI + 2.0 TDI) with output ranging from 75 kW / 102 PS to 103 kW / 140 PS. Like all Golfs, the new model will have the ESP stabilization system including counter-steering feature and trailer stabilization, ABS along with brake assistant and six airbags as standard equipment. As standard equipment: the “Climatic” air-conditioning system.

EXTERIOR – THE SUV IN THE CROSSGOLF

On the exterior numerous modifications distinguish the CrossGolf from the classical GolfPlus design. Especially striking here are the new CrossGolf “Ice Silver” color, new bumpers and the all-round integrated coverings from a robust as well as first-class carbon fiber in “Anthracite Satin Effect” color. The side sills, wheel arches, door frame and bumpers are covered.

Front section

The top-class body covering frames the lower-set radiator air inlets in the front and the fog lights integrated there as standard equipment. The mid-section of the bumper was designed in the style of an underride protection; it is kept in a silver shade. Its V-shape is continued in the contoured sweep of the engine hood.

Rear section

Just as striking is the rear bumper with a stylized underride protection that has also proved popular among SUVs; this element dominates the bumper due to its large width. In its design effect the silver underride protection underscores the powerful appearance of the new CrossGolf.

Side section

The standard roof railing is finished in “Brilliant Chrome” silver. In terms of design, the 17 inch light alloy wheel rims are also related to the wheels of the CrossPolo. Apart from these light elements, it is again the contrast to the dark coverings that gives the silhouette of the CrossGolf its own unique character. The wheel arches were also covered similar to the successful CrossPolo. The protective covering in easy terrain goes from the wheel arches into the sides of the bumpers and over to the side sills. These in turn have a strong effect, because the lower door frames are also covered and visually form a single unit with the arches. Along with the side trim that is also reinforced, this provides effective protection against the denting that can occur on mean city streets when the doors of parallel parked cars are opened carelessly.

INTERIOR – THE MPV IN THE CROSSGOLF

Just like the outside, the interior of the CrossGolf features a high-contrast world of colors. The interior trim was specially developed for the new model. This includes the materials and coloring of the seat and door coverings and the dashboard appointments.

Seats

The inner sections of the seats and armrests feature a waffle structure; they also contrast in color from the sides and the backs of the seats. The backs of the driver and passenger seats are also outfitted with folding tables and storage pockets. A practical storage compartment is also located under each of the standard equipment sports seats. The door coverings match the seats in appearance. The upholstered interior is kept in the same shade of color as the inner sections of the seats.

Cockpit

The CrossGolf is also distinguished by the dashboard appointments in silver metallic. Unlike in the Golf Plus, the overall eight round air emission vents feature “Ice Silver Metallic” rings. Also standard equipment aboard the new CrossGolf: a three spoke leather steering wheel, leather covered shift lever, a specially designed shift lever knob (not with DSG), many storage compartments, inside door trim with CrossGolf logo, pedal caps in top-quality aluminum finish and floor mats framed in a contrasting shade of green.

Interior dimensions

Like the basic Golf Plus the interior of the CrossGolf features a high degree of versatility and markedly good ergonomics. In front driver and passenger benefit equally: The combination of comparatively high dashboard and raised seating position 7.5 cm higher than the “classic” Golf (plus 8.5 cm in the back) creates a feeling of spaciousness similar to that offered by a compact SUV.

This impression reinforces the interior height of 100.7 cm (97.6 cm in back).

In addition, the CrossGolf offers lots of leg space in both front and back. And that’s not all: Depending on position the back seat that can be split, moved lengthwise or folded down, the volume of the cargo area can vary between a minimum of 395 and a maximum of 505 liters. If the back seat rests are folded down completely up to 1,450 liters of cargo volume is available. The cargo area f loor is also adjustable: Additional cargo space is created if it is placed in the higher of two possible positions.

DRIVE TECHNOLOGY

Volkswagen will offer the CrossGolf with two gasoline and two diesel engines. The entry-level version of the gasoline engines achieves 75 kW / 102 PS, the basic TDI engine generates 77 kW / 105 PS. The top of the line engines (1.4 TSI and 2.0 TDI) are each 103 kW / 140 PS strong. The Twincharger 1.4 TSI deserves special attention. Thanks to twin charging via compressor and turbocharger it features an extremely high-torque and agile characteristic. Nevertheless, the engine is exceptionally thrifty. Like the two TDIs equipped with a particle filter, the TDI can also be equipped with a DSG direct shift gearbox.

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