VW Unveils Mini-Crossover Concept

The Taigun concept vehicle Volkswagen AG debuted at the Sao Paulo auto show earlier this week hints that the company plans to add a small crossover to its global lineup.

VW has not confirmed plans to build the four-seater, but observers predict a production version is likely to arrive in about two years.

If produced, the Taigun would join VW's larger Tiguan and Touareg crossovers. Reports say VW's Audi, SEAT and Skoda brands might offer variants.

The little model rides on a stretched version of the New Small Family platform that carries VW's Up! city car. The Taigun is 3.86 meters long, 1.73 m wide and 1.57 m tall and rides on a 2.47-m wheelbase.

The concept is powered by VW's new 1.0-liter, three-cylinder gasoline engine, which makes 81 kW (108 hp) and 175 Nm of torque. VW says the 985-kilogram vehicle can accelerate to 100 km per hour in 9.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 186 km/h.

The Taigun has a two-piece liftgate that encloses 280 liters of cargo space with the rear bench seat in position and 987 liters when the seat is folded down.