VW's ultra-frugal Cross Coupe 06 | 03 | 2012

VOLKSWAGEN HAS UNVEILED an ultra-frugal version of its Cross Coupe — which previews the next VW Tiguan —  at the Geneva Motor Show (see more photos of the new VW Cross Coupe Hybrid).

The four-wheel-drive model is being used by VW to showcase its new plug-in diesel-electric hybrid system which it is developing for use in a range of upcoming production models.

The giant manufacturer claims the powerplant provides the updated, 1858kg Cross Coupe with 157mpg economy and 46g/km of CO2 emissions, and a range of up to 800 miles.

Here's the techie bit. VW's new hybrid system — which replaces the similarly conceived petrol-electric arrangement of the initial Cross Coupe concept — uses a 187bhp version of its new 2.0-litre four-cylinder common rail EA288 diesel engine.

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Complete with twin balancer shafts for added running refinement, the unit is mated with a pair of electric motors – one sited up front delivering 54bhp and, in combination with the diesel engine, providing drive to the front wheels; and the other mounted at the rear with 114bhp and driving the rear wheels. The electric motors are driven by a 9.8kW/h lithium ion battery pack.

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When used in pier electric form, VW say it has a range of 28mph. It'll also hit 80mph in electric-only mode.

The driver can choose between hybrid and electric drive modes via a switch on the centre console.

When in electric mode, a clutch is opened to disengage the diesel engine, reducing mechanical drag. But when additional battery charge is required to power the electric motors, the diesel engine springs to life to top up the battery.

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Jim McGill