Volkswagen has unveiled its Tiguan GTE Active Concept, a five-passenger plug-in hybrid off-roader based on the production version Tiguan that will be hitting showrooms in 2017.
The Active Concept, which is underpinned by the next-gen Tiguan’s new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform, is driven by a gasoline engine plus two electric motors, good for a total 221 horsepower. A six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission routes that power to all four wheels via a 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system (though rear-wheel-drive is the default setting and AWD engages only when selected by the driver or when the vehicle recognizes it needs it).
The concept truck’s 12.4 kWh lithium-ion high-voltage battery gives it a range of 32 km in all-electric mode, and a total 930 km on a full tank of fuel and fully charged battery, and can be switched between hybrid or E-mode by the driver.
The Active Concept’s exterior is designed with a rugged, off-road aesthetic in mind. Ground clearance is 9.6 inches, almost two more than the regular Tiguan; and a sturdy front skid plate and rear underbody guard with replaceable polymer protectors help handle rocks and debris ().
Highlights on the inside include a large 9.2-inch high-resolution touchscreen; and a segment-first integration of gesture controls. The Tiguan GTE Active Concept also comes with several advanced safety features, including Front Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking; and an active hood for pedestrian protection.
The Active Concept is just a concept for now, but since it’s based on the forthcoming production Tiguan, it wouldn’t be hard for Volkswagen to bring something similar to market.
