VW: Mid-Size SUV 'On Its Way' to U.S.

Volkswagen plans to introduce its mid-size sport-utility vehicle in the U.S. in 2016, its global CEO announced at the Detroit auto show where it brought a concept version.

"I'm delighted to confirm what so many have been waiting so long to hear: Volkswagen's mid-size SUV for America is on its way," said Martin Winterkorn, CEO of The Volkswagen Group.

Volkswagen has begun development of a seven-seat SUV for the North American market, Winterkorn said in a release from the North American International Auto Show.

Meanwhile, the automaker brought the six-seat CrossBlue mid-size SUV concept to the North America International Auto Show in Detroit. The automaker said the vehicle is designed specifically for North America.

The CrossBlue SUV, which appeared at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show, is a diesel-electric plug-in hybrid with a fuel economy of 35 miles per gallon combined.

The hybrid concept vehicle mates a TDI clean diesel engine with two electric motors, a DSG dual-clutch  automatic transmission, and an electric all-wheel-drive system. The powertrain produces up to 305 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. of torque, according to Volkswagen.

The CrossBlue uses a 9.8-kilowatt lithium-ion battery that offers a range of 14 miles in all-electric mode. The overall driving range is 661 miles when the 18.5-gallon tank is filled with ultra-low-sulfer diesel fuel.

Read VW's press release for full details.

Originally posted on Automotive Fleet