New CrossGolf Unites SUV and MPV Worlds

Wolfsburg, 24 January 2007 - The new CrossGolf is revving up. It unites the can-do qualities of a compact SUV and the versatility of a small MPV into a new crossover model. Like its little brother – the successful CrossPolo – this CrossGolf design also originates from Volkswagen Individual, the company’s internal division for vehicle refinement.

“Cross” stands for versatile concepts
The acronym SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) refers to a more “well-mannered” version of the traditional off-road vehicle. The CrossGolf embodies the stamina and toughness of this vehicle type in its body and modified chassis. MPV means Multi Purpose Vehicle and refers to a van. The CrossGolf with its variable and spacious interior also bridges to this segment. Within its class the CrossGolf has no direct competitors.

Visually the CrossGolf makes it unmistakably clear that it is an offspring of the Golf family of cars. Nonetheless, numerous changes distinguish the exterior design from the Golf Plus. The body is set 20 millimeters higher. In side view the sporty 17-inch diameter wheels attract the onlooker; mounted on these wheels are wide 225/45 size tires. The standard roof rail is painted in silver color (“brilliant chrome”) and can handle up to 75 kilograms load. The new exclusive “Ice Silver Metallic” is offered as an optional body paint color.

 

In its exterior design the CrossGolf exhibits features evocative of the SUV world. Continuous wrap-around cladding in anthracite color, a silver-colored roof rail and newly designed bumpers and radiator air inlets give it an impressive look. The CrossGolf has large 17-inch wheels, and its body is set 20 millimeters higher. The exclusive new color “Ice Silver Metallic” is available as an option.

“Cross” stands for cleverly crafted interiors
The interior of the CrossGolf too offers a fresh, contrast-rich color world. The materials and colors of seat covers, door trim and silver-metallic cockpit components were developed especially for the new model. A three-spoke leather steering wheel, pedal caps in aluminum look and the “Climatic” climate control system round out the generous lineup of standard equipment.

 

The CrossGolf with front wheel drive is based on the Golf Plus Sportline. It too is distinguished by practical details such as folding tables on armrests of the standard front sport seats with storage bins underneath. The rear bench seat is split for variable folding and has longitudinal adjustment. When its center section is folded down, a table surface is created. Depending on the bench configuration the cargo volume of the trunk area behind the large rear hatch ranges between 395 and 505 liters. When the seatbacks are folded down as much as 1,450 liters cargo space is provided.

 

The feeling of space generated in the CrossGolf is evocative of a compact SUV. Compared to the “clas­sic” Golf the front passengers sit 9.5 centimeters higher, and 10.5 centimeters higher in the rear. The CrossGolf gives passengers comfortable entry and exit via its four doors. Head room and foot room are generous in both front and rear seating.

The cladding of the lower body area contrasts with these glistening, bright components. In the version with high-grade anthracite colored plastic ­it integrates the side bumper areas, wheel arches, rocker panels and lower door edges. The cladding protects against stone impact in light off-road duty, while the color contrasting side strips on the doors protect the CrossGolf from being dented by doors of neighboring parked cars in the asphalt jungle. Appearing on the rear doors above these strips is a “CrossGolf” emblem.

At the front end a newly designed bumper outlines the standard fog lamps and air inlets whose positions and design were slightly modified – they impart a powerful look to the car. The middle area of the bumper has a visual shape similar to that of the underride protection, its sweep takes on the contour of the engine hood. At the rear end too the stylized underride protection emphasizes the powerful image of the new CrossGolf. As in the Golf Plus, LEDs are arranged on the outer perimeters of the tail lights. They serve as tail, brake and turn signal lights and exhibit quick reaction times and long life. The hazard flashers are activated automatically when the brakes are applied forcefully. 

 

 

Compared to the Golf Plus the CrossGolf measures a few centimeters larger in all dimensions. Nonetheless the new Cross model remains compact and uncomplicated. Its length is 423.3centimeters (+ 2.3) and its width 177.6 centimeters (+ 1.6). Because of its higher ground clearance and roof rail its height has grown to 165.1centimeters (+ 3.1).

Powerful technology
Volkswagen is offering the CrossGolf in two gasoline and two diesel engine variants. The two diesels are equipped with a particulate filter. The entry-level gasoline engine delivers 75 kW / 102 HP, and the base TDI engine develops 77 kW / 105 HP. The top gasoline and diesel engine variants have identical power output: The TSI and the 2.0 TDI each deliver a powerful 103 kW / 140 HP. The view of the TSI is particularly intriguing. Thanks to twin charging by supercharger and turbocharger this direct injection gasoline engine exhibits exceptionally high torque and an agile engine charac­teristic. At the same time it demonstrates exceptional fuel economy. The TSI and either of the TDIs can be ordered with DSG dual clutch transmission as an option.

Like all Golf cars the CrossGolf also has the ESP electronic stabilization program together with counter-steering function and trailer stabilization, ABS and brake assist on board. Six airbags are also included as standard equipment.

No details as yet if/when the model will hit UK shores. Given the popularity of the MPV in the UK it's sure to be a winner with family orientated buyers.

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