Volkswagen AO SUV (T-Cross) – 5 Things To Know
German premium carmaker, Volkswagen has officially announced to showcase 4 new SUVs at the 2020 Auto Expo. The company will unveil the ID Crozz electric SUV, T-ROC and Tiguan AllSpace at the biennial event. However, the VW AO SUV will be the showstopper for the brand. The AO SUV is basically the Indianized version of the T-Cross sold abroad. Here are 5 things you need to know about the Volkswagen AO SUV –
Locally Developed MQB AO IN Platform
The VW AO SUV is based on the heavily localised MQB AO IN platform, which is developed by Skoda for the Indian market. The T-Cross sold abroad is built on the MQB AO platform, which also underpins the new Polo and the Virtus sedan. The locally developed MQB AO IN platform will also underpin the next-gen Vento, Skoda Rapid and the Skoda Vision IN concept based SUV.
Longer Than European Model
The Volkswagen AO SUV will come with 2,651mm of wheelbase, which is around 90-100mm longer than the European-spec T-Cross. The increase in wheelbase will allow engineers to liberate more space inside the cabin. Adding to it, the SUV will offer bigger boot than the European sibling. The VW AO SUV will get a higher 205mm ground clearance, which is more than sufficient to tackle Indian road conditions.
Launch in Early 2021
Volkswagen will showcase the concept version of the AO SUV. The production version is scheduled to be launched in the first half of 2021, most probably around April-June.
To Challenge Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos
Measuring around 4.3 meters in length, the Volkswagen AO concept based SUV will directly challenge the segment-leaders including Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos. Adding to it, the SUV will also rival the entry-level variants of the MG Hector and the Tata Harrier.
Engine Specs
The Volkswagen AO SUV is expected to be offered with 2 petrol engines – a 115bhp, 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged and a 130bhp, 1.5-litre EVO TSI. The company could also introduce the CNG powered model. Transmission choices are likely to include a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
