A couple of months ago, leaks emerged that Volkswagen was readying a new SUV that would bridge the gap between the smallish Tiguan and the biggish Touareg. These images, originating from Auto Sina in China, showed a bold faced high rider that looked to have kept at least some of the genetics of the Crossblue concept of 2013 that inspired it (pictured here).
Some reckoned that this would be the new Volkswagen flagship SUV and perhaps to be called the Teramont, others insisted that it would arrive as an entirely new model, but according to Germany’s Automotive News (Automobilwoche), it shall be called Atlas. An unconventionally conventional name when contrasted to the existing pair of SUVs from VW.
The report seems to confirm a trademark filing by Volkswagen that they applied for in the United States, which at the time had fuelled speculation that, whatever this vehicle was to end up becoming, would be destined for the North American market.
That remains to be seen, but we would guess that Volkswagen would be offering the Atlas in most (if not all) markets they currently sell their SUVs. Its styling suggests a shift from previous larger varieties of high riders from the German firm, but also an evolution from the style introduced in the second-generation Tiguan.
It adopts a rather vertical fascia that might not do wonders aerodynamically but certainly makes for a more imposing aura on the road. The hood, too, is moulded a curved to add to this brasher personality, as does the extended rear overhang and squared-off wheel arches. Perhaps the Jeep Grand Cherokee is to be thanked as something of a muse here.
Back in 2013, the Volkswagen Crossblue concept made its motor show debut powered by an innovative hybrid drive setup. A 2.0-litre diesel engine with 139kW is augmented by two electric motors - a less powerful 40kW unit for the front axle and an 85kW unit to aid the two rear wheels, both deriving juice from a 9.8kWh lithium-ion pack. This resulted in a mighty combined maximum output of 225kW and 700Nm.
There’s no telling if the Atlas will pioneer a new breed of standardised hybrid powertrain for Volkswagen’s SUVs or if it will stick to the usual petrol and diesel spread with a possible single hybrid variant. However, the hopeful will point out that VW’s deep commitment to electric propulsion means a hybrid or fully electric Atlas is an inevitability, even if it might arrive midway through this first-generation’s production life.
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