Beijing

Volkswagen's SUV Future Unveiled in Beijing

by Marc-André Gauthier
All photos
Photo: Volkswagen

The unveiling of the Volkswagen T-Prime GTE isn’t particularly groundbreaking, since this vehicle won’t become a production model; it’s simply showcasing what the brand will do for its future SUV line-up.

However, the locale at which this concept was unveiled is noteworthy: Volkswagen chose to unveil this SUV in China, which is a clear indicator of this market’s importance for the manufacturer.

Named T-Prime GTE, this concept takes us to a world where big SUVs still exist, but are now 400-horsepower plug-in hybrids. This concept can run a few kilometres in fully electric mode, and a gasoline engine will give it extended range. Pretty much like a Chevrolet Volt.

The T-Prime GTE’s interior offers a classic and well-thought layout. Big screens are essential for infotainment purposes, and we suspect they will be used to entertain passengers when the vehicle is in autonomous mode. Styling-wise, the concept is close to other vehicles Volkswagen unveiled recently.

This concept should theoretically replace the Touareg, and the upcoming Tiguan should be pretty similar too.

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