VW Set To Head For Hills With New Crossgolf

By Chris Thorp

22nd March 2005

Early indications suggested that the Crossgolf was likely to be called the Marrakesh, but top brass have now opted to follow the naming policy started by the Crossfox. Essentially, it's a jacked-up version of the recently unveiled Golf Plus people carrier. But from our pictures, it's clear the company intends the Crossgolf to offer above-average mud-plugging ability.

Incorporating a freshly engineered version of the Golf's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, the model will not be a fully fledged off-roader. But it will offer some of the Touareg's muscular appeal in a cheaper package.

The use of the existing transmission means technicians will be able to slot the Golf's engines under the bonnet. As a result of this, buyers will have a choice of hi-tech FSI petrol powerplants or VW's latest TDI oil-burners.

An extended ride height will set the Crossgolf apart from its siblings. Losing none of the practicality of the Golf Plus, it will also have a versatile cabin with three independently folding and sliding rear seats. The compact SUV's people carrier origins mean it will offer plenty of stowage space, too.

The disguise fitted to this test car hides most of the detail on the front end. However, the nose is likely to take on a similar appearance to the Golf as well as the revised Polo featured in last week's magazine.

In two-wheel-drive guise, the Golf Plus will go on sale in the UK in June. The Crossgolf won't appear until 2006, debuting at one of Europe's motor shows.

VW has confirmed the Fox will hit dealerships early next year, but only in three-door form. Bosses in Wolfsburg have yet to decide whether the Crossfox will be included in the UK line-up.