The CrossBlue model features a diesel-electric plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a TDI engine with two electric motors, a DSG transmission, and an electric all-wheel-drive system dubbed “dropshaft by wire”. This combination offers economy of 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres, or 134.5mpg as well as power of up to 305PS and 700Nm, giving a 0-62mph time of 7.0 seconds and a top speed of 127mph.

It also offers a top speed of 75mph in electric mode and with a fully charged battery can travel up to 14 miles in the US test cycle, or 33 km (20 miles) using the European driving cycle. 

Although the concept comes with six individual seats in three rows, VW says that a production version would have the option of three seats in the second row to make it a seven-seater.

‘The CrossBlue concept is exactly the right type of vehicle for the U.S. market,’ said Jonathan Browning, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. ‘It combines a truly versatile interior layout with sophisticated Volkswagen design, to give a unique and supremely stylish offering in this segment.’