The 2011 Tokyo Motor Show is live and pumping so get ready for some news from Japan. Volkswagen has just unveiled its new Cross Coupe Concept, a concept that looks at the design direction of future V-Dub crossovers and SUVs.

Based on Volkswagen’s new modular transverse matrix (MQB), the Cross Coupe Concept measures 73.5 inches wide and 60.0 inches high and 171.1 long. The concept car is longer than a VW Golf and shorter than a Tiguan.

The sloping roofline and coupe like profile of the Volkswagen Cross Coupe Concept has analysts thinking that the German automaker is planning a competitor to the Range Rover Evoque. However, Volkswagen sources close to design boss Walter de’Silva have confirmed with Automotive News that the concept previews a new design theme that will be adopted by all of VW’s upcoming SUV models, including the next Tiguan due out toward the end of 2014.

Power for the all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid Volkswagen Cross Coupe comes from two electric motors and a direct-injection turbocharged gasoline (TSI) engine. The engine produces 148-hp with a maximum torque of 155 lb-ft. The first electric-motor is fitted at the front axle and produces 54-hp and 133 lb-ft of torque. The second motor is fitted to rear axle and produces 114-hp and 199 lb-ft of torque. Working together, the system produces a maximum of 262-hp.

Volkswagen say that the Cross Coupe Concept can go from 0 to 62 mph in 7 seconds with a top speed of 125 mph (75 when in electric mode). With the batteries fully-charged, the concept can travel 25 miles without any gas. Using all the gas and electric power, the Cross Coupe can travel a total of 531 miles and average a fuel-economy of 87 mpg (in the New European Driving Cycle).

The concept also features something called Multi-mode Drivetrain. The system allows the driver to select from three driving models including City (eco-mode with minimal fuel consumption); Sport (dynamic driving); and Offroad (permanent all-wheel drive).

We’re liking what we see.

- By: Omar Rana