VW Tries to Succeed Where the Ugly Nissan CrossCab Failed
Volkswagen is looking to succeed where Nissan failed with its Murano CrossCabriolet.
Making its official debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, the VW T-Cross Breeze concept is a convertible crossover that might not be as far-fetched as you think. Despite how the Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet was an utter failure in the marketplace, VW is confident that a compact convertible crossover has its place in the market. “At the moment the T-Cross Breeze is purely a concept, but we can well imagine putting such a convertible on the market as a production model,” said Dr. Herbert Diess, chairman of the board of management Volkswagen brand. “This is an affordable fun car that is also entirely suitable for everyday use— it’s a genuine ‘People’s Car.'”
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Powering the concept is a 1.0-liter turbocharged engine with 110 horsepower and 129 pound-feet of torque. Mated to a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox, the German automaker said the convertible weighs 2,756 pounds. As it stands, it is capable of going zero to 62 mph in 10.3 seconds with a top speed of 117 mph.
SEE ALSO: 2016 Geneva Motor Show Coverage
In terms of dimensions, the T-Cross Breeze concept measures 162.7 inches, so it’s slightly longer than the CrossPolo. It’s built on a 101-inch wheelbase and is 70.8 inches wide.
The bigger news is that VW has confirmed it plans to aggressively compete in the crossover and SUV space, promising to “offer an exciting SUV in every relevant segment.” The onslaught will kick off with the new Tiguan that will be followed by a new midsize SUV for the U.S. and China markets. Two new models will sit below the Tiguan with one based on the T-Roc concept car and another based on the T-Cross Breeze you see here.
Whether the company actually commits to a convertible remains to be seen, but it appears VW isn’t holding anything back as the concept “reflects the new start for our brand,” said Klaus Bischoff, head of design for the Volkswagen brand. “We want to stir enthusiasm for ‘New Volkswagen.’ In this instance we are doing that with an unprecedented vehicle concept in this class; a completely redesigned cockpit and design that is equally crisp and expressive.”
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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The wheels are ugly and the vehicle sits too high. When is the SUV craze going to be over? Ever? Are Americans too fat for regular cars now?
One night after a really long and stressful day, a VW designer was relaxing at home in a bathtub - "Mmmm... this bathtub is awesome... mmmmm... nice warm water and bubbles everywhere. Mmmmm.... wait-a-minute - a bathtub! Of course! How come I didn't think of this before?! We'll just slap four wheels and a windshield on it and call it a new concept vehicle! Awesome! Ah, I love my job so much ..."