Volkswagen unveiled the Cross Coupe GTE concept vehicle at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show. This concept car previews the mid-size SUVs that Volkswagen is expected to begin manufacturing in less than a couple of years time.
This vehicle offers a strong, square-like form with tall front and back fascias, straight lines and a near-straight roof line. This vehicle clearly doesn't come from the same mold as the soft, rounded design language that has become the norm for crossovers on the market in recent years.
The vehicle is equipped with a 276-horsepower 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine with front and rear motors. This combination gives the vehicle 355 horsepower and 280 pounds-feet of torque, allowing it to hit a top speed of 209 km/h.
Square-Shaped SUVs
The Cross Coupe GTE Has a Very Square Form
Trend Themes
1. Square-shaped Suvs - The rise of square-shaped SUVs presents an opportunity for automakers to disrupt the market by offering a unique and differentiated design.
2. Strong Form Design - The shift towards strong, square-like form designs in SUVs creates an opportunity for manufacturers to stand out and attract consumers who prefer a bold and rugged aesthetic.
3. Electric Hybrid Suvs - The integration of electric motors in SUVs like the Cross Coupe GTE showcases an opportunity for automakers to tap into the growing demand for eco-friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive Manufacturing - Automotive manufacturers can seize the opportunity to innovate by designing and producing more square-shaped SUV models to meet the shifting consumer preferences.
2. Automotive Design - The trend of square-shaped SUVs opens up new avenues for automotive designers to explore unique and bold aesthetic choices that depart from the traditional rounded design language.
3. Electric Vehicle Technology - The integration of electric motors in SUVs provides an opportunity for the electric vehicle industry to expand beyond sedans and hatchbacks and cater to the SUV market segment.