Based on the Golf, the new variant of the world’s bestseller, the CrossGolf is set to be unleashed on the streets across the region. It unites the can-do qualities of a compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) with the practical versatility of a small Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) into a new crossover model. Like its little brother – the successful CrossPolo – this CrossGolf design also originates from Volkswagen Individual, the company’s internal division for vehicle refinement.
The new CrossGolf forges a bridge between two vehicle segments. In the style of the SUV, its body and chassis reflects stamina and robust roughness. Simultaneously, the car offers a spacious and variable interior approaching that of a MPV. As an innovative crossover model, the CrossGolf will find a wide fanbase: In 2006 over 480,000 compact SUVs and nearly 1.4 million compact MPVs were sold in Europe.
In the Middle East, the CrossGolf is available in a 1.6 litre four cylinder that delivers 75 kW / 102 HP. It attains its maximum 148 Newton-metre torque at 3,800 rpm. The gasoline engine consumes 7.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres on average. Shifted with a five-speed gearbox the CrossGolf, weighing in at about 1,300 kilograms, reaches a top speed of 173 km/h. It completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.2 seconds.
Designed by Volkswagen’s internal division for refinement and special vehicles – known as “Volkswagen Individual” – the CrossGolf is an unmistakable offspring of the Golf family of cars. Nonetheless, numerous changes distinguish the exterior design from the Golf Plus.
The CrossGolf has large 17-inch wheels, and its body is set 20 millimeters higher. The new exclusive colour “Ice Silver Metallic” is available as an option. Continuous wrap-around cladding in anthracite, a silver-coloured roof rail and newly designed bumpers and radiator inlets give it an impressive look. The cladding of the lower body contrasts the glistening, bright components while protecting against any impact from light off-road duty. Side stripes on the doors give added protection preventing any damage from neighbouring parked cars. At the rear end the stylised underride protection emphasis the powerful image of the new CrossGolf.
Compared to the Golf Plus the CrossGolf measures a few centimeters larger in all dimensions. Nonetheless the new CrossGolf model remains compact and uncomplicated. Its length is 423.3 centimeters (+ 2.3) and its width 177.6 centimeters (+1.6). Because of the higher ground clearance and roof rail its height has grown to 165.1 centimeters (+ 3.1).
Just like the exterior, the interior of the CrossGolf also exhibits a colour environment that is rich in contrasts. The materials and colours of seat covers, door trim and silver-metallic cockpit components were developed especially for the new model. A three-spoke leather steering wheel, pedal caps in aluminum look and the “Climatic” climate control system round out the generous lineup of standard equipment.
The feeling of space generated in the CrossGolf is evocative of a compact SUV. Compared to the “classic” Golf the front passengers sit 9.5 centimeters higher and 10.5 centimeters higher in the rear. This lends a feeling of open space with comfortable entry and excellent visibility. The luxurious interior height of 100.7 centimeters reinforces this perception.
The CrossGolf is also distinguished by practical details such as folding tables on armrests of the standard front sport seats with storage bins underneath. The rear bench seat is split for variable folding and has longitudinal adjustment. When its centre section is folded down, a table surface is created. Depending on the bench configuration the cargo volume of the trunk area behind the large rear hatch ranges between 395 and 505 litres. When the seatbacks are folded down as much as 1,450 litres cargo space is provided.
Safety features of the new CrossGolf include six airbags on board (front airbags, side airbags and head airbags); rear side bags can be ordered as an option. As in the Golf and Golf Plus the front seats have crash-optimised head restraints and pyrotechnic belt tensioners with integrated force limiters. In addition to its five three-point belt restrains and head restraints, Isofix child seat mounting fixtures are provided at the outer rear seating positions. Like all Golf cars the CrossGolf has the ESP electronic stabilisation programme together with counter-steering and trailer stabilisation, ABS and brake assist on board.
Most other options are based on features of the Golf Plus Sportline. These include a multifunctional leather steering wheel, iPod capability, DVD system for the rear seats, various audio and navigation systems, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, acoustic parking pilot and bi-xenon headlamps with curve lighting.
