Volkswagen XL-Sport concept unveiled

Volkswagen has revealed a high-performance Ducati-engined version of the XL1, named the XL Sport, at its preview event ahead of the Paris motor show.

The XL Sport concept, which is the 200 millionth car produced by Volkswagen, is powered by the Italian motorcycle company’s V-twin engine. Ducati is part of the Volkswagen Group, having been bought by Audi in 2012.

The engine is derived from the unit found in the 1199 Panigale Superleggera. Installed in the sleek XL Sport, it produces 197bhp, has a top speed of more than 269kph and revs to a maximum of 11,000rpm.

“The XL Sport is based on the XL1, our lightweight efficiency champion with an extremely low drag coefficient and excellent aerodynamics. We’ve improved the aerodynamics but maintained the sporty look,” said a Volkswagen spokesman. “It has a heart made by Ducati.”

There’s no word on whether Volkswagen intends to put the XL Sport into production, but last year, the manufacturer stated its intention to build one example of the car to gauge reaction.