Geneva 2014: Volkswagen readies four new SUVs

Volkswagen is set to launch at least four new SUVs over the next three years, with the Golf-based T-Roc concept on display at the Geneva motor show forming the centrepiece of the new expansion strategy.

Earlier this year, the VW CrossBlue seven-seat SUV was unveiled at the Detroit motor show, with insiders admitting that the US-focussed car was being prepared for launch in 2016.

A reworked version of the VW Tiguan is being engineered at the same time, and is also mooted for launch in 2016.

The Golf-based T-Roc is then set to launch in 2017. VW's head of research and development, Heinz-Jakob Neusser, told Autocar: "The final decision will depend on reaction to this concept and be made later, but it is clear that we are developing a wider SUV strategy. The T-Roc fits in very well with that strategy: it sits on the MQB platform and is fully compatible with all the powertrains and modules in the VW Golf. The production CrossBlue and reworked Tiguan leave us room for other SUVs below them in size, that is clear."

As well as the T-Roc, Neusser confirmed that the VW Taigun small SUV remains under evaluation. "This car is also close to a decision on whether it will make production," said Neusser. "We have not set a date for the final decision, but I can tell you that it will be soon."

Also see

Geneva Motor Show 2014 photo gallery