Not too long ago we saw Volkswagen reveal the next generation of its Tiguan (based on its MQB platform). Now this light SUV, labelled as the GTE Active, has been given a very roughed work-over, a double electric motor plug-in hybrid powertrain and a claimed range of 930 km.
Like many hybrids, the GTE Active makes use of a four-wheel drive system by combining the petrol and electric motors, however instead of them powering different ends of the car, these two powertrains work in conjunction with one another depending on what mode is selected.
The initial startup mode for the GTE Active is its all-electric ‘E-mode’ which powers the rear wheels unless traction is lost, in which case the front motor kicks in to balance things out. The 4MOTION can also be initiated at the driver’s request and in this instance the dual electric motors will deliver 40 kW to the front wheels and 85 kW to the rear. The E-mode has a range of 30 km but can be charged via regenerative braking.
When the 12,4 kWh batteries run out the turbopetrol engine kicks in. Displacement is undeclared but based on the 110 kW 250 N.m power output we can assume that it is the 1,4-litre TSI. This powertrain does not run the GTE Active in 4MOTION but rather as a front-wheel drive. When the electric and petrol motors work together the total power output reaches 165 kW meaning that either one or both of the driving systems are provided with limited power.
The six-speed dual-clutch transmission has also been especially developed for this complicated setup and houses the front electric motor within its casing. With all of this technology added to the GTE Active it will achieve a 0-100 km/h time of 6,4 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h.
The roughed cosmetic changes made to the exterior of this Tiguan provides the light SUV with an approach angle of 26,1 degrees at the front and 29,9 degrees at the back. A skid-plate has also been added to the front just for good measure. The 245/70 R16-inch wheels should also be able to tackle many terrains, however they might hamper the GTE Active’s comfort on the tarmac.
Toys and aids within the GTE Active include the new 9,2-inch gesture control infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple Car Play, a fully digital gauge with an HUD, autonomous braking, lane assist and pedestrian monitoring (with a pedestrian friendly hood).
The Tiguan GTE Active will most likely remain as a concept however it’s quite likely that technology such as this will find its way into future VW models.
