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Volkswagen Tiguan GTE Active Concept: A plug-in hybrid that's off-road capable (pictures)

In anticipation of offering new or refreshed crossover SUVs in the near future, Volkswagen brings a new concept to the Detroit Auto Show.

Emme Hall
I love two-seater, RWD convertibles and own a 2004 Mazdaspeed Miata for pavement fun and a lifted 2001 Miata for pre-running. I race air-cooled Volkswagens in desert races like the Mint 400 and the Baja 1000. I have won the Rebelle Rally, seven-day navigational challenge, twice and I am the only driver to compete in an EV, the Rivian R1T.
Emme Hall
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The interior of the Volkswagen Tiguan GTE Active Concept features a new gesture-controlled infotainment system with a 9.2-inch display.

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All instruments are fully digital and there is a heads up display, along with App-Connect, which will connect your smart phone to the head unit via Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or MirrorLink.

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Auxiliary LED spotlights could help light up the night during off-road excursions.

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Roof rails add to the rugged look of the Tiguan GTE Active Concept.

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The Tiguan GTE Active Concept would be just as comfortable on the pavement, with both an on-road and sport mode.

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A short front overhang contributes to an approach angle of 26.1 degrees.

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A little three-wheeled action in the soft sand from the Tiguan GTE Active Concept.

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The width of the concept is 74.8-inches, about two inches wider than the Mazda cx-5.

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The front and rear skid plates on the concept are easy to replace, should they get marred by any rocks or debris.

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The Tiguan GTE Active Concept is based on the all-new Tiguan, set to arrive in the United States in 2017.

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16-inch wheel wrapped with aggressive rubber contribute to the adventurous feeling of the concept.

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No word on whether the Tiguan GTE Active Concept will go into production, but it is a handsome fellow indeed.

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The Tiguan GTE Active Concept features a four cylinder turbocharged gasoline-powered engine, knocking out 148 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.

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Energy created during breaking is fed into the battery.

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If the battery isn't sufficiently charged, the gasoline engine starts and the front electric motor acts as a generator for the rear electric motor. With a full battery capacity of 12.4kWh and a 16.9 gallon fuel tank, the expected range is impressive at 580 miles.

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Full 221 horsepower will propel the Tiguan GTE Active Concept from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.4 seconds.

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The concept can go 20 miles in zero-emission all electric mode.

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