The CrossBlue SUV concept, specifically developed for the U.S. and Canada, made its debut in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show. When the concept enters production, the six-seater CrossBlue will slot between the Tiguan and Touareg SUVs. The CrossBlue is a plug-in hybrid that combines a TDI Clean Diesel engine to two electric motors mated to a DSG automatic transmission driving all four wheels - electronically.

Volkswagen's estimates fuel economy to hit 38km/L in electric mode and 15km/L as a hybrid from a powertrain that produces up to 305bhp and 698Nm of torque. The century sprint can be completed at a modest pace of 7.2 seconds. The overall driving range can hit an astonishing range of 1,063km if the fuel tank is filled with ultra-low-sulfur diesel fuel.

The CrossBlue design was a joint effort between teams in Germany and America and is 4,986mm long, 2,014mm wide, and stands at 1,732mm high. The concept is finished in an apt 'CrossBlue Glass Flake' with a stainless steel trim.

The CrossBlue is equipped with two 'fuel doors' - one for the diesel tank which is on the passenger side, and one which houses two electrical sockets on the driver's side. Interestingly while the first socket is used to charge the lithium-ion battery, the second can be used to connect electrical devices to function as an electrical generator.

Despite being a strict six-seater in concept guise, the production version has an option to convert the second row to three seats to make it a proper seven seater. Controls for the lights, climate control, and the four-wheel drive system emerge from their flush resting positions with rugged aluminum surrounds; which is quite reminiscent of Jaguar. On top of aluminium, there is also the usual slew of leather and wood present in the cabin for a neat look.

A large 10.2-inch touchscreen with aluminum surround and flanked by air vents controls all infotainment functions on top of providing the status of the hybrid system.