Volkswagen CrossBlue TDI Diesel Hybrid Concept Car at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show

Volkswagen has long been the bearer of the diesel torch in the U.S. for many years now. Their lineup of diesel vehicles have been at the top of the of EPA fuel economy ratings for non-hybrid vehicles time and time again. Their showing at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show continues the trend of diesel power, with a unique twist. For starters, the CrossBlue Concept is a seven-seat midsize crossover. Volkswagen says the concept is a study to see if anyone would be interested in buying something like this.

The concept’s design is a mixture of Volkswagen’s Touareg SUV and Audi’s Q7 crossover. Inside, the CrossBlue Concept is filled with tech like a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Under the hood lies a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine that’s hooked up to a plug-in hybrid system. Total power output is 305 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. The powerplant is mated to a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Volkswagen says the CrossBlue can reach 60 MPH in 7.2 seconds and return 89 MPGe when on electric power or 35 MPG when on hybrid power.

Autobytel’s Editor-in-Chief, Michelle Naranjo, gets a overview of the CrossBlue Concept from Volkswagen’s General Manager of Product Marketing and Strategy, Kevin Joostema.