The world’s most fuel efficient SUV, the Volkswagen Cross Coupe TDI, just debuted at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show.
For the first time, an automaker combined an electric hybrid drivetrain with a diesel engine, opening the door to two of the most effective and mass-produced fuel technologies working as one.
As a result, Volkswagen claims the Cross Coupe TDI can get up to 130 mpg. The powertrain takes advantage of two electric motors that work simultaneously with a turbo direct-injected diesel engine. Despite being so efficient, even with all-wheel drive, the truck has 302 hp and a top speed of almost 137 mph, which is impressive for such a high compression-ratio engine.
The Cross Coupe TDI pictured above also accelerates from 0-60 mph in about 6.5 seconds. Despite that power, it can still run in all-electric mode to offer zero-emissions driving for almost 28 miles.
That isn’t very far, but bear in mind that the idea behind the Cross Coup isn’t to be a range-extended EV, but a super-efficient all-wheel drive, which it achieves brilliantly.
GALLERY: Volkswagen Cross Coupe TDI
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