Volkswagen has pulled the covers off its new Tiguan GTE Active Concept at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

Based on the redeveloped second generation of the Tiguan, the concept is described as a ‘progressive plug-in hybrid’ with maximum off-road power, the concept car combines ‘maximum efficiency’ with a powerful all-wheel drive system for a high level of off-road performance.

Powered by a petrol engine (TSI, 110 kW) and two electric motors (40 and 85 kW), all four wheels of the permanent all-wheel drive can be powered all- electrically with the TSI used to add more power. With up to 20 miles of zero emissions travel all-electrically, a fuel economy figure of 75mpg and a range of 580 miles in total is possible.

VW says the independent off-road design elements of the body are ‘technically feasible’ as options for production cars, with the concept debuting in Detroit featuring significantly more ground clearance and larger approach and departure angles. 

The interior includes a new infotainment system with 9.2- inch display and gesture control, while many different driving programs can be accessed via the new 4MOTION Active Control off-road switch.

The Detroit Auto Show runs from January 11 - 24.