Volkswagen Scirocco Concept

VW Chief Wolfgang Bernhard is finally putting some flesh into his promise to introduce 10 new VW-branded vehicles by the end of the decade, even though some models haven't been determined. One that's made the cut for the 2008 model year is a "new Scirocco," a reprise of the much-loved 1974-1992 Golf-based hatchback coupes.

One difficulty facing VW is to separate the new Scirocco from Audi's next TT, especially if Audi decides to import the Shooting Brake version to the U.S. The TT uses the same mechanical matrix, but it's likely the VW will have more rear-seat space than the TT. Practicality was always a hallmark of the Scirocco line.

The top version will run the Golf R32's driveline, which means a 247-horse, narrow-angle V-6, DSG six-speed gearbox, and 4Motion all-wheel drive. It'll run 155 mph and 0-to-60 mph in about 6.0-seconds flat. Engines for the U.S. will begin with the 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo four with at least 200 horsepower and front drive. The engine is already available in Europe with 220 horses.

Bernhard's Plans

Concept R: On Hold.
The mid-engine roadster has been stalled due to the difficulty of making expected sales meet development costs: The "Scirocco" will sell more and cost a whole lot less to develop and tool. Though Bernd Pischetsrieder went on record as saying he wanted it built, a more sober-minded Bernhard has applied the brakes. Sources say Bernhard still hasn't ruled it out.

EcoRacer: No Go.
The carbon-bodied concept shown at Tokyo, another Pischetsrieder favorite, couldn't be derived from an existing platform and therefore was never a candidate for production given VW's current financial health. Its unique bodywork and platform were research tools into high-economy vehicle techniques. But its 1.5-liter turbodiesel will make its debut in Euro-production cars next year.

Crossovers: More Coming.
The Marrakesh crossover mini-SUV is on course for a late 2007 launch. It, too, uses the versatile Golf architecture, transverse engine, and electronically controlled 4Motion drive. VW will launch another raised-ground clearance version of the Golf for Europe and South America, named either CrossGolf or GolfDune, depending on the market. It's a standard FWD Golf with longer springs and plastic protective cladding for a tougher look for the lower body.

Phaeton: Not Dead Yet.
A second-generation version of VW's slow-selling luxocar is in the works, although not for the U.S. Sources say the current car's me-too styling has been the problem. VW is capable of selling high-dollar products, as witnessed by the Touareg. Current thinking for the next Phaeton is an upscale five-door.

Minivan: Hello, Chrysler.
VW's European minivan, the Sharan, will be all-new and on the Passat platform in 2007 or 2008. But it's too small for the U.S., which is why Bernhard says VW is investigating a venture in which Chrysler Group would build a van with a VW-designed body. Don't confuse this with the Microbus project, which, while delayed, remains in the pipeline.