VW SMV Concept Unveiled In China As Brand’s Biggest SUV To Date

Volkswagen’s “Brand SUV Night” event held in Shanghai on the eve of the auto show included more than just the reveal of the ID Roomzz electric SUV study.

FAW-Volkswagen, one of VW’s joint ventures in China, has lifted the veils off the biggest SUV ever to wear the VW badge. It’s called the SMV and for now, it is presented as a concept vehicle.

However, it looks very much like a production model to us and we expect it to enter production rather sooner than later. Targeting big Chinese families, the seven-seat VW SMV is bigger than the Atlas (sold as the Teramont in China), measuring 5,100 mm (201 in) in length.

As with most VW models nowadays, the SMV is based on the MQB modular architecture and features familiar engines — for the Chinese market, at least. That’s because it shares powertrains with the Teramont. The ubiquitous 2.0-liter TSI will be the entry-level choice while the China-exclusive 2.5-liter TSI VR6 EA390 engine will power the high-end versions of the SMV.

Mated to a seven-speed DSG transmission and 4Motion AWD, the six-cylinder engine makes 299 PS (295 hp) and 499 Nm (368 lb-ft) of torque.

Not much else is known about the VW SMV and interior photos haven’t been released yet. However, given the vehicle’s footprint, we can speculate that it’s a true seven-seater that offers plenty of space for adult passengers even in the third row. Also to be expected are big screens for the infotainment system and instrument panel.

Styling-wise, the SMV adopts Volkswagen’s latest design language and looks quite dynamic for an SUV that’s so big. The curved and creased bonnet, muscular wheel arches and the sporty treatment applied to the D-pillar all contribute to that impression. The LED headlights and taillights that span across the entire width of the car serve to give the SMV a contemporary look.