Volkswagen has introduced the new Atlas Cross Sport GT concept.
The latest in a string of enthusiast models, the concept is based on the Atlas Cross Sport SEL Premium R-Line and features a host of styling and performance upgrades.
Starting with the exterior, the crossover has an Eisvogelblau paint job and gloss black trim which replaces the usual chrome accents. The model has also been equipped with ST Suspension XTA Plus 3 coilovers as well as color-matched springs. Rounding out the highlights are 22-inch ABT Sport HR AeroWheels, which are wrapped in Yokohama Advan Sport tires and backed up by eight-piston Tarox front calipers.
Also Read: VW’s Atlas Cross Sport Is A Crossover Coupe For The Masses
The sporty styling continues in the cabin as the concept has four Recaro Sportster CS seats with microfiber and faux leather upholstery. They’re joined by a custom shifter, blue seat belts and special floor mats. The concept also has a flat-bottom steering wheel and a rear center console, which houses a safe as well as additional USB charging ports.
Under the hood, there’s a “version of the EA888 2.0 TSI engine found in the Volkswagen Golf R.” The company didn’t go into many specifics, but noted the engine is equipped with an IS38 turbo and produces more than 300 hp (224 kW / 304 PS). That’s a noteworthy upgrade as the standard Atlas Cross Sport offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 235 hp (175 kW / 238 PS) and a 3.6-liter VR6 with 276 hp (206 kW / 280 PS).
The engine is connected to a seven-speed DSG transmission, which sends power to a 4Motion all-wheel drive system. Speaking of the powertrain, the crossover has been equipped with an additional front-mounted radiator from a Mk7 Golf R.
The concept is certainly sporty and Volkswagen Group of America CEO, Scott Keogh, said “The launch of the all-new Golf GTI and Golf R got us thinking about how to inject some of that VW magic into our SUVs. This concept is proof that it’s possible to build SUVs that could appeal to our performance enthusiast base.”