Beijing 2016: Volkswagen T-Prime Concept GTE unveiled

In this year's Beijing Motor Show, Volkswagen has unveiled their latest concept previewing a new SUV joining the lineup soon. Called the T-Prime Concept GTE, the concept features plug-in hybrid technology and the company described it as “one of the most advanced cars in the world.”

Measuring 5,070 mm, the T-Prime Concept GTE slots above Volkswagen's largest SUV offering, the Touareg. Volkswagen's upcoming full-size SUV rides on the company's MLB platform which is currently being utilized in the Audi Q7 and Bentley Bentayga. Its exterior design follows the current Volkswagen design language with its wide grill, signature LED daytime running lights and a character line that runs just above the door handles. Giving the T-Prime Concept GTE a wide stance are flared wheel arches housing 22 inch wheels wrapped in 285/40 tires.

Inside, the T-Prime Concept GTE hosts seating for four with leather-trimmed captain's chairs for all occupants. The driver oriented dashboard features the latest Volkswagen has to offer in infotainment and multi-information display technologies. Replacing conventional analogue dials is a full 12-inch digital instrument cluster while a 15 inch screen eliminates the need for buttons and dials on the center console. A touch panel also replaces the conventional gear selector while steering wheel mounted controls are also done by swiping on touch pads.

The T-Prime Concept GTE is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder engine with plug-in hybrid technology. The combustion engine alone develops 251 PS and 370 Nm of torque. It gets further assistance from a 136 PS electric motor, giving the T-Prime Concept GTE a total output of 380 PS and 699 Nm of torque. Mated to an eight speed automatic transmission, Volkswagen said the full-size SUV can do 0 to 100 km/h in about six seconds and has a top speed of 223 km/h.