VW unveils a natty combo

The Concept A is longer and wider than the Golf Mk V. It's not yet known when production is planned.

Volkswagen has revealed its latest design study, the Concept A, a crossover between a sports car and a compact sports utility vehicle.

At 4348mm long and 1854mm wide, Concept A is 144mm longer and 95mm wider then the Golf Mk V. Its height is 1551mm compared with 1485mm for the Golf, while its 2602mm wheelbase is 24mm longer than the Golf's.

VW says the concept combines a coupe-style silhouette with the raised stance of an SUV. The shield-like front grill common to the Passat and Jetta has been developed to emphasise Concept A's off-road styling by forming part of the underbody protection. High-efficiency LED headlights add a further modern touch.

At the rear, Concept A has a hatchback tailgate, coupled to a pick-up style fold-down rear section beneath the rear LED light clusters.

This hatch can be opened independently and will stay open so long loads can be carried.

Concept A does away with the traditional B-pillar.

It features opposing opening wing doors which, VW says, allow easy access for front and rear passengers as well as giving a feeling of space and light.

This airy feel is enhanced by Concept A's concertina-style soft-top which slides all the way back to the C-pillar.

Inside are four patent leather seats and a ultra-modern facia with stylish and ergonomic controls.

It has a 2-litre petrol engine using turbo and supercharger technology and a six-speed DSG automatic transmission driving four 20-inch wheels through VW's 4motion system.

Production plans for the vehicle have not been confirmed.