Volkswagen goes soft-roading with new CrossPolo

Filed under: Crossover, Hatchback, Volkswagen

2012 Volkswagen CrossPolo – Click above for high-res image gallery

Smaller cars may be taking over from larger SUVs around the world, but that hardly means that the go-anywhere, rough-and-tumble image of the sport-ute has disappeared from buyers’ minds. That’s where softroaders come in. Vehicles like the Volkswagen CrossPolo blend off-road styling with a small form factor.

VW gave us a sneak peek at the new CrossPolo back in Geneva, but is only officially revealing the full range now. Based on the new Polo hatchback, the CrossPolo gets a boost in ride height and some tasteful body cladding to give it that backcountry appeal. A new front end – treated in dark gray and blending into the wheel arches, quarter panels and rear bumper – plus 17-inch alloys and roof rails complete the package, which can be ordered by non-U.S. types with six engine options – three gasoline and three diesels – in any of six exterior shades, including two colors unique to the CrossPolo.

Intrigued? There’s plenty more information where that came from in the press release after the jump, and a fresh batch of high-res photos in the gallery below.

Gallery: 2012 Volkswagen CrossPolo