VW shows off AAC sport utility

VOLKSWAGEN'S AAC (Advanced Activity Concept) truck, revealed at the Detroit motor show, provides the first indication of what its proposed off-roader will look like.

VW and Porsche announced in 1998 their plans to jointly develop a four-wheel drive wagon with each company marketing its own version of the vehicle.

Annual production volumes are expected to reach 100,000 - 80,000 for VW and 20,000 for Porsche. At least half of these will be sold in the US.

The off-roaders are expected to make their Australian debuts in late 2002. Expect to pay around $60,000 for the VW version and at least $100,000 for the faster and more luxurious Porsche variant.

VW's board member in charge of marketing, Mr Robert Buchelhofer, said entering the off-roader segment was essential in view of recent market trends.

VW US spokesman Mr Steve Keyes reinforced this argument, saying: "If you're going to be a world player, you need to compete in all segments".

The AAC truck - a cross between a utility and a luxury sedan - provides some clues as to what VW's proposed four-wheel drive wagon could look like.

With chunky, flared guards and a huge 391mm of ground clearance, the AAC has a rugged, purposeful look about it.

At its heart lies a monster V10 diesel engine that cranks out an imposing 233kW. Time will tell whether this powerplant - or a variation of it - will be used in the production off-roader.