These are the first shots of the upcoming Volkswagen three-row SUV, caught testing clevery disguised near VWs Southern California facility. The still-unnamed rival to the likes of the Toyota Highlander has been spotted out in the wild. The side profile looks very similar to the 2013 CrossBlue concept that previewed this vehicle, and the rear is consistent with shapes introduced on the 2016 Passat sedan.

VW's SUV will be based on the MQB platform introduced on the 2015 Golf family – and the basis of nearly all future VW models. It should offer at least seven seats and be sized similarly to the Honda Pilot.

Expect an interior in line with the new Golf models. Loaded with features such as a sunroof and driver assistance technologies, the crossover will be among the most expensive vehicles sold at a VW showroom in the U.S. The 3.6-litre V6 from the Passat is expected, mated to standard front-wheel drive or optional 4Motion all-wheel drive. A smaller 2.0-litre turbo four is also a possibility, but in the States a diesel is less likely at introduction given the state of VW's emissions scandal. A hybrid has been mentioned as a possibility, as well, so expect a PHEV version at some point in this model's lifecycle.

Timing is still hazy, but the SUV should appear with a name by spring 2017, and be built at the Chattanooga, Tennessee plant. So far, VW plans to only sell the vehicle in the U.S. and Canada, although other markets are being studied.

P.S.: If you look closely you’ll discover the whole front fascia at the pictured prototypes is fake, and so are the taillamps, rear fog lights, the added plastic elements in the lower edges of the rear door and even the shape of the rearmost side window. Good work, VW ;-)

Footage copyright Automedia

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