VW Unveils The Sport Coupe Concept GTE

VW Sport Coupe Concept GTE (Credit: Volkswagen )

The Geneva International Motor Show is like Christmas morning for most car enthusiasts and it’s that time of year again. Volkswagen certainly hasn’t disappointed this year, unveiling its Sport Coupe Concept GTE. While some people might yawn at concepts since they might not become production vehicles, this one is particularly important not just because it looks great, but because VW says it signals an upcoming shift in the company’s entire design language.

The Sport Coupe Concept GTE is being called an evolution and revolution of the company’s design. That’s understandable, considering that even without the big VW badges it clearly is a Volkswagen, and yet it introduces some exciting new elements that aren’t available through dealers right now.

VW Sport Coupe Concept GTE (Credit: Volkswagen)

Even though it’s a sedan, it has the styling of a coupe. That’s nothing new, just look at the CC and a handful of other cars on the market. The interior appears more sedan-like, which hopefully means people over 5-foot 10-inches can sit in the backseat without hunching over. The big sloping rear end also provides functionality like a hatchback without being unfortunate-looking, such as the various BMW Gran Turismo models or the Honda Crosstour.

VW Sport Coupe Concept GTE (Credit: Volkswagen )

One of the more interesting features showcased in the concept is the use of biometrics to connect the driver and the vehicle. The driver wears a smartwatch or armband that can monitor heart rate and other vitals. Based on that information, the navigation system selects a route to suit the driver’s mood. Hopefully the system can differentiate between an elevated heart rate based on the excitement to sit behind the wheel and the rising stress of hitting the freeway in Southern California during rush hour. Of course, the driver can just select the quickest route if time’s of the essence, but where’s the fun in that?

Powering the Volkswagen Sport Coupe Concept GTE is a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 3.0-liter TSI V-6 engine that puts out 295 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft. of torque. A lithium-ion battery is tucked away in the center tunnel, feeding electricity to two motors. Total system output is 374 horsepower.

VW Sport Coupe Concept GTE (Credit: Volkswagen )