Automotive Crystal Ball: VW's Beduin Compact SUV on the Way

Though it shares the majority of its components with the Golf, the Beduin is said to take its image from the recently released

The Beduin is said to take its image from the recently released Golf Plus, a slightly taller and more upright version of the Golf hatchback. (Photo: Volkswagen Canada)

Golf Plus, a slightly taller and more upright version of the Golf hatchback. This general shape will feature Volkswagen's new corporate nose, complete with Passat-like headlamps and the oversized chrome grille. Cladding will be limited to the car's lower extremities, which will provide extra protection through metal accents, and matte-finish fender edges. Around back it will feature rounded LED tail lamps to add a bit of modern flair to its hatchback-like liftgate.

Where the Touareg is a proper off-roader, complete with the 4XMOTION 4X4 system, locking differentials, transfer case and the option of an air suspension to lower and raise ride height and therefore ground clearance, the Beduin is expected to be less hardcore. To help it retain an affordable price tag, VW has opted for Haldex's multi-plate clutch unit, which delivers the performance and traction of all wheel drive without the excessive weight of differentials and expensive locking components. Essentially, this is the same system that has

Where the Touareg is a proper off-roader, the Beduin is expected to be less hardcore. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

been used in all 4Motion and Quattro vehicles that were based off the 'A4' compact platform, including the Audi TT, Audi A3, and all 4Motion variants of the Golf and Jetta.

While the Haldex system has been used in road-going cars so far, with applications in VAG, Volvo and Ford products, the Beduin should fair reasonably well off road with this system. The electronically controlled setup, which automatically adjusts power delivery before distributing it through the front and rear axles, uses the car's brakes to control slipping and tire spin. The addition of at least 60 mm (2.4 inches) of ground clearance, steeper approach and departure angles, plus knobby all-terrain tires should elevate the Beduin to Land Rover Freelander/BMW X3 capabilities off road.