2011 Volkswagen Cross Touran Launched In Malaysia

The trio of Volkswagen models simultaneously launched in Malaysia includes a more unconventional choice: the 2011 Volkswagen Cross Touran mid-size seven-seater crossover, available as a 1.4 TSI variant priced at RM 166,888, deemed significant enough to be introduced alongside the Jetta and the Passat. Unlike the two sedans, however, the Cross Touran has not been mentioned in the local assembly lineup over the next two years.

To give a better impression of an SUV, the Volkswagen Cross Touran gains wider wheel arches, dark plastic trimming on its exterior, along with 20 mm extra ground clearance compared with the standard Touran. The front end, dominated by bi-xenon headlamps with daytime running lights, is grafted over from the Golf Mk6, with which it shares a chassis.

Despite its crossover-wannabe appearance, the Volkswagen Cross Touran is an MPV through and through, boasting an optional third-seating row, 40 storage bins and a maximum of 1989 litres of cargo-carrying space. Leather is found on the multi-functional steering wheel with paddle shift control and gearshift knob, but not on the seats. Other notable items include a two-zone climate control, cruise control and an audio system with CD player, MP3 player and USB/AUX inputs.

Powering the Volkswagen Cross Touran is the same 1.4-litre twin-charged TSI engine as in the Jetta, but at a weaker state of tune producing 140 PS at 5600 rpm and 220 Nm between 1250–4500 rpm. The transmission is the same seven-speed DSG as the Jetta's as well. The performance figures of 9.8 seconds taken for the century sprint and the top speed of 194 km/h are very good for a people-carrier like the Cross Touran.

The official fuel economy of 14.1 km/litre and carbon emissions rated at 164 grams/km are even more impressive for an MPV. Perhaps taken for granted on a Volkswagen but no less important is the Euro-NCAP five-star rating, which is achieved thanks to six airbags, braking controls (ABS, EBD, brake assist), traction controls (ASR, EDL, EDTC), and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with driver steering recommendation. Enjoy the 2011 Volkswagen Cross Touran official gallery below!