VOLKSWAGEN'S first off-road all-drive platform emerged in dramatic fashion at the North American Auto Show in Detroit under the imposing bodywork of a high-luxury pick-up truck concept. But the 'advanced activity' model built to test public response also provided the first clues as to the size and specification of the long-awaited 4x4 sport utility car under development with Porsche and due in two years' time.

The study revealed that when it does eventually come from joint production facilities in Leipzig, Germany, the sport utility will be unusual in featuring all-independent suspension and unique in having air springs. Volkswagen design spokesman Charles Ellwood said: 'When you're late in the market place, your product has to be seen as the best.'

Featuring front styling similar to that of the Concept D car unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, the truck concept is powered by a V10 direct injection turbocharged diesel engine developing 313bhp. Its six-speed transmission has Tiptronic, the feature that allows manual pushbutton changes to be made as an alternative to automatic.