It should be placed below the Tiguan.

Yesterday, Volkswagen pulled out of the Beetle. This was the last instance (at least for the moment) of the iconic model that rolled off the production lines at the Puebla factory in Mexico. According to a report from Automotive News, the German automaker will replace the two-door, retro-styled hatchback with a brand new SUV for American markets.

According to the publication, Steffen Reiche (VW of Mexico CEO) confirmed that a Tarek crossover version of Volkswagen’s Tarek will be manufactured at the plant beginning in 2020. Sales in the United States are expected to start by 2021. This model is closely related to that of the VW Tharu, which was only sold in China.

Reiche stated that the Chinese model will be used for this market during a ceremony to mark the end of production at the Puebla plant. “Our version will outperform the Chinese model, and it will be stronger than the Chinese.” The Tarek (named not yet for the U.S.) is located below the Tiguan.

The Future at VW’s Puebla Plant

The Chinese version measures 175.3 inches in length, 72.5 inches wide and 64.3 inches high. It also has a 105.5 inch wheelbase. The People’s Republic offers three engine options for the model: a 1.2-liter turbo with 116 horsepower, 150 hp turbo, and a 2.0 turbo with 186hp. All of these engines use a seven speed dual-clutch gearbox.

 

It’s unclear at this time if the American version of the vehicle will have the same powertrain lineup, but we expect at minimum the 2.0-liter engine to be available in the USA. It is not clear if Volkswagen will offer its new crossover with all-wheel drive, or if it will be an FWD-only model. Further details will be available later in the year.