Those privy to an early styling model of the new Volkswagen SUV say it departs radically from the ID 4, with a distinctly boxy profile. It’s said to have a bluff front end with a full-width grille incorporating rectangular headlights, an almost horizontal bonnet, upright windscreen, nearly flat roofline and sheer sides. 

The Ruggdzz is also understood to be distinguished from other ID models by a unique glasshouse treatment that makes the C-pillar appear translucent through the application of a glass panel on the outer body. 

As well as a standard-wheelbase five-seater, Volkswagen has drawn up plans for an extended-wheelbase, seven-seat version of the Ruggdzz. This is likely to be aimed primarily at the Chinese and North American markets. 

Autocar sources indicate that there could be a number of Ruggdzz derivatives, with the most extreme model featuring raised ride height and other off-road-inspired elements such as roof-mounted spotlights. 

The basis for the new ID SUV is Volkswagen’s versatile MEB (Modularen Elektrik Baukasten, or modular electric toolkit) platform. 

Technical details are scarce, although it is thought to use a twin electric motor set-up similar to that of the ID 4 to provide it with four-wheel-drive capabilities, including the ability to transfer drive to individual wheels for added traction in rugged terrain. 

As well as providing the basis for the Ruggdzz, a similar MEB set-up is also planned to underpin similarly styled models from Volkswagen sibling brands Seat and Skoda, plus newly formed Chinese marque Jetta. 

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