The Volkswagen AAC (Advance Activity Vehicle) was a design study based on the Volkswagen Concept D, (which became the Volkswagen Touareg) converted into a car-unibody-based pickup. It had a 313 horsepower, twin turbocharged V10 TDI diesel engine that produced around 553 lb-ft of torque. Impressive numbers, even by today’s standards. The power was channeled to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.
Built for off-road excursions, the Volkswagen AAC 4×4 had front and rear trick electronic lockers that were built to work with each individual tire – along with an aggressive traction control system/electronic stability program that works in tandem with the lockers to provide the best possible off-road capability.
Unusual for pickup trucks and off-road vehicles, the Volkswagen AAC had four-wheel, double wishbone, independent suspension. There was some under body protection and it appears to have a good approach angle along with good ground clearance. This is based on me simply looking at the photos. I could be wrong, and there are no official numbers available to back up my observations.
The interior looks like it was assembled from the Audi parts bin, but that’s a good thing. The leather and metal mix is a popular theme for concept trucks throughout the 2000’s as are clamshell doors. I do admire the purposeful looking, very large dials and buttons. The entire design is immaculate and compliments the exterior boldness.
Nice.
One thing I will say is that the Volkswagen AAC, it’s a handsome looking design. There’s a ton of torque coming out of something that fits in the midsize truck market. I bet it would have been outrageously expensive to buy and maintain. Still, I would have enjoyed taking this one over out Ike Gauntlet.
What do you think?
