Offroaders and environment usually don’t go along, with the big American trucks and SUV’s bearing the ire of the greens most often than not. And now, the Austrian auto engineering firm, Magna Steyr has just taken off the wraps of its latest compact 4WD SUV, albeit a clean one at that which will keep the green brigade happy at the Geneva Motor Show. Magna Steyr prefer to call their latest MILA Alpin concept vehicle a compact offroading climbing specialist which can be used both for utility and recreation. Compact SUV’s are not known to do real offroading like their bigger full blown brothers. They are more suited to hustle smaller cars in the urbanscape and are often called jocularly called soft roader’s. But, jokes apart, don’t be fooled into beleiving the Mila alpin’s ‘compact’ badging. Though it is compact, this baby packs quite a mean punch. For starters, the Mila alpin makes a radical departure from compact SUV territory by having a 3+1 passenger layout. The innovation continues into the the modular design cabin which can be made using a blend of different materials, layout’s and to keep costs down, across different OEM’s.
Coming to what the Mila’s offroading prowess, it has 3 different engines to fit its modular design with a range of fuel options from a small 100g CO2 per Km gasoline engine to Hybrid and a CNG version as well. Finally SUV’s are getting serious about emissions and fuel efficiency. For offroading, the Mila Alpin has a huge ground clearance, independent suspension, a transfer lock case, Electronic stability program, and the mid engined layout which further aids stability.
The Mila’s High seating position, large overhangs, low crawling speeds and it’s ability to motor across 45 degree inclines make it one phenomenal offroader. So far so good but, the styling is a little garish, even considering SUV standards. But, that is always a matter of individual preference. Watch this space.
Source: Gizmag
