Volkswagen has unveiled the 2007 CrossGolf - a crossover-like version of the Golf hatchback. The vehicle is intended for the European market, with no plans disclosed for North American imports. The taller Golf offers more ground clearance and interior space. It's intended to compete with the vehicles like the Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Xtrail. Those of us in North America will likely have to wait for the Volkswagen Tiguan for a compact VW crossover. The Tiguan is expected to ride on a stretched CrossGolf platform with some Passat components. CrossGolf gallery after the jump...

In other news, the next Toyota Corolla-based hatchback that will be sold in the European market will be called the Toyota Auris - a Latin word which means 'good taste'. Toyota had trademarked the Auris name way back in April 2005, more than a year ago! The sedan models will continue to be called the Toyota Corolla though, but Toyota is of the opinion that the modern refresh of the hatch needs a new name. The Toyota Auris takes on similiar design cues to the Toyota Yaris hatch, with a pronounced bulgy bonnet, a familiar front grille and bold headlamps. The bumper looks similiar to the design of the facelifted Toyota Vios. Engine options will feature Toyota's new flagship 1.8 liter unit, as well as a 2.2 liter D4-D turbodiesel.