The new Volkswagen CrossFox is more confusing than high-end quantum physics. On one hand this metallic enigma, which is popular in Latin America and possibly on its way to Europe, is based on the Fox city car - yet it is styled like a rugged four-wheel-drive mud plunger. This sounds reasonable in theory, but the CrossFox only has front-wheel-drive so it has the off-road capability of a supermarket shopping trolley.
What we have here then is style over function. So, the VW CrossFox has high ground clearance, chunky tyres, a robust bull bar, aluminium running boards, and extra lights to illuminate the mountains it cannot climb. That said, this fashion statement does have its uses. On-road the CrossFox is a capable cruiser with a firm yet comfortable ride. This complements the smooth 1.6-litre engine that propels the CrossFox to 62mph in roughly ten seconds, although this 101bhp unit lacks the torque required for tough terrain.
But hold on, here comes the CrossFox's trump card. More than anything this puzzling machine is a Volkswagen. This virtually guarantees rock-solid reliability, ease of ownership, a reasonable equipment specification, and the kind of longevity that makes the pyramids look like newcomers. The VW CrossFox may be fashion over function in many ways, but those who crave something genuinely distinctive will absolutely love it.