Volkswagen Atacama Shoots for Vantastic

WOLFSBURG, Germany — Volkswagen has muffed several attempts to transform its rather dowdy vans and people movers into appealing "youth-oriented" vehicles. Here's one that actually looks both rugged and attractive and is unabashedly aimed at males.

Due to be unveiled next week at the Paris show, the Atacama concept (named for the desert in Chile) is based on the European Transporter van. The four-wheel-drive design study is intended for both on- and off-road use. It looks quite functional, with aluminum radiator, air vents and extended wheel arches.

The Atacama incorporates roof rails and a rear ladder with an integrated door handle. It is powered by a 164-horsepower 2.5-liter turbodiesel with a six-speed gearbox and rides on 20-inch wheels and tires.

VW said if the concept draws a favorable reception from auto-show audiences, it may build a limited run of 100 vehicles.

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