Volkswagen New Small Family Bound for U.S. Market

"We're planning to offer the vehicle in the U.S.," said Volkswagen of America spokesman Steve Keyes in an e-mail to Inside Line. "However, which model[s] and name is not decided. You may recall that the concept was called Up!"

Earlier this week, Volkswagen AG said the New Small Family will be built in Slovakia.

"The first vehicles in the new family are already due to roll off the Volkswagen production lines in Slovakia at the beginning of 2011 for delivery to customers throughout the world," the company said in a statement. "Three-door and five-door models will then be available for the Volkswagen, Seat and Skoda brands."

Volkswagen hinted at the New Small Family at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show with its first study of the city car. The second version with its smart space concept followed at the 2007 Tokyo Show.

Inside Line says: A version of the Volkswagen Up! could be in your driveway in the near future. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent