Paris Motor Show: Volkswagen XL Sport

Isn't Volkswagen meant to be the sensible one?

Apparently it's decided to let its hair down in Paris, with the surprise unveiling of the XL Sport at its traditional pre-show Group Night.

Based on the rather special XL1 eco-car, VW has added a MOTOR twist by adding the 147kW/134Nm 1199cc V2 from the Ducati Panigale V2.

Driving through a seven-speed DSG 'box, it's enough to shift the 890kg XL Sport to 100km/h in 5.7sec and on to a 269km/h top speed. Thank the super slippery 0.25Cd for that impressive Vmax.

There are also carbon-ceramic brakes and magnesium wheels with 205/40 tyres up front and 265/35 at the rear.

Sadly, VW says there is no plans for the XL Sport to reach production, which is a massive shame, as the thought of that V-twin screaming at 11,000rpm is enough to give us goosebumps.