The Volkswagen Caddy Cross -- coming in panel van form to the UK early in 2013.

Volkswagen’s answer to the Ford Transit Connect Sport, the Caddy Cross, is due in the UK from early 2013. 

Sporting versions of popular vans are thin on the ground but have always proved popular, from Vauxhall’s Sportive specification Astravan and Vivaro, through to the more exotic and exclusive Transit SportVan.

Volkswagen already offers Sportline versions of its popular vans but is now getting ready to take van styling to the next level.

The German company is about to introduce  the Caddy Cross, a high-specification and distinctive version of its popular Caddy van, a small van model that competes directly with the Transit Connect and Citroen Berlingo.

The interior is smart too, as long as you like green...

With striking Viper Green paintwork, 17-inch ‘Canyon’ alloy wheels and a black body kit, the Caddy Cross special edition will be impossible to miss and the interior is equally distinctive, featuring a two-tone front seat design with contrasting inserts on the door panels, plus height and length adjustable centre armrest, leather-covered steering wheel and distinctive grey stitching on the gear knob and handbrake.

This model is due to go into production in early 2013 with a wide selection of engines, plus the option of 4MOTION all-wheel drive.  Volkswagen expects to introduce the Caddy Cross as a panel van model in the UK in the first half of 2013.

The Caddy Cross will make its debut at the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show in Hanover later this week.