The Touareg R has a power output of 340 kW (462 PS), When the battery is sufficiently charged, the new SUV always starts in electric E-MODE for zero emissions and can be driven at speeds up to 87mph before the turbocharged V6 petrol engine kicks in. The Touareg R will cover most commuter distances in full electric mode.
The hybrid drive of the Touareg R consists of a 2,995 cm3 V6 turbocharged petrol engine (250 kW/340 PS), the electric drive motor (100kW/136 PS) and a lithium-ion battery (energy capacity of 14.1 kWh). An 8-speed automatic gearbox (with Tiptronic) and a transfer box transmit the power to the standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive system.
Designed by the Volkswagen R performance brand, This high-tech Touareg R represents a paradigm shift – it is the first Volkswagen R model to feature a plug-in hybrid drive. It is also the first time a hybrid model has been the most highly-powered Volkswagen.
There is some seriously clever tech on this car, Drivers can control the battery’s charge level using the Hybrid menu in the Infotainment system. It is therefore possible to reserve sufficient levels of electric energy at the end trip so that destinations in built-up areas can be reached with zero emissions.
If the navigation system is active, the battery manager also looks ahead and predictively takes into account the route and topography data to the adapt battery use and thus optimise the electric range.
The latest Travel Assist version is also a new feature, enabling assisted driving up to speeds of 155mph. This generation of Travel Assist reflects the ever higher development standard of Volkswagen’s systems on the way to autonomous driving
The Touareg R is designed for a superior maximum trailer weight of up to 3.5 tonnes. This is also the first plug-in hybrid SUV available with Trailer Assist – an assistance system for automated manoeuvring with a trailer.
Visually, the new car is every inch an R model. There is a subtle body kit, gloss black inserts and R badges, plus 20in Braga alloy wheels or the optional 22in Estoril rims (pictured)