Volkswagen unveiled today the completely redeveloped Touareg which promises to be the technically innovative “VW” since the brand has been in existence. The new SUV brings a new range of engines that are nearly 20 percent more efficient as well as a large variety of new assistance and safety systems. Also, the new car will be the first and only off-roader in Europe by a German car maker to be available in a hybrid version too. Regarding the engines, these will be capable to show a fuel consumption value of just 8.2 litres fuel per 100 kilometres (these figures are for the petrol engines). The Touareg Hybrid can be driven up to 50 km/h in purely electric mode - emissions-free. Among the diesel engines, the Touareg V6 TDI will deliver an impressive 7.4 litre combined fuel consumption now posts the best value in the segment of genuine SUVs. All engines, now offered with a standard 8-speed automatic transmission – a first in this market segment.
This new generation of SUVs has been lightened by 208 kilograms in the base version and is based on the new Volkswagen design DNA, featuring a smaller frontal area. Also modified in pursuit of reduced fuel consumption was the standard all-wheel drive. In the base version (”4Motion”), all new generation Touaregs have all-wheel drive with Torsen limited-slip differential (4MOTION; climbing ability: 31 degrees). The new car is not only lighter, more fuel efficient and an agile performer, it is also more versatile. The new interior is now more functional, the seats more comfortable and leg room in the rear is larger. Now the rear bench seat has 160 millimetres in longitudinal adjustment, and the backrest angle can be adjusted. Electrically unlatched at the press of a button as an option, it folds down in seconds and frees up 1,642 litres of cargo space. As a standard equipment the new Touareg features equipment in the base version is a radio-CD and info system, which is intuitively controlled over a 6.5-inch touch-screen. The parking brake is now activated by pushbutton and now the V6 versions automatically shuts off at traffic lights and restarts as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal (Stop-Start system). The largest panoramic sunroof of all SUVs provides for light even on overcast days.
