There are already Touareg hybrid prototypes testing with a brand new 245 kW (333 hp) supercharged 3.0 liter direct-injection V6 gasoline powerplant paired with an electric motor. From 3000 rpm, V6 will generate 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque plus an additional 38kW (52hp) with a tremendous 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) torque. As a parallel hybrid, the Touareg will have both gas engine and electric motor working simultaneously to reduce consumption of fuel and lower eco-harmful emissions.
The electric motor, however, can also power the Touareg on its own up to 50 km/h (30 mph) and VW is also planning to integrate a switch to permit the user an all-electric mode. The Touareg comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission, a start-stop system for further fuel savings in city driving, together with regenerative braking for charing the NMH battery.
The Touareg still maintains its potent capabilities in spite of the shift to hybrid power. It claims to have a towing capability of 3.5 tins and off-road and hill-climbing abilities are not hampered. A lighter Torsen 4x4 differential and electronic power steering have been fitted to balance the weight additions coming from the batteries and hybrid system.
