A Slightly Larger Body

This new Touareg is a model that has further evolved its driving performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency from the previous generation, and is attracting attention for being Volkswagen's first hybrid vehicle.

Compared to the current model, the first major change is the exterior design. The front mask shares a common image with the new Golf and Polo, and the aerodynamic design significantly enhances its sporty feel. Despite being a large SUV, it gives an impression of being compact, which is also a characteristic of this new model.

The actual dimensions are 4,758mm in length, 1,928mm in width, and 1,724mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,900mm. Compared to the current model, the length and wheelbase have increased by 40mm, the height has decreased by 20mm, and the width remains unchanged. Although it has become slightly larger, efforts to reduce weight have also succeeded in slimming it down by up to 208kg compared to the current model. Nevertheless, body rigidity is said to have been increased by approximately 5%.

The engines offered are the turbocharged diesel "TDI" in two types: a 3.0-liter V6 (240ps, 56kgm) and a 4.2-liter V8 (340ps, 81.6kgm). All transmissions are 8-speed automatics, and the V6 model features an idling stop system. This is said to have improved fuel efficiency by up to approximately 20% compared to the current model.

Volkswagen's First Hybrid Model Also in the Lineup

Volkswagen's first hybrid system combines a 3.0-liter direct-injection V6 supercharger from the Audi S4 with a maximum output of 333ps and a maximum torque of 36.6kgm, with a motor that has a maximum output of 47ps and a maximum torque of 22.6kgm, achieving a total system output of 380ps and 59.2kgm. This system provides the new Touareg with powerful performance, achieving 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 240km/h.

Incidentally, this motor can travel independently up to 50km/h, and by adopting idling stop, regenerative braking, and EV driving modes, it achieves a European combined fuel economy of 12.2km/l and CO2 emissions of 193g/km, which are top-class levels for a large European SUV. The drive system is full-time 4WD "4MOTION" with a Torsen LSD. The maximum climbing ability is said to be 35 degrees.

The interior is characterized by an expanded rear legroom and the addition of a 160mm slide and recline function for the rear seats. The cargo space, depending on seat arrangement, ranges from 580 liters (VDA measurement method) to a maximum of 1642 liters. The new Touareg will be officially announced at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Sales in Europe are scheduled to begin in April.