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Volkswagen Touareg R.
Volkswagen is set to add a range-topping new premium model to its flagship Touareg line: the Touareg R. It is a plug-in petrol-electric hybrid.
The hybrid drivetrain of the Volkswagen Touareg R consists of a 335bhp 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine paired with a 134bhp electric drive motor.
Powering the motor is a 14.1kWh lithium-ion battery built into the underbody of the luggage compartment.
The two drive systems in the Volkswagen Touareg R can be combined in a boost function. This will see a full system power of 456bhp, while maximum system torque is 700Nm.
An 8-speed automatic gearbox (with Tiptronic) and a transfer box will transmit power to the front and rear axles via Volkswagen’s 4MOTION permanent all-wheel drive.
The Touareg R comes with a centre differential lock with asymmetric dynamic torque distribution, which distributes torque between the front and rear axle.
Up to 70% of the drive force can be sent to the front axle and a maximum of 80% can be sent to the rear axle.
The Volkswagen Touareg R will always start in the all electric E-MODE for zero emissions driving. The battery capacity is designed so that the Volkswagen Touareg R can cover the average daily commute under electric power.
Distinguishing features of the Touareg R include R-style body colour bumpers and lower door sections. Meanwhile, the air intake grilles, trim strips on the side windows and exterior mirror housings are finished in black.
The Touareg R will also come with ‘R’ logos in the radiator grille and on the boot lid. There will be signets on the front wings and doors, along with darkened LED tail-light clusters.
20-inch Braga alloy wheels are available with black on the inside and burnished on the outside, or in matt grey on the inside and burnished on the outside.
Body colour wheel housing extensions and trapezoidal tailpipes come as standard.
Inside, Vienna leather covers the comfort seats. “R” logos can be found on the head restraints. The SUV is also set apart by its stainless steel load sill protection and new multi-function steering wheel.
In addition, there are illuminated stainless steel door sills, brushed stainless steel pedals and white background lighting.
Click here to read our review of the Touareg 3.0