The German automaker has finally revealed the long-awaited VW Touareg R plug-in hybrid before its official debut in Geneva. Although it is the automaker’s first R model with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, this is not the first Touareg R. Volkswagen introduced the first Touareg R50 in 2000 featuring a 5.0L V10 TDI engine.
Talking about the new VW Touareg R plug-in hybrid, it carries a 3.0L V6 assisted by an electric motor. The engine creates 335 horsepower while the electric motor churns out 134 hp. With both units in action, the hot SUV can generate 456 hp and 700 Newton-meters of torque. Comparing it to the regular Touareg V8 model, this hybrid vehicle yields an extra 40 horsepower.
On the electric mode, the new Touareg R can speed up to 140 km/h. The electric motor gets power from a lithium-ion battery pack that sits in the trunk. The driver can enjoy the emission-free driving for up to 48 kilometers and that’s when the petrol engine kicks in. The electrified SUV isn’t a slouch when it comes to 0 to 100 km/h acceleration. Push the pedal hard and it will reach the 100 kph mark in five seconds and will max out at 250 km/h.
The VW Touareg R plug-in hybrid is the third PHEV model in VW’s European lineup, but it is the first to feature an all-wheel-drive layout. The engine mates to an eight-speed automatic transmission with a Torsen central differential lock.
The design is pretty much you would expect from an R-badged Volkswagen model. Unique to this model is a black Puglia leather package for the interior.
The Touareg R will be available alongside Golf GTI and GTD at VW’s stand in Geneva. The pricing details aren’t revealed yet but we know it will hit European roads soon after summer.
Source and Images: Motor1