Touareg Prices And Specification Are Announced

Prices for Volkswagen’s new Touareg off-road vehicle have been revealed, at £29,335 on the road for the 3.2-litre V6, rising to £50,440 for the flagship 5.0-litre V10 TDI. The car will be available to order within the next few weeks through a limited distribution network, ahead of its UK launch on 1 May.

The Touareg was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show last September, and made its UK debut at the Birmingham Show shortly afterwards. The car created an unprecedented amount of interest at the British show – as did its technologically advanced V10 TDI engine, the most powerful passenger car diesel to date. This powerplant produces an exceptional 553 lbs ft of torque at just 2000 rpm, making it especially suitable for off-road driving.

Competing in the luxury SUV vehicle segment, the Touareg is designed to deliver class-leading performance both on and off the road. Features such as permanent four-wheel drive; a low-ratio gearbox; electronic traction control linked to an auto-locking centre differential; optional, selectable mechanical front and rear differential locks; hill start and descent assist; and short front and rear overhangs, all contribute to its impressive ability when venturing off the beaten track. When back on the road, ABS; ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) and BAS (Brake Assist System) are important safety aids, and are fitted as standard to every model.

Initially, the Touareg range will consist of three engines: the 220 PS 3.2-litre V6 and 310 PS 4.2-litre V8 petrol powerplants and the 313 PS 5.0-litre V10 TDI turbodiesel. Later this year, they will be joined by a 174 PS 2.5-litre TDI engine, which is expected to cost around £750 less than the V6. A six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission is fitted across the range, while the V6 and 2.5 TDI will also be available with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Luxury car customers will not be disappointed by the Touareg’s generous list of standard equipment. Every version will include ‘2Zone’ electronic climate control; multifunction computer with steering wheel controls; a ten-speaker CD system; cruise control; electric windows; electrically heated, adjustable and foldable door mirrors; and walnut interior wood trim. Other notable features include driver’s, front passenger’s and front seat side airbags with a curtain airbag system; alarm with interior protection and immobiliser; and, on the V6 model, 17 inch alloy wheels.

Move up to the V8, and the list includes an automatic dimming rear view mirror; dusk-sensing light system; electrically adjustable and heated front seats; engine compartment lights; leather seats; and rain sensing wipers. Externally, a chrome finish on the door sills and grille distinguish this version from the V6.