Autoblog

When we last talked about the Volkswagen Touareg, we noted the new facelifted fascia, the freshened interior, the addition of ABS Plus, enhanced ESP, and most importantly, the possible addition of the 5.0-liter V10 TDI as an available engine. Despite no firm news on that front, we did see a Jetta TDI tooling around that would meet the new ultra-low particulate emissions standards by using ultra-low sulfur fuel, fueling our hopes that this hot rod oilburner might make it Stateside. The recent adoption of low-sulfur diesel fuel in the States has made all of this possible and today, VW made it official by announcing the 2006 VW Touareg TDI is on sale now (looks like the refreshened 2007/8 model wasn't ready for the new engine).

The Touareg V10 TDI is available in showrooms starting today. The 5.0-liter diesel engine pumps out 310 horsepower at 3,750 rpm and 553 lbs-ft of torque at just 2,000 rpm. And the best part is that this high power diesel will consume up to 30 percent less fuel than traditional gasoline engines. The Touareg comes with 4-Motion all-wheel drive, ABS, Anti-slip regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, Engine Braking Assist, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Electronic Stabilization Program with brake assist, Hill Descent Assist and Hill Climb Assist. Pricing on the Touareg V10 TDI starts at $67,750, which is surely a steep sum for a mid-size SUV, but this one's kind of special.

Full release and additional photos after the jump.

[Source: Volkswagen]