Autoblog

Spy Shots: Prototype 2011 Volkswagen Touareg caught naked?

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 17:58:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Europe, Volkswagen

Hey there, odd looking, what you got cooking? Yes, we're pretty positive you're looking (or about to be looking) at the 2011 Volkswagen Touareg caught without its robe on. Visually speaking, not much has changed. The front clip and hood look more in line with the sixth generation Golf/GTI. From behind, you can see an awful lot of Porsche Cayenne - which is not surprising as the two SUVs are very closely related - especially these days.

We're always liked the Touareg. It's one of those special Volkswagens built almost entirely out of Ferdinand Piech's adrenal glands, akin to the Phaeton and Bugatti Veyron. All three are cars built (largely) without compromise. Don't believe us? Allow us to suggest a weekend with the twin-turbo V10 TDI model - it really will bring you around to our way of thinking. 553 lb-ft of blown diesel torque at 1,800 rpm tends to have that effect on people.

The question now is, will this new 2011 Volkswagen Touareg be anywhere near as phantasmagorical as the last one? We can't say (yet), but we're thinking VW's going to probably dial the "hell yeah!" back a bit. That's just the way of things. Of course, they may not. Either way, we just hope they figure out how to make the next one more reliable. A tip of our off roadin' flap hats to Paul!

[Source: Secret New Cars]

Spy Shots: Prototype 2011 Volkswagen Touareg caught naked? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Volkswagen Touareg successor headed for Detroit

Michael Harley — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:32:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Spy Photos, Hybrid, SUV, Volkswagen

2011 Volkswagen Touareg - Click above for high-res image gallery

January's North American International Auto Show (Detroit Auto Show) is expected to host the debut of Volkswagen's all-new third-generation Touareg SUV (the facelifted "second-gen" arrived in the States as a 2008 model). While details are few, rumor has it that VW will introduce its new Touareg with a variety of powerplant choices during its first model year, including a hybrid variant.

As previously reported, the hybrid is expected to combine the supercharged 3.0-liter TSI V6 from the Audi S4 mated to a 38 kW electric motor. An all-new eight-speed automatic transmission wraps up the package. Total combined power is 374 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. With an all-wheel drive powertrain, the Touareg Hybrid should sprint to 60 mph in less than seven seconds and return a combined EPA fuel economy figure of about 26 mpg. While it debuts in just two months, the new Volkswagen Touareg isn't expected in showrooms until the second half of 2010.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Volkswagen Touareg successor headed for Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg caught desert testing

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Volkswagen

2011 Volkswagen Touareg - Click above for a high-res gallery of spy shots

The Volkswagen Touareg (and its Porsche counterpart) are getting long in the tooth, and come 2011, both models are due for a full redesign expected to include a thorough makeover and a diet.

Caught testing in the California desert, the next generation Touareg gets a few new curves, primarily on the undisguised center section and flared rear shoulders - very similar to spy shots of the reworked Cayenne.

Early reports indicate that VW aims to address the two of the main complaints of the current model: limited seating and a bloated curb weight. As such, VW could reduce the overall tonnage of the Touareg by around 300 pounds (although the initial target was 600 pounds) by making all-wheel drive an option on certain drive train configurations. V-Dub is also considering adding a third row, although don't expect the cramped confines to get any more cushy in the process.

In addition to the 3.6-liter V6 and 4.2-liter V8, VW will be adding the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 (currently used on the Audi S4 and A6) in a hybrid configuration to the mix, along with a 3.0-liter V6 TDI. Neither the V10 diesel or the W12 will carryover, but considering the current economic climate, no surprise there. Expect the all-new Touareg to debut sometime early next year with sales beginning in the second half of 2010.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg

Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg caught desert testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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(Over) Active Aero: VW recalling Touareg over spoilers that might take flight

Chris Paukert — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Government/Legal, Recalls, Safety, Volkswagen

With products like its now-defunct Corrado sports coupe, Volkswagen has proven that they understand the benefits of active aerodynamics - but a new recall in conjunction with the National HIghway Traffic Safety Administration centers on the potential for some completely unintentional and undesired active aero with the company's products.

According to NHTSA, VW will recall 14,416 2007-2009 Touareg SUVs because the vehicle's roof spoiler can jettison itself from the vehicle, potentially striking pedestrians or other vehicles. Apparently, the problem stems from the fastening struts on the spoiler which can crack, leading to the loosening or outright detachment of the aerodynamic element.

Owners of Touaregs covered under the recall can bring their vehicles to their local dealer, which will install reinforcement wedges to the assembly for free. Official recall information posted after the jump. Top tip, Jeff!

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading (Over) Active Aero: VW recalling Touareg over spoilers that might take flight

(Over) Active Aero: VW recalling Touareg over spoilers that might take flight originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Diesel TDI model grabs 81% of VW Jetta Sportwagen sales in June

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:39:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Trends, Hybrid, Sedan, SUV, Wagon, Volkswagen, Diesel

2009 Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Honda and everyone else may not think there is much of a market for mainstream diesel vehicles in the United States, but Volkswagen would beg to differ. Since it launched its new generation diesels last fall in the Jetta and earlier this year in the Touareg, they have been selling like hotcakes with June being its best month yet. Last month was the best sales month to date for the Sportwagen with 1,982 sales and a whopping 81% of those were equipped with the 2.0-liter TDI four-cylinder.

Among the 8,431 Jetta sedans sold in June, 40% were diesel powered. And while the Touareg followed most other SUVs with a 41% overall decline to only 330 units in June, 29% of those had the 3.0-liter V6 TDI engine. Rabbit sales were down 69% in June, but a redesigned Golf is arriving in September, including a TDI - and if fuel prices keep climbing through the summer, it could see a huge sales spike as well.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 VW Jetta Sportwagen

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Diesel TDI model grabs 81% of VW Jetta Sportwagen sales in June

Diesel TDI model grabs 81% of VW Jetta Sportwagen sales in June originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg spotted

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 22 May 2009 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Volkswagen

Volkswagen is preparing its 2011 Touareg, and the company's most expensive expensive Stateside offering is slated to lose weight. Although the German automaker is reportedly aiming for a 600 pound drop, shedding 300 pounds is said to be more realistic, and the going speculation is that the mass will be taken out of the SUV's exceptional four-wheel-drive capability.

In terms of its sheetmetal, the Touareg is being designed by Walter de'Silva, the pen behind the Audi Q7, TT, and A5 among other VW Group products.

Part of the diet challenge is that the SUV is also widely expected to gain a third row, going from a five-seater to a seven-seater, in part to distance itself from its newer, less-expensive Tiguan brethren.

If Car and Driver's sources are on their game, word is that the U.S. engine lineup won't change, but the European V10 diesel will be swapped out for the Audi V8 TDI (already employed in the Q7), and the W12 will go on hiatus, possibly to return in sunnier economic times. There will also be a hybrid in the offing, with the same supercharged 3.0-liter V6 setup seen in Porsche's Cayenne Hybrid.

[Source: Car and Driver]

Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 May 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Volkswagen, First Drive

Volkswagen Touareg TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

The way Volkswagen talks up the $42,800 Touareg V6 TDI, you'd almost think it was the ninja of SUVs: a single package with so many highly developed capabilities that its gas-engined foes are annihilated and left on the side of the road with ninja shuriken lodged in their tailgates before they even realize they've been outdone. The engine alone promises reduced fuel consumption, fewer emissions, more power, more torque, better responsiveness and quiet progress. The only questions then are: Does it deliver and will anyone buy it? We took it for a spin to find out. Follow the jump for the story.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI

Continue reading First Drive: Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI

First Drive: Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Detroit 2009: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited sports J. Crew colors

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:31:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, SUV, Volkswagen, Specialty

Click above for a high-res gallery of the VW Touareg Lux Limited Edition

The VW Touareg Lux Limited Edition is a 'ute that's been on a shopping spree to J. Crew and High Street, or at least a mainstream, aftermarket shop. Available on either the gasoline- or diesel-engined SUVs - and only in America - the Lux Limited gets side skirts and slightly tweaked front and rear aprons to differentiate it from the run-o-the-mill Touareg. The wheel selection is called Ayer's Rock (not "Uluru"?) and only available in the 20-inch variety.

VW took the color wheel out one night and got it drunk. Exterior hues for the Lux Limited are Biscay Blue, Campanella White, Galapagos Gray, and Black Magic Pearl Effect. The interior cricket leather is done up in one of two duo-tone color choices with complementary accents - like Latte Macchiato and St. Tropez white with poplar grain decor. And if anyone can tell us what "Engine Spin dark" decor looks like, we are all... eyes. So put on the Hootie, order some chablis and brie, have a look at the press release after the jump, and check out the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited sports J. Crew colors

Detroit 2009: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited sports J. Crew colors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Visions from the Baja 1000: VW puts its diesel in the dirt [w/VIDEO]

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, SUV, Videos, Volkswagen

Click above for high-res image gallery of shots from the 2008 Baja 1000

Autoblog got its feet muddy - and did its best to avoid the cow pies - at the Baja 1000 a few weeks ago with Volkswagen. While things could have gone better for the 550-hp diesel Race Touareg2, finishing in 13th position with a relatively untested truck is a fine result. Finishing the Baja 1000 at all is a fine result, in fact. Check out the full story and video after the jump, and the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: VW Race Touareg 2 at the 2008 Baja 1000

Continue reading Visions from the Baja 1000: VW puts its diesel in the dirt [w/VIDEO]

Visions from the Baja 1000: VW puts its diesel in the dirt [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VW Touareg V6 TDI price: $42,800

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, SUV, Volkswagen

A gent named Chris at VW of Langhorne, Pennsylvania, just received the order guide for the Touareg V6 TDI, and the numbers reveal that it will arrive on our shores in January with a base price of $42,800, or $43,490 with the destination charge. That base price is $3,500 more than the Touareg V6 FSI, money that will get you slightly less horsepower but about 150 lb-ft. more torque and about 4.5 more mpg. Options include the Luxury Package for $2,700, Tech Package for $3,350, and Luxury Plus for $5,400. If you want to do something with your Touareg other than go get hotdogs, the rear locking diff is $700, a trailer hitch runs you $500, and you can throw in the silkiness that is the four-corner air suspension for $2,750. There's no word yet on invoice pricing, and it will be interesting to see if people stump up for the premium without getting huge deals on the lot.

[Source: Club Touareg]

VW Touareg V6 TDI price: $42,800 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2008 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, SUV, Volkswagen

VW Touareg V10 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the Volkswagen Touareg first arrived around five years ago, the SUV became the first production home to Volkswagen's then-new V10 TDI engine. However, as the old saw goes, "Time waits for no man"... or machine apparently. After a relatively short run, Volkswagen's 5.0L V10 turbodiesel is soon being consigned to the scrap heap of history. Increasingly stringent emissions requirements have meant that the V10 could only be sold in 45 states for the last two years with sales in the large market of California being verboten.

The Touareg will, of course, live on, and the TDI version will be transformed early next year into a new 50-state legal version using the same 3.0L diesel V6 that propels the Q7 we drove during the recent Audi Mileage Marathon. The Touareg itself was not only the first application for the diesel V10, it was also Volkswagen's first SUV. The architecture of the Touareg was developed in cooperation with long-time "friend" Porsche who happen to use the same platform for its Cayenne. Later, Audi popped out its own longer wheelbase variant as the Q7. Find out what it's like to live with this lame duck diesel beast after the jump.

Gallery: Review: 2008 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI

Continue reading Review: 2008 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI

Review: 2008 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VW Rabbit TDI confirmed for next fall, no diesel Tiguan

Michael Harley — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Crossover, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Click on the image above for our high-res gallery of the Golf VI

Volkswagen officials gave Autoblog some insight into their new model roll-out plans when we met with them earlier this week at the media drive for the new 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI. First into showrooms will be the 3.0-liter Touareg TDI, scheduled to start production in Mid-February 2009. It will followed by the MK VI GTI, based on the new Golf making its debut at the Paris Motor Show next month. The 2.5-liter Rabbit (gas) and 2.0-liter Rabbit TDI (diesel) will follow in the fall. Absent from VW's diesel lineup is the Tiguan. Larger and heavier than the compact cars currently utilizing the 2.0-liter TDI, the engine would need an urea injection to meet emission standards -- and the crossover wasn't designed with a storage tank in mind. Sorry diesel fans, the Tiguan will be sitting this one out for a while.

Gallery: Volkswagen Golf VI

[Source: AutoblogGreen]

VW Rabbit TDI confirmed for next fall, no diesel Tiguan originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Sep 2008 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VW Touareg Trophy Truck coming this fall with V12 TDI

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:34:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Volkswagen

For several years now, Volkswagen has been running diesel-powered Touaregs in a variety of off-road series around the world, including the Dakar Rally, and in the last couple of years, they have won their classes at the Baja 500 and Pikes Peak Hill Climb. The versions used so far have run either a 2.5L five-cylinder engine or the 5.0L V10. Arciero-Miller Racing announced at last year's SEMA show that it was building a new Touareg to compete in the SCORE Trophy Truck Open Production - Unlimited Class. During the inaugural Jetta TDI Cup race last weekend, VW of America PR boss Steve Keyes revealed that the new truck would be powered by the 6.0L V12 TDI diesel that is going into the Audi Q7 TDI V12. That's also the same engine that propels the Audi R8 TDI concept. The tube frame Touareg Trophy Truck will be covered with body work developed by VW that looks vaguely like a Touareg while being a foot longer. The automaker hasn't announced were it will unveil the new off-road racer this fall, but it is scheduled to run in the Baja 1000 this November.

[Source: Diesel Forecast]

VW Touareg Trophy Truck coming this fall with V12 TDI originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Porsche warming to diesels

Michael Harley — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Green, Porsche, Volkswagen

In yet another move demonstrating that Porsche is capitulating to the greener crowd, an industry newsletter is reporting that the German automaker's executives have overcome their long-time reservations about diesel powerplants and are considering such a vehicle for their lineup by 2010.

Reportedly, Porsche is studying a diesel engine for its upscale Cayenne SUV. This would be the second non-gasoline engine for the Cayenne, as the Cayenne Hybrid is expected to turn up in 2010 as well. The diesel would be borrowed from Volkswagen, a company Porsche has significant stake in. The platform-sharing Volkswagen Touareg has offered a diesel in the States since 2006 (you know, it's the one that pulls 747s).

[Source: Automotive News Europe - Sub. Req'd]

Porsche warming to diesels originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 02 Mar 2008 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Practical Joke of the Day: VW Touareg Cabrio

Alex Nunez — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 08:13:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, SUV, Europe, Volkswagen

Click image for photo gallery

December 28 is the "día de los Inocentes" in Spain, which is basically equivalent to our April Fool's Day. Bogus media stories are part of the fun, and it looks like businesses get in on the action, too. Case in point: Volkswagen.

If you visit VW Spain's website today, you're greeted with the normal landing page, which spotlights the "new Touareg Cabrio" at the top. Clicking on the image brings you to touaregcabrio.com, a microsite registered to VW's Spanish division according to a quick WHOIS lookup.

There, you're given three links: Acabados (trim levels), Motores (engines), and Galería (gallery). Clicking on any of them lets you know it's all a joke, and allows you to forward the gag to a friend. If you do that, your buddy will receive this email message, which "introduces" the reader the ragtop Touareg and directs him or her to the website. Tomorrow, it'll probably all be gone. Go through the motions yourselves starting here. If you miss it on 12/28, no worries. We've screen-captured all the elements in the attached gallery.

Feliz día de los Inocentes, everyone!

[Source: VW España via German Car Blog]

Gallery: VW Touareg Cabrio

Practical Joke of the Day: VW Touareg Cabrio originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2007 08:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Next-gen VW Touareg

Chris Shunk — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 08:05:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Green, Volkswagen

Automakers around the world are grappling with the question of what to do with SUVs. While the segment is shrinking, there is still a substantial customer-base that wants an SUV's utility and off-road capabilities, and the Touareg has those traits in spades. Unfortunately the largest VW is also heavy and thirsty, and skyrocketing fuel prices make changes to the big ute a necessity.

The scribes over at Auto Express claim to have the scoop on the forthcoming 2010 Touareg, and fuel economy seems to have been central to VW's plans. First, nearly 700 lbs. has been shaved off of the SUV through the use of light-weight materials like aluminum. The 3.6-liter V6 is rumored to be replaced with a more efficient 3.2-liter powerplant with direct injection, and the hefty diesel V10 will be replaced by three smaller oil burners with displacements of 2.7-liter, 3.0-liter, and 4.0-liter. A hybrid powertrain is also in the works for 2012. The Touareg's rather staid, but nice styling will also be addressed, as more cues will be taken from the Tiguan.

With gas prices rising by the day, we're all for any diesel tech that reaches our shores. With a strong lineup of diesels across the pond and a few destined for the States, VW has plenty of ammunition to improve both the Touareg and its overall position in the US market. Lets hope the German automaker can deliver the goods while also bringing down prices.

Thanks for the tip, Mike!

Rendered Speculation: Next-gen VW Touareg originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 08:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volkswagen Touareg R50: Stump pulling in style

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 14:31:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Volkswagen, Misc. Auto Shows

Click the image above for a gallery of high-res pics of the Touareg R50.

After releasing a teaser last week, Volkswagen finally let loose official details about the Touareg R50 before its debut at the Sydney Motor Show this Sunday. VW tweaked the ECU to huff extra boost into the twin-turbo'd 5.0-liter V10 TDI, which now produces 350 HP at 3,500 RPM and peak torque of 627 lb.-ft. at 2,000 RPM. That allows the bespoke blue behemoth to sprint to 62 in 6.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 146 MPH.

The Touareg's R-treatment isn't limited to the extra grunt, as VW's Individual group equipped the R50 with 21-inch rollers wrapped in 295mm gumballs that frame blue-painted brake calipers. The front clip gets a revised bumper and a grille coated in a matte finish, while flared wheel arches and new side skirts give the R50 a more planted persona. The inside gets swathed in Nappa leather complete with the "R50" logo stitched into the seats and engraved into the doorsills.

When the Touareg R50 goes on sale this November, consumers will have their choice of five color combos: Biscay Blue, Campanella White, Reflex Silver, Black Magic and Atacam Gray.

Volkswagen's press release is posted after the jump.

Gallery: Volkswagen Touareg R50

Continue reading Volkswagen Touareg R50: Stump pulling in style

Volkswagen Touareg R50: Stump pulling in style originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Oct 2007 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volkswagen Touareg R50 takes on Porsche's Cayenne

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 04:11:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Volkswagen, Misc. Auto Shows, Australia

Volkswagen is taking its R-series of hopped-up rides to the next extreme with the release of the Touareg R50 next week at the Australian International Motor Show. V-Dub claims that the R50 will be one of the most powerful SUVs on the market, producing a "generous" increase in power over the 313 HP and 553 lb.-ft. of torque from its retuned V10 TDI. The R-treatment also includes upgraded wheels wrapped in high performance rubber, a revised suspension, some VW Individual aero bits and a restyled interior.

VW's scant press release is posted after the jump, and expect more to follow once the AIMS gets underway next week.

Continue reading Volkswagen Touareg R50 takes on Porsche's Cayenne

Volkswagen Touareg R50 takes on Porsche's Cayenne originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Oct 2007 04:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi Q7 hybrid and diesels to arrive next year

Dan Roth — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:29:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Europe, Green, Audi, Porsche, Volkswagen

Audi's first diesel and hybrid powertrains in the US will be launched in the Q7 next year. The power units will likely trickle down to other vehicles in Audi's range, but they're not yet offering up any details on how prolific this hardware will be. Volkswagen, Audi and Porsche have been working collaboratively to develop the parallel hybrid system, which makes the choice of the Q7 logical, as all three brands share a flavor of the architecture. Hybrid Q7s will be able to power around on the electric motor up to 31 mph, and the system will also shut down the engine during cruise conditions at speeds up to 75 mph. The total weight of the system adds 300 pounds, most of which is in the 288-volt NiMH battery pack.

The modular hybrid system will be easy to integrate with different powertrains once Audi starts propagating the system throughout the rest of their models, and terming it "modular" denotes that the basic pieces will be very adaptable. When Porsche and Volkswagen get their versions of the hybrid gear, we'd expect the engines to differ from the Q7's 3.6 liter 280 horsepower unit. Audi's claiming a 23 percent mileage improvement versus the conventional Q-ship. As for the oil burner, it will be a 3-liter V6 that is 50-state compliant while quietly thumping out 230 horsepower and 400 ft-lb of torque. Diesel torque delivery can be often be described as "electric-motor like," but we wonder if the Hybrid, with its actual electric motors, will laugh at the diesel's effort as it gets the hole shot.

[Source: Auto News - sub req.]

Audi Q7 hybrid and diesels to arrive next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Time waster of the day: Bourne Stunt Simulator

Siddharth Raja — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 18:55:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Volkswagen

Coinciding with the launch of the new Bourne Ultimatum movie, Volkswagen has launched an interactive stunt simulator that allows fans to play out their own stunts online as many times as they want. Users can maneuver any of six different VW models through different explosions, while altering vehicle speeds, props, sound effects and camera angles to make that perfect scene.

Product placement in the movie has several VW vehicles making an appearance, including the Touareg 2 SUV and Golf GTI, a smart move seeing that The Bourne Ultimatum has grossed more than $70 million in its first weekend. That's a hell of lot of viewers seeing VW's new models up on the big screen.

[Source: Bourne Simulator]

Time waster of the day: Bourne Stunt Simulator originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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