Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Volkswagen Tiguan and Touareg take the R-Line]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/volkswagen-tiguan-and-touareg-take-the-r-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/volkswagen-tiguan-and-touareg-take-the-r-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/volkswagen-tiguan-and-touareg-take-the-r-line/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2014 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line

Volkswagen's Detroit Auto Show presence is big on utility this year, with the CrossBlue three-row concept vehicle occupying the lion's share of the limelight, both literally and figuratively. But that isn't stopping Volkswagen from lavishing attention on its already established crossover and sport utility vehicles with new R-Line derivatives. The Tiguan and its big brother Touareg are getting a host of look-faster items to increase their sporting appeal.

On the outside, the Tiguan R-Line receives handsome 19-inch alloys peering out from beneath fender extensions, premium lighting (bi-Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lamps), along with matching side skirts and a liftgate spoiler. On the inside, sportier accommodations include aluminum trim and a flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters. As with other R-Line models, there are no powertrain modifications to go with the more aggressive visuals (that being the province of R standalone performance models like the R32), though the suspension has been firmed up an unspecified amount. The Tiguan R-Line will be available in front- or all-wheel drive configuration.

The more upscale Touareg R-Line (not present at the show though revealed by Volkswagen earlier) receives a similar suite of upgrades, including a new body kit, 20-inch alloys, dual oval-shaped exhausts, LED taillamps and special badging. Like the standard model, the Touareg R-Line is available only with 4Motion all-wheel drive, but can be had with the buyer's choice of either gasoline or diesel power.

Pricing has yet to be revealed for either model, but VW promises both will debut in the third quarter of this year.


Continue reading Volkswagen Tiguan and Touareg take the R-Line

Volkswagen Tiguan and Touareg take the R-Line originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 volkswagen tiguan r-linedetroitdetroit 2013r-linetiguantouaregvolkswagenvwMon, 14 Jan 2013 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20428126/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/14/volkswagen-tiguan-and-touareg-take-the-r-line/20428126/article-detail.xml 20428126 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-vw-tiguan-r-line-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-vw-tiguan-r-line-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen adding R-Line trim to Touareg, Tiguan for 2014]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/volkswagen-adding-r-line-trim-to-touareg-tiguan-for-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/volkswagen-adding-r-line-trim-to-touareg-tiguan-for-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/volkswagen-adding-r-line-trim-to-touareg-tiguan-for-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Volkswagen introduced its aggressive R-Line appearance package on the CC and Beetle last year, but later this year, this treatment will also be applied to VW's crossovers, the Tiguan and Touareg. Both sporty-looking utility vehicles will be unveiled next week at the Detroit Auto Show.

The 2014 Tiguan R-Line comes standard with bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights, and the package adds 19-inch wheels, grey fender extensions, body-color side skirts and a liftgate spoiler. Inside, the R-Line adds a flat-bottom sport steering wheel with paddle shifters, a black headliner and numerous metallic trim accents such as the stainless scuff plates, the aluminum pedals and metallic finish on the instrument and door panels. The Tiguan R-Line will be offered in front- and all-wheel drive configurations.

As for the 2014 Touareg R-Line (shown above), this model gets an ever more distinctive look with an aggressive front fascia, 20-inch wheels and dual oval-shaped exhaust outlets in addition to the painted side skirts and LED taillights. Similar metallic interior trim pieces found inside the Tiguan R-Line will also make their way into the Touareg as well as gloss black accents on the instrument panel and center stack.

VW says that both new R-Line models will get R-Line badges and a sport-tuned suspension. Pricing won't be announced until closer to the launch of both models sometime this fall, but you can still check out the more info on both in the press release posted below.

Continue reading Volkswagen adding R-Line trim to Touareg, Tiguan for 2014

Volkswagen adding R-Line trim to Touareg, Tiguan for 2014 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 volkswagen tiguan r-line2014 volkswagen touareg r-lindetroitdetroit 2013r-liner-line packagetiguantouaregvolkswagenvwFri, 11 Jan 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20426531/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/11/volkswagen-adding-r-line-trim-to-touareg-tiguan-for-2014/20426531/article-detail.xml 20426531 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-volkswagen-touareg-r-line-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-volkswagen-touareg-r-line-628.jpg <![CDATA[Silverado HD, Touareg V10 TDI face off in diesel tug-of-war]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/30/silverado-hd-touareg-v10-tdi-face-off-in-diesel-tug-of-war/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/30/silverado-hd-touareg-v10-tdi-face-off-in-diesel-tug-of-war/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/30/silverado-hd-touareg-v10-tdi-face-off-in-diesel-tug-of-war/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



A couple weeks ago, we watched a Chevrolet Silverado get dominated by a Dodge Ram Heavy Duty in a fullsize pickup tug-of-war, but in that truck's defense, Chevy's Vortec gas engine was no match for the torquey Cummins turbo diesel. For our next round of vehicular tug-of-war, a Duramax-powered Silverado HD takes on Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI.

Now, on paper, putting the Duramax V8's 365 horsepower and 660 pound-feet of torque up against the V10's 310 hp and 553 lb-ft looks like an easy win for the Bowtie, but unfortunately, this battle has a similar result as the Dodge versus Chevy video, with the Silverado smoking its tires trying to move forward as it gets pulled backwards. Put another way: YouTube 2, Chevy Silverado 0.

It just goes to show, though, that big tires, bolt-on fender flares and goofy smoke stacks don't improve your towing abilities. Besides, what did the Silverado driver expect when the Touareg V10 TDI has towed a Boeing 747 in the past?

Scroll down to watch the cargo-hauler tie up with the family-hauler.

Continue reading Silverado HD, Touareg V10 TDI face off in diesel tug-of-war

Silverado HD, Touareg V10 TDI face off in diesel tug-of-war originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Dec 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevydieseldiesel tug of warsilveradosilverado hdtouaregtouareg v10 dieseltouareg v10 tditowing capacitytug of warvideovolkswagenvwSun, 30 Dec 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20413411/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/30/silverado-hd-touareg-v10-tdi-face-off-in-diesel-tug-of-war/20413411/article-detail.xml 20413411 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/silverado-hd-vs-touareg-v10_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/silverado-hd-vs-touareg-v10.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen Sweden builds a Touareg tank to tackle winter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/volkswagen-sweden-builds-a-touareg-tank-to-tackle-winter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/volkswagen-sweden-builds-a-touareg-tank-to-tackle-winter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/volkswagen-sweden-builds-a-touareg-tank-to-tackle-winter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



When it comes to the ingenuity of the automotive aftermarket, a good bit of inspiration often seems to come from the creator's native market. Lifted Jeep Wrangler creations climb out of mountainous regions like Moab, while low-riders flow from the massive urban sprawl of Los Angeles. The vehicle you see above is no different. Dubbed the "Snowareg," it is a creation by Volkswagen of Sweden, and is perfectly suited for harsh Swedish winters. Based on a Touareg V8 TDI, the Snowareg sends 340 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque to a modified set of treads at each wheel.

Very little information is given outside of that, but from what we can tell from these photos, anyone lucky to venture into the elements with the Snowareg will be doing so in style. It appears to come with the full bevy of VW options, including Dynaudio stereo, panoramic moonroof, dual-zone climate control and (of course) heated seats. As we said, very little information was given, but it's a fair assumption that this monster isn't foreshadowing any future options packages...

Volkswagen Sweden builds a Touareg tank to tackle winter originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Dec 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>snowaregswedentouaregtracked vehiclevolkswagenvolkswagen of swedenvolkswagen snowaregWed, 26 Dec 2012 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20411512/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/26/volkswagen-sweden-builds-a-touareg-tank-to-tackle-winter/20411512/article-detail.xml 20411512 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/volkswagen-snowareg-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/volkswagen-snowareg-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/2012-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/2012-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/2012-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Polished Utility Impresses, Just Not At The Pump



With its subtle badging out of sight, and from a distance greater than 30 feet, Volkswagen's flagship Touareg Hybrid can hardly be differentiated from its entry-level Touareg V6 sibling. But pop the hood or take it for a quick spin, and the gasoline-electric utility quickly reveals itself as one of the most complex vehicles ever to grace the German automaker's showroom.

Predictably, there is always downside to such technical wizardry. Comprehensive development and revolutionary components, including a large nickel metal-hydride battery pack, don't come cheap. As a result, the Touareg Hybrid is the most expensive vehicle in today's Volkswagen lineup, with a base price eclipsing the standard Audi Q7, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class and even the Porsche Cayenne.

So why would someone spend more than $60,000 to put this particular Volkswagen in his or her driveway? To answer that question and to learn more about the automaker's flagship softroader, we spent a full week with it.

Continue reading 2012 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid [w/video]

2012 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Dec 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen touareg hybridreviewtouaregtouareg hybridvolkswagenvolkswagen touareg hybridWed, 26 Dec 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20410991/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/26/2012-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-review-video/20410991/article-detail.xml 20410991 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/03-2012-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/03-2012-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-review-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen confirms three-row utility for Detroit, no Routan replacement in sight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/volkswagen-confirms-three-row-utility-for-detroit-no-routan-rep/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/volkswagen-confirms-three-row-utility-for-detroit-no-routan-rep/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/volkswagen-confirms-three-row-utility-for-detroit-no-routan-rep/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan - dead-on front view

At a small media roundtable session with journalists at the Los Angeles Auto Show today, Klaus Bischoff, Volkswagen's head of global design, confirmed that VW's much-rumored three-row utility vehicle will be "most hopefully" revealed at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

The vehicle is expected to be at once larger and less expensive than the Touareg range, something more akin to a longer Tiguan (shown above) than an off-road juggernaut. That said, Bischoff was quite clear that VW considers the unnamed model to be an SUV, not a crossover. If you're envisioning a body-on-frame vehicle with a low-range, think again. When Bischoff was questioned about what constitutes an SUV versus a CUV, he pointed to design elements like the positioning of the A-pillar, not the hardware underneath. According to Bischoff, the three-row's off-road capability will be "not as strong as the Touareg, but more than good enough to compete... It's an SUV in the European way - in the Volkswagen way."

As far as an MPV for North America goes, Bischoff says that a replacement for the aging Routan minivan is "not on the to-do list," noting that VW will end its relationship with Chrysler, which manufacturers the Routan. Word of no future MPV would also appear to corroborate reports that the retro-minded Bulli concept van of 2011 also has no production future.

Volkswagen confirms three-row utility for Detroit, no Routan replacement in sight originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 20:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto showlala auto showroutantiguantouaregvolkswagenvwWed, 28 Nov 2012 20:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20390587/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/28/volkswagen-confirms-three-row-utility-for-detroit-no-routan-rep/20390587/article-detail.xml 20390587 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-dead-on_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2012-volkswagen-tiguan-dead-on.jpg <![CDATA[VW considering new midsize utility for NA; Polo and Up! still on table]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jonathan Browning - Volkswagen NA CEOWe've already heard word that Volkswagen may be considering a new Alltrack version of its Jetta for the North American Market, but TheDetroitBureau.com reports the automaker is also looking at other high-riding options. Jonathan Browning, Volkswagen Group of America CEO, says a new mid-sized SUV may show up in the lineup alongside the next-generation Tiguan (which itself is likely to get a trio of variants). The unnamed model would fit below the Touareg in size and price and would likely be co-developed engineers in the U.S. and those in another part of the world. So, when can we expect to see the model? Development is currently in its earliest stages, which means we'll have to wait until 2015 at the earliest.

Meanwhile, Browning makes it clear Volkswagen is also keen to flesh out its lineup with other new models, including a new mid-sized sedan. A sub-Golf offering may also show up from Europe, which means the automaker may bring over either the Polo or the new Up! micro car. The blossoming stable is part of an effort to keep the company's recent sales growth on track. Volkswagen has made it clear the company wants to triple its companywide sales by 2018.

VW considering new midsize utility for NA; Polo and Up! still on table originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceocrossovercuvjonathan browningsuvtiguantouaregvolkswagenvolkswagen ceovolkswagen tiguanvolkswagen touaregFri, 01 Jun 2012 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20248507/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/20248507/article-detail.xml 20248507 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/browning-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/browning-628.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley plotting Dakar effort with used VW Touareg racers?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/bentley-plotting-dakar-effort-with-used-vw-touareg-racers/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/bentley-plotting-dakar-effort-with-used-vw-touareg-racers/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/bentley-plotting-dakar-effort-with-used-vw-touareg-racers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bentley EXP 9 F

Bentley is an automaker not without its own racing pedigree, but the bulk of that is anchored in the 1920s and at Le Mans, to which it returned in winning form in the earlier part of the new millennium with the Speed 8. The latest development could, however, see the Flying B marque enter into another class of motorsport competition altogether.

That opposite end of the endurance racing spectrum is the torturous Dakar rally. We first published rumors of Crewe's consideration of the possibility back in November, but according to CAR Magazine, those rumors are apparently kicking into high gear.

That much is owed largely to the emergence of the above-pictured EXP 9 F program, Bentley's concept SUV currently under development. Well, sorta. Bentley's parent company Volkswagen recently withdrew from the Dakar rally after winning it three times in a row - ostensibly to focus on its new World Rally Championship effort, but spurring rumors all the same of it transferring the team to another brand.

Given that the EXP 9 F is based (or would be, anyway) on an architecture related to the Touareg - the race model of which is what the VW team used to dominate the event - the facilitation of Bentley's take-over of the program could prove even more straight-forward than the manner in which Audi successfully supported Bentley's Le Mans team.

To wit, the boys from Crewe are said to be in the process of buying back all the Race Touareg rigs - complete with their 2.5-liter twin-turbo diesels producing 300 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque - that Volkswagen sold to privateer teams upon its departure, suggesting rather poor planning and perhaps only a passing resemblance to the eventual production EXP 9 F (which, incidentally, isn't expected to look like the concept above).

Bentley plotting Dakar effort with used VW Touareg racers? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 May 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley dakarbentley exp 9 fbentley suvdakardakar rallyexp 9 frace touaregrallytouaregvolkswagen touaregFri, 18 May 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20240273/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/18/bentley-plotting-dakar-effort-with-used-vw-touareg-racers/20240273/article-detail.xml 20240273 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/exp96_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/exp96.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen weighs next Scirocco, diesel Alltrack for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/volkswagen-weighs-next-scirocco-diesel-alltrack-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/volkswagen-weighs-next-scirocco-diesel-alltrack-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/volkswagen-weighs-next-scirocco-diesel-alltrack-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Volkswagen Scirocco R - dynamic front three-quarter shot

Do you miss the opportunity to buy a Volkswagen Scirocco? You're not alone. Of all the Volkswagen Group products offered overseas but not in these United States, the Scirocco tops our list. (Though we understand there are plenty out there pining for a Transporter van.) Discontinued in its previous iteration in 1988, the Scirocco made its triumphant return to the market in 2008, but with the global financial crisis setting in around the sometime, Volkswagen wasn't up to spreading itself thin enough to bring it here.

That could change with the next-generation model, however. According to Automotive News, Volkswagen is working on a next-generation Scirocco, and this one could very well make it Stateside. This according to Volkswagen of America CEO Jonathan Browning, who admitted as much while speaking with journalists at the New York Auto Show this past week. While it's unclear if he's referring to a facelifted version of the current model (expected to launch next year) or an all-new model, the prospect of finding a Scirocco - any Scirocco - in U.S. showrooms is tantalizing.

While he was at it, Browning reportedly also suggested the Passat Alltrack - which was shown in "concept" form in New York - could be sold here in diesel form, which strikes us as tantalizing (if expensive). Further, Browning reiterated that the company is looking into a mid-size crossover to slot in between the Tiguan and the Touareg, something we've heard before and fully expect to happen.

Volkswagen weighs next Scirocco, diesel Alltrack for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alltrackpassatsciroccotouaregvolkswagenvolkswagen alltrackvolkswagen passat alltrackvolkswagen sciroccovwTue, 10 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20211663/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/10/volkswagen-weighs-next-scirocco-diesel-alltrack-for-u-s/20211663/article-detail.xml 20211663 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/03vwsciroccornice_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/03vwsciroccornice.jpg <![CDATA[VW Touareg TDI sets lonely record on World's Longest Highway [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/vw-touareg-tdi-sets-lonely-record-on-worlds-longest-highway-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/vw-touareg-tdi-sets-lonely-record-on-worlds-longest-highway-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/vw-touareg-tdi-sets-lonely-record-on-worlds-longest-highway-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Volkswagen Touareg on the Pan American Highway

Volkswagen can now lay claim to another world record thanks to the efforts of off-road driver Rainer Zietlow and his team of adventurers. The crew packed into a Volkswagen Touareg TDI and covered the entire span of the Pan-American Highway from start to finish in 11 days, 17 hours and 22 minutes. The trip covered 14 countries and 16,000 miles of near non-stop driving. TÜV NORD Mobility verified the time, which beat out the previous record holder by a full three days.

The journey began on July 2 in the southernmost portion of Argentina and clipped through a variety of challenging conditions. The team faced a sandstorm in Chile and treacherous muddy roads in Alaska, but preplanned fuel stops helped cut the team's time down as much as possible.

Zietlow and his teammates also played a bit of a philanthropic role by donating 10 cents for every kilometer traveled to two Latin American villages to help combat childhood poverty. Hit the jump for the video and full press release.

Continue reading VW Touareg TDI sets lonely record on World's Longest Highway [w/video]

VW Touareg TDI sets lonely record on World's Longest Highway [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pan-american highwaypanamerican highwayRainer Zeitlowtouaregtouareg tdivideovolkswagenvolkswagen touaregvolkswagen touareg tdiworld recordWed, 20 Jul 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19995650/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/20/vw-touareg-tdi-sets-lonely-record-on-worlds-longest-highway-w/19995650/article-detail.xml 19995650 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/touareg-pan-american-highway-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/touareg-pan-american-highway-630.jpg <![CDATA[VW phasing out rearview cameras thanks to quake shortages?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/vw-phasing-out-rearview-cameras-thanks-to-quake-shortages/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/vw-phasing-out-rearview-cameras-thanks-to-quake-shortages/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/vw-phasing-out-rearview-cameras-thanks-to-quake-shortages/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

rear-view camera

It struck back on March 11th, 2011, but the earthquake in Japan continues to cause havoc all around the world in some unique ways. Rumor has it that if you were hoping to purchase a Volkswagen with a rearview camera, you're going to have to wait a while. According to AskaVWSalesGuy.com, Volkswagen has put a halt on backup camera installation on most vehicles in its lineup.

Affected models and trims include the CC Lux Plus, Lux Limited and VR6, all Touareg models and the Tiguan SEL with Premium Nav. Per the in-the-know VW sales guy, Volkswagen is on the hunt for a new supplier. We asked Volkswagen for comment and were told that the matter was being investigated.

VW phasing out rearview cameras thanks to quake shortages? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backup cameraccearthquakejapanjapan quakerear-view camerarearview cameratiguantouaregvolkswagenvwThu, 09 Jun 2011 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19948516/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/09/vw-phasing-out-rearview-cameras-thanks-to-quake-shortages/19948516/article-detail.xml 19948516 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/backup-camera-body-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/backup-camera-body-630.jpg <![CDATA[Report: VW poised to join WRC by month's end]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/10/report-vw-poised-to-join-wrc-by-months-end/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/10/report-vw-poised-to-join-wrc-by-months-end/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/10/report-vw-poised-to-join-wrc-by-months-end/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Volkswagen Touareg Dakar
Carlos Sainz at the 2010 Dakar Rally - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Autocar, Volkswagen is expected to announce its participation in WRC by the end of this month. The automaker has been rumored to enter WRC ever since the racing series announced a shift to 1.6-liter-based rules.

If the rumors are to be believed, the car, which is already under development, will be based on the Polo. Volkswagen has tapped Fracois-Xavier Demaison, who has led rally projects for Peugeot and Citroen, to get the diminutive Polo ready to race.

The driver for VW's WRC assault remains undetermined, though apparently the German automaker has tried - and failed - to get Sebastien Loeb. Petter Solberg's name has also come up as a possible pilot for the effort.


Gallery: Carlos Sainz wins the 2010 Dakar Rally


[Source: Autocar]

Report: VW poised to join WRC by month's end originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiapetter solbergsebastien loebtouaregvolkswagenvolkswagen touaregwrcThu, 10 Mar 2011 17:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19875396/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/10/report-vw-poised-to-join-wrc-by-months-end/19875396/article-detail.xml 19875396 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/sainzdakar1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/sainzdakar1.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen hits Qatar with a pair of special Touaregs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/26/volkswagen-hits-qatar-with-a-pair-of-special-touaregs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/26/volkswagen-hits-qatar-with-a-pair-of-special-touaregs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/26/volkswagen-hits-qatar-with-a-pair-of-special-touaregs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Volkswagen Race Touareg 3 Qatar
Volkswagen Race Touareg 3 Qatar (above) and Touareg Gold Edition (below right)
Click either image for high-res image gallery

After three consecutive wins in the famously brutal Dakar Rally, Volkswagen is no stranger to cresting dunes and speeding across desert terrain. And now the German automaker has rolled in to Qatar with a pair of very special Touaregs.

Most enticing of the two is the Race Touareg 3 Qatar. Envisioned as a street-legal version of the rally raider that recently locked out the podium at Dakar, the Race Touareg 3 Qatar looks every bit the beast it's based on, with a few nods towards usability. It packs the same 300-horsepower 2.5-liter TDI, with the 16-inch wheels of the rally machine swapped out for gold-colored BBS wheels complimented by the "Race Touareg" wording in gold across the "Magic Morning" white flank.

Inside is where the real changes have been made, however, upgrading on the bare-bones race cabin with one designed after the cockpit on a stealth aircraft. The ergonomics and appearance of the interior have been thoroughly worked over, characterized by matte carbon-fiber trim and a Serpetino Grey Metallic role cage, with Recaro racing buckets and door panels trimmed in Nubuk and perforated Nappa leather in black, grey and red.

Volkswagen Touareg Gold EditionThe Race Touareg 3 Qatar is joined on Volkswagen's show stand in Doha by the Touareg Gold Edition. As you might have guessed, the Gold Edition is decked out in 24-karat gold trim inside and out. The shiny stuff coats the 22-inch wheels, roof rails, window frames, door mirrors, grille surround and more. The interior is likewise distinguished by gold trim, "complimenting" (as it were) the Luna trim color, Alcantara roofliner, Nappa leather seats, natural brown leather and Walnut Burr veneers.

The gold-trimmed SUV is bound to be a hit with the Persian Gulf crowd, but halfway around the world we're hoping the Race Touareg 3 Qatar makes its way from the show floor to the showroom and onto our streets as a compelling import alternative to the Ford Raptor. Too much to wish for? Only time will tell, but you can follow the jump now for the full press release and scope out the two concept vehicles in the pair of high-resolution image galleries below.


Gallery: Volkswagen Race Touareg 3 Qatar


Gallery: Volkswagen Touareg Gold Edition


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Volkswagen hits Qatar with a pair of special Touaregs

Volkswagen hits Qatar with a pair of special Touaregs originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 qatar motor showGoldqatarqatar 2011qatar motor showRace Touareg 3TouaregTouareg Gold EditionVolkswagenVolkswagen Race TouaregVolkswagen Race Touareg 3Volkswagen Race Touareg 3 QatarVolkswagen TouaregVolkswagen Touareg Gold EditionvwWed, 26 Jan 2011 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19816226/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/26/volkswagen-hits-qatar-with-a-pair-of-special-touaregs/19816226/article-detail.xml 19816226 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/web630-db2011au00076large_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/web630-db2011au00076large.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Bloomberg</i>: VW eying expanded SUV lineup for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/bloomberg-vw-eying-expanded-suv-lineup-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/bloomberg-vw-eying-expanded-suv-lineup-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/07/bloomberg-vw-eying-expanded-suv-lineup-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

All signs may be pointing to ever steeper gas prices by the end of the year, but according to Bloomberg, that may not be enough to stop Volkswagen from unleashing a new wave of SUVs (or more than likely, CUVs) on the American market. VW head honcho Jonathan Browning has been quoted as saying that the company wants to expand its portfolio of compact SUVs in short order, and that eventually, there may be room for growth in the larger SUV market as well. Of all the vehicles sold in the U.S. last year, SUVs and crossovers made up 29 percent of the mix.

As of right now, Volkswagen only offers two utility vehicles in the States - the compact Tiguan crossover, which, according to Bloomberg, sold 20,946 units last year and the larger Touareg SUV. Volkswagen only managed to move 4,713 Touareg models in the U.S. in 2010, but the new model (shown above) is expected to help the line's fortunes. The company's planned expansion of its SUV offerings is part of a larger offensive designed to net the company U.S. sales of one million vehicles by 2018. Doing so would mean tripling the company's current sales, so the automaker is invested in exploring new ways to bring buyers to the showroom.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg


Photos copyright (C)2010 Jonathon Ramsey / AOL

[Source: Bloomberg]

Bloomberg: VW eying expanded SUV lineup for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jonathan browningtiguantouaregvolkswagen suvvw suvFri, 07 Jan 2011 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19790303/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/07/bloomberg-vw-eying-expanded-suv-lineup-for-u-s/19790303/article-detail.xml 19790303 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/touareg-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/touareg-630.jpg <![CDATA[Audi reportedly charged with developing SUVs in the Volkswagen group]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/13/audi-reportedly-charged-with-developing-suvs-in-the-volkswagen-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/13/audi-reportedly-charged-with-developing-suvs-in-the-volkswagen-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/13/audi-reportedly-charged-with-developing-suvs-in-the-volkswagen-g/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2011 Audi Q7 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, but Earth knows no competition greater than sibling rivalry. With nine marques under the Volkswagen Group umbrella, things can get pretty competitive between the brands, especially as platforms and technologies are integrated and subsidiaries chosen to develop them. But then Porsche entered the fray as the 10th brand and things got that much more heated.

Reports recently emerged that Porsche was chosen over Audi to develop the platforms that would underpin sportscars for the entire group as well as luxury sedans, leaving Ingolstadt undoubtedly reeling from the defeat. But now follow-up reports indicate that Audi will, in turn, be charged with developing the next generation of sport-utility vehicles for the entire group, the next Porsche Cayenne included.

The program will reportedly center around a common modular platform that will underpin the next-generation Touareg, Q7 and Cayenne, but also extends to the development of the Q5-based Porsche Cajun. While the latter is currently in the works, both the Touareg and Cayenne were recently replaced, so their subsequent replacements would still be years off.

The move may seem a little odd considering that Volkswagen and Porsche have both been making SUVs for longer than Audi has its Q7, but Audi has been in the all-wheel drive game for longer than either. The decision was reportedly unanimous among the different divisions, though Porsche was quick to point out that final development of its SUVs will be carried out by Porsche to ensure its vehicles drive as their customers would expect.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Audi Q7


Photos by Damon Lavrinc / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Audi reportedly charged with developing SUVs in the Volkswagen group originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi q5audi q7cajuncayenneporscheporsche cajunporsche cayenneq5q7touaregvagvolkswagenvolkswagen auto groupvolkswagen groupvolkswagen touaregvwMon, 13 Dec 2010 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19757053/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/13/audi-reportedly-charged-with-developing-suvs-in-the-volkswagen-g/19757053/article-detail.xml 19757053 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/web630-drive-audiq7_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/web630-drive-audiq7.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid to start at $60,565]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/01/2011-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-to-start-at-60-565/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/01/2011-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-to-start-at-60-565/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/01/2011-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-to-start-at-60-565/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

After putting the 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid through the wringer (meaning: we assessed it for our first drive), we dubbed it, "a Porsche Cayenne Hybrid for the people." Why'd we compare it to a Porsche? Well, the Touareg Hybrid shares its supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, eight-speed automatic transmission and its all-wheel-drive system with the Porsche model, so comparisons between the two should be expected. However, the Cayenne Hybrid, with a base price of $67,700, is too expensive for our tastes, and we'd venture to guess that it's priced beyond the reach of many American buyers as well.

No problem, this would be where the Touareg Hybrid steps in. Or so we thought. We anticipated that VW's hybrid would be the bargain of the two, and therefore, bring the goods of the Cayenne Hybrid to "the people." We were expecting the hybrid model to command a premium north of the $44,350 price tag on the current TDI Touareg, but how far north remained unknown until now. Volkswagen has revealed the Touareg's base price, and it's a whopping $60,565, plus $820 in destination fees. With a wallet-crunching MSRP like that, the 20 miles per gallon city, 25 mpg highway Touareg Hybrid will likely struggle to appeal to "the people." We'll stop short of calling the Touareg Hybrid a failure, but with Porsche's version priced within spitting distance, we're struggling to think of any reason why buyers should opt for the VW. If it were our coin on the line, we'd go with the less pricey Touareg TDI.


Gallery: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid: First Drive


Photos copyright (C)2010 Zach Bowman / AOL

[Source: Kicking Tires]

2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid to start at $60,565 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Nov 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 touareg2011 volkswagen touareg hybridhybridtouaregtouareg hybridtouareg hybrid pricevolkswagenvolkswagen touareg hybridMon, 01 Nov 2010 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19697667/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/01/2011-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-to-start-at-60-565/19697667/article-detail.xml 19697667 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/2011vwtouareghybridfd01opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/2011vwtouareghybridfd01opt.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/15/2011-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/15/2011-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/15/2011-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A Porsche Cayenne Hybrid For The People

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

Fuel economy is a funny thing. In Europe, better efficiency has always boiled down to two simple concepts: diesel fuel and turbos. But like the 35-year-old who won't drink tequila because of a bad experience in college, American buyers' stomachs start turning whenever manufacturers talk about oil-burners - clean or otherwise. That's a problem for carmakers like Volkswagen. You see, the company can build an arsenal of clean diesel vehicles that have no problem turning out excellent fuel-economy numbers without the weight, complexity or burden of lugging around a partially electric drivetrain, but that doesn't mean Americans will buy them. Nope. On this side of the pond, fuel efficiency translates into just one word: hybrid.

And that's exactly why Volkswagen has taken to electrifying its beefy 2011 Touareg, the very first production hybrid in the company's history. Volkswagen has made no secret of the fact that it plans to be the world's number one automaker, and that part of its plan for global domination involves broadening its appeal in the still-juicy American market. If you were wondering exactly what that meant for the company's lineup on our side of the world, wonder no more. We're living in the future, and it's a place stocked with a blazingly-quick, fully capable and quasi-efficient SUV from Germany with love.

Continue reading...


Gallery: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid: First Drive


Photos copyright (C)2010 Zach Bowman / AOL

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid

First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 touareg2011 volkswagen touareg hybridfirst driveFirstDrivehybridtouaregtouareg hybridvolkswagenvolkswagen touareg hybridFri, 15 Oct 2010 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19672478/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/15/2011-volkswagen-touareg-hybrid-first-drive-review/19672478/article-detail.xml 19672478 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/2011vwtouareghybridfd01opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/2011vwtouareghybridfd01opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen releases luxurious new Touareg Exclusive for German market]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/13/volkswagen-releases-luxurious-new-touareg-exclusive-for-the-germ/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/13/volkswagen-releases-luxurious-new-touareg-exclusive-for-the-germ/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/13/volkswagen-releases-luxurious-new-touareg-exclusive-for-the-germ/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

If you're in the market for a luxury sport-ute, the Volkswagen Group has got you well covered between the Audi Q5 and Q7 and the Porsche Cayenne. But the VW division is kicking its own offering up a luxurious notch with the Exclusive package for the Touareg.

Initially available exclusively in its domestic German market, the Touareg Exclusive benefits from a number of special touches, many of which are available on the standard model but come here bundled into one package. These include a choice of three wheel options (one set of 19s as standard, a different set as a no-cost option and extra-cost 20-inchers) along with added chrome and silver roof rails.

The interior is fitted with two-tone Nappa leather (in either beige and black or burgundy and black). Called "cool leather", the seats are specially trimmed to - you guessed it - stay cool, and also heated and adjustable in 12 ways. Olive wood trim, a black headliner and stainless steel sill plates round out the package.

The Touareg Exclusive can be ordered in Germany with any of the engines available on the standard model (including diesel and gasoline BlueMotion V6s, the V8 TDI and the V6 hybrid), but there's no word yet on whether the North American market will receive a similarly Exclusive package. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Exclusive


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg


Live photos by Jonathon Ramsey / Copyright (C)2010 AOL

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Volkswagen releases luxurious new Touareg Exclusive for German market

Volkswagen releases luxurious new Touareg Exclusive for German market originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>TouaregTouareg exclusiveVolkswagenVolkswagen ExclusiveVolkswagen TouaregVolkswagen Touareg ExclusiveVWVW TouaregVW Touareg ExclusiveWed, 13 Oct 2010 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19670742/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/13/volkswagen-releases-luxurious-new-touareg-exclusive-for-the-germ/19670742/article-detail.xml 19670742 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-touareg-exclusive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-touareg-exclusive.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Volkswagen Touareg R will be sold in U.S. with a diesel by 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/01/report-volkswagen-touareg-r-will-be-sold-in-u-s-with-a-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/01/report-volkswagen-touareg-r-will-be-sold-in-u-s-with-a-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/01/report-volkswagen-touareg-r-will-be-sold-in-u-s-with-a-diesel/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

Last time we talked about the next-generation Volkswagen Touareg R it was to relay rumors that the high-performance SUV might drop the automaker's venerable 5.0-liter diesel V10 TDI engine in favor of a V8 hybrid powertrain. Car and Driver is kicking the ball the other way with a report that the next version of the Toureg R will indeed still be a diesel, although carrying over the V10 probably isn't in the cards.

Instead, C/D reports that VW will be using its new 4.2-liter diesel V8 already available in the European Touareg. For Touareg R duty, the oil burner will likely be pumped up from its current 340-horsepower output to 380, along with delivering enough torque to move the SUV with irresponsible abandon. That's more power than the V10 TDI produced in the old Touareg R at 350, and probably enough for the new Touareg R to keep pace with other high-performance SUVs in the segment.

The bigger news is that C/D claims the next-gen Touareg R will actually be available for sale in the U.S in 2012 as a 2013 model. The new 4.2-liter diesel V8 will apparently meet current U.S. emissions standards, at least when installed under the hood of a Touareg R.

To date, the only R model ever offered by VW in the States was the Golf-based R32. We've never had a shot at a Touareg R, though VW did intermittently sell a version of the last-generation Touareg here with the same diesel V10 TDI as the R model in Europe (also called the R50), though tuned for less power and minus the performance goodies.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg


[Source: Car and Driver]

Report: Volkswagen Touareg R will be sold in U.S. with a diesel by 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>touaregvolkswagenvolkswagen touareg rWed, 01 Sep 2010 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19616956/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/01/report-volkswagen-touareg-r-will-be-sold-in-u-s-with-a-diesel/19616956/article-detail.xml 19616956 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/03vwtouaregfd2011opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/03vwtouaregfd2011opt.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Volkswagen Touareg R Hybrid under consideration]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/26/rumormill-volkswagen-touareg-r-hybrid-under-consideration/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/26/rumormill-volkswagen-touareg-r-hybrid-under-consideration/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/26/rumormill-volkswagen-touareg-r-hybrid-under-consideration/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

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

The words "performance" and "hybrid" are typically only bandied about in the same sentence by marketing types. Here in the real world, lugging around an extra few hundred pounds of batteries is no way to sharpen a vehicle's dynamics, but if the rumors kicking around the interwebs are to be believed, that's exactly what Volkswagen has planned with a new R version of the Touareg. Auto Evolution reports that engineers are hard at work on a new version of the CUV that will pack a punch from both a gasoline V8 and a powerful electric motor.

As you might imagine, specs for such a monstrosity aren't exactly solid, but the Italian rag says VW is shooting for 500 horsepower from the V8 and 47 horsepower from an electric motor. Sure, that means the high-rider will pack a grand total of 547 ponies, but we're more interested in the mountain-moving levels of torque available from such a combination. Sounds like a fine way to embarrass a Porsche Cayenne Turbo, if nothing else.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg


Photos by Jonathan Ramsey/ Copyright (C)2010 AOL
[Source: Auto Evolution]

Rumormill: Volkswagen Touareg R Hybrid under consideration originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HybridTouaregTouareg Hybrid RTouareg RTouaregHybridRTouaregRVolkswagenVolkswagen Touareg RVolkswagen Touareg R HybridVolkswagenTouaregRVolkswagenTouaregRHybridThu, 26 Aug 2010 18:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19609698/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/26/rumormill-volkswagen-touareg-r-hybrid-under-consideration/19609698/article-detail.xml 19609698 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/01-touareg-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/01-touareg-630.jpg -1 2