Volkswagen's natural gas-fueled Touran TSI EcoFuel is one of the most popular compact MPV's in Europe and the Wolfsburg automaker intends to keep it that way. The latest edition has been made more efficient than before and was given more fuel capacity. The underfloor natural gas storage tanks have been increased in capacity from 18 to 24 kg in the two-row, five-seat variant. Combined with powertrain tweaks that include a new 7-speed DSG transmission, the Touran can now go 323 miles on methane.
Once the natural gas supply runs out, if you haven't found a suitable filling station, you can tap into an 11 liter reserve tank of gasoline that will take you another 93 miles. The natural gas efficiency works out to 4.6 kg/100 km with CO2 emissions of just 124 g/km. Those who need seating for seven will have to sacrifice some fuel capacity bringing the natural gas range to just 230 miles.
[Source: Volkswagen]
PRESS RELEASE:
The Touran TSI EcoFuel now with an even longer fuel range
Natural gas MPV can now travel up to 670 kilometres on one tank
In the Touran TSI EcoFuel, travelling 100 kilometres costs around €4.50
Wolfsburg, 05 October 2009 - The multi-variable Touran TSI EcoFuel is a real crowd pleaser and belongs currently to Germany's best-selling vehicle in its class. The latest version is now available to buy with an improved fuel range. Thanks to an increased fuel tank capacity and improved efficiency, the vehicle, fitted with a quasi-monovalent drive train, will cover up to 670 kilometres.
In natural gas mode, the increased fuel tank will have a range of approximately 520 kilometres and the 11-litre petrol reserve tank will add an extra 150 kilometres. Improvements to consumption and emissions levels have meant that the Touran TSI EcoFuel with a 7-speed DSG gearbox now consumes a mere 4.6 kg/100 km (126 g/km of CO2). Calculated against current prices for natural gas, the Touran TSI EcoFuel can travel 100 kilometres for around €4.50. The natural gas tanks are built into the underbody to save space and now hold a total capacity of
24 kilograms (previously 18 kilograms) in the five-seater version. For the same price, customers can get a seven-seater version of the family vehicle whose fuel range reaches 520 kilometres (370 km for natural gas and 150 km for petrol).
Fans of a more sporty driving style will not be let down by the Touran TSI EcoFuel: its twin-charging turbocharger and supercharger propel the vehicle at over 110 kW / 150 PS. The 220 Nm maximum torque is available at just 1,500 rpm and can be maintained up to 4,500 rpm. The Touran TSI EcoFuel is available now at a base price of € 27,450.
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