Volkswagen Touareg R Is A 455 HP Plug-In Hybrid Super SUV

Volkswagen has announced a new plug-in hybrid model, the Touareg R, which joins the likes of the Passat GTE and upcoming Golf GTE.

Based on the third generation that launched in 2018, it’s powered by a 340 PS (335 HP / kW) 3.0-liter V6 TSI petrol engine and a 136 PS (134 HP / 100 kW) electric motor for a total system output of 462 PS (455 HP / 340 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque.

The powertrain is connected to the 4Motion all-wheel drive system through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a center differential lock that acts as a transfer box. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph) or 140 km/h (87 mph) in electric drive mode.

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Providing the juice for a zero-emission range estimated at 43-48 km (27-30 miles) is the 14.3 kWh battery, mounted beneath the boot floor. The 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration is expected to take around 5 seconds.

Drivers can switch between E-Mode for zero-emission driving and Hybrid for an optimized setting. They can also set the desired level of battery charge, which essentially turns the V6 into a generator and increases the level of regenerative braking. Other profiles include Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport and Individual, as well as Offroad and Snow.

Should they order the optional Off-Road Package, which adds underbody protection, customers get two more modes called Gravel and Sand, which enhance traction on said surfaces. The Touareg R has a maximum towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes (7,716 lbs) and comes with several safety systems, including Trailer Assist.

On the outside, the plug-in hybrid premium midsize SUV features R-style bumpers and air intakes, lower door sections, black trim strips on the side windows, black side mirror caps and black grille. It also gets darkened LED lights and 20-inch Braga alloy wheels. It can also be fitted with 21-inch Suzuka or 22-inch Estoril wheels and a model-exclusive Lapiz Blue Metallic optional color.

The interior package consists of Vienna leather seats with ‘R’ embossing and contrast stitching, new leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, Silver Wave aluminum decorative trim on the dashboard and door cards, High Gloss Black and Silver Look center console, and illuminated stainless steel sill panel trim.

Standard features include a 12-inch digital instrument panel, 15-inch infotainment system, 4-zone climate control, LED matrix headlights, panoramic sunroof and more. Night Vision, the Dynaudio premium sound system, Travel Assist and so on are available at an extra cost.

Volkswagen will host the world premiere of the Touareg R at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show that starts next week and is expected to start accepting orders in the following months. Pricing and availability have yet to be announced.