VW Launches Its Most Powerful Production Model In The UK, The New Touareg R

Volkswagen has started accepting orders for the Touareg R in the United Kingdom, where it’s offered from £71,995 ($100,024) OTR.

This means that it undercuts the  Audi SQ7 that has 507 PS (500 HP / 373 kW) and 770 Nm (568 lb-ft) of torque from a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 by £6,945 ($9,649), with the four-ring brand listing it from £78,940 ($109,672) OTR.

The VW’s plug-in hybrid powertrain combines a 3.0-liter TSI V6 with an electric motor and a 14.3 kWh battery. It produces a combined 462 PS (455 HP / 340 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque, channeled to the 4Motion all-wheel drive system via an eight-speed automatic transmission. From 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph), it needs 5.1 seconds, and can hit 250 km/h (155 mph).

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The battery pack enables an electric-only range of 45 km (28 miles) and helps keep the carbon dioxide emissions in check at 67 g/km. The average fuel economy is rated at 94.2 mpg UK (3 l/100 km / 78.4 mpg US) on the WLTP cycle.

An exclusive body kit, with different front and rear bumpers and glossy black rear diffuser, sets it apart from the rest of the Touareg range. It also comes with R badging, darkened taillights and accents, and 22-inch Estoril wheels, wrapped in 285/35 tires.

A generous host of equipment is offered as standard, such as the self-leveling air suspension, 360-degree camera system, LED matrix headlights, panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, 15-inch infotainment system and 12.3-inch digital dials. Black leather upholstery, contrast stitching and piping, heating and ventilation for the front seats, heated leather-wrapped steering wheel with the R logo and shift paddles, 30-color ambient lighting, illuminated R-branded scuff plates, keyless entry and go, 7.2 kW charging cable and many others are included.

Customers can further spec it with the Driver Assistance Pack Plus, which adds the Level 2 semi-autonomous driving that works at speeds of up to 250 km/h (155 mph). The head-up display, night vision and power-folding tow bar with trailer assist are available too.