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Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid 3.0 V6 (A) Review
01 Mar 2012|13,807 views
The Touareg may be quite a mouthful for first-timers, but certainly, the mid-sized SUV isn't a handful when it comes to being driven around our urban landscape.
It may lack the handsome looks on a vehicle such as the Evoque, but the Touareg makes up for it with its serious off-road capabilities and racing pedigree (since Touareg is an accomplished participant in rally racing worldwide, notably a 1-2 finish in the 2009 Dakar Rally).
Sharing its basic platform with the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7, the Touareg Hybrid is the latest addition to the SUV family from Wolfsburg, which is also the most powerful yet.
Exterior
Although the new car bears close resemblance to its predecessor, the first generation Touareg, the 2011 model has actually been thoroughly reworked.
Deeper sculpturing now runs alongside the body, complete with more styling lines. The headlamps are also more angular, portraying a more distinctive look in-line with the styling motif found on other offerings in the Volkswagen lineup.
As a result, the hybrid SUV retains its visual arresting cues, with big and gentle proportions and U-shaped LED daytime running lights that are instantly recognisable as a Volkswagen machine.
It may lack the handsome looks on a vehicle such as the Evoque, but the Touareg makes up for it with its serious off-road capabilities and racing pedigree (since Touareg is an accomplished participant in rally racing worldwide, notably a 1-2 finish in the 2009 Dakar Rally).
Sharing its basic platform with the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7, the Touareg Hybrid is the latest addition to the SUV family from Wolfsburg, which is also the most powerful yet.
Exterior
Although the new car bears close resemblance to its predecessor, the first generation Touareg, the 2011 model has actually been thoroughly reworked.
Deeper sculpturing now runs alongside the body, complete with more styling lines. The headlamps are also more angular, portraying a more distinctive look in-line with the styling motif found on other offerings in the Volkswagen lineup.
As a result, the hybrid SUV retains its visual arresting cues, with big and gentle proportions and U-shaped LED daytime running lights that are instantly recognisable as a Volkswagen machine.
 |
Dimensionally, the Touareg is now shorter and wider, leading to a more purposeful stance. Extension at the wheelbase provides greater all-round stability. The side profile of the car has been softened with less acute angles on the door-panels. Functions atop form with the 18-inch rollers engulfed by wide wheel openings, a tell-tale sign of the car's off-road capabilities.
Hybrid badges found around the car differentiates itself from the less eco-friendly variants, which otherwise sports no differences in the external aesthetics department.
 |
Interior
The Touareg is capably equipped with the niceties you would expect a luxury SUV from Wolfsburg to come with. Intrinsic trims fill the cabin, with wood chosen for the centre console and door panels, while turn knobs are finished in premium silver to accentuate aluminium.
Cabin space, especially in the rear quarters, will shy most of its competitors. Unfortunately, unlike the class-leading rear leg room, the Touareg's boot space takes a cut, which is smaller than its closest rivals - the X5 and Q7, and takes a shrink from its predecessor despite the growth in external dimensions.
A cool feature on the Touareg is the programmable power tailgate, which allows user to preset the maximum opening height. With the panoramic sunroof extending to the second passenger row, rear occupants can get a fair share of the sky view, which also adds to the airiness of the cabin. The downside to this, however, is that a considerable amount of heat does get into the cabin via the large window, penetrating the heat resistant fabric cover.
The Touareg is capably equipped with the niceties you would expect a luxury SUV from Wolfsburg to come with. Intrinsic trims fill the cabin, with wood chosen for the centre console and door panels, while turn knobs are finished in premium silver to accentuate aluminium.
Cabin space, especially in the rear quarters, will shy most of its competitors. Unfortunately, unlike the class-leading rear leg room, the Touareg's boot space takes a cut, which is smaller than its closest rivals - the X5 and Q7, and takes a shrink from its predecessor despite the growth in external dimensions.
A cool feature on the Touareg is the programmable power tailgate, which allows user to preset the maximum opening height. With the panoramic sunroof extending to the second passenger row, rear occupants can get a fair share of the sky view, which also adds to the airiness of the cabin. The downside to this, however, is that a considerable amount of heat does get into the cabin via the large window, penetrating the heat resistant fabric cover.
The Drive
Despite being 600cc down on the V6 petrol variant, the hybrid drivetrain pumps out more power, thanks to the 46hp electric motor. With most of the torque arriving quicker, the hybrid is capable of a more spirited sprint to the 100km/h mark, taking just 6.5 seconds compared to 7.8 seconds on the petrol variant.
The super-charged 3.0-litre Hybrid takes on highway cruising with minimal effort. Overtaking manoeuvres executed in enthusiastic manners will be responded with a sonorous howl from the V6, proving that hybrid can sound good too.
The driving experience is dulled, however, in high traffic conditions, where the drivetrain gets a little indecisive in activating the gasoline engine, often resulting in sending jitters through the cabin.
Despite being 600cc down on the V6 petrol variant, the hybrid drivetrain pumps out more power, thanks to the 46hp electric motor. With most of the torque arriving quicker, the hybrid is capable of a more spirited sprint to the 100km/h mark, taking just 6.5 seconds compared to 7.8 seconds on the petrol variant.
The super-charged 3.0-litre Hybrid takes on highway cruising with minimal effort. Overtaking manoeuvres executed in enthusiastic manners will be responded with a sonorous howl from the V6, proving that hybrid can sound good too.
The driving experience is dulled, however, in high traffic conditions, where the drivetrain gets a little indecisive in activating the gasoline engine, often resulting in sending jitters through the cabin.
 |
When it comes to braking, the Touareg delivers sure-footed stopping power, which defies what you would have expected from a vehicle of this mass. During low speed driving however, you will often have to watch the pressure exerted on the sensitive brakes, which could lead to jerky stops if handled otherwise.
Unlike the other 'eco-friendly' vehicles in the market, the Touareg does without the Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). In its place is a sophisticated eight-speed gearbox which provides seamless gear swops. In addition, the parallel hybrid system allows the SUV to run purely on electric mode for speeds up to 50km/h, a feat considering this is no electric vehicle.
Unlike the other 'eco-friendly' vehicles in the market, the Touareg does without the Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). In its place is a sophisticated eight-speed gearbox which provides seamless gear swops. In addition, the parallel hybrid system allows the SUV to run purely on electric mode for speeds up to 50km/h, a feat considering this is no electric vehicle.
Conclusion
Subtle visual makeovers mean the new Touareg Hybrid is not likely to attract stares at the lights. It may even go unnoticed if you choose to ease through the traffic, with little fuse made by the efficient hybrid drivetrain.
It is the other areas in which the Touareg shines. The hybrid drivetrain scores as both a fuel-saver and performance booster, with handling dynamics that befits a carmaker responsible for the Golf GTI. What it is then, a capable 4x4 which puts the smile on the driver, not the onlookers.
Subtle visual makeovers mean the new Touareg Hybrid is not likely to attract stares at the lights. It may even go unnoticed if you choose to ease through the traffic, with little fuse made by the efficient hybrid drivetrain.
It is the other areas in which the Touareg shines. The hybrid drivetrain scores as both a fuel-saver and performance booster, with handling dynamics that befits a carmaker responsible for the Golf GTI. What it is then, a capable 4x4 which puts the smile on the driver, not the onlookers.
The Touareg may be quite a mouthful for first-timers, but certainly, the mid-sized SUV isn't a handful when it comes to being driven around our urban landscape.
It may lack the handsome looks on a vehicle such as the Evoque, but the Touareg makes up for it with its serious off-road capabilities and racing pedigree (since Touareg is an accomplished participant in rally racing worldwide, notably a 1-2 finish in the 2009 Dakar Rally).
Sharing its basic platform with the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7, the Touareg Hybrid is the latest addition to the SUV family from Wolfsburg, which is also the most powerful yet.
Exterior
Although the new car bears close resemblance to its predecessor, the first generation Touareg, the 2011 model has actually been thoroughly reworked.
Deeper sculpturing now runs alongside the body, complete with more styling lines. The headlamps are also more angular, portraying a more distinctive look in-line with the styling motif found on other offerings in the Volkswagen lineup.
As a result, the hybrid SUV retains its visual arresting cues, with big and gentle proportions and U-shaped LED daytime running lights that are instantly recognisable as a Volkswagen machine.
It may lack the handsome looks on a vehicle such as the Evoque, but the Touareg makes up for it with its serious off-road capabilities and racing pedigree (since Touareg is an accomplished participant in rally racing worldwide, notably a 1-2 finish in the 2009 Dakar Rally).
Sharing its basic platform with the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7, the Touareg Hybrid is the latest addition to the SUV family from Wolfsburg, which is also the most powerful yet.
Exterior
Although the new car bears close resemblance to its predecessor, the first generation Touareg, the 2011 model has actually been thoroughly reworked.
Deeper sculpturing now runs alongside the body, complete with more styling lines. The headlamps are also more angular, portraying a more distinctive look in-line with the styling motif found on other offerings in the Volkswagen lineup.
As a result, the hybrid SUV retains its visual arresting cues, with big and gentle proportions and U-shaped LED daytime running lights that are instantly recognisable as a Volkswagen machine.
|
Dimensionally, the Touareg is now shorter and wider, leading to a more purposeful stance. Extension at the wheelbase provides greater all-round stability. The side profile of the car has been softened with less acute angles on the door-panels. Functions atop form with the 18-inch rollers engulfed by wide wheel openings, a tell-tale sign of the car's off-road capabilities.
Hybrid badges found around the car differentiates itself from the less eco-friendly variants, which otherwise sports no differences in the external aesthetics department.
|
Interior
The Touareg is capably equipped with the niceties you would expect a luxury SUV from Wolfsburg to come with. Intrinsic trims fill the cabin, with wood chosen for the centre console and door panels, while turn knobs are finished in premium silver to accentuate aluminium.
Cabin space, especially in the rear quarters, will shy most of its competitors. Unfortunately, unlike the class-leading rear leg room, the Touareg's boot space takes a cut, which is smaller than its closest rivals - the X5 and Q7, and takes a shrink from its predecessor despite the growth in external dimensions.
A cool feature on the Touareg is the programmable power tailgate, which allows user to preset the maximum opening height. With the panoramic sunroof extending to the second passenger row, rear occupants can get a fair share of the sky view, which also adds to the airiness of the cabin. The downside to this, however, is that a considerable amount of heat does get into the cabin via the large window, penetrating the heat resistant fabric cover.
The Touareg is capably equipped with the niceties you would expect a luxury SUV from Wolfsburg to come with. Intrinsic trims fill the cabin, with wood chosen for the centre console and door panels, while turn knobs are finished in premium silver to accentuate aluminium.
Cabin space, especially in the rear quarters, will shy most of its competitors. Unfortunately, unlike the class-leading rear leg room, the Touareg's boot space takes a cut, which is smaller than its closest rivals - the X5 and Q7, and takes a shrink from its predecessor despite the growth in external dimensions.
A cool feature on the Touareg is the programmable power tailgate, which allows user to preset the maximum opening height. With the panoramic sunroof extending to the second passenger row, rear occupants can get a fair share of the sky view, which also adds to the airiness of the cabin. The downside to this, however, is that a considerable amount of heat does get into the cabin via the large window, penetrating the heat resistant fabric cover.
The Drive
Despite being 600cc down on the V6 petrol variant, the hybrid drivetrain pumps out more power, thanks to the 46hp electric motor. With most of the torque arriving quicker, the hybrid is capable of a more spirited sprint to the 100km/h mark, taking just 6.5 seconds compared to 7.8 seconds on the petrol variant.
The super-charged 3.0-litre Hybrid takes on highway cruising with minimal effort. Overtaking manoeuvres executed in enthusiastic manners will be responded with a sonorous howl from the V6, proving that hybrid can sound good too.
The driving experience is dulled, however, in high traffic conditions, where the drivetrain gets a little indecisive in activating the gasoline engine, often resulting in sending jitters through the cabin.
Despite being 600cc down on the V6 petrol variant, the hybrid drivetrain pumps out more power, thanks to the 46hp electric motor. With most of the torque arriving quicker, the hybrid is capable of a more spirited sprint to the 100km/h mark, taking just 6.5 seconds compared to 7.8 seconds on the petrol variant.
The super-charged 3.0-litre Hybrid takes on highway cruising with minimal effort. Overtaking manoeuvres executed in enthusiastic manners will be responded with a sonorous howl from the V6, proving that hybrid can sound good too.
The driving experience is dulled, however, in high traffic conditions, where the drivetrain gets a little indecisive in activating the gasoline engine, often resulting in sending jitters through the cabin.
|
When it comes to braking, the Touareg delivers sure-footed stopping power, which defies what you would have expected from a vehicle of this mass. During low speed driving however, you will often have to watch the pressure exerted on the sensitive brakes, which could lead to jerky stops if handled otherwise.
Unlike the other 'eco-friendly' vehicles in the market, the Touareg does without the Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). In its place is a sophisticated eight-speed gearbox which provides seamless gear swops. In addition, the parallel hybrid system allows the SUV to run purely on electric mode for speeds up to 50km/h, a feat considering this is no electric vehicle.
Unlike the other 'eco-friendly' vehicles in the market, the Touareg does without the Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). In its place is a sophisticated eight-speed gearbox which provides seamless gear swops. In addition, the parallel hybrid system allows the SUV to run purely on electric mode for speeds up to 50km/h, a feat considering this is no electric vehicle.
Conclusion
Subtle visual makeovers mean the new Touareg Hybrid is not likely to attract stares at the lights. It may even go unnoticed if you choose to ease through the traffic, with little fuse made by the efficient hybrid drivetrain.
It is the other areas in which the Touareg shines. The hybrid drivetrain scores as both a fuel-saver and performance booster, with handling dynamics that befits a carmaker responsible for the Golf GTI. What it is then, a capable 4x4 which puts the smile on the driver, not the onlookers.
Subtle visual makeovers mean the new Touareg Hybrid is not likely to attract stares at the lights. It may even go unnoticed if you choose to ease through the traffic, with little fuse made by the efficient hybrid drivetrain.
It is the other areas in which the Touareg shines. The hybrid drivetrain scores as both a fuel-saver and performance booster, with handling dynamics that befits a carmaker responsible for the Golf GTI. What it is then, a capable 4x4 which puts the smile on the driver, not the onlookers.
Photos by Nicholas Low
Car Information
Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid 3.0 V6 (A)
CAT B|Petrol-Electric|12.2km/L
Horsepower
248kW (333 bhp)
Torque
440 Nm
Acceleration
6.5sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid
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