Previously one of the biggest polluters in the Volkswagen line-up, the all-new Touareg Hybrid promises to give the gas-guzzling SUV a new, greener image.
The Touareg Hybrid was unveiled alongside a brand new conventional Touareg model at the Postpalast in Munich. The new Touareg itself will offer a range of conventional petrol and diesel engine options, stop-start technology and an eight-speed transmission, equating to up to 20 per cent more fuel efficiency. However, it is the hybrid model that really catches the eye.
Among the features of the new Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid is a 3.3litre supercharged V6 direct injection petrol engine that produces 333PS and 265lb-ft of torque. Combined cycle fuel consumption is 28.7mpg and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions have been reduced to 193g/km. It can achieve a maximum speed of 149mph and accelerates from 0-62mph in 6.5seconds.
When compared to a conventional SUV of the same size and power, the hybrid offers more than 25 per cent fuel savings in city driving. Much of the fuel savings can be attributed to the following four elements:
- E-Motor: All electric driving reduces petrol consumption and the V6 TSI is not only shut off but also disengaged from the eight speed automatic to reduce drag torque.
- Coasting: When the driver releases the accelerator, the V6 TSI is disengaged and as the Touareg rolls significantly longer, drag torque losses are eliminated.
- Regenerative braking: When braking, the E-Motor recovers kinetic energy which is stored in the NiMH battery pack.
- Stop-Start system: This improves fuel economy, particularly in urban traffic.
