subject: Volkswagen ( Vw ) Touareg Diesel Engine Proves Hybrid Does Not Always Mean green [print this page] Volkswagen ( VW ) Touareg Diesel Engine Proves Hybrid Does Not Always Mean Green
The Volkswagen (VW) Touareg was introduced in the UK in 2003. In 2007 the Touareg received a facelift. The second generation of the Touareg made its first appearance at Geneva Motor Show in 2010 and the production followed. It has the same shape as its predecessor but in fact it is significantly different and considerably improved. The VW Touareg comes in two trim Levels, Escape and Alititude. Altitude is more powerful with mud-plugging capabilities. But practically it will spend most of its time on road therefore Volkswagen has ticked all the boxes on style as well with luxurious interior.
It returns a comfortable, smooth and engaging drive. VW now offers an option of an hybrid set up with Touareg petrol engines. However, the 3.0 TDI V6 Touareg diesel engine is more efficient. The Touareg boasts the usual high build quality one expects from VW. On road, it performs great on bends and has a precise steering. The drive might not be as precise as the closely related Porsche Cayenne, but still, the Touareg returns a great driving experience for its class. On the bumpy roads, it beats the Porsche in comfort and handling.
The hybrid version of the VW Touareg uses a 3.0-litre V6 engine mated with an electric motor. It enables the car to be driven on batteries for short periods resulting in zero emissions. Though it is the most expensive model to buy it cannot beat the V6 diesel engines efficiency (39.2mpg). The hybrid manages to return an average fuel economy of only 34.4mpg which is not impressive for the class. One would expect the hybrid version to be at least cleaner than other models, even but not in this case. At 193g/km of CO2 emissions it is dirtier than the Touareg V6 diesel engine that emits 189g/km of carbon. For this reason 3.0litre V6 TDI accounts for most of the sales.
It is mated with an eight speed automatic gearbox and Blue Motion Technology that come standard across the range. The 4.2litre V8 TDi has replaced the V10 TDI which is also very thirsty and takes the tax bill very high. The V6 TDI comes in all models and the monstrous V8 is only offered in the range topping Altitude version. The new VW Touareg has not yet gone through the Euro NCAP crash test, but its predecessor received a full five star rating and nothing less is expected from the new model. It comes with a generous amount of standard safety kit like nine airbags, ABS, electric stability control and many other hi-tech safety gadgets which add to the drivers confidence.
by: Maria Benton
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