Volkswagen Touareg R: The Eco Adventure Beast

4.3 / 5
Volkswagen Touareg R Driving, Engines & Performance
Comfort
9.2
Performance
8.8
Value
7.5
Reliabiliy
8.0
Author
Oliver Jenkins
June 29th, 2023
When you think of eco-friendly cars, the image of a bulky SUV might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But the Volkswagen Touareg R is here to challenge that notion, blending performance, luxury, and a surprising nod to Mother Earth. As a former racing driver who’s spent more time in the cockpit than in my own living room, I was eager to see if this eco-warrior could still provide the thrill I crave. Buckle up, folks – it’s time to take the Touareg R for a spin!

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Can an eco-friendly SUV really deliver the goods when it comes to performance?” As someone who’s spent years pushing cars to their limits on some of the world’s most challenging circuits, I can confidently say that the Touareg R doesn’t disappoint. The acceleration is smooth and responsive, with the electric motor providing an instant torque boost that makes overtaking a breeze. And when you switch to Sport mode, the V6 engine roars to life, reminding you that this is still very much a performance vehicle.

But let’s not forget why we’re here – to see how this beast fares on eco-friendly routes. The Touareg R offers an all-electric range of around 28 miles, which is perfect for those short city commutes or a leisurely drive through the countryside. And with a combined fuel economy of 52 MPGe, you can feel good about reducing your carbon footprint without sacrificing the thrill of the drive.

One of the standout features of the Touareg R is its regenerative braking system. As someone who’s spent countless hours perfecting my braking technique, I can appreciate the subtlety and effectiveness of this system. It captures energy that would otherwise be lost during braking and feeds it back into the battery, extending your electric range and making every stoplight feel like a victory lap.

Handling-wise, the Touareg R is a marvel. The adaptive air suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride, whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling rougher terrain. And with its 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, you can be confident that this SUV will keep you planted firmly on the road, no matter the conditions.

Inside, the Touareg R is a masterclass in luxury and technology. The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a sleek, modern design. The infotainment system is intuitive and packed with features, including a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. And for those long journeys, the massaging seats are a godsend – trust me, your back will thank you.

Of course, no car is perfect, and the Touareg R does have a few minor drawbacks. The all-electric range, while decent, may not be enough for those with longer commutes. And the price tag is on the higher side, but considering the level of performance and luxury on offer, it’s a small price to pay for what you’re getting.

In conclusion, the Volkswagen Touareg R is a testament to how far we’ve come in the world of eco-friendly vehicles. It proves that you don’t have to compromise on performance or luxury to be kind to the environment. So, if you’re in the market for a versatile, powerful, and eco-conscious SUV, the Touareg R should be at the top of your list. And who knows – it might just make you fall in love with driving all over again.

Specifications

SpecificationValue
Engine3.0-liter V6
Electric motorPlug-in hybrid
Combined horsepower456
All-electric range28 miles
Combined fuel economy52 MPGe
Drive type4MOTION all-wheel drive
Transmission8-speed automatic
InfotainmentApple CarPlay, Android Auto
Seating capacity5