2011 Volkswagen Touareg Preview
DesignVolkswagen worked hard to reduce weight in its all-new Touareg by focusing on structural design and materials. The engineers also took a look at the capable-but heavy-all-wheel-drive system used in the previous models. Both were extensively reworked, and when the new model hit the scales it was more than 400 pounds lighter than its predecessor-yet the body had 5 percent greater torsional rigidity (which leads to better ride and handling qualities). Sleek new sheetmetal lowered the drag coefficient to .35 (from .38), improving aerodynamic efficiency and fuel economy even further.
Hardware
Volkswagen is rolling out the new 2011 Touareg with several powertrain options-but only two are coming to the U.S. marketplace initially, the company says. The standard engine will be a 3.6-liter direct-injection V-6, reworked to provide more power and less fuel consumption than its predecessor. European markets will be offered a 3.0-liter V-6 TDI diesel, and a new 4.2-liter V-8 TDI diesel, but those will not be offered in the States (for now).
The big news comes in the form of a hybrid powerplant-Volkswagen's first-mating a 3.0-liter V-6 to an electric motor. According to the automaker, the Touareg "V6 TSI plus E-motor" is capable of operating in pure electric mode up to 30 mph. All of the engines are mated to an all-new 8-speed ZF automatic transmission-the world's first in an SUV, says Volkswagen-promising smoother shifts and more efficient driving.
Realizing that most consumers didn't need the rugged go-anywhere all-wheel-drive system of the original Touareg, Volkswagen simplified the AWD system for the new model while still offering its top-range system as an option for those who want or need it. The standard AWD system is the familiar 4MOTION, complete with a Torsen limited-slip differential and an "off-road driving program" that tunes the ABS, EDS, and ASR for off-road duty.
For those desiring even more off-road capability, the Touareg may be ordered with the "Terrain Tech Packet" that substitutes the Torsen differential for a rugged transfer case. This system, called 4XMOTION, includes reduction gearing and center and rear differentials with locking capabilities. Within the cabin of 4XMOTION-equipped vehicles is a five-position rotary switch allowing the driver to adapt the vehicle to specific driving conditions.
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