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By
EWAN KENNEDY
25 November 2007
We have just re-tested one of our favourite vehicles, the
Volkswagen Touareg with its big V10 5.0-litre twin-turbo diesel. This
engine is all about torque, some 750 Nm of it at just about any revs,
yet such is the efficiency of the huge diesel that it’s economical as
well as quick.
The Touareg was designed in conjunction with long-time
compatriot Porsche, which sells a similar vehicle as the Cayenne.
The most expensive Touareg, at $121,900, the V10 turbo-diesel
accelerates like a sports car, has a people mover interior, yet is
a competent off-road 4WD. It has a strong monocoque chassis that
feels as rugged as a ladder-frame bodied 4WD. Touareg even has a
dual-range transfer case for torque multiplication for extreme
conditions, thus the purists call it a genuine 4WD. As the most
expensive model in the range, the V10 also has adjustable air
suspension to further improve ride height when required.
Steep climbs and deep descents we tried during our week with
the big Touareg were made more hazardous by heavy rain that left
the surfaces damp and greasy. Using the latest in electronic
traction aids the VW was able to negotiate dangerous terrain with
ease.
However, the tyres, designed for high-speed cruising on
European motorways, don’t look as though they will like constant
off-road or severe gravel roads. We didn’t have tyre problems in
our vehicle despite throwing some rugged work its way.
The Touareg is slightly narrow inside considering the external
bulk of its body but manages to carry three adults in the back
seat without too much of a squeeze. Having said that, three
children will find it a lot more comfortable.
On-road comfort is good, though you do feel the higher centre
of gravity if you push it along hard. Other than that the
handling, again assisted by electronic aids, will look after
drivers to the extent that they will barely be aware they are
driving a 4WD.
If $121,900 and a V10 diesel is too much for you, Volkswagen
has just announced an improved version of the $74,990 V6
turbo-diesel. Power from this 3.0-litre unit has been increased
from 165 to 176 kW, with torque going up an impressive 10 per
cent, from an already good 500 Nm to 550 Nm. Just as importantly,
a lot of engineering work has gone into making torque available
over a wide spread of the rev range. The engine is fitted with a
diesel particulate filter to further reduce emissions and the
engine complies with Euro 4 regulations.
Final fuel consumption figures are still to be measured, but it’s
likely the engine will be at least as economical, or possibly
better than the outgoing V6 diesel.
Volkswagen's Touareg is a highly competent vehicle that
deserves to succeed in one of the fastest growing market segments
in Australia.
© Copyright
Marque Publishing Company
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