The engine line-up for the Touareg spans a performance range from 128 kW/400 Nm to 230 kW and 750 Nm of torque.

The 5-cyl R5 TDI with 128 kW/400 Nm and diesel direct injection continues to serve as the entry model to the exciting on-road and off-road worlds of the Touareg. A newly released 3.0 Litre 6-cyl 165 kW/500 Nm of torque V6 TDI and a powerful 10-cyl 230 kW/750 Nm with 5.0 Litre displacement represent the next TDI performance levels.

All three TDI engines come with a diesel particulate filter.

Additionally, there is a new petrol V6 on offer. It features 206 kW and 360 Nm of torque. The Touareg 3.6 V6 FSI is now available in Australia.

All Touareg models are offered with the Tiptronic 6-speed automatic transmission. Similarly, there is an option on V6 petrol and diesel models for the advanced CDC (Continuous Damping Control) air suspension system. The Touareg V10 TDI gets air suspension with automatic levelling control and height adjustment as standard factory-installed equipment.

All versions have an impressive list of standard features. Touareg V6 FSI, R5 TDI and V6 TDI have sporty 17-inch “Canyon” alloy wheels with wide profile tyres (255/60), dual headlamps with flasher lamps integrated under one clear glass cover and side view mirrors painted in the vehicle colour, parking distance sensors, rain sensing windscreen wipers, automatically dimming interior mirror and cruise control. The dual sun shades for driver and front passenger and the standard dual zone climate control system can make travel in the heat of the summer relaxing.

The convenience features are rounded out by the premium audio system with integrated CD player and ten loudspeakers, rear mounted 6 disc CD changer, electrically foldable adjustable and heated side-view mirrors, power windows in front and rear, hinged rear window, telescoping steering column with height adjustment, multifunctional display and central locking with remote control.

The V6 FSI and V6 TDI are offered with an alarm system, walnut wood and brushed aluminium inserts in dashboard and doors, cricket leather, electrically adjustable front seats with 12-way adjustment, as well as individually heated front seats.

The V10 TDI has distinctive myrtle wood and aluminium inserts respectively in dashboard and doors. As outlined above, other features of the 5.0 litre turbo diesel model include CDC air suspension with automatic load levelling, height adjustment and electronic damping control, “Keyless Access” locking and starting system, electrically height-adjustable and telescoping steering column and 19-inch alloy wheels with 275/45 low profile tyres, Bi-Xenon headlamps, 4 zone climate control air conditioning and electrically adjustable front seats with 12-way adjustment and 3 position memory function.

SAFETY
Six airbags and focus on driving stability and protection of others

Touareg has complex safety. For example, it includes dual-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, as well as side airbags and a head curtain airbag system for front and rear passengers. Automatic three-point seat belts are provided at all five seating positions and in front they are also combined with belt tensioners.

Contributing to optimal crash safety is the unibody structure that gives the vehicle reliable deformation properties through the use of high-strength steels and special laser welds. The safety philosophy of the Touareg includes protection of others. This is why Volkswagen intentionally avoided an offensive off-road design. Special deformation zones in the frontal area reduces the risk of injury to pedestrians and bicyclists. Front and rear parking sensors are offered on all models as standard.

Much effort went into designing the chassis for accident avoidance with its double wishbone suspension for front and rear wheels. Passengers will also benefit from the acoustically-isolated secondary frame that provides the same low-noise conditions of luxury sedans. Besides the ESP including ABS, other systems contributing to ideal driving safety are ASR traction control and EDL (Electronic Differential Lock).

DIMENSIONS AND DESIGN

Its 4,754 mm length, 1,928 mm width, 1,703 to 1,726 mm height and 2,855 mm wheelbase all characterise the Touareg’s presence, as does its fully galvanised body. Touareg has a lower overall height than other luxury class SUVs. The resulting dimensional interrelationships lend an especially dynamic and elegant appearance to the vehicle.

Touareg represents the new generation of contemporary SUVs. Its ample ground clearance, large wheels and concise design of wheel panels and guards all signal that the Touareg is clearly a SUV with a very high level of technology. In this context, the dimensional interrelationships of body design elements emphasise the vehicles robust characteristics. For example, the generous air inlet openings in the lower bumper area stand in formal contrast to the front grille above it. A similar contrast is generated by the powerful wheel panels and the broad body swage above the rocker panel in relation to the flat surfaces of the body shape.

The basic design principle for the Touareg was that power and robustness should only be expressed where functionally justified. All other body design elements radiate contemporary elegance and self-assured dynamics.

INTERIOR AND SPACE
Ample space for passengers;
variable cargo volume from 555 to 1,570 litres

The interior of Touareg is a study of functionality. It combines the luxury and sense of well being of a luxury class sedan with the robust nature of a genuine off-roader. The comfortable seats and spacious interior offer ample space for adults, even on long drives. And there is no need to be concerned about luggage. When the standard individually split rear seat is folded down and the independent hinged rear window is opened the Touareg offers very practical and easy access to the luggage area with a cargo volume of up to 1,570 litres. In the 5-seat configuration cargo capacity is still up to a respectable 555 litres.

SPECIAL FEATURES AND OFF-ROAD CAPABILITIES

Touareg is extremely versatile. It is as much at home on freeways as it is on rocky dirt roads. Its impressive off-road capabilities are reflected, for example, in its mastery of steep frontal slopes (45 degrees/100 percent) and side slopes of up to 35 degrees. The ramp angle for driving over a hilltop is 22.1 degrees (Air suspension: 27.2 degrees), the overhang angle is 28.1 degrees (Air suspension: 33.2 degrees). The fundamental measure of off-road capability, i.e. maximum ground clearance, is 237 mm (300 mm with air suspension) which satisfies demanding off-road requirements.

4XMOTION all-wheel drive provides optimal power transmission with use of the electronic control switch, selection of the off-road gear reduction and standard central differential lock. The chassis electronics automatically control its multidisc clutches.

Normally, the propulsive power is distributed 50:50. However, depending on the driving situation up to 100 percent of engine torque may be applied to just one drive axle. A rotary switch in the cockpit permits manually activation of the lock (100 percent). An Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) adds fine-tuning to the distribution of propulsive power.

Door seals designed to prevent water intrusion, watertight headlamps and electrical connectors, as well as special intake air channels allow the Touareg to drive through water at depths of up to 500 mm (580 mm with air suspension). There is another feature that is practical on formidable hills. Hill Holding Assistance. It counters the tendency of the vehicle to roll backwards when driving up a slope. On hills with greater than 20 percent grade its counterpart, the Hill Descent Assistance feature, uses braking intervention to keep vehicle speed constant and limit it to 20 km/h.

PRICING

Pricing (RRP) of the newly revised Touareg range is as follows:

Model
Touareg 2.5 R5 TDI 128 kW: $64,990
Touareg 3.6 V6 FSI 206 kW: $74,990
Touareg 3.0 V6 TDI 165 kW: $74,990
Touareg 5.0 V10 TDI 230 kW: $121,990

The V8 petrol engined Touareg has been dropped from the Australian range.

OVERVIEW OF ENGINES

PETROL
3.6 V6 FSI with 206 kW/360 Nm: This powerful 6-cyl engine with advanced FSI direct-injection petrol technology develops a maximum torque of 360 Nm at 2,800 rpm. In combination with the standard Tiptronic 6-speed automatic transmission, the Touareg V6 is capable of a top speed of 215 km/h. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.7 seconds. The average fuel consumption is 13.8 litres per 100 kms.

DIESEL
2.5 R5 TDI with 128 kW/400 Nm: This entry-level diesel engine delivers agile driving performance. The R5 TDI cruises from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.9 seconds. On the freeway it can reach a speed of 179 km/h. The in-line 5-cyl engine develops its maximum torque of 400 Nm at 2,000 rpm. Fuel consumption is just 10.6 litres per 100 kms. A diesel particulate filter is fitted as standard.

3.0 V6 TDI with 165 kW/500 Nm: This four-valve 6-cyl engine is characterised by a third generation common rail diesel direct injection technology and it comes with a diesel particulate filter. Its maximum injection pressure can reach 1,600 bar thanks to piezo injectors. Its maximum torque of 500 Nm is reached at a low 1,500 - 1,800 rpm. The Touareg V6 TDI engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.9 seconds. It achieves a top speed of 205 km/h. Average fuel consumption: 10.9 litres per 100 kms.

5.0 V10 TDI with 230 kW/750 Nm: With its impressive torque of 750 Nm, which is available at a low 2,000 rpm, this 10-cyl TDI delivers outstanding driving performance. Top speed is 225 km/h and it can accelerate in GTI like fashion from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. This pump-nozzle direct injection engine with diesel particulate filter is paired with a Tiptronic 6-speed automatic transmission and air suspension as standard equipment. Average fuel consumption: 12.8 litres per 100 kms.

Touareg V6 TDI -
New 3.0 6-cyl TDI with Diesel Particulate Filter as Standard
V6 TDI develops a powerful 500 Nm of torque

Following on from the unique V10 TDI and the particularly economical R5 TDI comes the new 3.0 V6 TDI as the third direct-injection turbo diesel for the Touareg. The 6-cyl engine develops 165 kW at 4,000 rpm and therefore fills the gap between the larger 10-cyl and the smaller 5-cyl TDI engines. The average fuel consumption is 10.9 litres per 100 kms. Equipped with a diesel particulate filter, the Touareg V6 TDI complies with the Euro-4 emissions standard.

THE NEW V6 TDI ENGINE

Direct injection with piezoelectric technology represents the technical highlight of this engine. This TDI engine develops a maximum torque of 500 Nm at 1,500 - 1,800 rpm. It is equipped with a fast glow system featuring ceramic glow plugs to enable the car to be started in winter just as quickly as a petrol-engine version.

Compact and light: The new V6 TDI engine is 440 mm long, meaning that it is extremely compact. The cylinder crankcase features an angle of 90 degrees and is made from high-strength yet light vermicular or compacted graphite cast iron (CGI). This offers greater strength although it weighs 15 percent less than grey cast iron. The engine weighs only 220 kilogrammes; its cylinder gap is 90 mm and the compression ratio is 17.5:1.

Runs as smoothly as a petrol engine: The 24 valves of the 6-cyl engine are actuated using low-friction roller finger followers with hydraulic valve clearance compensation; this technology, together with the piezoelectric function, makes a decisive contribution to reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Together with the new common rail system and the high strength construction of the cylinder crankcase, using roller finger followers makes a positive contribution to the engine acoustics. Specifically, in conjunction with the chain drive and camshaft timing gears with backlash compensation, this makes it possible to reduce the mechanical noise of the valve train – a fundamental prerequisite for the excellent smooth running of the V6 TDI that is every bit as refined as a 6-cyl petrol engine.

1600 bar injection pressure: Mixture preparation is handled by a common rail system of the latest design: the Bosch EDC 16 CP. It consists of a high-pressure pump (up to 1,600 bar injection pressure), one common rail per cylinder bank, the low-pressure system with primary pump and filter, piezoelectric injectors and an electronic control unit together with sensors. The injection pressure is very high for a common rail engine, meaning that the fuel is atomised more finely; this allows the mixture preparation to be optimised further and permits more efficient combustion. The consequences are both palpable and measurable: Power (kW) and torque (Nm) are also significantly increased while fuel consumption and exhaust emissions are lowered.

Piezoelectric technology instead of solenoid valves: The piezoelectric injectors play a key role in the newly designed common rail system.

Background: Until now, the injection moment and the injector duration have been controlled by electronically regulated solenoid valves for each cylinder in the injectors. As a world first, the job previously performed by the solenoid valves is now undertaken by piezoelectric inline injectors in the V6 TDI. These switch much faster than solenoid valves. In these new injectors, the injection valves are controlled by a component referred to as a piezoelectric actuator. It comprises piezoelectric crystals that change their structure when an electric voltage is passed through them, causing them to expand. This results in a minimum geometrical change that – assisted by a hydraulic element – mechanically triggers the opening of the injection nozzle needle.

Faster and lighter: In practice, the new piezoelectric technology offers many benefits: The electronically actuated piezoelectric actuator switches four times faster than a conventional solenoid valve. It is directly integrated in the injector, which means the movement is transferred directly onto the nozzle needle without a mechanical element and the moved mass on the nozzle needle can be reduced by up to 75 percent. In addition, piezoelectric technology doubles the nozzle needle speed compared to solenoid valves. Injection itself is performed using a 7-hole nozzle; it promotes homogenous fuel distribution throughout the combustion chamber and thereby makes a contribution to reduced emissions thanks to the associated greater combustion efficiency.

Four injections per cycle: Thanks to these technical provisions, it is possible to vary the number of injection procedures to ideally match the particular operating conditions. In the case of the new V6 TDI, Volkswagen uses up to four injections per combustion cycle in total: In addition to the main injection, there is a double pre-injection in the low rpm range and a single pre-injection in the medium rpm range. In addition, there is a single post-injection up to approx. 2,500 rpm. On the one hand, this injection sequence ensures optimum emissions behaviour while on the other hand combustion is smoother and therefore engine noise is reduced.

Centrally integrated turbocharger, two intercoolers: The turbocharger is located centrally in the V-angle of the engine so as to achieve optimum economy of space. To enable the turbo to operate with the best possible efficiency, the temperature of the induction air is effectively reduced by two intercoolers connected in parallel with minimum pressure loss. The variable turbine geometry of the turbocharger is controlled by an electrical actuator in the new V6 TDI. It means the guide blades are adjusted more quickly and more exactly. As a result, the charge air pressure is built up significantly faster, particularly at low revs, resulting in improved response characteristics. The optimised blade shape of the compressor and turbine wheel effectively promotes this direct conversion. Variable induction tract: Additionally, infinitely variable swirl flaps are integrated in the induction tract. They adapt the air movement to the particular engine speed and load.

Background: A high level of swirl at low engine load also helps to optimise combustion as does, conversely, low swirl at high engine load. In practice, this means a closed duct at low load increases swirl whereas an open duct at high load makes it possible to achieve a high level of cylinder charging.

Exhaust gas recirculation: The new V6 TDI with its very highly developed injection technology is characterised by particularly low pollution emissions; pollutants are reduced to a large extent as part of the combustion process. The remainder of the exhaust gas is rendered inoffensive in subsequent processes. Controlled exhaust gas recirculation promotes this: The exhaust manifold has double walls (with air gap insulation) so the exhaust gases can be sent for exhaust gas post-treatment without noticeable heat losses. The exhaust gas recirculation itself, in contrast, requires effective cooling so as to make real inroads into NOx and particulate emissions, for example. To achieve this, the exhaust gas passes through an exhaust gas recirculation cooler with water through-flow that is controlled according to temperature and load. This cooler is located within the inner angle of the engine’s V, thereby further optimising the economy of space in the engine. During the cold-start phase, the exhaust gases are passed through a bypass duct to build up pressure ahead of the cooler. This enables the catalytic converters to reach their ideal operating temperature more rapidly. Once the engine and the catalytic converters are up to temperature, the exhaust gas flow enters the EGR cooling zone directly.

ZERO-MAINTENANCE DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER

Diesel particulate filter: The Touareg V6 TDI is equipped with a diesel particulate filter as standard. This temporarily stores and eliminates the diesel soot before it is emitted into the atmosphere with the exhaust gases. As a rule, the effect of diesel particulate filters supplements that of oxidation catalysts that have been used for a long time.

Catalytic converter and DPF: The exhaust gases are cleaned using a primary catalytic converter located close to the engine (near the turbocharger) and the main catalytic converter in the underbody. Furthermore, soot particles are separated out by a diesel particulate filter that is installed as standard. In general, diesel particulate filters are used for capturing and eliminating the diesel soot before it is emitted into the atmosphere with the exhaust gases. In the Touareg V6 TDI, the system used is an advanced, state-of-the-art design. The catalysed soot filter (CSF) employs a filter coating containing precious metal that operates in two ways. During passive regeneration, the soot stored in the catalytic converter is slowly and carefully converted into CO2. This process takes place in a temperature range from 350 to 500°C and continues without requiring any special intervention, particularly when the vehicle is predominantly used for motorway driving. Only during longer periods under low load (primarily in urban traffic), the exhaust temperature is actively increased to approximately 600°C every 1,000 to 1,200 kms for additional filter regeneration. The particles stored in the filter are burned off at this temperature.

4XMOTION ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

The power from the new V6 TDI in the Touareg is transmitted to the wheels through Volkswagens 4XMOTION all-wheel drive system.

The powerflow passes through a transfer case that is equipped with an off-road reduction ratio as standard. From there, the drive is sent to the driven wheels via front axle and rear axle differentials. The centre differential has continuous locking as standard. The centre differential lock is automatically controlled by the running gear electronic control unit; if required, up to 100 percent of the drive power can be transmitted to one of the two axles. The differential lock can also be manually activated at 100 percent using a dial switch in the cockpit; this involves temporarily deactivating the automatic control of the differential lock unless other commands are received from the ABS or ESP.

On-road: The 4XMOTION all-wheel drive of the Touareg offers enormous advantages even on varied roads. Under normal conditions – on a dry road with even grip and constant engine power – all-wheel drive splits the force 50:50 between the front and rear axles. As soon as a wheel starts to slip because of aquaplaning, or if one side of the carriageway is wet, the power flow to the axle with more grip is increased using the multiple-disc lock of the centre differential (up to 100 percent). This adapted force distribution is additionally assisted by a 4-wheel EDL (EDL = Electronic Differential Lock with active brake control).

As a result, 4XMOTION has an equally positive effect on both driving dynamics and on active safety.

Off-road: Touareg also performs magnificently off-road thanks to the basic construction of the 4XMOTION all-wheel drive as described here with its front and rear-axle differential as well as the transfer case with centre differential flange-mounted on the back of the gearbox. As standard, the Touareg also features a lock for the centre differential and a reduction ratio. Thus equipped, the Touareg can tackle the steepest of inclines with its 100 percent (45 degree) climbing ability. To activate off-road mode electrically at the same time as engaging the gearbox reduction ratio, all the driver has to do is turn the dial switch located on the left of the central tunnel from the “High” position (fast driving mode) to “Low”. The centre differential lock is automatically engaged if an axle loses traction; furthermore, the lock can also be activated manually (at 100 percent) using a dial switch. This temporarily deactivates automatic control over the differential lock.

Perfection on the edge: Hill descent control is available for use on very steep downhill inclines (greater than 20 percent). In addition, it activates itself automatically if the vehicle’s speed is first reduced to below 20 km/h and ESP is activated; the Touareg then coasts at a constant speed for as long as a gear is engaged but the accelerator pedal is not pressed. Furthermore, performance in hilly areas is rounded off perfectly by Hill Holding Assistance.

CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION
Touareg features optional air suspension

Initial situation: Touareg is one of the few off-roaders to offer outstanding comfort and handling properties. Thanks to its comparatively sporty suspension set-up with high damping and torsionally rigid stabilisers, it displays equally agile and safe driving properties on-road too.

Chassis and suspension in detail: A twin A-arm axle with upper aluminium links and lower steel links is used at the front. At the rear, Touareg also boasts a twin A-arm axle characterised by forged aluminium links above and steel triangular control arms underneath. The front track width is 1653 mm, that at the back is 1665 mm (V6). The Touareg with steel suspension has a maximum ground clearance of 237 mm.

Steel suspension: Steel suspension is fitted as standard. Optionally Volkswagen also offers the off-roader with CDC air suspension including automatic level control and electronic shock absorber control (CDC: Continuous Damping Control). In this case, the maximum ground clearance is increased to 300 mm. Internally ventilated fixed caliper brakes on all wheels with ESP, Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Pressure Distribution (EBD) give Touareg magnificent braking performance.

Air suspension system: When driving on-road, the air suspension system ensures an extremely high level of comfort and – thanks to a speed-dependent, automatic chassis lowering function – offers the dynamic properties of a very sporty car. Off-road, air suspension also improves driving performance whilst also offering an unusually high standard of comfort.

MOTORSPORT INVOLVEMENT
2007 Dakar Rally

2007 Dakar Rally new driver pairing: The American Mark Miller and the South African Ralph Pitchford in the Volkswagen Race Touareg are forming a new driver/co-driver combination for the 2007 Dakar Rally. The signing of Miller/Pitchford means that the third pairing of the Volkswagen factory team – alongside two-time World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz (Spain) and Michel Périn (France) as well as the South African Giniel de Villiers, the runner-up in this year’s “Dakar” in the Race Touareg and the German Dirk von Zitzewitz – has been confirmed. While 43-year-old Mark Miller, after claiming fifth place in January, will be contesting the upcoming 29th running of the desert classic (6th to 21st January, 2007) for the Wolfsburg-based automotive manufacturer for the second time. His co-driver Ralph Pitchford (44) is a newcomer to the team.

“Mark Miller is an exceptionally fast and committed driver and on top of that, a real team player,” says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. “That’s why we’re happy to be able to continue working with Mark during the 2007 Dakar Rally. In the 2006 edition he truly added value and his co-driver Ralph Pitchford in his first competition for us will probably be doing the same. We’ve come to know Ralph’s professional style of working during test drives in Tunisia and think that he, like all our drivers and co-drivers, embodies the determination of Volkswagen Motorsport.“

For Mark Miller, who in the legendary hillclimb race at Pikes Peak (USA) in a production-derived Volkswagen Touareg clinched his first class victory in early July, this will be the second “Dakar” with Volkswagen Motorsport and his fourth altogether. “Compared to last season, the team has improved yet again,“ says Miller, who calls Phoenix, Arizona (USA) home and has won the popular U.S. Rally Baja 1000 on several occasions. “Even more so than before we’re all working towards the common goal of winning the most famous and most difficult desert rally for Volkswagen. Kris Nissen has put together a genuine team in which everyone is working to help everyone else. I’m happy to be part of this team and will try and contribute my part to the team’s success through good performances.”