My Touareg

In 2006, a production Touareg with a V10 TDI engine caused a stir by pulling a 155 tonne Boeing 747 proving that this is one of the most powerful diesel engines in automotive history. With the Touareg R50 it has been possible to again significantly increase the output of this trailblazing engine, and it now has an output of 258kW and a torque level nearly unattainable by the competition. The V10 TDI of the Touareg R50 develops its enormous pulling-power of 850Nm at an amazingly low 2,000 rpm.

Performance

The result is breathtaking: the 0 to 100km/h acceleration time has been trimmed from 7.4 to just 6.7 seconds. Also impressive is the improvement to acceleration once you're already on the move. You've only got to breathe on the accelerator at cruising speeds and the R50 wants to lunge forward.

In relation to engine power and vehicle size, the fuel consumption of the production ten-cylinder diesel equipped with a particulate filter is a moderate 9.6 litres per 100 km (highway) and 12.6 litres per 100 km (combined cycle). Despite big gains in power and torque, its DIN fuel consumption values have remained constant compared to the V10 TDI Touareg.

Decide how to ride

4Motion® permanent all-wheel drive is standard on the R50, while the air sports suspension with Continuous Damping Control (CDC) makes sure the 21-inch ‘Omanyt’ allow wheels with 295/35 R21 tyres stay firmly on the road at all times, even at top speed or in tight corners. Yet the Touareg R50 takes more than just the road conditions into consideration. The dynamic shift programme recognises individual driving style and automatically adapts the shift points accordingly, so the decision for a sporty ride or a comfortable cruise always lies in the driver’s hands.

Whatever the inclination

Like all Touaregs faced with an extreme incline, the R50 barely pauses as it climbs up hills with gradients of up to 45°. It can also cope with a side-slope angle of up to 35°, with impressive ramp, approach and departure angles. Then, when the Touareg R50 climbs down again, hill descent control confidently tackles descents of up to 45°. And even with the sports suspension as standard on the R50, ground clearance remains an impressive 280mm.

Worth a second look

Beyond the powerful engine is a subtle sophistication that underscores the Touareg R50’s sporty and stylish design. A modified radiator grille in chrome with matt finish, dual intercooler grille with R50 logo, independent skirt design, distinctive chrome roof rails and the exclusive ‘Biscay Blue’ colour, all lend the Touareg R50 a commanding presence and a look that’s instantly recognisable.

Inner beauty

It’s the little finishing touches that make all the difference in a unique R50 experience. ‘Engine Spin’ metallic inserts adorn the interior. The racy styling compliments the sports seating in Anthracite-coloured Nappa leather, accented by an R50 logo in the front headrests. Front seat positions can be electronically controlled and managed via the premium memory system. The poised accelerator and brake pedals get a makeover with R-design pedal caps, detailed in stainless steel, and the Tiptronic® gearbox lever also receives the R Line logo detailing.

Launched in South Africa

The much-anticipated new Touareg R50 was launched on 30 November to the South African market at the Johannesburg International Motor Show, held at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec. Touareg owners were exclusively invited via the My Touareg website to view the R50 on the stand as guests of Volkswagen. Their verdict? Thumbs up all around for the new top-of-the-range Touareg. With innovations in both under-the-skin technology and design, the R50 has truly redefined the sports utility vehicle genre and will undoubtedly make its mark in years to come, both on and off South Africa’s roads.

To view the full list of Touareg R50 specifications visit the Specifications page