VW to build hybrid SUV
Volkswagen this week offered a glimpse at its future plans by releasing details of its new petrol-hybrid system, set to debut in the next-generation Touareg SUV.
A working prototype, based on the current Touareg, has been developed to showcase the new technology. Primary power comes from a new supercharged V6 petrol engine featuring direct injection. This 3.0-litre unit alone offers V8 engine performance while using a lot less fuel. Peak power is 329bhp and torque of 325lb.ft is available from 3,000rpm.
However, VW has bolted an electric motor-generator (called the 'E-motor') between the engine and the Touareg's new eight-speed automatic transmission, which is where the hybrid name comes in. The electric motor produces 37bhp and 221lb.ft of torque from zero rpm. Combined, the engine and motor can help the large SUV accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.8 seconds.
That's impressive stuff, but this SUV needs to return decent economy too if it's to find favour when compared to VW's larger turbodiesel engines - and it doesn't do too badly. Combined consumption is claimed to be in the region of 31mpg, while CO2 emissions have been slashed to less than 210g/km. Those figures are partially thanks to an integrated stop-start system and regenerative braking.
VW confirmed that the new Touareg will still feature full-time four-wheel drive, though utilising Audi's Torsen differential to reduce weight. It's highly likely that the new Touareg will make an appearance later this year, possibly at the Frankfurt Show.
