VW announces Touareg pricing/specs in UK

Agent001 submitted on 2/10/2003 Auto Spies Photos Timestamp: 7:37:36 PM

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VW announces Touareg pricing/specs in UK

Look out ML and X5

UK VW Touareg Prices and Specifications Announced

Prices for Volkswagen’s new Touareg off-road vehicle have been revealed, at £29,335 on the road for the 3.2-litre V6, rising to £50,440 for the flagship 5.0-litre V10 TDI. The car will be available to order within the next few weeks through a limited distribution network, ahead of its UK launch on 1 May.

The Touareg was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show last September, and made its UK debut at the Birmingham Show shortly afterwards. The car created an unprecedented amount of interest at the British show – as did its technologically advanced V10 TDI engine, the most powerful passenger car diesel to date. This powerplant produces an exceptional 553 lbs ft of torque at just 2000 rpm, making it especially suitable for off-road driving.

Competing in the luxury SUV vehicle segment, the Touareg is designed to deliver class-leading performance both on and off the road. Features such as permanent four-wheel drive; a low-ratio gearbox; electronic traction control linked to an auto-locking centre differential; optional, selectable mechanical front and rear differential locks; hill start and descent assist; and short front and rear overhangs, all contribute to its impressive ability when venturing off the beaten track. When back on the road, ABS; ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) and BAS (Brake Assist System) are important safety aids, and are fitted as standard to every model.

Initially, the Touareg range will consist of three engines: the 220 PS 3.2-litre V6 and 310 PS 4.2-litre V8 petrol powerplants and the 313 PS 5.0-litre V10 TDI turbodiesel. Later this year, they will be joined by a 174 PS 2.5-litre TDI engine, which is expected to cost around £750 less than the V6. A six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission is fitted across the range, while the V6 and 2.5 TDI will also be available with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Luxury car customers will not be disappointed by the Touareg’s generous list of standard equipment. Every version will include ‘2Zone’ electronic climate control; multifunction computer with steering wheel controls; a ten-speaker CD system; cruise control; electric windows; electrically heated, adjustable and foldable door mirrors; and walnut interior wood trim. Other notable features include driver’s, front passenger’s and front seat side airbags with a curtain airbag system; alarm with interior protection and immobiliser; and, on the V6 model, 17 inch alloy wheels.

Move up to the V8, and the list includes an automatic dimming rear view mirror; dusk-sensing light system; electrically adjustable and heated front seats; engine compartment lights; leather seats; and rain sensing wipers. Externally, a chrome finish on the door sills and grille distinguish this version from the V6.

The range-topping Touareg V10 TDI is highly specified. Joining the list of standard features are Continuous Damping Control (CDC) air suspension (optional on other models); bi-Xenon headlights; central locking with keyless access and engine start; electrical adjustment and memory for seat belt height, steering column, mirrors and front seats; parking distance control; multifunction computer with 5-inch colour screen; and enhanced stereo system with 11 speakers. Outside, the V10 TDI features 18 inch alloy wheels, a chrome air intake and front fog lights.

Despite the high specification of the range, drivers are able to customise further their Touaregs with a range of factory and retailer-fit options. These include satellite navigation; power closing of the tailgate; ski sack with load-through provision; sunblind for rear screen; heated windscreen; and tiptronic operation mounted on the steering column.

In addition, every customer is offered the chance to take part in a complimentary drive day, held at one of six locations across the country. This allows all Touareg owners to experience the impressive capabilities and technology of the vehicle.

The Touareg is Volkswagen’s first step into the luxury class. During the summer, it will be joined by the Phaeton, a large luxury saloon with a range of advanced engines including a 420 PS 6.0-litre W12.

The Touareg marks a further phase in Volkswagen's move into the luxury sector.

It will go on sale in Germany in winter this year and be available in the UK in summer 2003. You can however enjoy a sneak preview of the Touareg by looking through our Touareg picture gallery below. And if you want us to keep you up to date, please leave your details and we will be in touch with the latest developments on the new Touareg launch.

The Touareg is 4750 mm long, 1930 mm wide, 1720 mm high and has a wheelbase of 2860 mm. In the UK, the 3.2-litre V6 and 4.2-litre V8 petrol plus the 2.5-litre R5 TDI and V10 TDI are expected to be available from launch.

With four-wheel drive and class benchmark on- and off-road capability, the Touareg will feature a high level of new technology. Power is transferred to the driven wheels through a transfer box which incorporates a low ratio range and three locking differentials.

Short overhangs, ground clearance of up to 300 mm, a wading depth of 585 mm and electronic supervision and actuation of the differential locks provide the technical prerequisites for off-road driving.

On the road, double wishbones front and rear with a noise-insulated subframe give the Touareg the comfort and refinement of a luxury saloon, coupled with the precision of a sporty passenger car, with a top speed of over 155 mph. Pneumatic suspension and continuous damping control give the car a high level of comfort, while a switch allows the driver to select sporty or comfort suspension settings.

The Touareg will be equipped with a level of standard equipment befitting its position in the luxury off-road class, competing alongside the Mercedes M-class and BMW X5. Further details will be available closer to launch.