The Volkswagen Touareg III (CR, facelift 2023) R 3.0 V6 TFSI eHybrid represents the pinnacle of Volkswagen’s SUV offerings, blending performance, luxury, and advanced plug-in hybrid technology. Introduced in July 2023, this iteration of the Touareg builds upon the success of the third-generation model, offering a compelling alternative in the premium SUV segment. While the Touareg isn’t a mainstay in the US market like Volkswagen’s smaller offerings, it’s a significant vehicle in Europe and other global markets, known for its robust build quality, sophisticated technology, and all-terrain capability. The “R” designation signifies Volkswagen’s high-performance sub-brand, signifying enhanced power and sporty characteristics.
Volkswagen Touareg III R: A Detailed Overview
The Touareg has a rich history, originating as a collaborative effort with Porsche, resulting in the Porsche Cayenne sharing many components. The third-generation Touareg, launched in 2018, moved to the MLB Evo platform, offering increased space, lighter weight, and a more modern interior. The 2023 facelift and the introduction of the R model further refine the Touareg, focusing on efficiency and driving dynamics. The Touareg R is positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the BMW X5 xDrive45e and the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350e, offering a similar blend of performance and electric range.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Touareg R lies a 3.0-liter V6 TFSI engine, producing 340 horsepower. This engine is coupled with a powerful electric motor delivering 136 horsepower, resulting in a combined system output of 462 horsepower and a substantial 700 Nm (516.29 lb.-ft.) of torque. This powertrain configuration allows for brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.9 seconds and a 0-100 km/h sprint in 5.2 seconds. The engine features direct injection, a turbocharger with an intercooler, and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission ensures smooth and efficient power delivery to all four wheels via Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. The powertrain architecture is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), allowing for all-electric driving for up to 50 km (31.07 miles) with a usable battery capacity of 14.3 kWh.
Design & Features
The Touareg III maintains a sophisticated and understated design aesthetic. The facelifted model features subtle styling updates, including revised front and rear fascias, updated lighting elements, and new wheel designs. The Touareg R distinguishes itself with unique exterior accents, such as distinctive badging and a more aggressive front bumper. The vehicle’s body style is a traditional five-door SUV, offering seating for five passengers. Inside, the Touareg R boasts a luxurious and technologically advanced cabin. Key features include a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, premium leather upholstery, and a host of driver-assistance systems. Safety features are comprehensive, including ABS, electronic stability control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) designed to enhance safety and convenience. The trunk offers a generous 665 liters (23.48 cu. ft.) of space, expanding to 1675 liters (59.15 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touareg |
| Generation | Touareg III (CR, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | R 3.0 V6 TFSI (462 Hp) eHybrid 4MOTION Tiptronic |
| Start of production | July, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 2.3 l/100 km (102.3 US mpg, 122.8 UK mpg, 43.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 53 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | EURO 6 EA |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 186.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 282.1 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 17.9 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 14.3 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (Li-NMC) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 50 km (31.07 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 24.1 kWh/100 km (38.79 kWh/100 mi, 87 MPGe, 4.1 km/kWh, 2.6 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 136 Hp |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 462 Hp |
| System torque | 700 Nm (516.29 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 340 Hp |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1340-5300 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1340-5300 rpm) |
| Engine displacement | 2995 cm3 (182.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Kerb Weight | 2481 kg (5469.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3020 kg (6657.96 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4902 mm (192.99 in.) |
| Width | 1984 mm (78.11 in.) |
| Height | 1693 mm (66.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2899 mm (114.13 in.) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission |
The Volkswagen Touareg III R 3.0 V6 TFSI eHybrid represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the Touareg, offering a compelling combination of performance, efficiency, and luxury. Its advanced plug-in hybrid technology and sophisticated features make it a strong contender in the premium SUV market.
