The Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid has a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain and it replaces the previous V8 petrol model as the top-of-the-line Touareg.With hybrid drive, there is no performance deficit - the supercharged 3.0-litre petrol engine works with an electric motor to produce the power of an eight-cylinder engine while providing the fuel economy of a six- or four- cylinder unit. Combined with the E-motor electric motor's 46hp, the total system output is 380hp and total maximum torque surges to 580Nm.
The big Hybrid literally zips along when the accelerator pedal is floored. The performance advantage is clear despite the Touareg Hybrid weighing in at 2,240kg, or 205kg heavier than the 3.6-litre V6 petrol version.
The SUV employs a parallel hybrid drive configuration, which essentially means the Touareg can be powered by either engine or motor alone if required, and hence is more efficient for expressway driving. This eliminates drag torque losses and boosts fuel economy significantly.
Each trim line offers two different engines: a 3.6-liter 280 horsepower V6 and a 3.0-liter 225 horsepower V6 turbo diesel. The fuel economy of these engines is 16-mpg city and 23-mpg highway and 19-mpg city and 28-mpg, respectively.
The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg V6 Executive has an MSRP of a whopping $54,255 with standard leather seats, heated rear seats, 10-speakers, power tinted panoramic sunroof, and 20” wheels. VW also offers the Touareg Supercharged Hybrid, a model that blends performance and fuel-efficiency. The Touareg is a safe and secure SUV. It offers standard engine braking assist, hill descent assist, and anti-intrusion side door beams.