VW NZ launches Touareg PHEV, its most powerful model

There are three variants of facelift third-generation VW Touareg. Photos: Liz Dobson

Volkswagen New Zealand has launched three facelift Touareg models, including two diesels, with the PHEV version being the brand’s most powerful production vehicle.

With VIP customers checking out the large SUV in the past few months, now it’s time for all potential buyers to see the updated version of the third-generation Touareg.

They include the base model V6 at $111,990, the $141,990 V6 R-Line and the most powerful VW, the Touareg R PHEV (priced from$159,990).

Volkswagen NZ calls the exterior redesign of the all-wheel-drive Touareg a subtle change.

“It’s an evolution not revolution,” said Chris Nunes, the brand’s passenger product manager at the media launch this week.

The facelift Touareg includes a combined cluster and infotainment screen.

The change includes the LED tail light clusters which have been designed as a light strip and feature an illuminated Volkswagen logo. In addition, enhanced running gear systems ensure optimum comfort and maximum performance.

Inside, the Touareg gets a sophisticated combined screen.

"With improvements in all the right places, the new Touareg offers an enhanced driving experience and a more stylish design for those looking for a truly impressive ride,” says Volkswagen New Zealand General Manager, Chanelle McDonald. 

She says the introduction of the plug-in hybrid to the Touareg range is part of the brand's wider road map to become net carbon-neutral by 2050. 

The facelift Touareg gets a LED illuminated rear light strip.

“Volkswagen is committed to providing consumers with vehicles that meet their needs and we are proud to have added an attractive option for those looking for an eco-friendly vehicle that doesn’t compromise on performance.” 

The base model has a 3-litre, V6 diesel engine producing 170kW of power and 500Nm of torque. It sits on 20in tyres and has a 14in info screen. 

The R-Line diesel version (210kW/600Nm) has 21in tyres, ventilated front seats and a traffic sign recognition. 

But the halo model out of the three is the R PHEV, with a pure electric range of 53km. The 3-litre petrol engine produces 250kW of power and 450Nm of torque but the 100kW electric motor pushes those figures to 340kW/700Nm making it the most powerful production VW ever.

VW NZ says the R PHEV model (above) will initially be its biggest seller.

McDonald sees the PHEV as the top seller from launch, despite the model facing Road User Chargers (RUC).

“If they can afford the price of the PHEV, the customers can afford the RUC,” she said.

“The is R bringing customers into the dealership, and the 20 Touareg R already in New Zealand have been sold and the next shipment in March will see most of the R pre-sold.”

After the initial favour of the R, McDonald sees the R-Line as the top seller.

AutoMuse has the R-Line for a week-long review.