Volkswagen Unveils PHEV 'Touareg R' for the First Time at Geneva Motor Show

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] Volkswagen announced on the 25th that it will unveil the 'Touareg R,' the first hybrid model of Volkswagen's high-performance R brand, at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show, held from the 5th to the 15th of next month.

Based on the third-generation new Touareg, the Touareg R is a model born from Volkswagen's high-performance R brand. As the R brand's first plug-in hybrid model, it is equipped with Volkswagen brand's highest output and the first permanent all-wheel drive in the PHEV lineup.

The combination of a 100kW (136 PS) electric motor and a 340-horsepower V6 gasoline TSI engine boasts a maximum output of 462 horsepower. When the battery is sufficiently charged, it starts in the zero-emission E-mode and can drive in pure EV mode at speeds up to 140 km/h. The battery capacity is designed to cover typical daily commuting distances adequately.

The driver can control the hybrid mode and E-mode via the 4MOTION Active Control menu button on the center console or through the infotainment system.

Like other Touareg models, the Touareg R is equipped with the permanent all-wheel drive system, 4MOTION. Thanks to the all-wheel drive and a drive system with a maximum torque of 71.4 kg·m (700 NM), the Touareg R can tow trailers weighing up to 3.5 tons. Premium models can tow trailers of the same weight even in E-mode.

The Touareg R features an R brand-exclusive package in both interior and exterior design. Inside, illuminated stainless steel door sill trims and headrests bear the R logo, seats are finished in crystal gray leather, and a new leather material multifunction steering wheel is applied. Like the third-generation new Touareg, it is equipped with the Innovision Cockpit, which connects a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15-inch Discover Premium infotainment system display.

Meanwhile, Volkswagen plans to unveil the Touareg R along with the icon of hot hatches, the eighth-generation new Golf GTI, and the new Golf GTD for the first time at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show.