The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid is a Luxury midsize hybrid SUV. It is considered to be among the best-driving hybrid SUVs available on the market today.
This high-quality hybrid SUV is receives praise because of its great fuel efficiency.
The Touareg can meet the challenges posed by the competition.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV Hybrid | Base Price: $62,055.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (100l) | MPG: 20 city / 24 hwy |
| Length: 188.8 in. (479.5 cm) | Wheel Base: 113.9 in. (289.3 cm) |
| Height: 68.4 in. (173.7 cm) | Width: 76.4 in. (194 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 5135 lbs (2329 kg) | Ground Clearance: 7.9 in. (20 cm) |
| Cargo Capacity: 32.1 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 3.0L V6 DOHC Parallel Hybrid | Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1 |
| Horsepower: 333 HP | Max RPM: 5500 RPM |
| Torque: 325 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm | Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic |
| Electric Motor: 47 HP | Torque: 221 lbs-ft |
| Battery: Nickel-hydride Metallic | Voltage: 288V |
| 0-60 mph: 6.2 seconds | Max Towing Capacity: 7716 lbs (3500 kgs) |
Engine & Performance
The Touareg Hybrid comes with a standard 333 horsepower 3.0L V6 hybrid engine combined with a 47-hp electric motor, to produce a total of 380 hp and 425 lbs-ft of torque. In addition to that, the Touareg gets a standard AWD enabling it net a fuel economy estimated at 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on a highway.
The engine is combined to standard 8-speed automatic transmissions that delivers smooth shifts and prompt response to throttle inputs. When electric mode is in use, the Hybrid can speed up to 31 mph. A properly equipped Touareg Hybrid can tow up to 7,700 pounds, a capacity that most rivals cannot achieve. This SUV’s brakes are also appreciated for their natural feel, unlike the regenerative systems in most hybrids.
Exterior
The Hybrid model comes with muscular styling and excludes exuberant hybrid decals found on most rivals such as GMC Yukon Hybrid. Notable features include: power moon roof, auto-dimming rear view mirror, power rear cargo lift gate, front fog lights, rain sensing wipers, fully automatic headlights, rear window wiper and defroster, spoiler dual exhaust heated door mirrors and turn signal indicator mirrors. The Touareg Hybrid also comes with 19-inch alloy wheels.
Interior
You will find the Touareg Hybrid spacious and comfortable. The cabin comes with many standard features and seats that accommodate up to five people. This SUV comes with standard 12-way power-adjustable heated front seats.
It also comes with heated rear row seats that slides forward and back, to allow the occupants to set more comfortable legroom. Standard interior features include: 8-speaker sound system, dual-zone climate control system with air filter, rear beverage holders, navigation system and keyless entry with push-button start. Behind the rear seat, you will get a cargo space of 32.1 cubic ft, which increases to 64 cubic ft after folding the rear row.
Safety & Reliability
The VW Touareg Hybrid has a respectable list of standard safety features. These include: driver and front passenger airbags, front side head airbags, side impact airbags, rear head airbag, electronic stability control, child safety locks, traction control, daytime running lights, panic alarm, immobilizer, and 4-wheel disc brakes.
The Touareg Hybrid is protected by a 3-year or 36,000 miles limited warranty, as well as a powertrain warranty that lasts for the first 5 years or 60,000 miles. In addition to that, owners will also benefit from road assistance during basic warranty period.
Pros
- Roomy rear seats
- Seamless powertrain operation
- High-quality interior
- Sporty handling
- High towing capacity
- Impressive equipment roster
Cons
- High price tag
- Touareg TDI is better value
- Intrusive safety-oriented electronics
- No third row seat
The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid is an option for people looking for a midsize family hybrid SUV. Not only will you get a smooth ride, but the seats are comfortable, making the experience more enjoyable.
Competition
The competition the Touareg Hybrid faces includes the likes of the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid (MSRP $69,850; 20 city / 24 hwy), the BMW 5 Series Hybrid (MSRP $61,100; 23 city / 30 hwy), and the only outsider, the Land Rover Range Rover Sport (MSRP $60,045; 13 city / 18 hwy).
What others say:
“The Touareg Hybrid is powered by a 3.0-liter TSI supercharged V6 engine combined with an electric motor that significantly reduces fuel consumption and emission compared to the previous V8 version.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
