In a world premiere, Volkswagen presented the Touareg R50 on October 11 at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. Its 350hp at 3500 rpm positions the new Touareg among the most powerful SUVs in the world.
The Touareg R50 can be ordered in Germany at prices starting at 88260 Euro; it will be introduced to the market in November but is thought unlikely to reach the USA.
The engine characteristic of the Touareg R50 is marked by a torque level nearly unattainable by the competition: The V10 TDI develops an enormous 627 lb-ft at a low 2000rpm.
The turbo-diesel was derived from the well-known ten cylinder with 313hp. Adjustments to its turbocharging and modified engine management enabled a 37hp increase in power and 74 lb-ft increase in maximum torque.
The SUV now accelerates to 62mph in just 6.7sec (production car: 7.4sec); its top speed is 146mph.
In keeping with the performance potential of the R50, Volkswagen Individual designed new exterior and interior features according to the R philosophy.
From the outside, the new R50 is easily recognized by its 21" Omanyt alloy wheels and 295 width tires, blue painted brake calipers, discreet fender flares, side skirts and distinctive bumpers (Sport Design Package), as well as a modified radiator grille (in a matte-finish chrome).
Offered exclusively on the Touareg R50 is the color "Biscay blue". Blue hues of this type have been typical of the high-powered R models since the first Golf R32 was introduced in 2002. Offered as an option on the Touareg R50 are Campanella white, Reflex silver, Black Magic and Atacam gray.
The car's extensive features also include air suspension: The so-called "Driving dynamics package with adaptive roll compensation" and chassis lowered by 20mm supplements the "Sport" mode of the manually or automatically controlled air suspension, achieving a stiffer spring rate.
On the inside, the SUV's features include sport seats in anthracite nappa leather with R50 logos on the headrests. The logo was also integrated in the stainless steel tread plates.
In keeping with the sporty character of the Touareg is the light-colored "engine spin" decor of the interior, as well as metal worked caps for the accelerator and brake pedals. An R50 logo also decorates the gearshift lever of the six-speed automatic transmission (Tiptronic).
Standard features on the Touareg R50 also include a winter package (including rear seat heating), the Premium Memory Package (including electrically adjustable seats, steering column and seatbelt height), net partition behind the rear seats and a ski sack.