New Volkswagen Touareg unveiled

It's been a long time coming, and finally the second generation Volkswagen Touareg has broken cover, showing off a fresh new look and offering a hybrid powertrain from the get-go.

But don't get too excited, Volkswagen Australia has put the kybosh on Touareg Hybrid coming to Australia, a 3.3-litre supercharged V6, citing an expected lack of demand.

Volkswagen Australia's General Manager Press and PR, Karl Gehling, told the Carsales "We looked at it [the Touareg Hybrid], but we don't think the volume warrants it. Other models in the range benefit from improved economy and lower weight, so there's less need for a hybrid."

Gehling confirmed that the second generation Touareg will be coming to Australia in 2011. It will first go on sale in Europe from April this year and it will depend on demand as to when exactly in 2011 we will see the improved new model Down Under.

Launched overnight in Munich, the new model will forgo a glitzy debut at the Geneva motor show to avoid stealing the new generation Porsche Cayenne's thunder, as we reported in late January.

Volkswagen's new mid-sized SUV is based on a platform co-developed with sister-brand Porsche, the same underpinnings will also underpin the Cayenne, much like its predecessor. It's lighter than the previous Touareg, by around 200kg, which should improve everything from fuel economy to handling, braking and even acceleration.

Indeed, the new VW Touareg is shaping up well, sporting a contemporary new design that is streets ahead of the previous model. The overall shape of Volkswagen's new SUV has been retained for continuity, but the sheet metal is new and as the photos show the front end displays a far more dynamic style.

The VW Touareg's front end has adopted the company's new design language, already seen on the Golf VI, Polo and Amarok, giving a more familiar look.

Longer than its predecessor and with a range of new features, including an electrically unlatchable rear seat plus an all-new interior design with updated dashboard and an electric parking brake. Volkswagen will also offer what it claims is the largest panoramic sunroof in the SUV market.

The engine range will comprise several diesel engines, including the tried-and-tested 3.0-litre V6 generating 180kW/550Nm while using just 7.4L/100km on the combined EU cycle.

Volkswagen will also offer a 4.2-litre V8 turbodiesel that drinks 9.1L/100km with peak power and torque of 250kW/800Nm.

Though we won't see it in Australia, the hybrid model features a supercharged 3.3-litre petrol V6 paired with an electric motor for a combined output of 280kW/580Nm. The petrol-electric VW Touareg will hit 100km/h from rest in 6.5 seconds and has average fuel economy of 8.2L/100km.

All Touareg models will come standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, comprising of a Torsen limited-slip differential.

There will also be a special 'off-road' button that alters the cars electronic driving aids, such ABS and traction control, for rougher terrain. Hill Descent Assist is also available, as is a Terrain Tech Pack for the V6 TDI models, which feature a more robust transfer case, plus locking centre and rear differentials.

Volkswagen will reveal more details on the new generation Touareg SUV at the Geneva motor show in March.

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