Volkswagen’s Touareg midsize crossover lineup includes models powered by a regular gasoline-powered V6 and those with a turbocharged diesel, each with five trim levels. There’s even a special X Edition that celebrates the Touareg’s 10th anniversary. There is only one hybrid among all those possibilities, but it offers a high-quality interior that is comfortable and functional.
The 2014 Touareg Hybrid is almost identical to the previous year’s model. New equipment includes a 360-degree exterior camera system that provides a top view and a hands-free foot-activated liftgate. However, it does not offer Volkswagen’s new Car-Net telematics system that is appearing in many other 2014 models from this carmaker.
ZoomThe Touareg Hybrid is powered by a supercharged 3-liter V-6 and an electric motor linked to a nickel metal-hydride battery. On its own, the engine produces 333 horsepower; in combination with the electric motor the system’s output is 380 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission completes the power system and all-wheel drive is standard.
The Hybrid comes in only one trim that is based on the Sport with Navigation trim available for both the V6 and the TDI models. Among the highlights of its features are a panoramic sunroof, keyless access and push-button start, and a liftgate with remote open and close features along with the new hands-free technology. There are heated leather seats, front and rear, and both front seats include a memory function, as does the power-adjustable steering column.
ZoomAll three of the Touareg’s power options offer similar fuel economy according to EPA estimates. The combined driving figure for the Hybrid falls is 21 mpg, falling in the middle between the V6 with 19 mpg and the TDI diesel at 23 mpg. Both the TDI diesel and the hybrid get 20 mpg in city driving, but the TDI pulls ahead in highway driving with 29 mpg compared to the hybrid’s 24 mpg.
The Hybrid is the most expensive of all the Touareg models, with a sticker price that climbs more than $10,000 higher than the Sport with Navigation trim that provides its interior features. It’s also listed at more than $3,000 higher than the next most expensive Touareg, the TDI Executive trim that offers upgrades for the audio system and leather seats.
This Hybrid exists primarily to enhance the Touareg’s performance rather than for reasons of economy. You’ll get far more power than either of the other two Touareg engines produce, but you won’t get savings in operating costs.
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