Volkswagen Touareg pricing announced (UK)

Volkswagen's new Touareg 4x4 will cost from £38,255 to £56,530 when it goes on sale. The new Touareg is more than 200kg lighter than the outgoing model, despite an increase in length of 20mm. VW also claims the range is now 20% more efficient.

The entry-level SE model gets leather interior, 18” alloy wheels, touch-screen satellite-navigation w/ DAB digital radio, dual-zone climate control, burr walnut trim and 6 airbags as standard. It comes with a 237bhp 3.0 TDI V6 diesel, which has a combined fuel economy of 38.2mpg and emits 195g/km of CO2. It accelerates from 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds and has a top speed of 135mph. The 237bhp 3.0 TDI has a commendable 550Nm of torque and is available at 2,000prm. All models in the range use an 8 speed automatic gearbox.

Mid-trim Escape trim is also fitted with the V6 diesel engine and is priced from £39,055. Alongside the equipment found on the SE, it has centre and rear differential locks, raised suspension, 100 litre fuel tank, 4XMotion four wheel drive system with a permanent 50:50 front to rear torque split. The 4Motion has been heavily revised for off-road use.

The flagship Altitude models are start from £41,705 for the V6 diesel and come with 19” alloy wheels, body kit, tinted windows, Bluetooth and lowered sports suspension.

A 335bhp 4.2 litre V8 Altitude is available from £56,530 and is also fitted with finer leather, 20” alloy wheels, electric front seats w/ memory, panoramic sunroof, electric tailgate and keyless entry and start. The V8 goes from 0-62mph in 5.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 150mph. Average fuel economy is 31mpg and emissions are 239g/km. A whooping 800Nm of torque between 1,750rpm – 2,750rpm is on hand.

The new 3.0 FSI V6 petrol/electric hybrid costs from £54,995. With a total output of 375bhp, it can accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds and top out at 149mph. Average fuel economy is 34.4mpg, while CO2 emissions are 193g/km. Equipment is virtually identical to that of the V8 Altitude, excluding the panoramic sunroof and 20” alloy wheels.

A host of optional extras like bi-xenon headlamps w/ LED day-time running lights, alloy wheels, upgraded leather upholstery, advanced sound systems, reversing camera, panoramic sunroof, metallic paint and interior trim inserts will be accessible. The car is now available to order in the UK and the first examples will be delivered to customers in October. The order books for the Hybrid open next month.