Try the VOLKSWAGEN Touareg R eHybrid

If the launch of the Touareg of the first generation, at a time when large premium SUVs have not yet invaded the catalog, was crowned with success, the Volkswagen flag has since become more reasonable. And for good reason, between the high level of competition, the French market that no longer tastes this kind of style and stricter laws, the Germans no longer have it easy. However, it remains an option for the Wolfsburg brand in certain markets, which has given it a welcome new model since 2023 despite its apparent decision.

The newcomer highlights its appearance with new, more sophisticated Matrix LED headlights, the shields have been redesigned and the taillights are now integrated with a red strip. Nice detail, the back logo is now highlighted, also in red. So the appearance changes very little, and discretion remains important, even if the stylish exterior of this version of the R is generally stronger. Dark colors fit well and rims do not exceed (here in 20 inches). In short, a certain idea of ​​beauty.

On board, the adjustment is even more alarming. Note the new steering wheel, a few new controls, but that’s about it. The environment combines some solidity in the layout, and the modernity of the large 15-inch touch screen. Good work, even if some finishing details are to choose a model with a price of 6 figures.

With regulations unenforceable for keeping powerful SUVs, the Touareg now ditches the diesel and any petrol engine. It offers only two versions of the PHEV, powered by a petrol V6. The first one already shows a good power of 381 hp, while this R version reaches a peak of 462 hp. This is the same powertrain found in some high-end cousins ​​like the Audi Q8 or Bentley Bentayga.

So armed, the Touareg R eHybrid has real speed. This is shown by the 5.1 seconds needed to reach 100 km/h. The German is solid on the rebound, passes without flinching and holds its own against some of the sports cars on the road ramps. It’s enough to justify the R logo.

On the road, the Touareg impresses more with its level of comfort than its cornering prowess: between an air suspension that is as stiff as it is soft and a rim diameter that remains reasonable, the Touareg smooths the road wonderfully. It is the best of all, even on very damaged surfaces. With such refinement, high-quality soundproofing and a pleasant interior, the Touareg is an ideal commuter.

So it is impossible to run to him? Yes, and it comes out decently, especially thanks to the amazing contact operation in the rain. Sports mode makes it more difficult, but pulls the gear, and therefore the engine, in a caricatured manner. Volkswagen Touareg R does not fall on its shock absorbers in a little side, and maintains a certain unity in its change of direction. But the heavy weight, gently attacking braking and tires that quickly cry out for help encourage you to take your foot off the gas. A lesser evil, this compelling SUV, powerful as it is, is most appreciated for its cruising qualities.

This modification, however, had no effect on its hybrid power, whose essential battery of 14.3 kWh stores a small capacity, while the competition now easily exceeds 25 kWh. This is good for weight (200 kg less than Mercedes GLE 400e for example), but less freedom. With zero emissions, it is difficult to exceed 40 km, while rivals (BMW X5, Mercedes GLE) approach 100 km without forcing. A minor evil, but one that ultimately raises questions about the importance of price positioning. Certainly very well equipped, the Touareg R starts at just over €108,000. It’s superior, and similar to the BMW X5 xDrive50e, it’s more expressive to drive, better presented, and more premium looking. The comparison also applies to Star’s competitor, the Mercedes GLE 400e, which has to deal with a simple four-cylinder with a power of “only” 380 hp.