VOLKSWAGEN Touareg R Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

The 2024 Volkswagen Touareg R represents the enhanced version of the SUV's facelift model, launched in the same year.

However, it is not the first of its kind. In the division's over two decades of existence, it offered some impressive Touaregs, such as the R50 that came equipped with a V10 diesel engine.

Although the model made a name for itself through the high torque of the big diesel engine it had in the past, the 2024 version continues the tradition of the pre-facelift model and comes only with a hybrid powertrain.

The plug-in hybrid propulsion system in the Touareg R eHybrid consists of a combination of a V6 petrol engine and an electric drive motor. This advanced hybrid drive configuration of the SUV generates an impressive system power of over 450 horsepower, enabling the car to convey it to the wheels through a four-wheel permanent drive system.

Combining this with the improved coordination of the running gear and control systems makes the vehicle a real competitor in the fast-SUVs category, of course, keeping in mind the price range.

Besides the numerous advanced technologies that the Touareg R inherited from the base version, the flagship has a lot of design features that are meant to differentiate it from the rest of the pack.

The specific blue R color is used in many zones, such as the brake calipers and the interior stitching. When starting the car, the R logo pops up on the navigation system to remind the driver once again that he is behind the wheel of a racing-inspired machine, not only a comfortable and very spacious SUV.

One awesome feature is the standard 20-inch Braga alloy wheels that can optionally be upgraded to some 22-inch Estoril alloy wheels meant to be more imposing than the car itself.

For a better look, the designers of the SUV implemented an R logo projection from the exterior mirror housing, which is turned on whenever the doors are opened, to try somehow to materialize the racing aura that floats around this Volkswagen.

The IQ.Light HD matrix headlights and the IQ.Light LED tail light clusters with dynamic brake and turn signal function and illuminated Volkswagen logo have the ability to highlight the fine lines and edges of the car, not only to increase the safety and the comfort of the passengers.

To conclude, the Tiguan R eHybrid is such a versatile car that you can take it to the racetrack one day, then the following day, pack all the things you need in the car and go on a road trip with your whole family. Besides this, the off-road trails no longer seem so scary when you're in the front seat of a complete German-made SUV.

The Touareg's flagship is the R version, which also becomes the most powerful plug-in hybrid in Volkswagen's range. The combined output is 462 hp, obtained from a combination of a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and a 100 kW electric motor. The combined torque is 700 Nm (516 lb ft). A 14.1 kWh lithium-ion battery stores the energy needed for the electric motor and it is mounted under the luggage compartment. Transmission is via an 8-speed gearbox and a transfer box that transmits power to the front and rear axle through a Torsen differential. Maximum 70% of the torque can be sent to the front axle and up to 80% to the rear.

The 2020 Touareg R is the result of the Volkswagen Motorsport department led by Jost Capito. The former McLaren executive, who was also formerly responsible for VW's WRC program returned to the german carmaker and transformed the big SUV into a faster vehicle, able to tackle mud, sand and smooth tarmac.

From the outside, a black theme is applied where chrome used to be on the grille, sides and rear bumper. Only the tailpipes remained polished and shiny.

Inside, the traditional luxury features from the Touareg can be found, but some touches of R-customization may be found. The Innovision Cockpit comes as standard in the Touareg R. It consists of the digital instruments and the infotainment system screen.