There are numerous methods to evaluate the quality of a new automobile. One approach might be to gather a multitude of them in a secluded airstrip, align them, engage the launch control, and compare their speed until they reach 100km/h or accomplish a quarter mile. Whilst this can be exciting, it is also fairly restricting.
Another method could be embarking on an extensive driving holiday across Europe, absorbing the beauty of the different landscapes, appreciating the superior road infrastructure, whilst also bearing the brunt of unusually costly car-ferry charges. Although this allows the driver to get acquainted with the car and learn extensively about their various stopping points, the downside is that the car isn’t being put to the test on familiar roads, where the driver is accustomed to the unique challenges of each corner and bump, offering a direct comparison with how previous vehicles have handled the same route.
Therefore, the most comprehensive way of assessing the value and effectiveness of a car is the simple test of Fitness For Purpose. This provides a straightforward way to examine if the car performs as expected, whether it does it efficiently, and if it’s worth the asking price.
This brings our attention to the Volkswagen Touareg. Since it was first introduced in the early 2000s, with the memorable V10 diesel model (which kept brake pad sellers in constant demand), the Touareg has been a reputable, sophistication competitor against popular models like the Land Rover Discovery, BMW X5, and Mercedes GLE (formerly ML-Class). The Touareg often came in a bit cheaper than the aforementioned models but still offered a reliable and comfortable cabin on par with them, although its more recent models have failed to match the impressive cabin of the original Touareg, which was shared with the nearly legendary Phaeton saloon.
The updated Volkswagen Touareg still maintains its appeal with a few slight enhancements including new LED headlights, remodelled bumpers and updated software for the large 15-inch in-cabin display. It continues to provide high levels of comfort and sophistication while also offering ample space and practicality. It’s also surprisingly efficient off the road due to features like air suspension and adjustable driving modes.
The issue arises when considering the Volkswagen Touareg R model. This version features a 3.0-litre V6 turbo petrol engine, a sizeable battery, an electric motor, and a combined 462hp and 700Nm of torque. Therefore, it has an impressive speed, able to move from 0-100km/h in a mere 5.1 seconds, justifying its R brand tag.
Nevertheless, everything starts to fall apart once you begin to drive and examine the pricing details. The Touareg R, despite being the crowning jewel of the VW range, is not the priciest model. The Irish tax system’s quirks mean that the R’s plug-in hybrid system actually renders it cheaper – priced at €104,845 – as compared to the more basic diesel-engine Touareg, which sells for about €4,000 more. For corporate purchases, the plug-in hybrid Touareg R provides a double incentive with its 51/km CO2 rate.
However, the Touareg R fails to truly live up to its R badge once you start driving. Unlike other VW range-toppers fitted with hefty turbo engines and the R emblem, this model doesn’t feature a dedicated R button on the dashboard. This button would normally transform the vehicle into a dynamic driving beast, but its absence necessitates navigating the rather complicated large touchscreen to find the right driving mode.
While the Touareg R may not radiate obvious athletic appeal, it certainly makes its presence known with its brisk pace and the enticing rumble of its V6 engine. However, the overly cushioned air springs seem to contradict the aim of the R model, rendering an oddly soft driving sensation. Although it may not be designed as an extreme track car, it’s hard not to feel a sense of disillusionment as the vehicle’s purpose and its conduct seem to clash. The car unquestionably prefers a gentle hum along the motorway, rather than hunting down curves on secluded country roads. The justification behind the sporty R badge suddenly feels questionable.
But perhaps this is not an issue? Overlook its sporting badge and focus on relishing the comfort and refinement of the ride? Certainly, that’s a viable option, unless considering the bar set by the R badge, which creates anticipation not fulfilled by the actual driving experience. The plug-in hybrid system, in theory efficient, is not adequate for long-distance cruising. The electric range, advertised at 50km, struggles to actually reach 30km on a full charge. Once you resort to petrol power, you’re consuming at least 8.5 litres of fuel per 100km. This might be acceptable if it were a high-performance sporty SUV, but unfortunately, it’s not.
There’s further disappointment. One might mistakenly assume that opting for the Touareg R is an economical route to owning a Porsche Cayenne e-Hybrid, as they share not only a similar platform but also a hybrid engine. Regrettably, this is not the case. The equivalent performance Cayenne e-Hybrid is actually marginally cheaper and its more powerful 570hp sibling offers impressive speed at a similar price to the Touareg diesel. Which, for all intents and purposes, spells the end for the Touareg R.
The assertion here is that the Volkswagen Touareg R squanders a chance to be a high-performing icon for the working class, as it ultimately turns out to be a spacious, luxurious SUV bearing the R badge. Despite its plush comfort and finesse, it fails to offer enough merit for its high price point, and pales in comparison with its esteemed, yet similarly priced, Porsche equivalent.
In isolation, there’s no critique one could make about the Touareg’s aesthetics or its performance. It’s when you start comparing, the problem begins. The question is about its suitability for purpose.
A brief about Volkswagen Touareg R:
Powered by a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine and a 100kW motor, bolstered by a 17kWh lithium-ion battery, it offers 462hp and 700Nm of torque. This power is sent to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission system. The annual CO2 emissions, responsible for motor tax, stand at 51g/km (£150). Fuel efficiency is rated at 2.7l/100km (WLTP). It boasts a quick 0-100km/h in 5.1 seconds. As tested, it is priced at €116,320, but initial price offering starts from €104,845. However, the overall rating is disappointing, as 2/5.
The verdict: It’s too plush and comfortable for an R-labelled product, and the price is excessively high compared to Porsche.