Volkswagen is ready to welcome its first plug-in hybrid for Australian customers. Touareg R SUV would be the first vehicle of this type that would be sold in Australia.

The German-based automotive company Volkswagen’s new flagship is ditching V8 diesel power from the top of its Touareg rang. It is expected to arrive next year with its environment-friendly features.

Previously, Volkswagen had avoided these cars saying that it’s not compatible with low-quality fuel. The Big Touareg R SUV with a powertrain is good for a 5.1-second sprint to 100km/h and 47km of electric range.

Volkswagen has long concerns over the poor quality of Australian petrol that has a high level of Sulphur. Which prevented the brand to bring dynamic and more fuel-efficient cars to Australia.

It will join the 2022 Golf R, Tiguan R, and T-Roc R in the Volkswagen Australia stable upon arrival.

Ralph Beckmann, who heard of marketing at Volkswagen, said the Volkswagen’s Touareg R was not originally built for Australia, however, recent changes in the market led the company to make this decision.

‘’ The Touareg R was not destined for Australia because Volkswagen PHEVs and EVs are naturally prioritized for markets with emissions targets.’’

Mr. Beckmann further added,

‘’ The Aussie appetite for the biggest and best Volkswagens combined with the overdue recognition on the part of government that Australians deserve the best quality petrol, and the progressive policies of NSW, all helped make the business case.’’

Volkswagen Australia said that bringing the hybrid Touareg doesn’t mean they will bring in its inexpensive environmentally-friendly vehicles.

VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG R

The hybrid Touareg R has the capability of going from 0-100km/h in 5.1 seconds and can travel up to 47km on electric power. Top speed is limited to 135km/h in pure electric mode.

The electric motor is fed by a 14.3kmWh lithium-ion battery and can be charged by a petrol engine or you can also use household PowerPoint or higher capacity wall box. The battery can be fully charged within two and half hours.

It’s a combination of a burly 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 petrol engine making 250kW/450Nm and a 100kW/400Nm electric motor delivering total outputs of 340kW and 700Nm. It drives all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The company hasn’t been revealed the specifications of the car neither has revealed the local pricing. However, the buyers are expecting a high level of kit.