Volkswagen Touareg gets 340PS petrol flagship model

Volkswagen has increased the engine choice for Touareg customers, with the introduction of a new, powerful 340 PS 3.0-litre V6 TSI engine to the premium class SUV’s range, in addition to the capable 231 PS and 286 PS TDI diesel units already on offer.

• The latest member of Volkswagen’s growing range of SUVs brings even more choice for Touareg customers, adding a third powertrain to the model’s previous line-up of 3.0-litre V6 TDI engines, with all three units available in SEL, R-Line and R-Line tech specs.

  This new petrol engine delivers its peak 340 PS power output between 5,300 and 6,400 rpm, with 450 Nm of torque produced between 1,340 rpm – just above idle – and 5,300 rpm. Just like the diesel-powered Touaregs, the petrol engine’s power is delivered to all four wheels via Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, with a limited slip differential combining with the system to give the Touareg its sharp road handling.

  The Touareg 3.0 V6 TSI 340 PS reaches 62 mph from a standstill in 5.9 seconds before going on to a top speed of 155 mph where permitted, making it the fastest variant in the Touareg range.

  Towing weights remain unchanged over the diesel models, with a maximum weight of 3,500 kg possible for all three powertrains, while the 340 PS Touareg itself is a full 50 kg lighter than its diesel counterparts, at 2,020 kg. On the combined cycle, the model returns 31.7 mpg, with CO2 emissions of 203 g/km1.

  Orders open today for the first petrol variant of the third-generation Touareg, with first cars expected to arrive in the UK in April.

  Product Manager Brian Luckie said: “The addition of a powerful petrol engine to the Touareg range now gives customers three options – the choice between one petrol and two diesel units ensures that there’s a Touareg for all customers.

  “Being available in the same technology-packed specs as the existing range means that the Touareg’s long list of talents now includes the flexibility of being available in both petrol and diesel forms throughout the line-up.”