If you were at Volkswagen’s recent Das Autoshow, you might have noticed a Touareg Hybrid sitting inconspicuously in a corner in their main hall. Little did we know that it was a preview of things to come – as this monster hybrid has actually been launched here on our shores!
The Touareg Hybrid heralds the introduction of Volkswagen’s Think Blue concept as well as extending the brand’s SUV segment, offering Malaysian motorists an alternative in sustainable and responsible mobility. The car will feature VW’s pioneering TSI technologies, focusing on economy and efficiency, without sacrificing quality or performance.
Think Blue is VW’s sustainability umbrella that has already been rolled out in 30 markets, including internally within Volkswagen Group Malaysia. This philosophy combines innovation, responsibility for the environment, and collective actions to achieve this goal.
Commenting on the roll out of Think Blue and the launch of the Toureg Hybrid in Malaysia, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia Ricky Tay said, “Think Blue is an attitude that goes beyond technologies and products. It reflects the spirit of the time, setting new benchmarks for environmental responsibility, fuel consumption and emissions, and it encompasses all environmental initiatives within the Volkswagen Group under one roof. Launch of the Touareg Hybrid is the first step towards introducing Think Blue in Malaysia. At Volkswagen, we believe that our new product offerings will support our agenda of encouraging eco-conscious behaviour and contributing to a sustainable future.”
“The recently concluded Malaysian budget showcases the Malaysian government’s commitment to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability with increased investment and encouragement to green technology based products. At Volkswagen, Blue is the new Green and we see the launch of the Touareg Hybrid as well as Think Blue as initiatives that support the important pillars of development in Malaysia,” added Mr Tay.
Now comes the juicy bit – power. The Touareg Hybrid will be powered by 3.0-litre six that pushes 380PS and a massive 580Nm of torque between 3,000 – 5,250rpm. Mated to an eight-speed auto, the Touareg Hybrid needs only 6.5 seconds for the zerotohundred sprint; quicker than its Golf GTI smaller brother! An engine Start/Stop and a regenerative braking system work in tandem to keep fuel consumption (8.2-litres/100km in a combined cycle) and CO2 emissions (193g/km) low. Other goodies include a Hybrid Powertrain Monitoring System, e-Mode button, air suspension, and 19-inch “Salamanca” design wheels.
Available in only Tungsten Silver Metallic, the Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid is available at all Volkswagen authorized dealers nationwide and is priced at RM616,888.
