When the split-folding rear seats are down, the Touareg boasts 2,010 L (71.0 cu ft) of storage space. With the seats upright the area diminishes, but still to a very respectable 886 L (31.3 cu ft). In the upright position a built-in ski bag will accommodate skis without interfering with the comfort of up to four passengers. Unfortunately the fifth passenger (middle rear-seat) looses out to the boards.
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| When the split-folding rear seats are down, the Touareg boasts 2,010 L of storage space. (Photo: Volkswagen AG) |
So how does all of this comfort and functionality come to life you may ask? According to reports, very athletically with the optional V8 powerplant and adequately in standard V6 form. The 4-valve per cylinder V6 displaces 3.2 L (195 cu in) and produces 220-hp and 225 lb-ft of torque, questionably enough when factoring in the Touareg's 2,307-kg (5,086 lb) base curb weight. The blockbuster V8 puts 310-hp and 302 lb-ft of torque under the driver's right foot, while displacing 4.2 L (256 cu in) and inhaling and exhaling with 5-valves per cylinder. While the V8 should easily melt away hills and mountain passes, the V6 could be taxed. In V8 guise the Touareg impresses with a whopping 3,493 kg (7,700 lbs) of towing capacity.
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| The standard V6 engine displaces 3.2 L and produces 220-hp and 225 lb-ft of torque, just adequate in such a heavy vehicle. (Photo: Volkswagen AG) |
Transferring those significant sums of power to all of four wheels is accomplished with the latest in all-wheel drive technology. Begin with a 6-speed automatic transmission equipped with Tiptronic, Dynamic Shift Program, sport mode, and low range gearing. Follow up with VW's latest 4-Motion AWD that distributes power to only those wheels experiencing grip.
Unlike less advanced systems that control wheel spin by applying brake pressure to the slipping wheels, 4-Motion relies upon electronically controlled clutches and plates to accomplish the power distribution task. This system will actually redirect power away from the slipping wheels, in favor of those that have traction. VW's 4-Motion is actually capable of limiting power to a singular traction wheel if the other three break free.