2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid Total Car Score Analysis

The 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid achieved a total car score near the top of the Midsize SUV & Crossover segment (and tied with the conventionally-powered Touareg) thanks largely to a major redesign for the ’11 model year that softened some of the Touareg’s truck-like edges.  
 
The all-new Touareg, sometimes called Touareg 2, is wider and longer than the previous version, giving families more room to stretch out. The hardcore off-roading equipment is gone; in its place, all Touareg models are fitted with VW’s 4Motion AWD system.  
 
Also gone is the Touareg’s V8 option, replaced with the Hybrid’s gas/electric propulsion system that provides V8-like power -- 380 horsepower and a stump-pulling 428 pound-feet of torque -- with V6-like fuel economy.  
 
Reviewers loved the Hybrid’s drivability but gasped at its $60,000-plus base price, and suggested Touareg fans with alt-fuel desires may want to check out the TDI (diesel) model instead.

2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid Model Line-Up

The 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid is a five-dour, five-passenger crossover vehicle with a gasoline/electric drivetrain.  
 
Under the hood is a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine paired with an electric motor that’s linked to a nickel metal-hydride battery pack fitted beneath the luggage compartment. The 288 volt battery consists of 240 individual cells and offers an energy density of 1.7 kWh. Both systems are capable of running independently or together (the Touareg Hybrid can reach 30 mph on electricity alone). When combined, they produce a total of 380 horsepower. The hybrid powertrain is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system.  
 
Volkswagen is offering the Touareg Hybrid in just one trim level and has outfitted it with 19-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, leather-upholstered seats, radio/navigation system, BiXenon headlights and a rearview camera.  
 
The Touareg Hybrid achieves 20 mpg city/24 mpg highway/21 combined fuel economy and can tow up to 7,700 pounds.

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