Zero to 60: CHOICES, CHOICES.

Options: We all like them, whether it comes to choosing a tie, picking breakfast, looking into your next vacation spot - and especially in deciding what features you want in a vehicle. Options mean the world, and the 2012 Volkswagen Touareg has a world of options. There are 9 different packages available on the Touareg including the Hybrid model starting at $61,410 MSRP. The hybrid SUV contains the world’s first supercharged hybrid powertrain, and packs a powerful punch. Complete with a 3.0 liter supercharged V6 gasoline hybrid engine and an output of 380 hp this SUV delivers 425 lbs-ft torque. The 8-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic Dynamic Shift Mode offers drivers the option of driving in standard or sport mode. The high-tech systems in the car can switch the engine off and coast without using any fuel, even at autobahn speeds. Volkswagen engineers developed this “coasting” system, which has been relabeled by environmentalists as “breathing easier” for the planet. The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system on this SUV creates reliable driving abilities under all terrains and weather conditions. This system has smart technology that knows when to push power and can focus specific sensors to easing up on individual wheels. Let's dive a little deeper and see just how many options this vehicle offers...



Three60:
Each Touareg features Bi-Xenon lights, which are brighter than halogen or regular filament bulbs.This new technology consists of xenon gas lit with an arc of electricity cased inside each resilient bulb - an incredibly effective solution that even allows the use of the same bulb for both low and high beams. The Adaptive Front-Lighting System which includes this new tech comes standard, and can actually turn headlights up to fifteen degrees around corners. The hybrid SUV is also equipped with a rain sensor to detect the amount of rainfall on the windshield, which allows the wipers to then automatically adjust to how heavy it is raining, whether a light drizzle or heavy downpour. This system helps keep moisture and debris out of the line of sight for drivers and ensures a clearer visual field. The power-sliding panoramic sunroof ensures all passengers get the most amazing of views while riding in the Touareg. The addition of a remote rear-lift gate offers consumers effortless loading and unloading of the vehicle. Each Touareg Hybrid is also equipped with a keyless start/stop engine button for convenience. Another added bonus for passengers is the inclusion of the dual-activated climate controls.

​

The interior of the Volkswageb Touareg is highly impressive. With an entire cabin of leather heated reclining seats, each passenger feels the full level of comfort and luxury from this SUV. The 12-way power front seats are also equipped with memory seating so drivers can save their favorite position without worry of other drivers. The multi-functional steering wheel is equipped with Bluetooth connections and the entertainment system. Drivers can effortlessly adjust the volume, change the station, or make a phone call without having to remove hands from the wheel.

In case of an emergency, the Touareg comes prepared: German engineers of Volkswagen have developed an Intelligent Crash Response System for the vehicle that unlocks the doors, shuts off the fuel pump, and turns on the hazard lights. These features engage the instant the car senses a collision, so drivers have a few less things to fret about. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System also comes standard on this SUV to ensure constant observation of the tires for slow leaks and flat tires. The Electronic Stability Control System helps with steering during evasive maneuvers to make sure drivers are not over or under steering. It applies corrective forces to each wheel to ensure the occupants safety. The specialty reinforced cage with targeted crumple zones provides a cushion to absorb impact and ensure maximum safety to all passengers.

In addition to the on-board touch screen display, the hybrid version of the Touareg comes with a hybrid system interface. This software allows drivers to access hybrid system information such as energy usage, battery percentages, and driving range. This system allows consumers to maximize their driving potential and optimize the fuel economy. The touch screen display also controls the entertainment system for the car. A 620-watt Dynaudio Premium Sound System with 10 speakers and DSP technology makes road noise practically mute. The iPod cable allows the transmission of playlists while recharging the device. The Bluetooth system also enables drivers to stream music directly through smartphones. The touch screen navigation comes standard with the hybrid model, and is equipped with 3D landmarks so drivers can easily reach their intended destination.



THE BOTTOM LINE
The base hybrid version of this car has an MSRP of $3,000 over the most advanced non-hybrid Touareg, and only adds a mile or two in fuel efficiency. The extra cost associated with the hybrid model is tied up in the features that are included on the base package. Since the optional upgrades of the base model Touareg are included as standard features in the hybrid model, consumers have no choice but to pay the additional cost. Features like the panoramic sunroof, touch-screen navigation, and power operated seats with heated and reclining rear seats are all great added features if consumers are willing to spend $61,410 on an SUV. It seems like they've given us all the options, and then forced us to pick them all with the Hybrid model - and that does not seem like much of a decision to us at Clutch.



By Nathan Dowdy
Contributing Editor: Jenny Boyer