LOADS OF TORQUE AND POWER The R50 is proof that diesel and performance are not separate entities

By Justin Lee

THE VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG R50 is the German brand’s flagship Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV).

It is powered by a 4.9-litre V10 turbocharged diesel engine. This unit produces a maximum of 350bhp and an astounding 850Nm of torque at a low 2,000rpm.

0-100km/h is achieved in 6.7 seconds and the top speed is 235km/h. A six-speed automatic gearbox is standard.

Taking its speed and size into account, the R50’s fuel consumption of 7.9km/litre is remarkable, given that the much less sporty 3.6-litre petrol records 7.4km/litre.

The R50 is distinguished from its lesser siblings by 21-inch alloy wheels, blue painted brake calipers, flared wheel-arches, side skirts, new bumpers, and a tweaked grille in matte chrome.

It also has lowered suspension which reduces its height to 1703mm down 22mm from the 3.6’s 1725mm.

The interior has R50 logos integrated into the headrests, side sill plates and gear lever. Other features of the cabin include heavily bolstered seats and metal caps for the accelerator and brake pedals.

The R50’s introduction comes on the back of the cuts made to diesel taxes which came into effect on 1 July. The large SUV will attract a yearly road tax of $11,541 which is lesser than the $31,703 payable before the changes made to the diesel tax structure.