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Back in 2004 VW launched the Touareg with 2.5-litre and 5-litre TDI engines, however, the smaller unit migh come across as too weak and the mammoth V10 as too extreme.
Now with the introduction of the 3.0 TDI model, it is as if VW has found the perfect balance.
Naturally VW also expects the new derivative to become the most popular Touareg in the range too. And after driving it, we have no doubt either that VW has a winning formula with the 3.0 TDI engine for the Touareg.
This V6, which comes with a 6-speed Tiptronic transmission, has a power output of 165 kW at 4 000 r/min and torque is a useful 500 Nm.
It means that the 3-litre model kicks out 37 kW more muscle than its 2.5-litre R5 sibling, which will still be available as the entry-level version.
Whereas the R5's engine had a tough job to haul the Touareg forward the new 3.0 TDI is unstressed. It responds instantly to driver input offering smooth and quiet power delivery.
Volkswagen claims that the Touareg 3.0 TDI goes from 0-100 km/h in 9.9 seconds with a top speed of 201 km/h.
At no stage did the 3.0 TDI felt challenged and although it can't come close to the V10's easy thrust, it is lively and more than adequate for the Touareg.
The 3.0 TDI is definitely the engine we will opt for as the powerful petrol 4.2-litre V8 is again real gas guzzler. According to VW the 3.0 TDI has an average fuel consumption of 9.8 litres per 100 km.
All features that are to be found on the R5 Tiptronic will be available on the 3.0 TDI. The full range of optional features will also be available on the new model with the addition of an optional 18-inch alloy wheel.
The Touareg comes with VW's 4Xmotion, which is a proper four-wheel-drive set-up, and there is also optional air suspension.
The price of the 3.0 TDI V6 Tiptronic is R489 500, which positions the new model comfortably between the 2.5 R 5 TDI Tiptronic and the 4.2 V8 Tiptronic
The Volkswagen automation plan of five years/100 000 km is standard on all Touareg models.
