The 2025 Volkswagen Touareg R continues to position itself as a compelling alternative to premium SUVs, offering a refined blend of power, technology, and practicality wrapped in understated elegance. As the flagship of VW’s SUV range, the Touareg R now comes with a potent plug-in hybrid powertrain that delivers both performance and efficiency. Under the hood, the Touareg R houses a 3.0-liter V6 TSI petrol engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 462 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed auto transmission and VW’s 4Motion all-wheel drive, the Touareg R delivers impressive acceleration for a vehicle of its size—0 to 100 km/h takes around 5.1 seconds. The PHEV system has a 14.3 kWh battery that provides an electric-only range of approximately 50-60 km (WLTP), ideal for urban commutes. Transitions between electric and petrol power are smooth, and there's sufficient torque when driving in EV mode. Despite its performance credentials, the Touareg R remains composed and comfortable. Adaptive air suspension with continuous damping control (CDC) is standard, offering multiple drive modes, including a sportier R mode. The ride is supple over bumps, and body control is excellent, though the steering remains on the lighter side, prioritizing comfort over engagement. Inside, the Touareg R is high-tech and luxurious. The cabin is dominated by the Innovision Cockpit, a seamless 15-inch infotainment display paired with a 12-inch digital driver cluster. It's sharp and responsive, but the reliance on touch-based controls may not appeal to everyone. Materials are top-tier, with Nappa leather, ambient lighting, and R-specific badging throughout. There’s generous passenger space and a boot capacity of 610 liters, slightly reduced due to the hybrid battery, but still practical for most needs. The PHEV setup makes this Touareg one of the more efficient performance SUVs in its class. Official fuel economy figures hover around 2.7–3.0 L/100km, though real-world efficiency depends heavily on your charging habits.