Most powerful production Volkswagen yet with 462 PS and 700 Nm
3.0-litre TSI eHybrid achieves 94.2 mpg and 67 g/km (WLTP combined)
Flagship SUV offers enormous technology and equipment specification
The Volkswagen Touareg R is the first fully-fledged production R model to be launched with an electrified powertrain.
Capable of both impressive performance as well as ultra-low emissions, the Touareg R features a petrol plug-in hybrid system producing 462 PS and 700 Nm of torque. The model, which starts at £71,995 RRP OTR, is available to order now for UK customers.
The Touareg R boasts a multitude of talents, with performance worthy of the R badge sitting alongside impressive frugality. The high-performance SUV has 462 PS and 700 Nm of torque available. This impressive output makes the Touareg R the most powerful production Volkswagen to date. Its 0 to 62 mph sprint time of 5.1 seconds accelerates the Touareg R into the territory of the brand’s other R models, and is within half a second of the Golf R’s 4.7-second figure. Like the aforementioned Volkswagen performance champion, the Touareg R’s top speed is limited to 155 mph (where permitted). A maximum of 70% of the car’s torque can be transferred to the front wheels, and up to 80% to the rear axle, via a centre differential lock with asymmetric torque distribution (Torsen) acting as a transfer box.
At the heart of the Touareg R is a sophisticated 3.0-litre V6 TSI eHybrid plug-in powertrain. Not only is it powerful, but it is also smooth and refined and, moreover, is frugal enough to make the R the most running-cost-friendly model in the Touareg range, with fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 94.2 mpg and 67 g/km (WLTP combined cycle) respectively. A 28-mile electric-only range accessible in the Touareg R’s E-MODE adds to the model’s low-CO2 credentials, with the 14.3 kWh (net) battery reducing running costs for this versatile performance SUV.
The Touareg R is not only a performance stand-out in the Volkswagen range, but is also comprehensively laden with features, with numerous innovations combining to represent considerable value against competitors, as well as an equipment list that marks the newcomer out as a technological tour-de-force.
The new R bolsters the already generous equipment offering provided by the standard Touareg range, and adds a number of extra luxuries as standard, with black ‘Puglia’ leather-upholstered, diamond-quilted ergoComfort seats finished with contrasting blue stitching and piping, and active climate (heating and ventilation) function for front occupants. The R also benefits from a unique heated leather sports steering wheel with R logo and DSG shift paddles, 30-colour interior ambient lighting, and a keyless locking and starting system. The interior is further stylised with illuminated, R-branded scuff plates, diamond-quilted leather panels in the door cards, and blue highlights on the carpet mats.
The standard equipment list builds upon that of the Touareg Black Edition, which means the Touareg R also features an air suspension system with automatic self-levelling function, height adjustment and electronic shock absorption control. A Park Assist package with 360-degree Area View camera adds to the convenience offered, while the intelligent IQ. Light LED matrix headlights – first introduced on the Touareg in 2018 but now offered on multiple models including the Golf – use information from the car’s front camera, navigation data and GPS information, steering angle and speed of travel to optimise lighting for numerous driving situations. The system also incorporates LED daytime running lights, LED rear lights with dynamic turn signal, and Dynamic Light Assist high-beam control. Like the Black Edition, the Touareg R also counts a panoramic sunroof among its vast list of standard-fit equipment.
This luxurious specification also features items from across the generously-equipped Touareg range, with dynamic road sign display, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist as standard . Meanwhile, tinted glass, six interior USB ports (four front, two rear) and 4-zone electronic air conditioning are all included on R-Line models and above. The Touareg’s acclaimed Innovision Cockpit, which incorporates a 15-inch central infotainment screen and 12.3-inch Digital Cockpit display, is factory-fit from R-Line Tech models upwards.
In addition to all the aforementioned kit, the Touareg R, as part of the R stable of models, boasts exclusive styling with specifically designed front and rear bumpers, a gloss black rear diffuser, and 22-inch ‘Estoril’ diamond-turned wheels shod in 285/35 R22 tyres. R badging within the front grille, on the wings, and in the centre of the tailgate further designate the Touareg R as the performance-oriented flagship in the luxury SUV range, while darkened tail lights and a black grille, mirror caps and window trim add further visual impact. A mode 3, 32 A / 7.2 kW charging cable is also included to top up the battery from public charge points. Charging an empty battery in this way will take two and a half hours, while using a household three-pin socket will take eight and a half hours.
Options for those who wish to further bolster the equipment list of the Touareg R include the Driver Assistance Pack Plus, which in addition to Emergency Assist, Front Cross Traffic Assist, Predictive Pedestrian Protection, Side Scan and proactive occupant protection systems, brings Travel Assist – a camera and sensor-controlled system with the capacity to steer, brake and accelerate, providing Level 2 driving automation at speeds of up to 155 mph (where permitted). A Head-up Display can bring further innovation and convenience to the Touareg R’s technology-loaded interior, and a Night Vision system can also help drivers to see hazards in the dark that they might not have spotted with the naked eye. Those wishing to take advantage of the Tourareg R’s 3.5 tonne towing capacity can opt for a power-folding tow bar installed with the Trailer Assist system.
The Touareg R follows the introduction of the new Golf R in December and the Tiguan R in February, but precedes the Arteon R, details of which will be released in due course. The Touareg R follows the V10 diesel-engined R50 of 2008 in the model’s R history, and joins the T-Roc R and Tiguan R in the Volkswagen R SUV family of 2021.
Sarah Cox, Head of Marketing at Volkswagen UK, said: “The Touareg is yet another example of Volkswagen’s multi-talented range of SUVs. The model is practical, versatile, capable, comfortable and luxurious, and now it has a performance-oriented R variant that’s not only fast and fun to drive, but also capable of ultra-low emissions in everyday situations. In fact – as a latest-generation plug-in hybrid – its battery capacity allows enough electric-only range to cover the entire daily commute for many drivers.
“The Touareg R represents Volkswagen versatility at its finest – possessing numerous class-leading qualities, an incredible amount of standard equipment, and all the luxuries customers could wish for.”
The Spring Live Online Sale will showcase a significant number of examples, all of which will be offered on Friday 26th March 2021.
The catalogue is shaping up magnificently with several unrepeatable super examples, each with their own unique history. Classic Car Auctions will close their catalogue on Monday 15th March 2021.
This remarkable little 2000 Rover MINI Cooper Sport has covered just 117 miles from new! With just one former registered keeper, it has been with the vendor for the last 12 years and it has been dry stored all its life. The beautifully presented Mini is complete with all its manuals, logbook and both sets of keys as well as fresh fluids – a truly amazing find for Classic Car Auctions first sale of 2021.
Continuing with the great line up of cars going under the hammer this month is 1992 Peugeot 205 GTI. A simply stunning example of the classic 90s ‘Hot’ Hatch with celebrity provenance. This desirable Miami Blue GTI has appeared on Top Gear and was driven by ‘The Stig’ (Ben Collins) as well as also being featured in various magazines and appearing on Clarkson’s Car Years on BBC 2 in 2000.
Gary Dunne, CCA’s Sales Manager commented ““The standard of cars in this sale is exceptional once again. We are looking forward to bringing another superb catalogue of cars to the market as it closes on Monday 15th March. We are currently inviting our last entries to the sale – so don’t miss your chance to enter your car alongside this fantastic lot list!”
Confirmed for the sale is also this unique 1958 Land Rover Series 2 Station Wagon. This striking example has been retained by Land Rover themselves and is accompanied by a large history file, Heritage Certificate, original S2 owner’s manual (July 58, part no. 4215) and original promotional material. Classic Car Auctions understands the Chassis 002 is the oldest production Series 2 in existence and the Land Rover still retains its original prototype engine and its original Birmingham registration number ‘YOG 306’.
Another lovely example presented in The Spring Live Online Auction is this low mileage 1986 Morgan 4/4 1600 . This rare and practical four-seater bodied, 4/4 1600 is powered by Ford’s ubiquitous 1597cc CVH with a five-speed gearbox. This car is beautifully presented in Claret Red Metallic with Black leather and Tiger Wood veneers and has been previously owned for 10 years with a current mileage of 32,162.
Classic Car Auctions are now preparing for their first online auction of the year with their catalogue closing in under a weeks’ time! To talk to classic car specialist about your car, contact the team on 01926 640888 or complete their Value My Classic form here.
A limited edition of 800 units created to celebrate the success achieved in the 2020 edition of the prestigious American off-road race
Built on a Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled base, the model features a special livery that replicates that of the bikes used in the race
A capsule collection of Ducati Scrambler Fasthouse apparel created in collaboration by the two brands will also be available in Ducati dealerships
Scrambler Ducati presents the limited and numbered edition Desert Sled Fasthouse model:
a motorcycle created to celebrate the collaboration between Ducati Scrambler and the American clothing brand Fasthouse, which in 2020 took the rider Jordan Graham to victory in the Hooligan class of the Mint 400, the oldest and most prestigious off-road race in America.
The new Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled Fasthouse was presented by Jason Chinnock (CEO Ducati North America) and Kenny Alexander (founder and president of Fasthouse) in a video shot inside the Fasthouse headquarters in California (link to the video here). The model will be available in dealerships from the end of March in a limited and numbered series of 800 units.
Made starting from the base of the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled, the Fasthouse model is distinguished by its special livery, which replicates the graphics used by the bikes that took part in the Mint 400. The main colours are black and grey, which combine in a geometric design on the tank, on which the Fasthouse logo is inserted alongside the Ducati Scrambler one. The frame is in Ducati Red and is embellished with an aluminium plate bearing the number of the bike within the limited series, making each one of the 800 units to be produced unique, while the front and rear mudguards are black.
The Ducati Scrambler Fasthouse is powered by the 803 cc engine and is equipped with all the characteristic elements of the Ducati “Land of Joy” Desert Sled models . The swingarm, the triple clamps and the bespoke suspension make this model perfect for those who want to experience great adventures on off-road trails, just like those of the Nevada desert that each year are the scene for the Mint 400. The inclination to the off-road universe is underlined by the chassis, specifically designed to cope with the stresses of off-road use, as well as by the presence of a homologated grille for the front headlight, high mudguards and the skid plate.
The riding position is customized, thanks to the saddle with non-slip coating that keeps the seat height at 860 mm, the adjustable Kayaba suspension with 200 mm of travel and the off-road inspired foot pegs with removable rubber pads. The black spoked wheels measure 19” at the front and 17” at the rear and are fitted with Pirelli Scorpion™ Rally STR tyres in sizes 120/70 R 19 M/C 60V M+S TL front and 170/60 R 17 M/C 72V M+S TL rear. The Scorpion™ Rally STR combine the best performance of an off-road tyre with that of an enduro street tyre.
The collaboration between the “Land of Joy” and Fasthouse in this special project also includes the launch of a capsule collection of apparel , created specifically for the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled Fasthouse. The collection consists of 4 elements: short-sleeved t-shirt, long-sleeved t-shirt, jacket and cap, all made with high-quality fabrics, which will be available for purchase from the end of April on Fasthouse’s sales channels, in Ducati network dealers and on the Ducati Online Shop.
Further information and details on Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled Fasthouse and the capsule collection are available on the scramblerducati.com website.
Nissan’s colour experts gathered inspiration from Ariya’s advanced technology to curate a bespoke palette of premium and futuristic paint options
Two brand-new colours, Akatsuki Copper and Aurora Green, developed especially for Ariya
Technological innovations in the paint production line reduces carbon dioxide output by 25%
Marking the rise of a new dawn in Nissan electric vehicle design, Nissan unveils a rich palette of ten exterior colours for Ariya, inspired by its powerful spirit of innovation and the thrill of the future.
Driven by the desire to bring the worlds of electric mobility and design together with a spark, the diverse hues reflect the technological feel of Ariya’s futuristic, electrified design.
The vivid paint palette defines the visual identity for Ariya, inspired by the next-level electric powertrain, state-of-the-art connectivity and advanced driving assistance features.
With four monotone and six two-tone options, the paint portfolio was crafted to elevate Ariya’s premium look and feel. Best of all, these stunning hues are applied by a highly advanced, environmentally sustainable paint production technology that reduces carbon dioxide output by 25% – substantially reducing the environmental impact of this zero-emissions vehicle.
New colours for a new era of electrification The new Ariya gave the expert colour design teams an opportunity to craft an all-new identity for Nissan electric mobility.
The design team has sought to represent the essence of Ariya’s power, technology and sense of serenity with two unprecedented colours. Named Akatsuki Copper and Aurora Green, these captivating paints were developed especially for the all-electric coupé crossover.
“The ingenuity the Nissan Ariya represents inspired us to adopt an entirely new mindset for colour design,” said Lesley Busby, Colour Manager at Nissan Design Europe.
“Ariya is the culmination of Nissan’s electric mobility expertise and a strong statement of intent for the future of EV design. We therefore worked hard to introduce a truly futuristic and technology-driven design language for the colours, analysing them in detail to create the perfect match for Ariya’s innovative personality,” Lesley Busby continued.
Inspired by the Japanese phrase for ‘dawn’, Akatsuki Copper’s striking appearance mimics the brilliance of a sunrise, reflecting the beginning of Nissan’s new brand identity. Its metallic sparkle is enhanced to evoke the conductivity of copper wires, honouring the model’s advanced EV technology.
Aurora Green takes its name from the beautiful ‘Northern Lights’ phenomenon, aurora borealis, commonly seen in the arctic. A sophisticated blend of different tones means the colour may appear green or purple depending on the angle that it is viewed, creating a sense of wonder and intrigue.
Technology innovation in colour Continuing in this spirit of innovation, Ariya introduces an all-new level of detail and depth to customer-favourite colours, created with state-of-the-art paint production techniques.
At the heart of Pearl Black is an all-new pigment, developed to elevate the depth of the paint and to create a rich, captivating appearance.
Highly advanced production techniques were employed to achieve a complex, clean and crisp composition with Pearl White, which offers more brilliance and clarity than ever before on a Nissan vehicle. The two-tone appearance is complete with a contrasting rich black roof, using the all-new pigment to achieve an unprecedented level of depth.
Lesley Busby commented: “We know that black and white colours are some of the most popular options with vehicle owners in Europe and around the world. With Ariya, we have introduced a new level of richness and a premium veneer for these customer favourites. Combined with the quality and attention to detail seen throughout the colour palette, we’re excited for customers to experience Nissan’s new era of colour design for themselves.”
Sustainable production techniques Technological innovation has also been employed to enhance the sustainability of the paint production line. Nissan has introduced a water-based paint which allows colours to be applied at a lower temperature, ensuring that each part of the vehicle can be painted together. This streamlines the entire application process, reducing carbon dioxide output by 25%.
Behind-the-scenes video content investigating the story of the model’s colour design can be viewed on YouTube here, and further insight on the intricate process can be found on Nissan Stories here.
Consumers can register here and join the 29,000 people who have already registered their interest in Ariya.
About Nissan in Europe Nissan has one of the most comprehensive European presences of any overseas manufacturer, employing more than 16,000 staff across locally based design, research & development, manufacturing, logistics and sales & marketing operations. In 2019, Nissan plants in the UK, Spain and Russia produced about 465,000 vehicles including award-winning crossovers, commercial vehicles, and the Nissan LEAF. Pursuing a goal of zero emissions and zero fatalities on the road, Nissan is leading the field with its vision of Intelligent Mobility. Designed to guide Nissan’s product and technology pipeline, this 360 degree approach to the future of mobility will anchor critical company decisions around how cars are powered, how cars are driven, and how cars integrate into society.
SE Connect and Ultimate trims introduced alongside revised Premium specification
3001 mile range from 64kWh battery, 1891 mile range from 39.2kWh battery
Prices from £30,1254 or £297 p/m for SE Connect 39kWh, £359 p/m3 for Premium 64kWh
Hyundai Motor UK has announced the pricing and specification of the New KONA Electric, the Company’s game changing zero emission electric vehicle.
First released in 2018, KONA Electric quickly garnered a reputation for delivering high levels of efficiency and genuine long distance capability thanks to its powerful electric drivetrain. Since launch, KONA Electric has continued to receive industry recognition for both its technical strengths and for its democratization of electric vehicles to the wider consumer market.
The New KONA Electric has undergone a series of exterior design updates; at the front with a new-look closed grille and new LED Daytime Running Lights and new, sharper headlamps that incorporate multifaceted reflector (MFR) technology. Air inlets in front of the wheel arch claddings enhance its aerodynamics and reduce turbulence in the front wheelhouse area and the functional air intake in the lower bumper is visually enhanced by horizontal satin accent bars. To the side, new painted wheel arch claddings give the New KONA Electric a fresh new look, with a new 17” alloy wheel design, new rear bumper and revised rear lamps completing the design changes.
Amongst the specification enhancements for New KONA Electric, interior additions include a standard 10.25” driver’s digital supervision instrument cluster with a choice of display options and information displays, whilst the 10.25” AVN system is now standard across the range, with its combination of Bluelink® app control, KRELL premium multi speaker sound and navigation with voice control.
New KONA Electric continues with a choice of two powertrain offerings, a 39.2kWh with 136PS and a range of 189 miles1, or the 64kWh with 204PS and a range of 300 miles1. Both models offer charging flexibility with standard 7 pin Type 2 CCS and 3 pin ICCB charging cables. New KONA Electric can be charged from as little as 47 minutes on a 100kW charger2, with a full recharge from a 7.2kW charger obtained in just 6 hours2
Three trim levels are available to customers with the new SE Connect and Ultimate trims joining a revised Premium specification. From £33,125 on the road, the KONA Electric SE Connect 39.2kWh is offered with the usual Hyundai high level of standard specification including a standard 10.25” digital supervision instrument cluster, 10.25” AVN system with subscription free Apple Car Play® and Android Auto®, 5 year Bluelink® subscription and 10 years of map updates via the MapCare scheme. Standard rear parking sensors with a rear view camera, keyless entry with stop/start button and smart adaptive cruise control with stop/go function all provide customers with convenience when driving.
The Premium trim has been revised from the previous model, with standard equipment additions including full LED headlamps, heated front seats heated steering wheel and cabin ambient lighting. Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA) and Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCA) are also added to the already comprehensive safety equipment list. Other key features for the Premium include front parking sensors, LED rear lights, power folding mirrors, automatic windscreen wipers and wireless device charging point. The Premium is available with a choice of two powertrains, the 39.2kWh battery, 100kW motor with 136PS and 189 mile1 range or the 64kWh battery, 150kW motor with 204PS and 3001 mile range.
New to the KONA Electric range is the Ultimate 64 kWh, which now adds an electric tilt and slide sunroof and the Highway Drive Assist function to an already comprehensive specification, including head up display, leather upholstery with full electric adjustments to the front, ventilated front seats and heated rear seats.
New KONA Electric is available with a choice of 10 exterior finishes, including 6 new colours:
Colour
Finish
Colour
Finish
Misty Jungle (new)
Pearl
Dive in Jeju (new)
Solid
Surfy Blue (new)
Metallic
Galactic Grey
Metallic
Ingnite Flame (new)
Special Solid
Dark Knight
Pearl
Cyber Grey (new)
Metallic
Pulse Red
Pearl
Atlas White (new)
Special Solid
Phantom Black
Pearl
Ashley Andrew, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor UK said “KONA Electric has been a fundamental player in the UK’s fast growing electric vehicle market and the latest updates will see us continue to offer customers a truly viable fully electric model that meets their expectations in terms of cost, range and equipment levels.”
All New KONA Electric models come with Hyundai’s industry leading 5 Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty, 8 year 100,000 mile High Voltage Battery Warranty, Roadside Assistance package, 5 Year Annual Health Check, and 12 Year Anti Corrosion Warranty.
Finance examples based on a 4 year 4.6% APR Representative Hyundai Personal Contract Purchase available to 31/03/2021, £4,720 customer deposit, £1,750 Hyundai Deposit Contribution and 8,000 miles p.a. Full terms and conditions apply
*1 – Range and consumption figures obtained under the Worldwide Harmonised Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) *2 – Figures for 39.2kWh battery *3 – Kona Electric Premium, £359pm on a 4 year 4.6% APR Representative Hyundai Personal Contract Purchase available to 31/03/2021, £4,720 customer deposit, £1,750 Hyundai Deposit Contribution and 8,000 miles p.a. Full terms and conditions apply, please see hyundai.co.uk/offers/model/Kona-electric. *4 – Price includes £3,000 Government PICG