The article was originally produced on January 25, 2009, some facts and prices may have changed since then.

Volkswagen Touareg R50

If you want to drive an SUV and want diesel and that little extra push, then you have found the right one when you get into a VolksWagen Touareg R50! With a 5 litre turbocharged V10 diesel and 850 Newton of torque, this SUV is simply brutal. And the R50 in particular is extra equipped from head to toe or from roof to rubber. Fat skirts and chrome details and the 21″ rims make the R50 look really raw. 

Touareg is by default a very well equipped and comfortable car. As an R50, you probably miss nothing, navigator, laminated windows, keyless access, 21″ rims, electric heating in the seats both front and rear and rain break support that keeps the brakes ready even in the rain. This is a car you can drive around the world and barely have to stretch between continents. The sports air suspension soaks up every bump and unevenness in the road. Because of its short wheelbase, the Touareg feels very tight and sporty in its driving behaviour.

The Touareg is one of the few new city jeeps that actually has really good off-road capabilities. Thanks to really good four-wheel drive and controls for differential lock and ground clearance, you have full control of quite tough conditions in the terrain. Possibly that the 21 ″ large tyres are not quite optimal for off-road. 

If you have to mention any negative things about the R50, it would possibly be that people can mistake it for a skirt-trimmed Golf when it is in its lowest position with the air dampers. You probably don't want anyone to believe that if you put close to SEK 900,000 on your car.

Volkswagen Touareg R50

Basic price	From SEK 869,000
Engine	5 liter V10 Tdi, 350 hp. Torque 850 nm
Transmission	6-speed DSG automatic, four-wheel drive
Acceleration	0-100 in 6.7 seconds
Top speed	235 km/h
Fuel consumption mixed driving according to the manufacturer	11.9 l/100 km
Guarantees	New car warranty 2 years
+	Insane twist. The terrain characteristics despite its appearance
-	The price and that people can mistake the car for a threatened Golf
Web	www.vw.se