2011 Volkswagen Touareg, an AW Flash Drive:

What is it? The 2011 Touareg is a landmark vehicle for Volkswagen with the launch of its first-ever hybrid powertrain. The SUV is redone with an upgraded interior, eight-speed transmission and a new platform as VW takes aim at the highly competitive premium segment in the United States. The Touareg also comes with a 3.0-liter turbodiesel powerplant and a 3.6-liter gasoline engine. VW says the idea is to offer a variety of engine options for consumer tastes, while making the ute more appealing with upmarket dressings.The 2011 model is slightly longer (1.6 inches), mostly between the wheels in an effort to increase interior space, while weight has been reduced to bolster fuel economy. The exterior is close to the first-generation model, featuring clean lines and tight dimensions. A new full-color navigation system and a panoramic sunroof that lets in plenty of air are two of the key features sure to play well in the States. The SUV rides with all-wheel drive. The spotlight model is the hybrid. It’s truly a model that’s green and mean, with total output of 380 hp; 333 hp of that comes from a supercharged, direct-injection 3.0-liter V6 borrowed from Audi that’s fortified by a 47-hp electric motor. It can travel at speeds of up to 31 mph on electricity. There’s also a shutoff feature that kills the V6 and allows the Touareg to coast or “sail” at speeds of up to nearly 100 mph.

Greg Migliore

The 2011 Volkswagen Touareg hybrid.

How’s it drive?It’s sporty and nimble for a rather healthy-size SUV. VW wisely eschews the third-row, and there’s plenty of space in the second row for an average size adult to stretch out, lots of headroom front and rear, and a comfortable driving position. We sampled the two greenest versions: the hybrid and the diesel. And it’s rare that we conclude that the hybrid is the true hot-rod of the range, but that’s the case in the Touareg. The 380-hp output is clearly evident, and launching and passing with force is no problem. The ute can also slip away under electric power, though this requires a rather delicate throttle. The regenerative brakes are noticeable in the hybrid, with a different feel and greater pedal travel. They are easy to get used to and return solid braking to shave speed. The sailing feature works flawlessly. Our tester kicked the engine off anywhere from 25 mph to 50 mph–and those are just the times we noticed it. It’s a smooth, nearly imperceptible execution that could save fuel in many situations, especially with the manner in which most Americans really use their cars during commuting. It is a little surreal to watch the tach drop to zero when you switch to all-electric sailing. The diesel unit is more satisfying for drivers who want their torque served up fast and hard low in the band. The TDI accomplishes this with European flair, and it has traditionally made up about half of the Touareg’s sales in the United States.Steering in both models is a touch loose, making for comfortable navigation of crowded city streets. The suspension is adjustable and quite agreeable, cushioning pockmarked roads, unpaved stretches and highways with ease. The cabin is quiet, and the materials work well together. One of our testers came in a buttery trim, and the other had dark finishing; both presented well.

Greg Migliore

The 2011 Touareg is an agreeable drive for hauling people and cargo.

Do I want it it?You do if you need to haul people and stuff and a European premium feel is how you roll. There’s a lot of variety here with the three powertrain configurations, and the hybrid is one heck of a satisfying drive. This is a crowded segment, and VW stays competitive with the 2011 Touareg. It goes on sale next fall with just 13 packagings, streamlined considerably from more than 100 in the last generation. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.