Touareg TDI Clean Diesel Goes to the US

The American SUV segment will get a new addition soon, as the new Volkswagen Touareg TDI will become available in all 50 US States as soon as May at a starting price of $42,800, the lowest price for a diesel SUV on the local market. Customers who go for a Touareg will also benefit from a $1,150 Federal Income Tax Credit.

"The $1,150 tax credit provides an even greater value to the upcoming Touareg TDI," said Mark Barnes, Volkswagen of America COO. "All of our clean diesel vehicles offer consumers the fuel efficiency they're looking for while providing power, utility, performance, safety and excellent value. The Touareg TDI is an excellent addition to our clean diesel model line."

Fuel consumption ratings for the Touareg TDI stand at 17 mpg (13.8l/100 km) city and 25 mpg (9.4l/100 km) highway, according to EPA data. The fuel economy stands at about the same levels as a hybrid SUV.

Volkswagen Touareg TDI benefits from the manufacturer's Carefree Maintenance Program. It allows for the scheduled maintenance described in the vehicle's maintenance booklet to be made free of charge for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty, three years or 36,000 miles (58,000 km), whichever occurs first.

The Clean Diesel TDI is the first step towards the introduction of the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid (333 PS / under 9.0 l/100 km). Set to enter production sometimes in 2010, the hybrid is deemed by the manufacturer as "the world’s first hybrid SUV to have 3.5 metric ton towing capacity." It will use a combination of a V6 TSI boosted by supercharger and a 38 kW electric motor.