Touran

[Renegade]

Volkswagen has released the first official photo of their Golf V based MPV due to be released next spring. The press release doesn't reveal a lot about the Golf V platform, but it does show a few important things: four-link fully independent rear suspension, electromechanical power steering, six-speed manual standard and a new six-speed automatic/double-clutch sequential transmission in the near future, and new levels of fit and finish (look at those shut lines).

 

The Touran is an addition to the Sharan lineup of people movers and is not part of the actual Golf V lineup, so don't look to the Touran as any indication of Golf V styling. The Touran is designed to compete with the Renault Scenic and other mini-minivans in the very popular small people-mover segment in Europe. The Touran is almost 8 inches longer, 2.2 inches wider and 7.5 inches taller than the current Golf IV.

 

The second multipurpose vehicle (MPV) from Volkswagen following the larger Sharan is a strong, individual design. Notable features of the Touran, which is 4.39 m (172.8 in.) long, 1.79 m (70.5 in.) wide and 1.63 m (64.2 in.) high, include a highly versatile interior layout and ample space, equivalent to many a vehicle with significantly larger overall dimensions. The interior, which can be equipped with up to seven separate seats, has the versatility in use and extensive safety features expected by customers with high mobility needs. Combined with a choice of powerful engines and a rigid bodyshell, the suspension makes the Touran a dynamic performer on the road.

 

Touran is a name formed from the term 'Tour' and the name 'Sharan'. 'Tour' symbolizes travel in comfort over long distances, and the ending '-an' is used to indicate Volkswagen's multipurpose vehicles. The complete name is representative of the leisure-oriented target group with its multitude of activities to whom this new compact midsize-class Volkswagen MPV will appeal.

 

The Touran will be available in three equipment and trim versions, and sales will start with a choice of three FSI and TDI engines, as dynamic as they are economical, developing between 74 kW (100 bhp) and 100 kW (136 bhp). During the year, further engine options will be offered. A unique feature in this market segment so far: all FSI-and TDI-engined models will have a standard six-speed gearbox. As an optional extra, a new, innovative six-speed automatic transmission will be available, and will combine the advantages of a manual gearbox with those of an automatic transmission in an entirely new way.

 

The Touran has five seats as standard equipment, and a well-planned, versatile interior layout. The three individual seats in the second row can be easily repositioned, folded or removed entirely. The two full-size seats in the third row can be folded down into the floor, so that the Touran can carry seven people; this feature is an optional extra. The Volkswagen Touran's seat concept permits more than 500 different positions and layouts, and is therefore unsurpassed in its versatility. With five seats in use, the load area has a capacity of more than 600 liters (21.2 cu/ft.); the maximum payload limit is above 650 kilograms (1,433 lbs.).