KIDDO Editor, Liv, reviews: Volkswagen Touareg R eHybrid
For a mum of three like me, weekends are anything but a slow roll.
Between multiple early morning sports matches and trainings, music lessons, and school and social events, I need a car that can keep up with the chaos.
Here’s how it kept up with every busy moment.
Room for all the gear
The first thing I noticed when packing the car was the sheer size of the Touareg R’s boot. It easily fit cricket bags, archery gear, and my youngest’s beloved (and surprisingly large) French horn.
Volkswagen has really thought about family storage here, creating a space that’s not just big but cleverly designed.
There was still room for all the other random sports essentials, like snacks, backpacks, blankets, and a cooler bag.
Volkswagen has really thought about family storage here, creating a space that’s not just big but cleverly designed, with underfloor compartments perfect for the odds and ends we parents know all too well.
Smooth, silent mornings
Starting off in the Touareg R was almost unnervingly quiet—so much so that I had to double-check if the car was actually running!
This SUV always starts in “E-MODE” — a fully electric mode, meaning it pulls away without a sound, which is ideal for early mornings before the coffee has kicked in.
The Touareg’s electric motor has a range of up to 51 kilometres on a single charge, so I could easily drive the kids to and from their various activities without even touching the fuel reserves.
Not only is it eco-friendly, but there’s also something extra relaxing about gliding away without the typical engine noise. And with fuel prices always creeping up, a hybrid option is a win.
Performance that packs a punch
When it’s time to really get moving, the Touareg R has serious power on demand. Its combined output of 340kW and 700Nm of torque (thank you, turbocharged V6 and electric motor!) means it goes from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds.
Do I need that much power for the school run? Not really. But on a long stretch of open road or a quick overtake on the freeway, it’s nice to know the car has that muscle if I need it.
And despite its size, the Touareg is surprisingly nimble. Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and air suspension give it a smooth, almost gliding feel, even on bumpy roads.
Comfort meets style
Volkswagen didn’t just design this car for performance — they’ve nailed the comfort factor too.
The Puglia leather seats are luxurious, with both heating and cooling options that make all the difference during winter mornings or hot summer days.
And did I mention they have a massage feature? I’ll admit, waiting for the kids’ practice to finish wasn’t so bad with a back massage! There’s even a panoramic sunroof that brings in a ton of light, adding a sense of openness to an already spacious interior.
I’ll admit, waiting for the kids’ practice to finish wasn’t so bad with a back massage!
From the outside, the Touareg R’s “R-specific” details make it truly eye-catching, especially with its glossy black 22-inch Estoril wheels.
It has a sporty but refined look, and the bold new light signature at the front and rear — including the illuminated VW badge on the back — adds a touch of modern elegance.
As much as I appreciate its practicality, I also love that this car genuinely looks good wherever it’s parked. Inside, it’s clear Volkswagen went all out on premium finishes. From the soft-touch surfaces to the brushed dark aluminium inserts, every detail feels high-end.
Safety and tech that simplifies
One of my favourite features is the comprehensive suite of driver-assistance tools that make everything feel so much easier — especially when I’m trying to keep three kids in line while navigating busy traffic.
The Touareg R’s lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control are lifesavers on those longer drives. And the 360-degree camera makes backing into a tight parking spot (not my forté) or slipping out of a crowded sports complex feel effortless, even with distracted kids in the backseat.
Inside, the Touareg’s Innovision Cockpit is a huge digital display that merges navigation, music, and controls in one. The layout is logical and accessible, so I never felt overwhelmed by all the tech and buttons.
There’s also plenty of tech for the passengers, with charging ports in both rows, so on longer drives my kids can stay occupied.
Final verdict
The Volkswagen Touareg R eHybrid delivers the full package: it’s a car with power, performance, and plenty of practicality for the family.
With room for all the kids’ things, luxurious comfort, and plenty of thoughtful tech, it made every Saturday morning run feel a bit more manageable.
From $138,888, the Touareg R offers excellent value for money, combining spaciousness, capability, and premium features in a family SUV.
For those seeking a vehicle that delivers on performance and practicality while exceeding expectations, it’s a fantastic choice. And for busy mums who want a bit of luxury (with a side of serious power), this hybrid SUV makes all the difference between just surviving the sports day shuffle and actually enjoying it.
Test drive the Volkswagen Touareg today at Solitaire Automotive Group.
Solitaire Volkswagen | 30 Belair Road, Hawthorn | 1300 201 492
Solitaire Volkswagen | 37-41 Main North Road, Medindie | 1300 656 487
Solitaire Volkswagen Service | 58b Scotland Road, Mile End |1300 882 391
volkswagen.com.au
@solitaireautomotivegroup
solitaire.com.au
