ADDEN
09.03.2010, 02:30
Новый Touareg значительно прибавил в динамике: как в отношении двигателей и ходовой части, так и в отношении внешнего вида. Новый дизайн привел к новому соотношению размеров. Длина нового Touareg составляет 4,8 м, что на 4,3 см больше, чем у предшественника; автомобиль стал ниже ровно на 2,0 см — теперь его высота составляет 1,71 м. Колёсная база тоже увеличилась до 2,9 м (плюс 4,0 см). Ширина Touareg не изменилась: 1,93 м. В классе городских внедорожников, за исключением Porsche Cayenne, нет более низкого автомобиля. Это обеспечивает неповторимое сочетание пропорций.
Целью дизайнеров, возглавляемых шеф-дизайнером Клаусом Бишоффом (Klaus Bischoff), было придать модели Touareg большую элегантность и привлекательность, используя в качестве основы ДНК дизайна Volkswagen. Это было реализовано в горизонтально вытянутой передней части с характерными фарами, типичной для Touareg задней части и в дизайне задних фонарей, по которым ночью автомобиль невозможно спутать ни с одним другим, а также в более стройном, атлетичном корпусе кузова. Так возник городской внедорожник, который имеет узнаваемую внешность, не подверженную мимолетным веяниям моды, и который утверждает стандарты качества и подает пример их реализации, оставаясь при этом сдержанно элегантным и исполненным стиля.
Технические особенности кузова
Несмотря на то, что Touareg стал более чем на 200 (в некоторых версиях до 222 кг) кг легче, его кузов, статическая жёсткость которого составляет 24 800 Нм (плюс 5%), является самым качественным в сегменте. В равной степени от этого выигрывают характеристики комфорта и безопасности. Сколько труда было затрачено коллективом разработчиков Touareg на создание остова кузова, можно продемонстрировать на примере нового панорамного люка. Подъёмно-сдвижной люк, имеющий размеры 990 x 1 452 мм, занимает пространство практически всей крыши. В обычной ситуации такое отверстие — а оно всё-таки на 350% больше, чем стандартный сдвижной люк — приводит к ухудшению показателей жёсткости. Но благодаря базовой жёсткости и дополнительной усиливающей раме именно этого в модели Touareg и не происходит. Интересная особенность: сдвижной люк можно закрыть даже при скорости 260 км/ч, и даже при скорости 300 км/ч он не является источником шума.
Кроме того, в качестве опции (серийно в гибридном Touareg и V8 TDI) в Touareg была использована новая концепция поднимающейся и опускающейся задней двери с электроприводом. Теперь багажник можно открыть не только из салона автомобиля и непосредственно со стороны задней двери, но и с помощью пульта дистанционного управления. Безопасность при этом обеспечивается защитой от заклинивания. Кроме того, впервые для данного класса автомобилей в Touareg в качестве звукоизоляции применяются так называемые многослойные изоляторы, которые, имея более высокий КПД, являются более легкими, нежели обычные изолирующие материалы.
http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00144_medium1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5962&c=6) http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00143_medium1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5961&c=6) http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00145_medium1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5963&c=6) http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00147_large1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5959&c=6) http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00146_large1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5958&c=6)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yw0waE2eF4w
http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00105_large1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5949&c=6)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJf3cCRVhtw
Body Functionality
High-Tech Car Body:
High-end body has greatest torsional rigidity of any SUV
10 percent less weight considered quantum leap by engineers New panoramic sunroof and most unique headlights in the world
Wolfsburg / Florence, March 2010. At 4,795 millimetres the new Touareg has become 41 millimetres longer, but its height of 1,709 millimetres is new 17 lower. Just like the length, the wheelbase increased to 2,893 milli¬metres (gain of 38 millimetres). The Touareg's width grew by 12 mm to 1,940 millimetres. No other SUV in this class is lower, except for the Porsche Cayenne. And that provides for a very special dynamics of propor tions.
For a vehicle of this size, the body overhangs are relatively short as well, which gives it a visually sharp look that is also practical in off-road driving. In detail: The front overhang of the base version (both measured from the wheel hub) is 916 millimetres; in the rear it is 986 millimetres.
Significantly lower weight
The Touareg's kerb weight was reduced by between 203 and 222 kilo¬grams, depending on the version - a result of targeted body modi¬fications, material selection and a lighter weight powertrain. For the first time in this vehicle class, body-related measures include the use of what are referred to as multi-layer insulating materials to insulate against noise. They weigh much less than conventional insulating ma¬terials yet are more effective. The kerb weight of the Touareg V6 FSI was reduced to 2,035 kilograms. The turbodiesel versions weigh 2,099
(V6 TDI) and 2,222 kilograms (V8 TDI); the Touareg Hybrid comes in
at a weight of 2,240 kilograms. The weight of the body-in-white was reduced by five percent to 398 kilograms.
Highest-quality body in the segment
Despite the significant weight reduction, the new Touareg has the highest static body rigidity in the segment: 24,800 Nm/°. Even com¬pared to the already excellent previous model, this represents a rigidity gain of five percent. Comfort and crash behaviour benefit equally from this.
Among other things, the use of tailored blanks contributed to another significant improvement in intrusion and structural homogeneity values attained in side crashes. Thanks to the form-hardened manga¬nese steel also used in numerous other Volkswagen models in the body's side panels, lightweight construction progress was also realised in this crash-sensitive area.
Innovative pedestrian protection
Since the Touareg - equipped with up to nine airbags - is sold world¬wide, it must fulfil all applicable requirements worldwide. As a rule, the new SUV also exceeds legal requirements. Yet, for Volkswagen a partnership with other traffic participants is also extremely important. That is why Volkswagen has once again taken another important step beyond what is prescribed by law with regard to pedestrian protection. Here a new deformation element was implemented to join the front fender. Thanks to this body part, now made of plastic, significant pro¬gress has been made toward protecting the head region of pedestrians and bicycle riders.
Panoramic sunroof (PSD)
Just how elaborately the Touareg team constructed the body-in-white is illustrated by the new panoramic glass roof: At a size of 990 x 1,452 milli¬metres, the lift/slide roof fills out practically the entire roof area above the occupants, and - based on its size - it also conveys a unique feeling of open space. Normally, such a large opening - a full 350 percent larger than a normal sunroof - would be expected to have a negative impact on rigidity values. But this is definitely not the case on the Touareg thanks to its fundamental rigidity and a reinforcing subframe that is securely fitted with a high-tech adhesive joint. This reinforcing sub-frame offers an optimum of rigidity and crash performance at a very low weight. It consists of tailored blanks (sheetmetal parts of different material grades) with symmetrical thicknesses, which elevates the so-called shear rigidity of the Touareg with panoramic sunroof practically to the level of the full-roof variant. In the stiff circumferential joints to side parts and roof cross-beams there was no need to add rein¬forcements or node plates.
Interesting: Even at a (theoretical) speed of 260 km/h, it is still possible to close the sunroof; and it would not generate - naturally in a closed state - any wind noise at speeds as high as 300 km/h. The functional integrity of the roof was tested over a temperature range of -20 to +95 degrees Celsius and at up to 95 percent relative humidity.
The panoramic sunroof consists of a front, movable safety glass module and a fixed rear glass segment. The front segment is controlled from an ergonomic operating switch in the roof console, and it can be opened to seven pre-selectable positions. An automatically travelling net wind deflector eliminates turbulence and associated noise.
Thanks to the insulated safety glass, heat permeability was reduced to 12 percent and light permeability to 13 percent. It only lets four percent of the UV radiation through. So, the panoramic sunroof is able to offer optimal climate comfort. Moreover, the panoramic sunroof is equipped with a sunshade that also travels electrically; it is opened and closed by one-touch keys in the centre of the panoramic sunroof's operating switch. The glass roof and sunshade are each activated by a separate electric drive. Each opening and closing process is electronically moni¬tored. Obstruction detection ensures the necessary safety.
Automatically opening tailgate
Another new design feature in the second generation Touareg is the optional automatically opening and closing tailgate (standard on the Touareg Hybrid and V8 TDI). The entire drive unit weighs 40 percent less than on the previous model. Not only can it be operated from inside the vehicle (by a button in the driver's side door trim) and at the tailgate itself; now it can also be actuated by remote control on the also fully redesigned key fob. Another new function is the "Tip to Close" feature; in this case, it is sufficient to pull briefly on the opened tailgate to initiate closing.
A spindle drive technology being used for the first time in the tail¬gate provides for smooth opening and closing sequences. In the final phase of closing, a power closing unit pulls the tailgate shut. An acou¬stic signal after activating the drive and an elaborately designed ob¬struction detection system guarantee the necessary safety. When the system detects an obstruction via a force limiter or lateral sensors, the tailgate opens instantaneously in the opposite direction.
Opening and closing of the tailgate can be stopped in any desired position. The opening angle can even be programmed in advance, e.g. to avoid contact with the ceiling in garages with low overhead clearance. This involves opening the tailgate to the desired position, then at this point the button on the inside of the tailgate is pressed for at least three seconds. An acoustic signal and light-up of the hazard lights confirm saving of the memory position. If an electronic error should occur, the tailgate can of course be opened and closed manually. In this case too, it is possible to stop the tailgate movement at any desired position.
Headlights in detail
Another visual highlight, in the truest sense of the word, are the head¬lights on the new Touareg. They are available in three versions: as halogen headlights, bi-xenon headlights with automatic headlight levelling, and - a world's first in this class - as bi-xenon headlights with dynamic, camera-based main beam control (Dynamic Light Assist).
Dual halogen headlights: The halogen headlights already offer a day¬time running light integrated in the main beam reflector. These head¬lights utilise a two-filament bulb (H15) from Osram for the main beam and daytime running light. The H15 bulb combines extremely long life with a very bright light stream in the main beam area. The reflector has separate segmenting for the daytime running light, while the larger reflector surface is used for the main beam.
Bi-Xenon with speed-dependent light distribution: Visually and techni¬cally even more fascinating in their construction are the bi-xenon head¬lights with LED daytime running lights that are even standard on the Touareg Hybrid and V8 TDI. Along with standard dynamic and static cornering lights, they also have - for the first time on a Volkswagen - speed-dependent light distribution. They offer a specific city and highway as well as motorway lighting function with optimal light distribution for the driving situation. Consider the motorway: Here the light distribution is enlarged starting at 110 km/h to attain improved far field illumination; naturally without bothering anyone with unwanted glare.
Both xenon headlights - one each for dipped beam and main beam are equipped with a mercury-free DS3 lamp. Here Volkswagen is once again anticipating international legislation that will prescribe mercury-free lighting materials in some regions in the future.
Another special feature of the headlight modules is the LED daytime running light being implemented at Volkswagen for the first time in this form, which is also standard equipment here. Grouped around the xenon module in a U-shaped three-dimensional pattern are 15 LEDs. The LEDs continue to light even when the headlights are activated; and indeed dimmed so that they integrate the typical, U-shaped signature of the LEDs in the Touareg's image any time of day or night. In their dimmed mode, the LEDs serve as parking or sidelights.
Bi-Xenon with Dynamic Light Assist: In the third expansion state, the bi-xenon headlights offer a world's first - the masked, camera-based continuous main beam known as Dynamic Light Assist. It can be selec¬ted as an option to the bi-xenon headlights. Together with a camera integrated behind the front windscreen, the main beam modules of the bi-xenon headlights remain continually active; they are only dimmed in those areas in which the system finds a potential for glare to other traffic participants.
Consider oncoming traffic: In this case, only the illumination of the side of the lane with oncoming traffic is dimmed; the rest of the lane continues to be illuminated with main beam light. This gives the driver significantly more light and thereby a clear plus in safety and driving convenience. This function is implemented by an auxiliary aperture between the reflector with xenon light source and the lens. In conjunction with intelligent lateral swivelling of the entire module (via cornering light function) and independent control of the left and right headlights it enables this supplemental aperture geometry to mask the light source only in those areas from which unwanted glare could be emitted.
The real highlight here begins at a speed of 65 km/h: With the help of the front camera, the cornering light control module detects the vehicle ahead and "shifts" the light beam up to its rear end or in some situations laterally past the car - without annoying the driver with glare. The enhanced safety and convenience offered by Dynamic Light Assist is as significant as the introduction of Xenon technology itself once was.
Body Design
Contemporary Volkswagen Design DNA:
New Touareg guides SUV styling to a new era
Touareg shows new Volkswagen Design DNA for first time in luxury class Design team created a stylish, dynamic, rugged Touareg image
Wolfsburg/Florence, March 2010. The new Touareg has made dyna¬mics strides - not just with regard to its engines, but also in its looks. The latter are of course attributable to its new styling and - associated with this - an even sportier layout of proportions. The team led by Volkswagen design head Klaus Bischoff set out to give the Touareg a significantly more elegant appearance based on the new Volkswagen Design DNA. This applies as much to the new horizontally aligned front end with its distinctive headlights as it does to the rear section typical of the Touareg and its unmistakable night-time rear light design and leaner, athletic body. This has resulted in an SUV that has a sustainable visual effect, timeless styling that makes a qualitative statement, showing dynamic proportions and presence, yet remaining reserved in its elegance and stylish.
Specifically, the designers created an absolutely clear and superior car that is distinctive from every perspective and takes an independent stance, a typical Volkswagen and equally a typical Touareg that practically every car driver immediately recognises as such. This is hardly sometime to be taken for granted in today's world - because never before in the history of the automobile have there been anywhere near as many vehicles or segments on the global automotive market. The new Touareg, more elegant and visually equipped with a portion of reserve - a visual tribute to the theme of sustainability - stands out from the crowd as an appealing and unmistakable design statement. And this applies as much to the horizontally aligned Volkswagen face of the present as it does to the leaner and more extended car body.
Front end
With the debut of today's Scirocco, Volkswagen introduced its new Design DNA and at the same time a new concept for the "face" of the models in a wide variety of vehicle classes. Common to all - as a sort of hereditary code of the Volkswagen family - is a clear horizontal structure and orientation. Key elements here are the black, high-gloss trim of the upper radiator grille with its continuous chrome trim strips, the headlights that are always visually integrated in these lines, the middle level of the bumper painted in car colour, and a U-shaped and lower air inlet framed nearly entirely in chrome trim as a third level. Every model and every class, however, displays its own unique visual character - unmistakably. And that applies to the Touareg as well.
Depending on the segment, all of the named details show clear differentiations, especially with regard to the interplay of proportions, the styling of the bonnet and fenders and the form of the headlights that come together to create an entirely unique "face". In the front-end styling of the Touareg, designers implemented the new Volkswagen face for the first time in a luxury class vehicle.
The modulation of the V-shaped bonnet and the dominant shoulder line underscore the rugged, powerful appearance of the Touareg, while the clarity of its surfaces emphasise in parallel, the elegance of the new
SUV.
The horizontal band - consisting of the relatively flat grille, the VW logo integrated there and the trapezoidal headlights - defines the superior character of the Touareg and is at the same time a key element of the vehicle's Design DNA. The styling of the lower of the two chrome inserts that are worked into the radiator grille is continued into the headlights that narrow toward the grille.
These dual headlights with their complex, technically styled inner lives are both visual and technical highlights. They are available in three versions: as halogen headlights, bi-xenon headlights and for the first time in the world as bi-xenon headlights with Dynamic Light Assist (continuous main beam).
Beneath the middle section of the bumper that is painted in body colour are the lower air intakes. In the case of the Touareg Hybrid and Touareg V8 TDI, the middle intake is styled with chrome fins and another U-shaped frame. Located in the bumper's lowermost segment are the front fog lights and the radar sensors of the optional adaptive cruise control system (ACC plus Front Assist).
Side profile
Thanks to the lower body height, short overhangs, a dynamic line of side windows and the clear sculpting of its surfaces, in contrast to other SUVs this car's side profile does not in the least have a massive appearance. Just the opposite is the case: Just like on a sports car, the car body tapers slightly in the area of the doors. This results in a partial channelling between the A and C pillars, which captures light and lends a muscular, athletic image to the entire side section.
This character is reinforced by the precise edges of the wheel arches and the rear side section. The side window look that narrows toward the rear corresponds to the rear shoulder section that is prominently sculpted. Also serving as clear SUV characteristics are the rugged wheel arches with their black trim extending toward the wheel wells. Here the core properties of this vehicle class - power and durability - are high¬lighted by the visual emphasis of the large wheels (standard 7.5J x 7 on the V6 TDI and V6 FSI, 8J x 18 on the Hybrid and V8 TDI).
Just as beautiful in form as they are practical are the outside mirrors with integrated indicator lights and the door handles that open in the pulling direction and are therefore crash optimised. In their side profiles, the two top Touareg versions - the Hybrid and the V8 TDI - exhibit, along with their independent 18-inch alloy wheels, a chrome frame around the side windows and a chrome trim strip above the side skirts. Roof railings in black or chrome are available as an option on all versions.
Rear
Even from the rear, the new Touareg is immediately recognisable, even without its signature. The reason: Designers took the look of the first Touareg and intentionally developed it further without ignoring the previous model. In this process, Volkswagen styling avoids short-lived effects and is based on a continuous evolution. A strategy, which for example has accompanied the sensational success of the Golf right up to today and makes it simply "inimitable". It also gives a Volkswagen longer life and more stable value retention than many other cars.
Like the front end, the rear of the new Touareg is also marked by horizontal lines. At the top, the tailgate has a spoiler that was styled to aerodynamic criteria, which simultaneously extends the roof section visually. The large rear window extends into the D pillars; the tailgate can be automatically opened by an electric motor as an option.
Parts of the tail lights were integrated in the tailgate. These inboard segments each exhibit a second tail light as well as the reversing light. The outboard segments house the functions tail light, brake light and indicator lights. Distinctive visual details of the dual tail lights: four elements designed in the form of an "L" (mirror image on right side), which distinctively frame the four pupil-like central elements. This creates an absolutely unmistakable night look. Once again located centrally between the lights is the VW logo. The load sill guard on the Hybrid and V8 TDI Touareg versions is a standard chrome step area on the load sill of the bumper. Worked as narrow strips into the lowermost segment of the bumper that is painted in body colour are the rear fog lights. Only the middle section with the tailpipes of the exhaust system integrated on its left and right ends is treated in black. While the V6 FSI and V6 TDI Touareg versions have round tailpipes, the two top versions can be recognised by their chrome rectangular pipes.
Целью дизайнеров, возглавляемых шеф-дизайнером Клаусом Бишоффом (Klaus Bischoff), было придать модели Touareg большую элегантность и привлекательность, используя в качестве основы ДНК дизайна Volkswagen. Это было реализовано в горизонтально вытянутой передней части с характерными фарами, типичной для Touareg задней части и в дизайне задних фонарей, по которым ночью автомобиль невозможно спутать ни с одним другим, а также в более стройном, атлетичном корпусе кузова. Так возник городской внедорожник, который имеет узнаваемую внешность, не подверженную мимолетным веяниям моды, и который утверждает стандарты качества и подает пример их реализации, оставаясь при этом сдержанно элегантным и исполненным стиля.
Технические особенности кузова
Несмотря на то, что Touareg стал более чем на 200 (в некоторых версиях до 222 кг) кг легче, его кузов, статическая жёсткость которого составляет 24 800 Нм (плюс 5%), является самым качественным в сегменте. В равной степени от этого выигрывают характеристики комфорта и безопасности. Сколько труда было затрачено коллективом разработчиков Touareg на создание остова кузова, можно продемонстрировать на примере нового панорамного люка. Подъёмно-сдвижной люк, имеющий размеры 990 x 1 452 мм, занимает пространство практически всей крыши. В обычной ситуации такое отверстие — а оно всё-таки на 350% больше, чем стандартный сдвижной люк — приводит к ухудшению показателей жёсткости. Но благодаря базовой жёсткости и дополнительной усиливающей раме именно этого в модели Touareg и не происходит. Интересная особенность: сдвижной люк можно закрыть даже при скорости 260 км/ч, и даже при скорости 300 км/ч он не является источником шума.
Кроме того, в качестве опции (серийно в гибридном Touareg и V8 TDI) в Touareg была использована новая концепция поднимающейся и опускающейся задней двери с электроприводом. Теперь багажник можно открыть не только из салона автомобиля и непосредственно со стороны задней двери, но и с помощью пульта дистанционного управления. Безопасность при этом обеспечивается защитой от заклинивания. Кроме того, впервые для данного класса автомобилей в Touareg в качестве звукоизоляции применяются так называемые многослойные изоляторы, которые, имея более высокий КПД, являются более легкими, нежели обычные изолирующие материалы.
http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00144_medium1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5962&c=6) http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00143_medium1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5961&c=6) http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00145_medium1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5963&c=6) http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00147_large1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5959&c=6) http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00146_large1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5958&c=6)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yw0waE2eF4w
http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/files/1/db2010au00105_large1600x1200_thumb.jpg (http://www.touareg-club.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=5949&c=6)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJf3cCRVhtw
Body Functionality
High-Tech Car Body:
High-end body has greatest torsional rigidity of any SUV
10 percent less weight considered quantum leap by engineers New panoramic sunroof and most unique headlights in the world
Wolfsburg / Florence, March 2010. At 4,795 millimetres the new Touareg has become 41 millimetres longer, but its height of 1,709 millimetres is new 17 lower. Just like the length, the wheelbase increased to 2,893 milli¬metres (gain of 38 millimetres). The Touareg's width grew by 12 mm to 1,940 millimetres. No other SUV in this class is lower, except for the Porsche Cayenne. And that provides for a very special dynamics of propor tions.
For a vehicle of this size, the body overhangs are relatively short as well, which gives it a visually sharp look that is also practical in off-road driving. In detail: The front overhang of the base version (both measured from the wheel hub) is 916 millimetres; in the rear it is 986 millimetres.
Significantly lower weight
The Touareg's kerb weight was reduced by between 203 and 222 kilo¬grams, depending on the version - a result of targeted body modi¬fications, material selection and a lighter weight powertrain. For the first time in this vehicle class, body-related measures include the use of what are referred to as multi-layer insulating materials to insulate against noise. They weigh much less than conventional insulating ma¬terials yet are more effective. The kerb weight of the Touareg V6 FSI was reduced to 2,035 kilograms. The turbodiesel versions weigh 2,099
(V6 TDI) and 2,222 kilograms (V8 TDI); the Touareg Hybrid comes in
at a weight of 2,240 kilograms. The weight of the body-in-white was reduced by five percent to 398 kilograms.
Highest-quality body in the segment
Despite the significant weight reduction, the new Touareg has the highest static body rigidity in the segment: 24,800 Nm/°. Even com¬pared to the already excellent previous model, this represents a rigidity gain of five percent. Comfort and crash behaviour benefit equally from this.
Among other things, the use of tailored blanks contributed to another significant improvement in intrusion and structural homogeneity values attained in side crashes. Thanks to the form-hardened manga¬nese steel also used in numerous other Volkswagen models in the body's side panels, lightweight construction progress was also realised in this crash-sensitive area.
Innovative pedestrian protection
Since the Touareg - equipped with up to nine airbags - is sold world¬wide, it must fulfil all applicable requirements worldwide. As a rule, the new SUV also exceeds legal requirements. Yet, for Volkswagen a partnership with other traffic participants is also extremely important. That is why Volkswagen has once again taken another important step beyond what is prescribed by law with regard to pedestrian protection. Here a new deformation element was implemented to join the front fender. Thanks to this body part, now made of plastic, significant pro¬gress has been made toward protecting the head region of pedestrians and bicycle riders.
Panoramic sunroof (PSD)
Just how elaborately the Touareg team constructed the body-in-white is illustrated by the new panoramic glass roof: At a size of 990 x 1,452 milli¬metres, the lift/slide roof fills out practically the entire roof area above the occupants, and - based on its size - it also conveys a unique feeling of open space. Normally, such a large opening - a full 350 percent larger than a normal sunroof - would be expected to have a negative impact on rigidity values. But this is definitely not the case on the Touareg thanks to its fundamental rigidity and a reinforcing subframe that is securely fitted with a high-tech adhesive joint. This reinforcing sub-frame offers an optimum of rigidity and crash performance at a very low weight. It consists of tailored blanks (sheetmetal parts of different material grades) with symmetrical thicknesses, which elevates the so-called shear rigidity of the Touareg with panoramic sunroof practically to the level of the full-roof variant. In the stiff circumferential joints to side parts and roof cross-beams there was no need to add rein¬forcements or node plates.
Interesting: Even at a (theoretical) speed of 260 km/h, it is still possible to close the sunroof; and it would not generate - naturally in a closed state - any wind noise at speeds as high as 300 km/h. The functional integrity of the roof was tested over a temperature range of -20 to +95 degrees Celsius and at up to 95 percent relative humidity.
The panoramic sunroof consists of a front, movable safety glass module and a fixed rear glass segment. The front segment is controlled from an ergonomic operating switch in the roof console, and it can be opened to seven pre-selectable positions. An automatically travelling net wind deflector eliminates turbulence and associated noise.
Thanks to the insulated safety glass, heat permeability was reduced to 12 percent and light permeability to 13 percent. It only lets four percent of the UV radiation through. So, the panoramic sunroof is able to offer optimal climate comfort. Moreover, the panoramic sunroof is equipped with a sunshade that also travels electrically; it is opened and closed by one-touch keys in the centre of the panoramic sunroof's operating switch. The glass roof and sunshade are each activated by a separate electric drive. Each opening and closing process is electronically moni¬tored. Obstruction detection ensures the necessary safety.
Automatically opening tailgate
Another new design feature in the second generation Touareg is the optional automatically opening and closing tailgate (standard on the Touareg Hybrid and V8 TDI). The entire drive unit weighs 40 percent less than on the previous model. Not only can it be operated from inside the vehicle (by a button in the driver's side door trim) and at the tailgate itself; now it can also be actuated by remote control on the also fully redesigned key fob. Another new function is the "Tip to Close" feature; in this case, it is sufficient to pull briefly on the opened tailgate to initiate closing.
A spindle drive technology being used for the first time in the tail¬gate provides for smooth opening and closing sequences. In the final phase of closing, a power closing unit pulls the tailgate shut. An acou¬stic signal after activating the drive and an elaborately designed ob¬struction detection system guarantee the necessary safety. When the system detects an obstruction via a force limiter or lateral sensors, the tailgate opens instantaneously in the opposite direction.
Opening and closing of the tailgate can be stopped in any desired position. The opening angle can even be programmed in advance, e.g. to avoid contact with the ceiling in garages with low overhead clearance. This involves opening the tailgate to the desired position, then at this point the button on the inside of the tailgate is pressed for at least three seconds. An acoustic signal and light-up of the hazard lights confirm saving of the memory position. If an electronic error should occur, the tailgate can of course be opened and closed manually. In this case too, it is possible to stop the tailgate movement at any desired position.
Headlights in detail
Another visual highlight, in the truest sense of the word, are the head¬lights on the new Touareg. They are available in three versions: as halogen headlights, bi-xenon headlights with automatic headlight levelling, and - a world's first in this class - as bi-xenon headlights with dynamic, camera-based main beam control (Dynamic Light Assist).
Dual halogen headlights: The halogen headlights already offer a day¬time running light integrated in the main beam reflector. These head¬lights utilise a two-filament bulb (H15) from Osram for the main beam and daytime running light. The H15 bulb combines extremely long life with a very bright light stream in the main beam area. The reflector has separate segmenting for the daytime running light, while the larger reflector surface is used for the main beam.
Bi-Xenon with speed-dependent light distribution: Visually and techni¬cally even more fascinating in their construction are the bi-xenon head¬lights with LED daytime running lights that are even standard on the Touareg Hybrid and V8 TDI. Along with standard dynamic and static cornering lights, they also have - for the first time on a Volkswagen - speed-dependent light distribution. They offer a specific city and highway as well as motorway lighting function with optimal light distribution for the driving situation. Consider the motorway: Here the light distribution is enlarged starting at 110 km/h to attain improved far field illumination; naturally without bothering anyone with unwanted glare.
Both xenon headlights - one each for dipped beam and main beam are equipped with a mercury-free DS3 lamp. Here Volkswagen is once again anticipating international legislation that will prescribe mercury-free lighting materials in some regions in the future.
Another special feature of the headlight modules is the LED daytime running light being implemented at Volkswagen for the first time in this form, which is also standard equipment here. Grouped around the xenon module in a U-shaped three-dimensional pattern are 15 LEDs. The LEDs continue to light even when the headlights are activated; and indeed dimmed so that they integrate the typical, U-shaped signature of the LEDs in the Touareg's image any time of day or night. In their dimmed mode, the LEDs serve as parking or sidelights.
Bi-Xenon with Dynamic Light Assist: In the third expansion state, the bi-xenon headlights offer a world's first - the masked, camera-based continuous main beam known as Dynamic Light Assist. It can be selec¬ted as an option to the bi-xenon headlights. Together with a camera integrated behind the front windscreen, the main beam modules of the bi-xenon headlights remain continually active; they are only dimmed in those areas in which the system finds a potential for glare to other traffic participants.
Consider oncoming traffic: In this case, only the illumination of the side of the lane with oncoming traffic is dimmed; the rest of the lane continues to be illuminated with main beam light. This gives the driver significantly more light and thereby a clear plus in safety and driving convenience. This function is implemented by an auxiliary aperture between the reflector with xenon light source and the lens. In conjunction with intelligent lateral swivelling of the entire module (via cornering light function) and independent control of the left and right headlights it enables this supplemental aperture geometry to mask the light source only in those areas from which unwanted glare could be emitted.
The real highlight here begins at a speed of 65 km/h: With the help of the front camera, the cornering light control module detects the vehicle ahead and "shifts" the light beam up to its rear end or in some situations laterally past the car - without annoying the driver with glare. The enhanced safety and convenience offered by Dynamic Light Assist is as significant as the introduction of Xenon technology itself once was.
Body Design
Contemporary Volkswagen Design DNA:
New Touareg guides SUV styling to a new era
Touareg shows new Volkswagen Design DNA for first time in luxury class Design team created a stylish, dynamic, rugged Touareg image
Wolfsburg/Florence, March 2010. The new Touareg has made dyna¬mics strides - not just with regard to its engines, but also in its looks. The latter are of course attributable to its new styling and - associated with this - an even sportier layout of proportions. The team led by Volkswagen design head Klaus Bischoff set out to give the Touareg a significantly more elegant appearance based on the new Volkswagen Design DNA. This applies as much to the new horizontally aligned front end with its distinctive headlights as it does to the rear section typical of the Touareg and its unmistakable night-time rear light design and leaner, athletic body. This has resulted in an SUV that has a sustainable visual effect, timeless styling that makes a qualitative statement, showing dynamic proportions and presence, yet remaining reserved in its elegance and stylish.
Specifically, the designers created an absolutely clear and superior car that is distinctive from every perspective and takes an independent stance, a typical Volkswagen and equally a typical Touareg that practically every car driver immediately recognises as such. This is hardly sometime to be taken for granted in today's world - because never before in the history of the automobile have there been anywhere near as many vehicles or segments on the global automotive market. The new Touareg, more elegant and visually equipped with a portion of reserve - a visual tribute to the theme of sustainability - stands out from the crowd as an appealing and unmistakable design statement. And this applies as much to the horizontally aligned Volkswagen face of the present as it does to the leaner and more extended car body.
Front end
With the debut of today's Scirocco, Volkswagen introduced its new Design DNA and at the same time a new concept for the "face" of the models in a wide variety of vehicle classes. Common to all - as a sort of hereditary code of the Volkswagen family - is a clear horizontal structure and orientation. Key elements here are the black, high-gloss trim of the upper radiator grille with its continuous chrome trim strips, the headlights that are always visually integrated in these lines, the middle level of the bumper painted in car colour, and a U-shaped and lower air inlet framed nearly entirely in chrome trim as a third level. Every model and every class, however, displays its own unique visual character - unmistakably. And that applies to the Touareg as well.
Depending on the segment, all of the named details show clear differentiations, especially with regard to the interplay of proportions, the styling of the bonnet and fenders and the form of the headlights that come together to create an entirely unique "face". In the front-end styling of the Touareg, designers implemented the new Volkswagen face for the first time in a luxury class vehicle.
The modulation of the V-shaped bonnet and the dominant shoulder line underscore the rugged, powerful appearance of the Touareg, while the clarity of its surfaces emphasise in parallel, the elegance of the new
SUV.
The horizontal band - consisting of the relatively flat grille, the VW logo integrated there and the trapezoidal headlights - defines the superior character of the Touareg and is at the same time a key element of the vehicle's Design DNA. The styling of the lower of the two chrome inserts that are worked into the radiator grille is continued into the headlights that narrow toward the grille.
These dual headlights with their complex, technically styled inner lives are both visual and technical highlights. They are available in three versions: as halogen headlights, bi-xenon headlights and for the first time in the world as bi-xenon headlights with Dynamic Light Assist (continuous main beam).
Beneath the middle section of the bumper that is painted in body colour are the lower air intakes. In the case of the Touareg Hybrid and Touareg V8 TDI, the middle intake is styled with chrome fins and another U-shaped frame. Located in the bumper's lowermost segment are the front fog lights and the radar sensors of the optional adaptive cruise control system (ACC plus Front Assist).
Side profile
Thanks to the lower body height, short overhangs, a dynamic line of side windows and the clear sculpting of its surfaces, in contrast to other SUVs this car's side profile does not in the least have a massive appearance. Just the opposite is the case: Just like on a sports car, the car body tapers slightly in the area of the doors. This results in a partial channelling between the A and C pillars, which captures light and lends a muscular, athletic image to the entire side section.
This character is reinforced by the precise edges of the wheel arches and the rear side section. The side window look that narrows toward the rear corresponds to the rear shoulder section that is prominently sculpted. Also serving as clear SUV characteristics are the rugged wheel arches with their black trim extending toward the wheel wells. Here the core properties of this vehicle class - power and durability - are high¬lighted by the visual emphasis of the large wheels (standard 7.5J x 7 on the V6 TDI and V6 FSI, 8J x 18 on the Hybrid and V8 TDI).
Just as beautiful in form as they are practical are the outside mirrors with integrated indicator lights and the door handles that open in the pulling direction and are therefore crash optimised. In their side profiles, the two top Touareg versions - the Hybrid and the V8 TDI - exhibit, along with their independent 18-inch alloy wheels, a chrome frame around the side windows and a chrome trim strip above the side skirts. Roof railings in black or chrome are available as an option on all versions.
Rear
Even from the rear, the new Touareg is immediately recognisable, even without its signature. The reason: Designers took the look of the first Touareg and intentionally developed it further without ignoring the previous model. In this process, Volkswagen styling avoids short-lived effects and is based on a continuous evolution. A strategy, which for example has accompanied the sensational success of the Golf right up to today and makes it simply "inimitable". It also gives a Volkswagen longer life and more stable value retention than many other cars.
Like the front end, the rear of the new Touareg is also marked by horizontal lines. At the top, the tailgate has a spoiler that was styled to aerodynamic criteria, which simultaneously extends the roof section visually. The large rear window extends into the D pillars; the tailgate can be automatically opened by an electric motor as an option.
Parts of the tail lights were integrated in the tailgate. These inboard segments each exhibit a second tail light as well as the reversing light. The outboard segments house the functions tail light, brake light and indicator lights. Distinctive visual details of the dual tail lights: four elements designed in the form of an "L" (mirror image on right side), which distinctively frame the four pupil-like central elements. This creates an absolutely unmistakable night look. Once again located centrally between the lights is the VW logo. The load sill guard on the Hybrid and V8 TDI Touareg versions is a standard chrome step area on the load sill of the bumper. Worked as narrow strips into the lowermost segment of the bumper that is painted in body colour are the rear fog lights. Only the middle section with the tailpipes of the exhaust system integrated on its left and right ends is treated in black. While the V6 FSI and V6 TDI Touareg versions have round tailpipes, the two top versions can be recognised by their chrome rectangular pipes.