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| VOLKSWAGEN
TOURAN MPV
Courtesy of VW Vortex Story by Jamie Vondruska |
Volkswagen AG Press Release -
Volkswagen will be adding an innovative compact van, the Touran, to its
model program in the first quarter of 2003. Following the luxury Phaeton
saloon and the Touareg off-road vehicle, this is further evidence of
Volkswagen's policy of extending its model range into segments in which
it was not previously represented. 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.). Future standards of safety complied with today |
therefore exceptionally rigid,
for a high standard of passive safety. With front airbags and side
airbags for the first and second rows of seats and active front-seat
head restraints, the Volkswagen Touran has a comprehensive safety system
that sets new standards in this segment of the market. Lap-and-shoulder
seat belts are provided at all seven seats for the passengers' safety.
Disc brakes at front and rear, with ventilated front discs, ABS and ESP
including a Braking Assistant ensure that the active safety level is
equally high. Up to 39 storage spaces - in Touran there are no space or storage problems The ingenious seating concept is not the only reason why the Touran can be regarded as ideally suitable for leisure and family transport tasks. Depending on the chosen equipment, for instance, it provides up to 39 storage spaces for essential items and other useful oddments. They include storage compartments under the seats, in the center and roof consoles, in the fascia, in the doors and in the load area; there are also cup holders for each row on seats. An extensive program of accessories completes the specification of the MPV with the most adaptable interior concept in its class.
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All rights reserved. Copyright 2001. Volkswagen, Oettinger, ABT Sportsline, Projektzwo, ACDSee, VWVortex, Performance VW Mag
are all registered trademarks. Permission obtained from VW Vortex for articles used.
