Out of nowhere, the folks from Volkswagen take the covers off the most potent version of the firm’s flagship SUV, the Touareg R.

Under the hood sits a petrol-electric powertrain (similar to that from the Bentley Bentayga hybrid) which combines a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 developing 335 hp (250 kW) and a 134 hp (100 kW) electric motor housed within the eight-speed automatic gearbox to deliver permanent four-wheel drive in both combustion and electric driving modes. Together the systems produce 700 Nm of torque which should equate to a 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of around 5 seconds.

If you don’t want to burn any fuel, the Touareg R is capable of driving at 140 km/h in fully electric mode for an estimated 43 km.

From the outside, the Toureg R is set apart from the rest of the range thanks to unique alloy wheels which look pretty impressive combined with the signature R model Lapiz blue paint

The black exterior pack offered as an optional extra on other Touaregs is standard here, and the rear of the car is finished off with a pair of large trapezoidal tailpipes.

Inside you will find a new sports steering wheel and unique seating upholstery. The ‘Innovision’ in-car tech, which comprises a 15-inch touchscreen and 12-inch digital driver’s display, is standard, as is a semi-autonomous driving function.

This is targeted at the European markets so a South African introduction is not likely at this stage.