VW has added a new 3-litre V6 TDi engine to the Touareg and Phaeton models. The four-valve per cylinder units are fitted with the latest generation of injector technology and are also equipped with particulate filters to reduce emissions – the first time VW has sold this technology in the UK.

Packing 222bhp, the TDi offers strong performance in both models with the Phaeton managing 145mph and 0-60mph in 8.8 seconds, combined with 29.4mpg along with excellent refinement. The Touareg starts at £34,200, the Phaeton at £41,040.

We drove the 2.5-litre TDi Touareg and were impressed (click here for the review). The 3.0-litre should be usefully quicker.

Dave Jenkins - 29 Oct 2004