This past week, I had a good look at the all-new 2025 Volkswagen Touareg R, thanks to CFAO Mobility Zimbabwe — Volkswagen’s official distributor here in Harare. I have experienced my share of luxury SUVs over the years, but the Touareg R is far from just another high-end vehicle; it is a compelling blend of brawn, sophistication, and advanced technology. The Touareg R makes a bold, lasting impression in a crowded SUV market.
Design demanding attention
Let us be honest: for many of us, first impressions matter, and the Touareg R delivers in spades. Its exterior design is the perfect marriage of athleticism and elegance. Muscular, poised lines hint at the power beneath the bonnet, while slim LED accents and a finely sculpted grille add a touch of modern sophistication.
The R-specific touches — subtle blue brake calipers, distinctive badging, and bespoke alloy wheels — announce this SUV’s presence without a hint of ostentation. Whether you are pulling up to a business meeting or rolling through a family weekend getaway, the Touareg R commands attention for all the right reasons.
Step inside, and the transformation is complete. The cabin is a masterclass in luxury and thoughtful design. Plush leather seats cradle you in comfort, the panoramic sunroof lets natural light flood in, and every surface feels solid, premium, and meticulously finished.
The ambient lighting, customisable to your mood, adds another layer of refinement. Volkswagen’s digital cockpit blends seamlessly into the dash, marrying futuristic flair with intuitive functionality. Controls are ergonomically placed, and the vast centre console provides ample storage — essential for busy lives.
Whether you are chauffeuring family or ferrying clients, the Touareg R’s interior is a sanctuary of calm and sophistication.
Diesel power that thrills
- Chamisa’s US$120k jackpot jolts govt
- Penchant for luxury in midst of abject poverty
- Chamisa’s US$120k jackpot jolts govt
- Penchant for luxury in midst of abject poverty
Keep Reading
But beauty is only half the equation. Beneath the sculpted hood lies the heart of the Touareg R: a robust 3-litre V6 turbocharged diesel engine. With a mighty 190 kW and a staggering 600Nm of torque on tap, this SUV does not just move — it surges forward with authority.
It is not just the raw numbers, either; it is the way the Touareg R puts power to the pavement. The eight-speed automatic gearbox shifts with buttery smoothness, and the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system keeps you planted, whether you’re gliding down Harare’s city avenues or tackling the winding, unpredictable terrain of the Zimbabwean countryside.
The acceleration is nothing short of exhilarating for a vehicle of this size — 0 to 100 km/h in just eight seconds. Yet, what truly sets the Touareg R apart from many of its peers is its focus on genuine, long-haul performance.
Unlike hybrids or electric SUVs, which can sometimes struggle with range anxiety or limited torque, this diesel powertrain is engineered for sustained, real-world endurance.
It is an SUV that feels just as at home on a cross-country road trip as it does in the urban jungle.
Innovation at your fingertips
Of course, the Touareg R is more than just muscle and luxury. Volkswagen has loaded it with cutting-edge technology, elevating both convenience and safety. The Innovision Cockpit truly steals the show: a sprawling 15-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired with a crystal-clear digital instrument cluster.
The interface is sharp, responsive, and fully customisable — navigation, media, climate controls, and vehicle settings are all at your fingertips.
Smartphone integration is seamless, ensuring you are always connected, whether you are managing your playlist or navigating to your next destination.
And for those who value peace of mind, the Touareg R comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver assistance features: adaptive cruise control for stress-free highway journeys, lane-keeping assist to gently guide you back on track, and a 360-degree camera system that makes parking and tight manoeuvres a breeze.
It is reassuring to know you are surrounded by intelligent systems designed to keep you and your passengers safe.
How does it stack up?
The luxury SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with stalwarts like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7, and Range Rover Sport all vying for attention. But the Touareg R holds its own—sometimes even surpassing the competition.
BMW X5: Renowned for its dynamic handling and engine options, the X5 is a tough rival. Yet, the Touareg R’s diesel engine delivers superior torque and long-range efficiency, making it a more practical choice for drivers who rack up serious mileage. Its Innovision Cockpit also feels more futuristic and user-friendly;
Audi Q7: Sharing Volkswagen Group DNA, the Q7 is a close competitor. Both offer plush interiors and advanced tech, but the Touareg R edges ahead with its sportier design and off-road-ready 4Motion system; and
Range Rover Sport: The Range Rover is a legend off-road and offers undeniable luxury. However, the Touareg R delivers better fuel efficiency and a more accessible starting price — without sacrificing status or comfort.
By sticking with diesel power, Volkswagen has carved out a unique niche. The Touareg R is perfect for drivers who demand relentless performance and reliability, particularly in regions like Zimbabwe, where long distances and challenging terrain are a reality.
Pricing and vvailability in Zimbabwe
Of course, all this excellence comes with a premium price tag: the 2025 Volkswagen Touareg R is available for US$120 000. It is an investment, but one that pays dividends in satisfaction, comfort, and peace of mind. You will find it exclusively at CFAO Mobility Zimbabwe, located at 58a Golden Stairs Road, Mount Pleasant, Harare. The team there is genuinely passionate and knowledgeable — expect the VIP treatment from your first inquiry to the moment you drive off the lot.
My judgement: A diesel-powered marvel
The 2025 Volkswagen Touareg R is not just another luxury SUV — it is a testament to what happens when power, innovation, and elegance come together. Whether you are tackling city commutes, embarking on adventure-filled road trips, or simply enjoying the finer things in life, the Touareg R stands ready. It is an SUV that appeals to the head and the heart, perfect for Zimbabwean motorists who demand the very best.
If you are ready to experience the blend of performance and luxury that only the Touareg R can offer, visit CFAO Mobility Zimbabwe today. Take it for a test drive. I promise, from the moment that diesel engine purrs to life, you will understand why this SUV is so much more than just transportation — it is a lifestyle statement all its own.
For more information, visit CFAO Mobility Zimbabwe at 58a Golden Stairs Road, Mount Pleasant, Harare. — [email protected]/ call: +263 242 369 030-6/ WhatsApp Sales: +263 780 703 903.
