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| Road Test: Volkswagen Touran (2003-) |
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| Small Family MPV |
by: Farah AlKhalisi |
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 Platform strategy
The Touran wasthe first Volkswagen vehicle to appear on the all-new Golf platform (chassis structure and basic underpinnings). The Golf Mk 5 hatchback was the second, followed by the Skoda Octavia. Also on these underpinnings is the Audi A3, though an Audi-branded version of the Touran is unlikely. They may form the basis of an MPV for Skoda, however, styled like the Roomster concept car; also related are the smaller and sportier Seat Altea and upcoming new Toledo.
 Direct injection all round
There's the 1.6 FSI petrol engine (115bhp), the 2.0 FSI (150bhp) and 'normal' indirect-injection entry-level 1.6 (102bhp), plus the two diesels: the proven 1.9 TDI (100bhp) and new-to-Volkswagen 2.0 TDI (136bhp). Both the diesels have VW's Pumpe-Duse unit-injection technology. Six-speed manual transmission is standard on all models except 1.6 so far; options include the new clutchless DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) in the diesels, or a four-speed Tiptronic 'box in the 1.6 FSI.
 Weight it up
The new electromechanical steering set-up - also used for the new Golf - is claimed to reduce fuel consumption. Its main characteristic is its varying degree of power assistance, acting on inputs on load, road camber, crosswinds, speed and direction, with a self-centring action and adaptation to conditions. This system can be specifically tuned for different models, and it reduces vibration from the powertrain.
 By design
No surprises here: the Touran looks like a Volkswagen, and it looks like a practical vehicle - no unnecessary frills or flourishes. "Interesting" things about its exterior design include the self-adjusting recessed windscreen wipers, and optional bi-xenon headlights. SE and Sport models have a chromed grille surround, and roof rails - black or chrome-anodised. Volkswagen says that the Touran "is notable for its smooth body surfaces and unity of design".
 Springs and struts
The Touran has VW's new front suspension system, adapted for the Mk 5 Golf, too. It has a new strut layout with a triangular lower wishbone and wheel location strut and an aluminium subframe, attached to the body at six points. The lateral control arms, anti-roll bar and steering are pre-assembled on the subframe, for more precise positioning during production, and the anti-roll bar is attached directly to the struts, reducing body roll. The four-link rear suspension is also new, with three lateral control arms and a trailing link at each wheel, which enables longitudinal and lateral dynamics to be tuned independently. It is all set up for neutral behaviour or mild understeer in all conditions.
 Stop and roll
The brakes are discs all round, ventilated at the front, and standard equipment includes ABS, an electronic differential lock (EDS), traction control (ASR), Brake Assist and ESP (electronic stability programme). Basic S models have 15-inch steel wheels, with 195/65 R15 tyres; SE models have fatter 16-inch wheels, with 205/55 R16 tyres, and the Sport versions have 16-inch 'Hockenheim' alloys, with 205/55 R16s.
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Introduction The Touran is Volkswagen's answer to the Vauxhall Zafira, Renault Scen... |
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