Three 2006 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDIs will embark upon the demanding climb to the 14,100-foot Pikes Peak summit in the 84th running of the Race to the Clouds. On July 1, pro-drivers Mark Miller, Danny Sullivan and Ryan Arciero will set out to show that the Touareg’s precise German engineering and powerful V10 TDI engine can handle even the most challenging driving conditions.

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, or Race to the Clouds, is a 12.4-mile course with quick straights and 156 hairpin turns on terrain that alternates between pavement and gravel—mostly without guardrails. The Touaregs will run in the Luxury SUV division piloted by the professional drivers.

Off-road champion Mark Miller competed in the 2006 Dakar Rally as a factory Volkswagen Motorsports driver.  During his racing career, he has secured multiple first place finishes in the Baja series and competed at Pikes Peak in 2000. Danny Sullivan is one of the most highly acclaimed race car drivers in the world with significant performances in Formula One, Le Mans Sports Car and Indy Car leagues, as well as winning the 1985 Indy 500.  Ryan Arciero holds 40 career wins, including three Baja 1000 and multiple Baja 500 championships, a Nevada 2000 Trophy Truck championship and a USAC “Rookie of the Year” title.  He also competed in the 2005 Dakar Rally.

“The Touareg is well-equipped to handle the challenges of Pikes Peak,” said Miller.  “With its sophisticated engine, it is designed to perform under the most excruciating conditions – including the mixed surface and high altitude of the mountain.”

The Touareg V10 TDI is a high-performance, diesel version of Volkswagen’s popular luxury SUV. Its powerful five-liter, 10-cylinder engine boasts 310 horsepower at 3,750 revolutions per minute and offers impressive pulling power with 553 lbs-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm.

The three Touareg V10 TDIs will be the first SUVs to use ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) to Race to the Clouds.  This clean diesel fuel, provided by sponsor Shell Oil Products U.S., reduces emissions of sulfur compounds and allows for the use of advanced emission control systems. In another display of innovation, the Touareg is the first light duty vehicle in the U.S. to include a particulate filter that further reduces emissions. The 2006 Touareg’s diesel engine is compliant in all 50 states and consumes up to 30 percent less fuel than traditional gasoline engines.

“This is a vehicle with tremendous power and technology that I really enjoy driving,” said Danny Sullivan.  “I am looking forward to engaging its full strength and ability to climb Pikes Peak.

 The Touareg with its 4XMotion all-wheel drive system provides superior traction control – a must-have on the challenging surfaces of Pikes Peak.  Standard equipment includes Anti-lock Brake System, Anti-slip regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, Engine Braking Assist, Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution, Electronic Stabilization Program with brake assist, Hill Descent Assist and Hill Climb Assist.

“I’m eager to get behind the wheel of the Touareg at Pikes Peak,” said Arciero. “The vehicle has a great sense of adventure that’s needed for this tough climb.  The Race to the Clouds is ideal to present the Touareg’s technical advancements.”

Volkswagen will race the Touareg at Pikes Peak with support from Shell Oil Products U.S., Red Bull, Nitto Tires, Oakley and NAVTEQ.