Diesels are quickly joining hybrids and plug-in electrics as the new show-car theme. The reasons are simple: efficiency, both in terms of fuel and finance, is driving carmakers and consumers to give diesel-fueled vehicles another chance. In keeping with this, Volkswagen is once again showcasing its Touareg SUV equipped with a 3.0L V6 TDI clean diesel engine, this time at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

For the U.S. version of the vehicle, V6 TDI delivers 225hp (165kW) and 406lb-ft (550Nm) of torque and is rated at 18mpg in the city and 25mpg on the highway for fuel economy. Europe’s version is rated at 240hp (179kW) and 406lb-ft (550Nm) of torque.

Coinciding with the launch of the new clean diesel SUV, VW is also presenting a new special edition Touareg called the ‘Lux Limited’. The upmarket version comes with niceties such as 20in alloy wheels and two-tone leather trim, and will be limited to just 1,940 units. Two petrol engines (V6 FSI, V8 FSI) and the new V6 TDI clean diesel will be offered in this model.

Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited SUV