The latest Volkswagen Touareg, the one we don't receive in the United States, will be the basis for the first plug-in hybrid from the Volkswagen R performance skunkworks.

The information was confirmed by VW sales and marketing chief Juergen Stackmann in an interview with Autocar published last week.

He said the future Touareg R will be the first of multiple plug-in hybrids VW R will launch in an effort to curb emissions.

2018 Volkswagen Touareg

2018 Volkswagen Touareg

It is expected on sale in markets where the regular Touareg is sold in 2021, and will likely feature a turbocharged V-6 mated to a single electric motor as its powertrain. The Touareg already sports a 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 rated at 335 horsepower, so with an electric motor added we could see output easily eclipse the 400-hp mark.

In addition to the hybrid powertrain, expect to see the usual assortment of VW R upgrades, including aerodynamic aids, stiffer suspension, and an uprated brake package. Inside, there should be full Nappa leather and specially engraved door sills.

VW R has previously toyed with alternative powertrains in the Touareg. Who can forget the wild Touareg R50 TDI launched a decade ago? It featured a 5.0-liter V-10 diesel engine with 350 horsepower and a stump-pulling 626 pound-feet of torque.