The 2000 ItalDesign Touareg, inspired by the vast Libyan desert, emerged as a distinctive vehicle tailored for the exploration of personal oases. Stripping away superfluous elements, the Touareg satisfied essential automobile functions with a focus on off-road capabilities. Crafted on a tubular steel structure, the chassis integrated a 180 horsepower, 2.7-liter V-6 engine and a 4-wheel-drive configuration.
Distinctive features included a tubular frame, hi-tech joints forming a protective cell, and versatile body panels in steel mesh, perforated aluminum, plastic, or glass. The Touareg's design prioritized simplicity, eschewing conventional interior temperature systems. The roof aided air recirculation, and the perforated bonnet revealed a classic 6-liter, 8-cylinder, 250 hp GM engine.
The innovative lighting system, employing a single lamp type for front, rear, and additional lighting, showcased on a roll bar. The Touareg exemplified a desert dweller with a focus on durability and adaptability to harsh conditions. The absence of electronics and intricate bodywork, coupled with a simplified interior, emphasized functionality and ease of maintenance.
The Touareg's ascetic design, reminiscent of children's toy cars and evoking Mad Max films, deviated from the era of extensive car amenities. The 280 horsepower of a 5.4-liter Chevrolet V8, devoid of electronic management, underscored the vehicle's raw power. Isuzu presented the Touareg as a fully functional prototype, capable of navigating traffic with real cars.
While the Touareg might not align with the preferences of modern SUVs, it epitomized extreme simplicity and reliability. Its off-road capabilities were showcased, leaving occupants covered in a layer of dust, reminiscent of Sahara journeys. Despite its conceptual nature, the Touareg garnered admiration for its unconventional approach, offering a unique connection with nature and a departure from contemporary SUV complexity.
Source: www.italdesign.it, wildtoys.com, www.5koleso.ru, Motor News, motor.ru Images: ItalDesign
