A third-generation Volkswagen Touareg demonstrated remarkable resilience after surviving a missile strike in Ukraine, Carscoops reported. Despite sustaining extensive damage, the crossover’s engine started without issue, allowing the vehicle to drive away from the scene.
A video of the damaged SUV quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread discussion among motorists.
Body severely damaged, engine still running
According to Ukrainian company EMG Group, the unoccupied Touareg was parked in an area struck by a ballistic missile. The blast wave and shrapnel crushed the roof and pillars, shattered all the windows and damaged most of the body panels.
Despite the destruction, the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine started without a hitch when the start button was pressed, and the vehicle drove off under its own power.
Electronics also remained operational
After the restart, the digital instrument cluster, infotainment system, climate controls, exterior lighting and power seats all continued to function. However, the dashboard displayed multiple warning messages related to damaged sensors and electronic systems. The head-up display was inoperative due to the shattered windshield.
The incident quickly attracted widespread attention online. Many social media users suggested the damaged Touareg should be preserved in the Volkswagen museum as a testament to the model’s durability.
Earlier this year, a similar incident occurred in Israel, where a Chinese-made BYD Atto 3 electric SUV protected its occupants during a missile strike. Despite the significant damage to the car, all five people inside the vehicle survived.
