Volkswagen has launched the facelifted Touareg, which comes five years after the third-generation model originally went on sale in the UK. The upscale SUV, a sibling vehicle to the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne (both of which are produced at Volkswagen’s Bratislava plant in Slovakia), receives a variety of outward design enhancements as well as a revamped interior with additional digital functions across two lines: Elegance and R-Line. In Germany, a third, entry-level model will be available.
Volkswagen Touareg Exterior
Among the aesthetic alterations is a new front grille, which is intended to emphasize the Touareg’s perceived width. Elegance trim models have a chrome appearance optic, whereas R-line models have a darkened optic. The air ducts in the lower area of the front bumper are significantly larger than previously, and each line gets a unique design.
The facelifted model also has redesigned headlamps. The IQ Light HD matrix system from Volkswagen is an option, with up to 19,216 micro-LEDs per unit.
A new light bar across the tailgate and updated taillight graphics are added to the Touareg at the back. In addition, it uses an illuminated logo in conjunction with IQ Light HD headlights, a first for a Volkswagen model sold in Europe. Four new wheel designs are also available: Coventry in 19 inches, Braga in 20 inches, Napoli in 21 inches, and Leeds in 21 inches.
Volkswagen Touareg Interior
Inside, the redesigned Touareg now comes standard with the Innovision Cockpit, which was previously an option. 12in instrument and 15in infotainment digital screens are part of this.
More sophisticated HD map data with lane-level sat-nav and a new voice-control system based on conversational instructions are brought by software and feature updates. Through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cell phones can also be wirelessly mirrored.
The switchgear in the center console and the USB-C ports, which have been increased from a charging capability of 15W to 45W for quicker recharging of electronic devices, are the focus of other improvements.
The door trims have also undergone subtle changes, and there is a new ambient lighting effect.
Engine, Power, and Transmission
Five drivetrains, all with an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission and a 4Motion all-wheel drive system, have been confirmed by Volkswagen for the next Touareg. Included are two 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6 engines with 227 and 282 horsepower as well as a 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged gasoline engine with 335 horsepower.
Volkswagen has also modified the two plug-in hybrid engines it currently offers. With 375 horsepower in the Touareg eHybrid and 455 horsepower in the Touareg R eHybrid, which can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 5.1 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, respectively, these combine a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 petrol engine with an electric motor installed on the gearbox.
Both PHEV variants utilize a battery with a 14.1kWh energy capacity. Volkswagen has not yet confirmed the length of its all-electric ranges.
Volkswagen Touareg price
Prices for the Volkswagen Touareg range from $75,350 for the entry-level SUV Touareg 170TDI to $148,720 for the top-of-the-line SUV Touareg V8 TDI Wolfsburg Edition.
