VW’s largest SUV has undergone a mid-life update, with design tweaks and tech improvements
- New exterior design
- Same five powertrains carried over from before
- Available in Touareg, Elegance, R-Line and high-performance R trims
The facelifted Volkswagen Touareg has been unveiled, with a new look and updated technology. While there aren’t many powertrain alterations, the new Touareg will also get tweaked suspension setups to subtly alter the way it drives.
The updated Touareg will renew its rivalry with other large premium SUVs such as the BMW X5 and Land Rover Discovery, and Volkswagen says it’s “implemented the wishes of customers in the new model.”
The latest images show a revised front end with a new grille, redesigned headlights and a bumper with larger air intakes than before, giving the SUV a slightly more aggressive look. At the rear, the tailights now join in the middle to form a full-width light bar with an illuminating Volkswagen badge. Also completing the look are new alloy wheel design options up to 21 inches in size.
The latest Touareg will be available in four trim levels: Touareg, Elegance, R-Line and the high-performance Touareg R.
On the inside, all Touaregs get Volkswagen’s latest ‘Innovision Cockpit’ 12-inch driver’s display as well as a 15-inch infotainment screen with updated voice control and sat-nav. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now wireless, too.
Standard tech will include a powered tailgate, heated front seats, rear parking camera, keyless go and adaptive cruise control. Higher up the lineup, Elegance and R-Line will add matrix-LED headlights, unique exterior styling touches, a different grille, updated interior materials and surround projection lighting.
The engine lineup is not set to change, with the same five 3.0-litre V6-based powertrains still offered. The diesel TDI-badged engine comes with either 227bhp or 282bhp, while the base petrol engine produces 335bhp. As before, two petrol plug-in hybrids are also offered with either 376bhp or 455bhp – the latter powers the top-of-the-line Touareg R.
Improvements have been made to the standard suspension and optional air suspension systems, which Volkswagen says will improve both comfort and agility.
The facelifted Touareg is now available to order in Europe, although we still don’t quite yet know how much it will cost when it comes to the UK – we’d expect a based price of around £60,000.
Keyword: New Volkswagen Touareg facelift revealed