Volkswagen has unveiled its heavily updated Touareg large SUV which gets a new look inside and out, plus technology upgrades.
The Volkswagen Touareg has just received a mid-life facelift, with changes not only coming to the exterior design and interior technology, but also the way the premium SUV drives. The Touareg is going up against perennial rivals such as the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE, and VW says it has “implemented the wishes of customers in the new model”. The new Touareg is expected to launch in Australia early next year.
Starting with the cosmetic updates, the facelift is pretty comprehensive. At the front, there’s a new grille, bumper and headlights to give the Touareg a more aggressive look. The rear features a full-width light bar and illuminated VW badge. Fresh wheel designs up to 21-inches in size are available.
While local specifications are yet to be announced, four trim levels will be offered in Europe, including R-Line and the performance Touareg R. All models get VW’s ‘Innovision Cockpit’ 12-inch driver’s display and a 15-inch infotainment screen. Voice control and sat-nav have been updated, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now wireless.
Other standard-fit gadgetry includes a powered tailgate, heated front seats, rear parking camera, keyless go and adaptive cruise control. R-Line cars add matrix-LED headlights, unique bumpers and a new grille, plus different interior materials and surround projection lighting.
The same five powertrains will continue to be offered, all of which are based on 3.0-litre V6s. Two petrol hybrids are also offered, one with 280kW and the other with 339kW, although that’s reserved for the Touareg R. Volkswagen says that both the standard suspension and optional air suspension have been modified to improve comfort and agility.
Order books for the Touareg have already opened in Europe, and while we don’t know how much the newcomer will cost in Australia, we expect it to start from around $90k.
