FIt was Volkswagen’s first SUV and a great bet for the company since it was one of its first forays into the Premium segment, dominated by the traditional German trident of Audi, Mercedes-Benz and BMW. However, the response from the public –contrary to what happened with the failed Phaeton- was very good and since its debut in 2002, the Touareg has already sold more than 1.13 million units worldwide. To keep it updated and attractive, the Wolfsburg firm presented this Wednesday the expected facelift of the third generation, with important aesthetic and, above all, technological changes.
Starting with its design, as planned, the SUV adopted a more aggressive image, with new headlights with Matrix Led HD IQ.Light technology that, while maintaining the rectangular format, feature triple projectors and are accompanied by a much larger grill than it even extends below them including a light signature that joins it with the brand logo. Likewise, the bumper was also redesigned, with larger air intakes and a black mask as a frame. Depending on the version, you can add chrome details or glossy black sconces.
There are no significant profile changes, except for the design of the alloy wheels, which can be 19, 20, 21 and even 22” along with the new exterior color called Chilli Red Metallic. Finally, at the rear, the internal design of the headlights was modified and incorporates an appliqué that joins both optics, even with the illuminated VW emblem.
Inside, as the brand had anticipated, although it maintains the general appearance, there is a notable technological update, with a new frame for the instrumentation and the Innovision Cockpit multimedia system, made up of two huge screens configurable by the driver and from where the air conditioner is operated. There are also slight tweaks to the linings and appliqués and add the brand’s new steering wheel, with touch controls. It also has wireless connectivity for smartphones, USB-C fast charging ports, Discovery Pro Max browser, four-zone climate control, keyless access and starting, heated seats, electric tailgate and improvements in driving assistance systems, including a new sensor located in the roof that measures the extra weight – if a trunk is carried on the roof bars – to adjust the operation of the stability control. It also has an assisted parking system, traffic sign recognition and Night Vision night vision system.
Mechanically, the range is made up of five options: a 3.0-liter V6 TSI gasoline engine, which delivers 340 hp and 450 Nm of torque; two V6 TDI 3.0 diesels with 231 hp and 500 Nm of torque, or 286 hp and 600 Nm for the most powerful option; and two plug-in hybrid variants that combine the V6 TSI engine plus an electric motor and deliver 381 hp and 600 Nm of torque or the sports R version, with the same scheme but taken to 462 hp and 700 Nm of torque. In all cases, the transmission is the 8-speed Tiptronic automatic box and they have the 4Motion all-wheel drive system.
Already available for pre-sale in Germany, its prices start at 69,200 euros. A few weeks later it will also disembark in other countries of the Old Continent. His arrival in our country is not confirmed.
