VW gives Touareg a facelift

Some features of the new Touareg generation include a redesigned front and rear, new driver assistance systems – such as Automatic Post-Collision Braking System as standard – an optional new generation of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and an improved suspension layout.

Striking features at the front-end are the redesigned bi-xenon headlights, which are now standard across the range. At the back, new rear lights have been introduced.

The designers have also given a new look to the alloy wheels available: Senora (17-inch), Africa (18-inch), Everest (19-inch), Masafi (20-inch) and Talladega (20-inch for optional R-Line package).

Redesigned interior features include the aluminium switches synonymous with the Touareg class. All buttons and switches are now illuminated in white.

The VW Touareg is now better looking. Picture: Supplied.

The engine line-up is unchanged: one petrol – 3.6 V6 FSI (206kW) and two diesel engines – 3.0 V6 TDI (180kW) and 4.2 V8 TDI (250kW). All with the standard 8-speed automatic transmission.

The standard steel-spring suspension has been tweaked and available again as an option is an air suspension system, with which ground clearance can be increased to as much as 300mm on off-road terrain. At higher speeds (140km/h and above) the air suspension automatically lowers the vehicle’s body.

The new Touareg is available with an optional sporty R-Line package which includes 20-inch Talladega alloy wheels, R-Line design bumpers, side sill extensions, a black gloss diffuser at the back (also with additional chrome trim), chrome-plated tailpipes and an aerodynamically optimised roof edge spoiler.

Arranged to the left of the PDC button there is now an additional switch for the heated steering wheel, being offered for the first time in the Touareg (only available in V8). A new front-seat standard feature is the electrically adjustable lumbar support (optional in V6 FSI).

The new Touareg comes with a three-year/120 000km manufacturer warranty and five-year/100 000km Automotion Maintenance Plan. All models have a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty and 15 000km service intervals.