2011 VW Touareg spied

VW’s Touareg is back, and it’s bigger than before! A heavily clad prototype of the next-generation SUV has been spotted in testing, and the premium off-roader appears to have grown in size. A lengthened chassis will accommodate a revised, more spacious interior, which will include a third row of seats – but despite appearances, weight reductions thanks to use of stronger lighter materials will mean improved fuel economy and nimbler handling.

The car will have a new front fascia, with a larger grille and revised headlights, while the rear will also receive extensive nips and tucks. Sharing its platform with the next-gen Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, powertrains will also be updated. New versions of the 3.6-litre V6 and 4.2-litre V8 petrol engines are likely to be offered, as well as new more fuel-efficient turbo diesels. And VW has hinted at a hybrid Touareg too, mimicking the Lexus RX-hybrid by using the supercharged V6 from the Audi S4 coupled to an electric motor to boost efficiency.

Our sources have revealed that despite all the cutting-edge technology, the new Touareg could be cheaper than the current car, with prices likely to begin at around £30,000 when it enters production late next year.