Entire Volkswagen line-up updated for 2021

Volkswagen has updated its entire range of vehicles, just in time for the 2021 plate change. The company’s updates stretch to some new engines, improved technology, revised interior trim and a range-wide shift to the firm’s latest MIB3 infotainment system.

The Up!,  Volkswagen’s cheapest car, has received a new, more powerful 64bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine which meets the latest RDE2 emissions regulations. Cars fitted with climate control also receive a new allergen filter.

Moving up the range, the Polo has been fitted with a new emergency call service, while the car’s entry-level 94bhp 1.0-litre engine is now available on the mid-range SEL model. The hatchback has also been fitted with an updated “Polo” badge which sits in the middle of the tailgate, like the branding on the Mk8 Golf.

Volkswagen’s entry-level SUV, the T-Cross, gets the firm’s recently updated “VW” roundel and the brand’s latest MIB3 infotainment system. The crossover’s engine range will also now comply fully with the latest emissions regulations, thanks to the addition of a new 108bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine.

Like the Polo, the mid-sized Volkswagen T-Roc SUV gets an emergency call service as standard across its entire range. The SUV’s USB-B ports have also been replaced for USB-C ports and, on all models except the T-Roc R, the 12-volt cigarette lighter in the centre console has been replaced with a USB socket.

The T-Roc’s engines have been updated to meet the latest RDE2 emissions regulations – but there’s a pair of new powertrain options, too. Buyers can now also choose from either a 108bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine or a 113bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine.

Volkswagen’s updates for the Tiguan Allspace family SUV are fairly minimal, stretching to a new 197bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine and the company’s improved MIB3 infotainment system, which offers support for Apple CarPlay.

The firm’s flagship SUV, the Touareg, has been given the most comprehensive update, with Volkswagen replacing its outmoded USB-A ports with up-to-date USB-C ports and fitting new white ambient lighting on the entry-level SE model.

Volkswagen’s SE, SEL and SEL Tech trim-levels also now feature a new leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel, while the R-Line, R-Line Tech and Black Edition models have been fitted with an improved, heated sports steering wheel.

Technical updates for the Touareg are minimal, stretching to a new AdBlue tank for diesel models, which has doubled in size from 12 litres to 24 litres. However, Volkswagen has fitted its Travel Assist semi-autonomous driving function as part of the update, which allows the SUV to assume control of the car on motorways at speeds of between 0 and 130mph.

Volkswagen’s seven-seat Touran and Sharan MPVs have been treated to the firm’s latest infotainment system and broader options lists. Buyers can now opt for an improved audio system and a digital instrument binnacle to replace the standard car’s analogue gauges.

Finally, the Passat has started its transition towards RDE2 compliance, although Volkswagen is yet to confirm the changes to the car’s powertrains. However, the company will introduce its SE Nav specification to the range in time for the model-year change.

Check out our review of the new Volkswagen Golf GTI here...