Volkswagen Touareg gets a facelift in Beijing
Updated VW Touareg debuts at the Beijing Motor Show, will arrive this summer
The facelifted VW Touareg had been revealed at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show. Subtle exterior and interior styling tweaks along with new tech have all been added to Volkswagen’s largest SUV, which will go on sale in August.
Marked out by a reshaped front bumper and new bi-xenon headlight design at the front, round the back a new rear bumper, redesigned diffuser and LED rear fog lights integrated into the bumper make up the bulk of changes. VW also offers two new alloy wheel designs on the updated model.
Changes inside are less noticeable, with new aluminium rotary knobs and white – rather than red – illumination of the controls now fitted. There’s also new chrome accents which frame the control panel and an extended range of upholstery finishes.
Buyers are now only able to choose from two engine options as opposed to the three TDI diesel engines and hybrid version available in the outgoing model. Options include a 3.0-litre V6 diesel with either 201bhp or 255bhp, with both models fitted with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and VW’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system as standard.
The more slippery aerodynamic design of the new Touareg plus mechanical tweaks, means fuel efficiency is up by seven per cent over the outgoing model. VW claims the entry-level diesel will now return 42.8mpg, with the more powerful V6 returning 41.5mpg despite a 13bhp increase over the current engine. Low rolling resistance tyres, stop/start and a new coasting function also contribute towards to improvements in efficiency.
Standard kit on all models includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control, regenerative braking and climate control, while air suspension can be fitted as an option. Later I the year VW will also launch a sportier R-Line package for the Touareg, which includes upgrades such as new front and rear bumpers, plus a new alloy wheel design, privacy glass and stainless steel pedals.
Read all the latest from the 2014 Beijing Motor Show by clicking here.
