The all-new 2019 Volkswagen Touareg is here and it represents a departure from the older model, mainly technically, and to a lesser point, visually too.

Under the skin, the new car is without a doubt better. It’s bigger yet lighter, more comfortable, more dynamic (says VW), more eco-friendly, safer and a lot more advanced from a technology perspective.

But what about visually, how does the old Touareg compare to the all-new model? Let’s find out.

The Arteon influence on the outside

Starting with the exterior, more specifically, the front end, you’ll notice the generational shift in design. The 2019 Touareg is edgier and more aggressive-looking, though not necessarily more elegant, unless you’re a big fan of the whole “Arteon experience.” So whether the new model looks more classy, is debatable.

Same can be said about their profiles, where the old Touareg still brought a few (softer) Porsche Cayenne design elements with it, whereas the new model is more about dynamic lines, a bolder stance, and feeling sportier.

The design of the rear end on the other hand is probably a lot better in the new car – simple, sharp and more modern. Although if you feel like the bulkier taillights were a better match, do let us know.

Add it all together and you could say that the new Touareg is the Arteon of SUVs. It represents the best VW currently has to offer, it’s arguably more exciting to look at than its predecessor, and that’s something to consider if you’re a potential buyer.

Inside it’s all about those massive screens

When VW refreshed the second-generation Touareg back in 2014, the best they could do was redesign the controls, add new decors and new colors for the leather upholstery, things of that nature. Sure, the car also came with better standard features, improved safety and a revised engine range, but it’s not like it can hold a candle to the all-new 2019 model, right?

The new car’s interior even got its own moniker. VW calls it the Innovision Cockpit, and as far as its design goes, it looks like the VW Arteon and Audi A7 had a baby, and the all-new Touareg’s cabin was born.

It’s all very new and sophisticated, especially when you have a 12-inch digital instrument cluster merging with a massive 15-inch touchscreen display to create one of the most futuristic environments in the SUV segment. We reckon it’s good enough to make the Audi Q7 feel a little outdated, which says a lot.

The only item that’s not a complete novelty is the steering wheel, which is identical to the one inside the Arteon. Other than that, we don’t think many will be accusing VW of not embracing change with this car. It looks removed from both previous generations, in the same way that the Arteon looks when parked next to a B5 Passat.

Let us know if you agree, and also if you would consider purchasing the 2019 VW Touareg over rival models such as the Mercedes GLE, BMW X5, Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, Porsche Cayenne and the rest of the premium SUV gang.