The third generation Volkswagen Touareg is almost ready for its world debut, which will take place on March 23, in Beijing, China.
Designed by VW’s head of Design Klaus Bischoff and his team, the new flagship SUV will arrive with fresh styling inspired by the Arteon at the front, in addition to bolder lines all around.
In the latest teaser, VW talks about “one of the largest digital cockpits in its class”, which “opens up a new type of infotainment system”.
Other interesting features are also being mentioned, including the rear-wheel steering, air suspension, and roll stabilization, all of which will “ensure a safe and dynamic driving experience”.
Underpinning it is the MLB Evo platform, which is the foundation stone of pretty much every large SUV developed under the VW Group’s umbrella. These include the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, but also the Bentley Bentayga and Lamborghini Urus, as well as the upcoming Audi Q8.
Using the new architecture allows the 2019 Touareg to shave a few kilograms over its predecessor, and to become more fuel-efficient. Additionally, it will also allow it to adopt a variety of powertrains, including diesel and petrol units, as well as electrified ones.
Rumor has it that the new German SUV will arrive at first with three engines: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6, and a 3.0-liter V6 TDI diesel.
Later on, Volkswagen will likely expand the lineup, and one of the models that’s believed to arrive is the ‘R’, powered by a VR6 turbocharged engine. A range-topping V8 TDI variant is also expected to show its fangs later on, alongside a potential plug-in hybrid.
It’s unknown yet whether the new VW Touareg will spawn a sportier version to rival the likes of the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, or if Audi will be the only one designated to steal some customers from the popular SAVs.
