Volkswagen is planning to upgrade the design, technology, and comfort of its flagship SUV, the Touareg. The current version was introduced five years ago, and while other Volkswagen Group models are preparing for a generational change, the company is working on a facelift for its flagship model. The new version will be unveiled in early May 2023, and sales are expected to begin by the end of the year.

The upcoming Touareg facelift from Volkswagen will bring significant upgrades to its chassis, technological features, and luxurious interior, as per the manufacturer. It will be equipped with the latest IQ.Light HD Matrix LED technology that uses 38,400 micro-LEDs (19,200 for each headlight), capable of creating a lane-tracking beam of light that is much brighter but does not dazzle oncoming drivers. Additionally, the grille will feature a LED strip connecting the headlights, which will light up. The same illuminated stripe will also appear on the tailgate, adorned with a glowing VW emblem.

As part of the facelift, the Touareg will receive new 21-inch wheels and a sensor mounted on the roof of the car. The sensor, connected to the chassis electronics, will measure the weight of the car and automatically adjust the ESC stability control. According to VW, this sensor will enable the Touareg to detect the presence of a roof rack and optimize the operation of onboard electronics, as well as enhance maneuverability and stability, depending on the weather and road conditions.

The upcoming Touareg will come with both a new spring suspension (for the standard version) and a new two-chamber pneumatic suspension, designed to achieve the perfect balance between maximum comfort and optimal handling. Additionally, the car will feature innovative active stabilization and roll systems, which Volkswagen claims will offer a “new synthesis of comfort and performance.” While the plug-in hybrid version of the Touareg eHybrid R will come with blue brake calipers adorned with the “R” logo, it’s worth noting that active rear wheel steering will only be available on non-R models.

Volkswagen’s Touareg facelift will bring significant updates to its cabin, including an upgraded infotainment system called the Innovision Cockpit. This system features a 15-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and offers improved voice control, wireless connectivity for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and lane-accurate satellite navigation with HD map data. The cabin will also feature a new center console with soft faux leather upholstery and customizable background lighting for the cupholder edging.

The Touareg eHybrid will offer a combined power output of 381 hp and 600 Nm of torque, while the eHybrid R will have a higher output of 456 hp and 700 Nm of torque. Both versions will feature a 14.3 kWh lithium-ion battery, providing up to 50 kilometers of electric-only range. Additionally, all Touaregs will come standard with 4Motion all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 3.0-liter V6 TDI diesel, which is quite popular, will maintain its current power output of 231 hp and 500 Nm of torque. However, there will also be a more powerful version that produces 286 hp and 600 Nm of torque. For those who prefer gasoline engines, the 3.0-liter V6 will generate 340 hp and 450 Nm of torque.

Similar to previous models, the Touareg will be manufactured in Bratislava, Slovakia, alongside other SUVs within the VW Group built on the MLB platform such as the Audi Q7 and Q8, Porsche Cayenne and Cayenne Coupe, and Bentley Bentayga. Additionally, the Lamborghini Urus body is also produced at this plant.