The new platform will be shared with the next-generation Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7 and will feature increased use of aluminum to keep weight down. It will also be slightly sportier and adopt styling influences from the more recent Tiguan SUV.
This early test hack is still wearing the current Touareg’s sheet metal but several key differences reveal that it is in fact the next-generation model. These include the wider rear bumper and misaligned fuel filler cap. The front of the car also features a different intake system, which is also positioned lower than on the current model.
Shots of the interior also reveal several major changes, including an all-new instrument cluster and a similar steering wheel to the unit found in the Mk VI Golf.
The new engine lineup for the 2011 Touareg is expected to start with a 280hp (208kW) 3.2L V6 petrol engine and top out with a 345hp (257kW) 4.2L petrol V8. A pair of diesel engines will also be on offer including 2.7L and 3.0L turbodiesels. All the engines will be matted with a six-speed automatic gearbox, though VW’s new seven-speed DSG may also be made available.
Reader Comments
Mon Jul 14 2008 9:03 PM
Matt says
I highly doubt that this is the next-generation Touareg. I think it's just a test mule for the (finally US-bound) V6TDI undergoing hot weather towing testing. That is a small trailer, but is likely very heavy since it has dual axles. This leads me to believe it's doing some heavy-hauling emissions testing or powertrain/PCM calibration to make it ready for US consumption.
The front end may be just an evolution of the '08 US facelift, which has been available elsewhere since 2007. I think the stretched rear bumper you're seeing is nothing more than a cover for the retractable hitch that is in use on this vehicle, which is availabe outside the US. As for the fuel filler bump, maybe there's some emissions test equipment in there, otherwise I really don't know. But, I think that when the truly new platform comes around for testing, none of the current unibody's sheetmetal is going to fit it, and it will simply be masked. There's way too much of the current 7L Touareg platform in this vehicle to make me believe it's the redesigned version.
Matt
Toaureg owner since 2005, enthusiast since first sight
Tue Jul 15 2008 12:43 AM
NaBUru38 says
Wasn't it that the Cayenne was to use the Q5 platform?
Wed May 6 2009 12:21 PM
Michael D says
I don't know how it would get "slightly smaller" if it's going to seat seven, and the caption under the main photo states "slightly wider than the current model".
I also notice that the wheels are pushed closer to the front and rear ends in relation to the mule's current Touareg's body panel, this indicates to me that the wheelbase will be longer, at least, with perhaps the next-generation having greater length to accomodate a third-row of seats.
Wed May 6 2009 12:41 PM
NC2010 says
"Toaureg owner since 2005, enthusiast since first sight"
The Touareg has always been the best looking, inside and out, in the SUV market. I have always felt embarrassed for Porsche for the mess they made to the same chassis.
Wed May 6 2009 12:53 PM
NoNameDenton says
Awesome, a new diesel, I miss the V10 diesel though that thing was a beast
Wed May 6 2009 7:52 PM
HECTOR says
VW has done a tremendous job with the Touareg, which is everything the Cayenne is not.
This is a man's vehicle and the last thing VW should do is take *styling cues* from that girly-mobile, the Tiguan.
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