Spy Shots: Next-gen Volkswagen Touareg test mule

Posted Mon Jul 14 2008 7:59 AM by Siddharth Raja

The Volkswagen Touareg has achieved only modest sales since its launch in 2003, mostly because of its lack of seven-seater capability and premium price tag compared with many of its Japanese rivals. The second-generation model is now in the works and will hopefully address many of the issues of the current model. Due to be launched in late 2010, the new Touareg will be slightly smaller than the current model but will feature a range of more fuel efficient engines and be able to seat up to seven passengers.

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 recently launched 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 production model.

The new engine lineup will 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.

Gallery: 2010 Volkswagen Touareg facelift spy shots

Reader Comments

Mon Jul 14 2008 6:03 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
Mon Jul 14 2008 9:43 PM
NaBUru38 says

Wasn't it that the Cayenne was to use the Q5 platform?

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