Volkswagen unveiled the heavily facelifted Touareg a few hours after VW USA published the pricing for the 2024 Atlas. The Touareg hasn't been available in the USA since VW introduced the third-generation model. The Dieselgate saga did a number on the German brand's luxury midsize SUV. However, loyal customers are still willing to pay a premium for 2016 models equipped with the notorious (but magnificent) 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine.
On the topic of V6 engines, the Atlas range has ditched the VR6 option for the 2024 MY update and is now exclusively available with a turbocharged four-pot. The 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 didn't make much of a difference to the performance and towing ability, but it was nice to know it was there.
Dieselgate is not the only reason the Touareg got the ax. It's a premium model that costs VW a lot to produce, and sales were slow. Americans also prefer larger vehicles, which is why we have the Atlas. The latter is slightly larger, is available as a six- or seven-seater, and - since it's built on the first-generation MQB platform with lower-quality materials on the inside - is a whole lot cheaper.
The Touareg is built on the more expensive MLB Evo platform, also used as the basis for models like the Audi Q7 and Q8, Porsche Cayenne, and Lamborghini Urus. It competes in the midsize premium segment and is therefore equipped with better engines, more technology, and more upmarket interior cladding.
We have some experience with the latest pre-facelift model, and if you prefer comfort over sportiness, it's the best all-around MLB-based SUV.
The facelifted model only makes us more jealous. VW's new lighting design has the Touareg looking sharper than ever before, and the interior has been updated with the latest technology, including Innovision Cockpit with high-definition map data. VW also listened to its customers and made some of the interior trim softer than before.
What we're most jealous about is the range of engine options available. In addition to the turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, you can also opt for two turbocharged diesel models and two plug-in hybrids. The Touareg R eHybrid uses the V6 gas engine and an electric motor to produce 455 horsepower. Meanwhile, we're stuck with the Atlas' weedy 235 hp four-pot.
The Touareg sells for the equivalent of $80,000 across the pond, making it a tough sell compared to the (much) cheaper Audi Q7 and more reasonably priced Porsche Cayenne.
Still, we would have liked the option, or is America still not ready for a people's car that costs more than $60,000? Your thoughts in the comments section below, please.
