Volkswagen has presented in Paris the world premiere of a new generation of the Touareg luxury class SUV. The market launch of the new version of the top-seller will take place at the end of November 2006. The Touareg, equipped with over 2,300 redesigned parts, looks different from its predecessor with a completely modified front section with crest radiator grill, distinctive headlights and much more. In addition, a substantial amount of new and sometimes unique technical developments are being employed.

The Touareg V10 TDI is the first turbo-diesel off-road vehicle in the US market with a particulate filter (DPF). Volkswagen is, in this way, once again setting a trend for drive technologies. In comparison to similarly equipped petrol engine vehicles, the 310 bhp Touareg V10 TDI is approximately 30 percent more efficient. As is the case in Europe, Volkswagen is seen as the leading manufacturer of diesel passenger vehicles in the USA. A total of twelve percent of all Volkswagens sold between New York and San Francisco already have the TDI logo, and this trend is increasing. In the TDI versions, the New Beetle and Golf are, according to the "U.S.

The TDIs have output of 128 kW / 174 PS (TDI), 165 kW / 225 PS (V6 TDI) and 230 kW / 313 PS (V10 TDI).

Front section design

The front section of the Touareg was completely redesigned. Except for the engine hood no part remained untouched. The new Touareg is immediately recognizable as the latest generation by the typical Volkswagen crest radiator grill in chrome design. Although always individually designed for each model, it has become an unmistakable stylistic feature of the brand. The second distinctive feature of the new generation Touareg are the organically shaped headlight casings (optionally bi-xenon with cornering and turning light). Similar to the latest Volkswagens such as the Eos, the lower area features a round curvature. A single glance at the headlights and the crest radiator grill makes it evident that the front bumper has also been completely redesigned. Elegant: a chrome-plated transverse web in the outer air intakes of the bumper. Illuminating during inclement weather: the round, protectively integrated fog lights. Aerodynamic: The exterior mirrors were also redesigned and now offer and even braver face to the wind.

Rear section design

Modifications to the rear section, too: There’s a new hatchback spoiler that improves aerodynamics. The rear and brake lights were technically modified and the optional tinted glass of the rear lights was improved. The designers also redesigned the lower area of the bumper and exhaust pipes for a more dynamic look.

Side section design

In silhouette it’s the new light alloy wheels and the aerodynamic mirrors that identify the latest generation of the Touareg. New colors are also available: “Atacama Grey Metallic”, “Mountain Grey Metallic”, “Artic Blue-Silver Metallic”, “Silver Leaf Metalic”, “Sierra Red Pearl Effect” and “Galapagos Anthracite Metallic”.

INTERIOR New seating system with perfected ergonomics and new design

A basic and a “comfort” seating system is available for the Touareg. The “comfort” seating system was redesigned for the latest Touareg. The partially leather (“Cricket”) and fully leather (“Nappa”) seats are now not just distinguishable by leather, but also by design. Both are also distinguished from the unchanged basic seating system. The very exclusive fully leather seats feature a pronounced level of comfort; they resemble their counterparts in the Phaeton. The fully leather seats have a sporty cut. In general, the back seat of all versions were redesigned. It weighs eight kilos less and when folded down now offers a level surface between backrest and cargo f loor. The new colors available in combination with the “comfort” seats are “Latte Macchiato” and “Sioux”. The basic seats optionally available in leather (“Cricket”) can now also be ordered in “Pure Beige”.