Over the years, Volkswagen has rolled out several car line-ups, some of which have enjoyed iconic status. In the SUV segment, the German automaker rolled out a model that took the automotive industry by storm. Launched in 2002, the VW Touareg became widely known as a technology carrier.
Named after the nomadic Tuareg people, the VW Touareg is among the most prominent models of the brand. The naming convention was to reflect the strength and adaptability of the tribe in the SUV’s features.
Let us now go through the Volkswagen Touareg history. It shows the model’s progress and how it has become one of the most popular used VW SUVs in the UAE.
VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG GENERATIONS
VW Touareg history spans three generations since its inception decades ago. Here are the generations of this iconic SUV, which is rated highly among the most popular used VW cars in the UAE and how it evolved into the current VW Touareg models.
Volkswagen Touareg First Generation (2002-2010)
The first generation of the Volkswagen Touareg was launched at the Paris Motor Show in 2002. This car marked the Volkswagen flagship in the premium SUV category with excellent off-road suitability. It was the same platform where the history of Porsche Cayenne also commenced.
The first VW Touareg generation featured a Passat-inspired front fascia with an overall look of a station wagon. The chrome trims gave the vehicle a high-end appearance. Broad windows, flared arches and round-edged body panels further enhanced the appearance. Also, the SUV housed a 113-inch wheelbase.
Moreover, features like electromechanical roll stabilisation and CDC air suspension with a six-level setting added to the off-roading capabilities of the SUV.
The car offered a five-seating with a spacious interior and a broad centre console. A dashboard of the VW layout featured a new infotainment system.
The first model of the lineup had the following engine options:
- A 3.2-litre V6 engine mated with a six-speed manual transmission. It generated 220 horsepower.
- A 4.2-litre V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It produced 310 horsepower.
- A 6.0-litre W12 engine A 3.2-litre V6 engine mated with a six-speed manual transmission. It generated 220 horsepower.
- A 4.2-litre V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It produced 310 horsepower.
- A 6.0-litre W12 engine mated with a six-speed manual transmission. It produced 450 horsepower.
Facelift 2006
The first generation of the Touareg received a facelift in 2006. The facelifted version featured redesigned headlamps and taillights. The interior featured lavish upholstery for higher trims. However, the base models have fabric cloth for car seats.
Moreover, the brand introduced powerful engines for the model. They included:
- A 3.6-litre V6 FSI engine producing 280 horsepower
- A 4.2-litre V8 FSI engine generating 345 horsepower
Both the engines came paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Volkswagen Touareg Second Generation (2010-2018)
The next generation of Volkswagen Touareg was launched in 2010 at Geneva Motor Show.
A new car grille and Bi-Xenon headlights improved the exterior of the second-generation models. The SUV was given a front sporty look with aerodynamic bumpers. Besides, inches were added to the width and length dimensions. The wheelbase increased to 114 inches.
Inside, the seating remained for five. However, the luxurious space of the Touareg was accompanied by the latest infotainment system with iPod connectivity. The standard VW instrument cluster showcased a tachometer, car speedometer, coolant temperature and fuel level. The analogue dials featured another small infotainment screen in between them.
A 3.6-litre V6 FSI engine powered the Touareg. It came paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Also, it generated 280 horsepower and 361 Nm of torque.
Facelift 2014
In 2012, VW unveiled the facelift version of the second-generation Touareg with major technical and interior changes. The front fascia was redesigned with a four-line chrome grille. Broad bi-xenon headlights became standard on all trims. The chrome strips from a new “Chrome and Style” package were featured on the rear and sides of the car.
The interior featured new car upholstery, lighting solutions, new accents and controls. Bluetooth connectivity to the radio navigation system was provided by a new feature “Mobile Online Services” introduced in Europe.
The first hybrid vehicle in the Volkswagen Touareg history was launched during the second generation. The hybrid version featured a 3.0-litre TFSI V6 engine, powered by a 34.3kW electric motor. It generated a combined 378 horsepower and could propel to 100km/hour in just 6.5 seconds. Besides, it had a top speed of 240 km/hour.
Volkswagen Touareg Third Generation (2018-PRESENT)
The third and the current Volkswagen Touareg generation was rolled out in 2018. Lighter body materials such as steel and aluminium with modern contours give the SUV an aerodynamic look. Furthermore, the front fascia adorns a new grille with three horizontal bars of chrome, giving the car a broader front profile.
The car interior boasts ample space with the latest digital cockpit features. The centre console features a 15-inch infotainment system screen and the Digital cockpit has a 12-inch display. Additionally, the SUV offers a cargo space of 28.6 ft3. You can extend it to 63.6 ft3 by folding the rear seats.
A 3.0-litre TSI V6 engine power the current generation of the Volkswagen Touareg. It comes mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission and generates 340 horsepower. Moreover, in 2020, VW added a plug-in hybrid model called Touareg R to the SUV lineup. With a power consumption of 21.1 kWh/100 km, it has a top speed of 250km/hour. Moreover, it can produce 456 hp and 700 Nm torque.
This concludes the Volkswagen Touareg history. With its dynamic SUV design, excellent performance and technology features, Touareg has become a top pick among car enthusiasts. Therefore, if you want to avail these features, you can browse these used VW Touareg for sale in the UAE.
Moreover, if you are interested in the evolution of popular VW SUVs, the history of Volkswagen Tiguan might be an excellent read for you.
Additionally, have a look at these used Volkswagen cars in the UAE if you are interested in other models of the brand.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more on car facts, generations and history details.
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