New 2023 Volkswagen Touareg facelift revealed to take on BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE

The Volkswagen Touareg has just received a mid-life facelift, with changes not only coming to the exterior design and interior technology, but also the way the premium SUV drives. The Touareg is going up against perennial rivals such as the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE, and VW says it has “implemented the wishes of customers in the new model”.

Starting with the cosmetic updates, the facelift is pretty comprehensive. At the front, there’s a new grille, bumper and headlights to give the Touareg a more aggressive look. The rear features a full-width light bar and illuminated VW badge. Fresh wheel designs up to 21 inches in size are available.

Four trim levels will be offered: Touareg, Elegance, R-Line and the performance Touareg R. All models get VW’s ‘Innovision Cockpit’ 12-inch driver’s display and a 15-inch infotainment screen. Voice control and sat-nav have been updated, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now wireless.

Other standard-fit gadgetry includes a powered tailgate, heated front seats, rear parking camera, keyless go and adaptive cruise control. Elegance and R-Line cars add matrix-LED headlights, unique bumpers and a new grille, plus different interior materials and surround projection lighting. 

The same five powertrains will continue to be offered, all of which are based on 3.0-litre V6s. The diesel TDI comes with 227bhp or 282bhp, while the pure-petrol has 335bhp. Two petrol hybrids are also offered, one with 376bhp and the other with 455bhp, although that’s reserved for the Touareg R. VW says that both the standard suspension and optional air suspension have been modified to improve comfort and agility.

Order books for the Touareg have already opened in Europe, and while we don’t know how much the newcomer will cost in the UK, expect it to start from around £60,000.

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