The 2024 Volkswagen Touareg returns with precise updates aimed at maintaining its position among luxury midsize SUVs. The changes aren’t sweeping, but they’re well-targeted. Volkswagen sharpened what matters—driver-assistance systems, plug-in hybrid performance, and digital cabin features—to compete directly with models like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Mercedes-Benz GLE.
Exterior Upgrades and Visual Changes
The 2024 Touareg keeps its well-proportioned stance but introduces a more modern front and rear. Every trim now gets a redesigned grille, reshaped bumpers, and slimmer HD Matrix LED headlights. These use 38,400 micro-LEDs to project light with high precision and automatically adjust to road and weather conditions.
Notably, the rear light bar now stretches across the full width of the tailgate and integrates the illuminated VW logo—a first for the brand in any production model. The optional Black Style package darkens the grille, mirror caps, and roof rails for a more aggressive appearance. New 19- to 21-inch wheel designs are available depending on trim.
Interior and Tech: A Digital Overhaul
The cabin features an updated version of Volkswagen’s Innovision Cockpit, combining a 12-inch digital gauge cluster and a 15-inch central infotainment display. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and now includes native Amazon Alexa integration.
The interface has been reworked for faster response times and clearer menus. Voice control recognizes more natural speech patterns. Over-the-air updates keep the system current without dealer visits.
Volkswagen improved material quality, particularly in the Elegance and R-Line trims, with soft-touch panels, contrast stitching, and aluminum or wood-effect inserts. The seats in higher trims offer active ventilation, multi-point massage, and memory settings.
Key Interior Features:
- 30-color ambient lighting
- Head-up display with augmented reality
- Optional air ionizer and fragrance system
- Configurable rear seat recline and fore/aft movement
Powertrains: Gasoline, Diesel, and Plug-in Hybrid
The 2024 Volkswagen Touareg offers five powertrain options in global markets, with availability varying by region:
Engine Lineup:
- 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel (170TDI):
- Power: 231 hp, Torque: 369 lb-ft
- Fuel Economy (est.): 33 mpg combined
- 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel (210TDI):
- Power: 286 hp, Torque: 442 lb-ft
- 3.0L V6 Turbo Gasoline (340 hp):
- Smooth and quiet, primarily offered in select regions
- Touareg eHybrid PHEV:
- Combined Power: 381 hp
- Electric Range: 31 miles (WLTP)
- Battery: 14.3 kWh lithium-ion
- Touareg R PHEV (Flagship Performance Trim):
- Combined Power: 462 hp
- 0–60 mph: 5.1 seconds
- AWD standard, 8-speed automatic transmission
All versions use Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive and include multiple drive modes: Comfort, Sport, Eco, Off-road, and Snow. The transmission has been tuned for smoother low-speed shifts and quicker highway kickdown.
Ride and Suspension: Enhanced Adaptive System
Volkswagen revised the adaptive air suspension to deliver better ride control across varied road surfaces. A new roof load sensor informs the suspension when the vehicle is carrying extra weight, such as a roof box, and adjusts roll stability and damping response accordingly.
The rear-axle steering system remains optional and reduces the turning radius at low speeds. At higher speeds, it tightens cornering stability.
