VW have released images and specs of the new facelifted Touareg SUV, ahead of its debut at the Beijing Motor Show later this month. Available later this year, VW have combined subtle differences and minor additions to freshen up the aging Touareg.

External changes are slight but effective – giving the 2014 Touareg a sharper, more modern look, bringing it bang up-to-date with the rest of the new VW range. The refreshed model features a redesigned front end with snazzy new bi-xenon headlights, a horizontal chrome front grille, and LED fog lights.

VW will be offering the new-look Touareg with 5 new metallic paint colours and 2 new alloy wheel options, allowing customers more choice. VW are being wise here, catering to the growing demand for customisation in the car market. The option alloys will be available in 18-inch and 20-inch versions for those willing to splash the extra cash on some fancy wheels. The interior of the new VW Touareg also gets an update this time round. Upholstery will be available in new colour schemes, with additional polished metal detailing around the dashboard.

The new VW Touareg is being trimmed down in the engine department for the UK market – this is likely due to increasingly strict emission laws. The updated version will only be available with two 3.0 litre V6 diesel engine options, producing 200 and 255 bhp respectively. This means VW will be scrapping the more powerful V8 diesel offered on the current model. The new Touareg is fitted with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and 4-wheel drive across the range.

To further enhance economy, VW have employed some innovative features, including start-stop and regenerative braking as standard. The new Touareg will also feature VW’s new rolling resistance technology, which disconnects the engine to reduce engine braking at speed, allowing the car to coast along when the driver lifts their foot off the accelerator. All of these factors contribute to the 2014 Touareg’s improved fuel economy and emissions figures. The facelifted Touareg returns 42.8 mpg, emitting just 174 g/km of CO2 on an average journey.

The new-look VW Touareg is set to go on sale in August this year. The Touareg comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, climate control and touch screen navigation as standard. Pricing details are yet to be revealed, but it’s expected that the price will remain in line with the current model – starting from £42,000.

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