2015 Volkswagen Touareg Revealed Before Auto China Debut

While most of our attention is focused on the 2014 New York Auto Show, Auto China is starting up soon in Beijing, and there is some news from the Chinese show.

Volkswagen chose Auto China to debut the new 2015 Touareg, which gains new style and updated technology features that range from the use of Google Earth to a new post-collision braking system.

All-wheel drive is standard fare on the Touareg, which will be available with three different powertrains in North America. There will be a V6 gas engine that makes 276 hp along with a V6 TDI diesel engine that puts out 236 hp. Finally, a hybrid powertrain that makes 374 hp will be available.

Customers can choose an optional air suspension system if they want different options for ground clearance, and there is a package available that caters the diesel-powered Touareg to off roading. Called the terrain tech package, it offers customers a beefed up locking differential in the center and rear.

On the inside, the updated Touareg features a revised center stack layout that includes new rotary knobs, upholstery that can be had in a variety of colors from bonanza brown to titan black, available Nappa leather and wooden accents. On the top R-Line model, the Touareg receives stainless steel inlays, R-Line badges, Nappa Leather and optional black rooflining and piano black finish.

For technology, the Touareg is getting a new suite of mobile online services which includes new destination search features that use Google maps, Google earth and Google street view. For safety tech, the Touareg packs a sourround view monitor that uses four cameras, lane assist control, adaptive cruise, dynamic light assist, city emergency brake and side assist warnings.

Standard are 17-inch alloy wheels, though new 21-inch wheels are now available.

The new 2015 Touareg will be available this summer. Pricing hasn’t been released for the new model yet.