2023 Volkswagen Touareg spied

Volkswagen is gearing up to give its flagship SUV a mild mid-life makeover.

The current, third-generation Touareg was revealed in 2018, which means it’s almost due for a refresh. This particular prototype might look like like the current car, but it’s actually a well-disguised facelift.

Changes to the front end are limited to new trim pieces and design bits around the front grille, likely to more closely link the design of the Touareg with the updated Tiguan and T-Roc.

It’s not clear on this prototype, but it’s also possible Volkswagen will add a new LED light bar to the front end. We’re expecting updates to the details in the LED headlights and tail lights, and some new wheel options for 2023.

As for the rest of it? That’s less clear. The Touareg range is already offered with a range of petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, but it’s possible Volkswagen will add mild-hybrid tech to the engines that are pure internal-combustion.

The related Audi Q7 already features a range of mild-hybrid engines.

Inside, the Touareg already packs a high-tech cabin. It’s likely the car will gain an updated version of its 15-inch touchscreen infotainment system and 12.3-inch digital dashboard. Wireless CarPlay is rolling out across the VW range, and the Touareg is likely next in line.

Volkswagen Australia anticipates strong supply of the pre-facelift Touareg before the launch of the updated model.

More than 1000 examples have been locked in for arrival at Volkswagen Australia showrooms during the second half of 2022.

The company says it has “negotiated a prioritisation of Touareg volume” with its head office, to secure an influx of the high-margin models from the factory in Slovakia, and to thereby make its 2022 sales potential about level with those of the previous two years.

Demand for Touaregs has for some time now easily outstripped supply – an issue affecting a multitude of more expensive heavy duty SUVs across the whole market right now.

MORE: Everything Volkswagen Touareg