Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossovers/CUVs, Volkswagen

The Volkswagen Touareg (and its Porsche counterpart) are getting long in the tooth, and come 2011, both models are due for a full redesign expected to include a thorough makeover and a diet.

Caught testing in the California desert, the next generation Touareg gets a few new curves, primarily on the undisguised center section and flared rear shoulders - very similar to spy shots of the reworked Cayenne.

Early reports indicate that VW aims to address the two of the main complaints of the current model: limited seating and a bloated curb weight. As such, VW could reduce the overall tonnage of the Touareg by around 300 pounds (although the initial target was 600 pounds) by making all-wheel drive an option on certain drive train configurations. V-Dub is also considering adding a third row, although don't expect the cramped confines to get any more cushy in the process.

In addition to the 3.6-liter V6 and 4.2-liter V8, VW will be adding the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 (currently used on the Audi S4 and A6) in a hybrid configuration to the mix, along with a 3.0-liter V6 TDI. Neither the V10 diesel or the W12 will carryover, but considering the current economic climate, no surprise there. Expect the all-new Touareg to debut sometime early next year with sales beginning in the second half of 2010.

Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg caught desert testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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