Volkswagen to Retire the Touareg After 24-Year Legacy
Volkswagen ceased selling the Touareg in the United States in 2017, opting to introduce the more accessible Atlas, which has since become VW's leading SUV in the American market. Although the Touareg remained available in other regions, recent reports indicate that Volkswagen plans to halt its production in 2026, marking the end of a 24-year journey since its debut.
The information stems from unnamed sources consulted by Autocar. According to these insiders, Volkswagen does not intend to launch a direct replacement for the Touareg. Instead, the company is pivoting towards developing a range of more affordable models aimed at budget-conscious consumers.
Historical Significance of the Touareg
Introduced in 2002 for the 2003 model year, the Touareg was the result of a collaboration between Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi. This partnership also led to the creation of the Cayenne and Q7 models. Alongside the Phaeton, the Touareg was designed to position Volkswagen within the luxury segment. While the Phaeton did not achieve lasting success in the U.S. market, the Touareg maintained its presence until the mid-2010s, despite experiencing a decline in sales.
Volkswagen is not leaving European customers seeking larger vehicles without options. Last October, the company launched the Tayron, which offers both two- and three-row configurations and shares its platform with the Tiguan available in the United States.
Legacy and Impact of the Touareg
If the discontinuation is confirmed, it will signify the end of a significant chapter for Volkswagen. The Touareg was notable for its diverse range of powertrains, including a V-10 diesel engine that was also available to American buyers. However, it appears that this iconic SUV is set to become a part of history as Volkswagen moves in a different direction.
