Volkswagen Touareg Last Edition: A Fond Farewell to the Diesel V-8

Whether or not you believe Volkswagen has improved its practices following the diesel emissions scandal, the company continues to offer diesel-powered vehicles worldwide. In fact, it was stated that 27 percent of all Volkswagens sold in 2018 utilized diesel technology. Consequently, it is apparent that VW still values its diesel lineup. Now, the automaker faces a bittersweet moment as it bids farewell to its formidable diesel V-8 engine, immortalized in the limited-edition Touareg SUV—effectively transforming it into a tribute.

The Legacy of the Touareg

Many will remember the Touareg. Although Volkswagen has not sold the Touareg in the U.S. since 2016, when it was replaced by the Atlas, the nameplate endures in various markets as the brand’s flagship model, renowned for its luxury and technological advancements. The aptly named Touareg Last Edition is limited to just 400 units, powered by VW’s 4.0-liter, biturbo diesel V-8, producing an impressive 415 horsepower and 663 lb-ft of torque. This remarkable power is distributed through an 8-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels, ensuring a dynamic driving experience.

Unique Features of the Last Edition

Each Last Edition vehicle will be individually numbered, emphasizing its exclusivity. Consumers can choose from six distinct paint colors: Pure White, Antimony Silver Metallic, Silicon Gray Metallic, Malbec Red Metallic, Deep Black Pearl Effect, and Oryx White Pearl Effect. All models will feature a black accent package, enhancing the vehicle’s aesthetic with a black-painted grille, window surrounds, door mirror caps, and wheel arch covers. Additionally, each unit rolls on striking black-painted 21-inch rims, contributing to an assertive and purposeful look.

Conclusion: An End and a New Beginning

Ultimately, the Touareg Last Edition serves as an elegant farewell to Volkswagen’s diesel V-8. For those in markets where the Touareg remains available, orders for the 400 Last Edition units commenced on August 17. This model not only commemorates an end but also symbolizes the transformation in automotive trends. Large diesel V-8 engines are becoming less sustainable, paving the way for more eco-friendly alternatives. Consequently, the new leader of the VW SUV lineup is the Touareg R, featuring a plug-in hybrid system with 465 horsepower, designed to propel VW’s SUV offerings into a more environmentally-conscious future.