Volkswagen T-Prime Concept GTE reveals next Touareg at Beijing motor show

Volkswagen has previewed the upcoming third-generation Volkswagen Touareg with a luxurious new concept called the T-Prime Concept GTE.

Revealed at the 2016 Beijing motor show, it showcases gesture-controlled interior features and a plug-in petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain.

The T-Prime Concept GTE is described as a precursor to the next Touareg, which Volkswagen says will sit at the top of a five-strong future SUV model line-up.

The production version of the T-Prime Concept GTE will be based on sister company Audi’s MLB platform. This means it may share its construction, electrical architecture and mechanical package with the recently introduced second-generation Audi Q7 and Bentley Bentayga, as well as future incarnations of the Porsche Cayenne and upcoming Lamborghini Urus.

While the next Porsche Cayenne and Urus are set to use a short wheelbase version of the MLB platform, the new Touareg has been conceived around the long wheelbase version, as used by the Q7 and Bentley Bentayga.

As hinted by the new concept, the next Touareg is set to adopt styling first seen on the Phideon. It will have an edgy appearance characterised by a heavily chromed grille, precise feature lines, taut surfaces, large wheelhouses filled with 22in wheels shod with 285/40 profile tyres and a practical five-door layout.

At 5069mm long, 2000mm wide and 1708mm tall, the T-Prime Concept GTE is a considerable 269mm longer and 60mm wider but 20mm lower than today’s second-generation Touareg.

Inside, the T-Prime Concept GTE provides seating for just four on individual seats front and rear. However, Volkswagen officials acknowledge the production version is likely to offer seating for up to seven in three rows of seats in a layout similar to the Audi Q7.

The dashboard of the new concept features a high definition Active Info Display instrument pack, as well as a large 15in high definition monitor in the centre console – the latter acts as a control centre for a variety of controls in a move that has allowed Volkswagen to do away with most conventional switchgear functions. As well as supporting touch control, the monitor can also be controlled via gestures, such as a swipe of the hand.

Also included is a newly developed multi-function steering wheel with touch pads similar to those adopted by the latest Mercedes-Benz E-Class.  

Power for Volkswagen’s latest concept comes from a new plug-in petrol-electric hybrid system similar in principle to that already in use in the Golf GTE and Passat GTE.

It combines a longitudinally mounted turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine developing 248bhp and 273lb ft with a brushless electric motor integrated into the front section of the T-Prime Concept GTE’s eight-speed automatic gearbox that produces 134bhp and 258lb ft.