While it would appear that only three parts-two headlights and a grille-have been changed to freshen the Touareg for 2007, Volkswagen clams that they've added more than 2300 redesigned parts. It's what's inside that counts, right? After all, that's where the optional new 350-hp, direct-injection V-8 makes its home. A 3.6-liter, 280-hp V-6 from the Passat now comes standard, and topping the range above the V-8 is a massive turbo-diesel V-10 that belongs in a Panzer tank. The latter returns to the U.S. this year after an EPA mandated hiatus of more than two years.
The 2007 Touareg gets some software upgrades, too. Volkswagen's "ABSplus," a traction-control program that shortens braking by as much as 20 percent on soft dirt or sand surfaces, makes its debut. Also, a new adaptive-cruise-control system is capable of bringing the truck to a full stop automatically, "side scan" blind spot-indicators make highway driving safer, and for entertainment purposes, a ten-speaker Dynaudio stereo is offered. Touareg version 2.0 goes on sale in November.