Due to start first UK customer deliveries in January, the new model features subtle exterior changes including a new front bumper and radiator grille design with front fog lights, new alloy wheels and a third brake light with LED technology.
Inside, there’s a new dash panel design featuring Volkswagen’s MIB infotainment system with touchscreen, radio and new technology including the option of navigation, Guide & Inform, Car-Net and App-Connect systems. Bluetooth and DAB digital radio now also come as standard features.
Standard safety kit includes four airbags, Electronic Stabilisation Programme and Volkswagen’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking System.
UK customers can choose from selectable (with manual gearbox) and permanent (with auto) 4MOTION four-wheel drive. An optional mechanical rear-axle differential lock is also available.
Engine line-up from launch covers two versions of the 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine, which replaces the previous model’s 2.0-litre TDI engine and is the only six-cylinder model in the segment.
The range-topping 224hp model is paired to a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox, giving a top speed of 119mph and a 0 to 62mph time of 8.0 seconds. An overboost function on the 224hp takes the power up to 240hp.
A 204hp version is also available to order at launch with an automatic gearbox, while a manual 204hp and a 163hp manual will follow later in 2017.
UK specifications follow the previous model’s pattern and cover Startline (which will arrive later in 2017), through Trendline to Highline and the range-topping Aventura special edition.
Launch pricing starts at £32,493 (OTR) for the Trendline with 204hp. The limited-edition Aventura launch model costs £39,381 (OTR).
