That Volkswagen’s third-generation Touareg ‘flagship’ was launched in Beijing, China was no surprise.

2018 Volkswagen Touareg unveiled with upmarket features 

Since it was launched in 2002, Volkswagen has sold close to a million examples of the first two generations of its range-topping SUV, with its key markets Europe, China and Russia. And it’s the Chinese market, which loves SUVs and high-end motors, that has emboldened VW to make the new Touareg even more ‘premium’.

While Volkswagen hasn't been shy in developing higher-end models – such as the Arteon saloon – it is a delicate balance to strike, given VW's 'People's Car' heritage represented by the likes of the Golf and Beetle. Going upmarket also pushes Volkswagen towards the territory of VW Group sister brand Audi. But if done successfully – and the new SUV certainly looks the part – it could help the brand reach new (and wealthy) customers, in China and elsewhere. 

Also worthy of consideration is the Touareg's differing customer base between the Chinese, Russian and European markets. According to Volkswagen in China, the average age of a Touareg owner is 41; in Russia, it's 43. In Europe, the average owner is 55.