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Body styling and functionality – DNA of a new generation
The MPV’s new styling sharpens the character of the new generation Touran. Except for the four doors, every other body part of the MPV was restyled. As on the latest generation of the larger Sharan, and the even larger Multivan, a clear network of horizontal lines dominates in its styling. This adds to the Touran’s high stature within its class. Consider the front end: Here the bumper, radiator grille, engine bonnet, wings and headlights are equipped 100 percent with the latest Volkswagen "design DNA". High-end: the individualised radiator grille in glossy black with chrome trim is standard in some versions. Timeless: the larger yet elegant bumpers are painted in body colour. Pioneering: the distinctive shapes of the headlights. Their functionality can be extended to include automatic main beam activation when the Light Assist option is ordered, or – in the case of bi-xenon headlights and a world first in this class – continuous activation of the main beam headlights with the Dynamic Light Assist option. When customers order their Tourans with bi-xenon headlights, an LED daytime running light and position light – also a new development - is added to the headlight module. It consists of 12 individual LEDs.
Specifics on Light Assist and Dynamic Light Assist: The Light Assist function was designed for the standard headlights of the new Touran. As a camera-based system, this main beam assistant (extra option) recognises traffic situations based on detected light sources and gives either a dipped beam or main beam command to the power control module. The main beam is automatically activated or deactivated (starting at 60 km/h) based on this command; this functionality offers clear gains in convenience and safety.
For even better illumination of the road and road markings, the Dynamic Light Assist system was developed for bi-xenon headlights with integrated cornering light and dipped beam light. Also thanks to a camera integrated behind the front windscreen, this system makes it possible to keep the main beam modules of the bi-xenon headlights continually active. They are only masked in light pattern areas in which the system’s analysis shows a potential for unwanted glare to other vehicles in traffic.
The rear section of the Touran was also restyled for greater elegance. Along with the new horizontal structure of its design surfaces, it is the MPV’s rear lights – designed for the first time as two-part modules – that are especially prominent. They extend from the wing into the tailgate. Distinctive styling of the light module’s interior gives the Touran an unmistakable daytime and nighttime look. In addition, the tailgate offers advantages in terms of aerodynamics and functionality. A restyled roof edge spoiler reduces air turbulence in the rear section and helps to lower the new Touran’s Cd value from 0.32 to 0.29. The tailgate itself is significantly easier to close; thanks to optimised kinematics of the gas springs it now closes gently in one swing. In addition, the larger rear window offers an even better view to the rear. The sides of the Touran’s rear section were modified as well; in its side profile, a character line known as the "tornado line" rises upwards from the C-pillars to the rear, intensifying the dynamic energy of body surfaces here.
Interior concept and features – cleverly thought out
In the interior, the new generation Touran being presented in Leipzig comes with new materials, instruments, decorative accents and controls. The centre console with its new air conditioning controls was visually restyled, and air vents now have chrome bezels. From the Comfortline equipment level, additional chrome accents trim interior components such as switches for the electric windows, mirror adjustment and the light switch. Moreover, Volkswagen will be equipping the new Touran in the style of Golf & Co.; it will now have white backlit instruments and new three-spoke steering wheels. On DSG versions, the gearshift grip and gate were restyled as well. Modified head restraints in the second and third seating rows – which now lower to a lower level when not in use – also offer improved visibility to the rear.
In terms of both its ergonomics and variability, the individual seating system impresses on the Touran – which comes with standard five seating positions and optionally with seven seats. The three second row seats that are arranged next to one another can be adjusted longitudinally folded together with just a few hand movements, removed or shifted laterally. Due to their relatively high positions, the seats also offer exceptional thigh support and as a result excellent comfort on long journeys. Practical: Pockets and folding tables including a cup holder in the back of the driver and front passenger seats (from Comfortline), the middle seat that can be used as a table, storage bins in the floor in front of the second row seats and under the front seats, as well as large sized storage bins in the doors. The front passenger seatback may also be folded down completely, making it possible to transport long cargo objects.
As an option, the Touran can be ordered with a third seating row; when needed, it is easy to separately fold out each of the two full-size individual seats from the cargo area floor with just a few hand movements. In the lowered state, the cargo floor height is just seven centimetres more than without the third row of seats.
Optimal space utilisation in the Touran also extends to the bootspace. Storage compartments in the side walls of the cargo area and in the cargo floor can be used to secure numerous items. Even the warning triangle has a separate, newly designed storage compartment. For improved protection of cargo items of all types, the side walls of the bootspace were also redesigned and upholstered with carpeting.
In the classic five-seat configuration, the luggage section can handle up to 695 litres of cargo, and the maximum payload – depending on the version – is up to 660 kilograms. When all of the second row seats are removed and the third row seats are lowered, the maximum cargo capacity increases to 1,913 litres; on the five-seater with the second row seats removed, it is a full 1,989 litres. This means that new generation Touran owners will never have to face transport problems. And that is how it should be.
Photos Courtesy www.unitedpictures.com
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