Electric Cars

After 24 years of remarkable presence and over 1.2 million units sold worldwide, the current iteration of the Volkswagen Touareg is set to conclude its production run. To commemorate this significant milestone, Volkswagen has introduced a distinctive 'Final Edition' model. While subtle in its enhancements, this special edition marks the farewell of a vehicle that garnered substantial success, particularly in the European market. Despite its earlier departure from the American market in 2017, the narrative of the Touareg is far from over, with strong suggestions pointing towards a potential resurgence as an all-electric SUV, leveraging Volkswagen's advanced Scalable Systems Platform (SSP).

Volkswagen Touareg Bids Adieu with a 'Final Edition' While Eyeing an Electric Comeback

Wolfsburg, Germany – October 16, 2025 – The revered Volkswagen Touareg, a prominent luxury SUV that first graced the roads in 2002 (2004 in North America), is entering its concluding production phase. With a proud legacy of more than 1.2 million vehicles sold across the globe, Volkswagen has formally unveiled a 'Final Edition' for the current generation, destined to be its last. This celebratory model incorporates a series of exclusive, albeit understated, upgrades, designed to distinguish it from its predecessors. These enhancements include refined laser-engraved insignia on the C-pillars, elegant script on the door sill plaques, and a tasteful 'Final Edition' embossing on the leather-clad gear lever. Furthermore, higher trim levels such as the Elegance will feature ambient lighting within the cabin, subtly reminding occupants of the vehicle's unique status. In Europe, this commemorative edition carries a price tag of €75,025, approximately equivalent to $87,400 USD.

In the United States, the Touareg's journey concluded after the 2017 model year, making way for the larger, three-row Atlas. During its tenure in America, approximately 121,385 units found homes. Sharing its robust MLB Evo platform with luxury counterparts like the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, the Touareg offered a compelling blend of performance and opulence at a competitive price point. However, as Volkswagen shifts its strategic focus towards streamlining its global product portfolio and maximizing returns, the Touareg, having evolved into a niche offering, no longer aligned with these objectives. Its role will now effectively be assumed by the MQB-based Tayron SUV, a versatile vehicle available in both five and seven-seat configurations, designed to cater to a broader international audience.

Intriguingly, official announcements from Volkswagen regarding this 'runout model' have deliberately used phrasing such as the “current Touareg generation ends with a Final Edition” and that “production of the Touareg combustion engine model ends in 2026.” Such nuanced language strongly suggests that the Touareg nameplate might not be disappearing permanently. This speculation gains further traction from recent reports by German automotive publication 'Automobilwoche', which indicates that Volkswagen is actively contemplating the return of the Touareg as an all-electric SUV. Should these reports prove accurate, this future electric Touareg would potentially be the inaugural model to utilize Volkswagen's innovative Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) architecture, a foundation also slated for the upcoming electric Golf. The prospect of a premium, three-row electric SUV from Volkswagen in the American market raises an important question: would there be sufficient demand for such a sophisticated electric offering?

The announcement of the Touareg 'Final Edition' serves as a poignant reminder of the relentless march of automotive innovation and shifting market demands. While we bid farewell to a generation of internal combustion excellence, the subtle hints at an all-electric future spark excitement and underscore Volkswagen's commitment to electrification. This transition not only signifies an evolution in vehicle technology but also a re-evaluation of brand strategy, posing intriguing questions about the potential for familiar nameplates to re-emerge in entirely new, sustainable forms. For enthusiasts and industry observers alike, the prospect of an electric Touareg challenges perceptions and ignites anticipation for what could be a bold new chapter for Volkswagen's iconic SUV.

Cadillac's CT4 sedan is set to exit the market after the 2026 model year, reflecting a broader trend of declining sedan sales in the United States. Despite this, there's positive news for enthusiasts of internal combustion engines: the larger Cadillac CT5 will continue with a redesigned next-generation model, preserving its gasoline-powered heritage. This strategic decision by Cadillac aims to adapt its product lineup to meet changing consumer preferences while maintaining a presence in the sedan segment, particularly with its more popular CT5 model.

Cadillac Confirms CT4 Discontinuation and Next-Generation CT5 with Combustion Engine

In a significant announcement for the luxury automotive market, Cadillac has officially confirmed the cessation of production for its CT4 and current-generation CT5 sedans following the 2026 model year. Specifically, the CT4 will conclude its run in June 2026, while the present CT5 model will be produced until the end of that year. This decision underscores the continuing shift away from traditional sedans in the North American market, a trend that has previously led to the discontinuation of other Cadillac sedan models like the CTS and CT6.

However, the news is not entirely about departures. Cadillac Vice President John Roth, in a communication published by CadillacVClub.com, revealed plans for a next-generation CT5. Crucially, this upcoming model will retain an internal combustion engine, a move that is likely to be welcomed by a segment of the brand's loyal customer base who prefer traditional powertrains. The company stated, \"[We] will continue with a next-generation internal combustion engine vehicle,\" reaffirming its commitment to offering diverse choices to consumers.

The future CT5 sedan will be available in both the United States and Canada, with production slated to take place at General Motors’ Lansing Grand River Assembly plant in Michigan. This facility is currently responsible for manufacturing both the CT4 and CT5 and previously built the Chevrolet Camaro, which shared a platform with Cadillac's sedans. While an exact launch date for the new CT5 has not been specified beyond \"a future model year,\" it is anticipated within the next few years, possibly as early as 2027.

Cadillac's focus on the CT5 appears to be strategically sound, as the model has significantly outsold the CT4. Sales figures for the first nine months of the year showed the CT5 outperforming the CT4 by a three-to-one margin, with CT5 sales increasing by 10.7 percent, while CT4 sales experienced a 17 percent decline. The company's statements, however, did not explicitly mention plans for high-performance variants such as the CT5-V or Blackwing models. Nevertheless, the continuation of a combustion engine platform sparks hope that Cadillac might still offer powerful V-8 options in these future performance iterations.

This strategic adaptation reflects Cadillac's commitment to flexibility in a volatile automotive landscape, aiming to meet evolving customer demands effectively.

The announcement from Cadillac highlights the dynamic shifts occurring within the automotive industry, particularly the declining market for traditional sedans versus the enduring demand for certain models. The decision to retire the CT4 but invest in a next-generation, gasoline-powered CT5 demonstrates a pragmatic approach to market realities. It suggests that while the overall trend might lean towards SUVs and electric vehicles, there remains a dedicated segment of consumers who value the performance and driving experience offered by gasoline-powered luxury sedans. This strategic pivot allows Cadillac to consolidate its resources on its stronger sedan offering, the CT5, potentially catering to a core demographic that appreciates both luxury and conventional powertrain technology. This adaptation could be a blueprint for other manufacturers navigating the transition period between conventional and electrified vehicle lineups.