Electric Cars

Volkswagen is embarking on a pivotal strategic repositioning within its global portfolio, announcing the discontinuation of its long-standing premium SUV, the Touareg, by 2026. This decision, following over two decades of the Touareg's presence as a flagship model, underscores the automaker's evolving focus towards more accessible and high-volume vehicles. The void left by the Touareg will be filled by models such as the Tayron, signaling a clear shift away from high-cost, niche offerings and towards a more streamlined, profitable future in the competitive SUV market.

The Touareg, first introduced in 2002, was Volkswagen's ambitious entry into the luxury mid-size SUV segment, sharing its foundational architecture with upscale counterparts from Audi and Porsche. Throughout its three generations, it was celebrated for its advanced engineering, featuring sophisticated technologies like air suspension and hybrid powertrains. Despite its technological prowess and success in certain markets like Europe and China, the Touareg never achieved the widespread sales figures of VW's more mainstream vehicles. This limited market penetration, coupled with increasing tariffs and shrinking profit margins, has compelled Volkswagen to rationalize its product line-up. The company's emphasis is now firmly on flexible platforms and models with stronger profit potential, such as the upcoming electric ID.4, aligning with a broader industry push towards electrification and cost efficiency.

This strategic realignment by Volkswagen, while marking the end of an era for the Touareg, highlights a forward-thinking approach aimed at securing profitability and adapting to changing market demands. The move towards more affordable and globally appealing SUVs like the Tayron demonstrates a commitment to sustainable growth, even as internal combustion engine vehicles, particularly in performance-oriented segments like the Golf GTI, continue to play a role in the brand's future. Ultimately, the Touareg's legacy will endure as a testament to Volkswagen's past luxury aspirations, influencing the development of premium vehicles across the group, while the brand itself charts a new course defined by innovation, accessibility, and market responsiveness.

This strategic evolution reflects the dynamism of the automotive industry, where manufacturers must constantly adapt to technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and economic pressures. It is a testament to the idea that progress often demands difficult choices, moving away from past successes to embrace new opportunities and challenges. By prioritizing accessibility and efficiency, Volkswagen is not just retiring a model; it is reaffirming its commitment to a future where mobility is more sustainable, equitable, and widely available, ensuring continued relevance and prosperity in an ever-changing world.

Rezvani Motors, typically recognized for its rugged, military-inspired vehicles, has ventured into a new realm with the launch of Rezvani Retro. Their inaugural creation, the RR1, marks a significant shift, presenting a meticulously crafted 'retromod' that seamlessly blends historical design with modern automotive technology. This limited-production vehicle, with only 50 units slated for production, is a powerful homage to the iconic Porsche 935, offering enthusiasts an unparalleled driving experience. The RR1 embodies the spirit of classic racing cars while incorporating contemporary performance enhancements, demonstrating Rezvani's innovative approach to automotive design. Each unit is uniquely identified by its chassis number, affirming its exclusivity and collectible status.

Rezvani Retro Division Unveils the Groundbreaking RR1, Celebrating Porsche's Racing Heritage

On August 7, 2025, Rezvani Retro officially debuted the highly anticipated RR1, a remarkable vehicle that redefines the concept of a 'retromod.' Unlike a traditional restomod, the RR1 starts with a modern platform, specifically the 992 Porsche 911 (model years 2020-2025), and meticulously reshapes it to evoke the distinctive silhouette of the legendary 1976 Porsche 935 race car. This design choice, featuring smaller circular headlights and a broader, predominantly carbon fiber body, captures the essence of the classic while benefiting from advanced materials. The only original components retained from the 911 are the doors.

The RR1 is available in two distinct performance variants: the RR1 600 and the RR1 750. The RR1 600, based on the 992 Carrera (available in RWD or AWD), generates approximately 618 horsepower from its 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine when running on 91 octane fuel, with increased output on higher octane. This version features a custom exhaust system and Öhlins TTX-Pro coilovers for enhanced handling, bringing the car closer to the ground. Enthusiasts can opt for a manual transmission, complete with a handcrafted wooden shift knob reminiscent of classic Porsche models like the Carrera GT and 908/03 Spyder. This variant achieves 0 to 60 mph in a swift three seconds.

For those craving even more power, the RR1 750, built upon the formidable 911 Turbo S, lives up to its name by delivering a staggering 750 horsepower. This high-performance model comes exclusively with a PDK dual-clutch transmission and is available with either a street or track-focused suspension setup. The RR1 750 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just two seconds, showcasing its raw power. The first RR1 unit, destined for a fortunate California owner, proudly sports the iconic Martini livery, reimagined without the liquor brand's name but retaining its signature blue and red color scheme, complemented by golden exhaust tips.

Customization options for the RR1 are extensive, allowing buyers to tailor the interior to their preferences. Features such as a steering wheel with shift lights can be added for $4,500. Performance and aesthetic upgrades include coilovers at $8,500, a center-lock wheel hub conversion for $12,500, and upgraded Brembo six-piston brakes also priced at $12,500. Additional cosmetic touches like turbo fan wheel covers cost $4,500, custom PTS (Paint-to-Sample) paintwork is $8,500, and a bespoke livery can be commissioned for $7,500. For enhanced safety, a steel roll cage is available at $5,500, and a matching racing helmet can be acquired for $2,750. While the base RR1 starts at $195,000, opting for all available enhancements can push the total cost to a minimum of $283,000, presenting a more accessible alternative to a genuine, multi-million dollar Porsche 935.

The introduction of the Rezvani RR1 signifies a fascinating trend in the automotive world: the art of reimagining classic icons with modern technology. From a journalist's perspective, this fusion is not merely about nostalgia; it represents a bold statement on how automotive heritage can inspire future innovation. The RR1 isn't just a car; it's a testament to the enduring appeal of timeless design, brought to life with the precision and performance of today's engineering. This unique approach allows a new generation of enthusiasts to experience the thrill and aesthetic of legendary vehicles without the prohibitive cost or maintenance demands of true classics. It sparks an interesting debate about authenticity versus evolution, prompting us to consider what truly defines a "classic" in an ever-advancing industry. The RR1 invites us to appreciate the past while embracing the possibilities of the future, offering a truly distinctive and powerful driving experience.