Spy shots of the 2024 Volkswagen Touareg.

Volkswagen was spotted testing a prototype of an updated version of its Touareg midsize SUV.

The Touareg last disappeared from the U.S. in 2017 before the current third-generation model was released. The SUV is now about to receive an update that will be unveiled later this year as the 2024 model, and no, the nameplate will not be returning to this country.

From the looks of the prototype, the updates will be mild. The headlights, grille, and front mask will be redesigned. These elements are partially camouflaged, but one can see that the front mask intakes resemble those of the Tiguan. The compact Tiguan is also about to be updated.

It is not clear what VW plans for the Touareg's powertrains. Some of the current diesels may be discontinued and replaced with more plug-in hybrid options. The top-of-the-line Touareg R, which is also a plug-in hybrid, may get a performance boost. The current turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and electric motor combine to produce 455 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque.

This could very well be the last Touareg with an internal combustion engine, as VW offers the mid-size Atlas in the US and is planning a mid-size electric SUV that will likely be called the ID.8.

Note that the Touareg is twinned under the skin with the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, both of which have also been updated. Prototypes of the updated Cayenne and updated Q7 have also been spotted.