Volkswagen simplified its Touareg lineup for 2016 after giving its luxury SUV a mid-cycle update in 2015 by offering just the 3.6L VR6 and eliminating the Touareg Hybrid. Volkswagen also rolled out a significant price cut that reduces the base model price by about $2,000.

The Touareg is now available in four models, including the Sport, Sport with Technology, Lux, and Executive. The base model now retails for $42,705. It carries a $2,500 street incentive for this model year.

At first blush, a single engine choice may seem like a limitation, but this VR6, which has been offered since the 2004-MY, provides needed power for this front-wheel mid-size SUV that slots lenthwise just above an Audi Q5 (188.8 inches). The Touareg platform, in fact, draws elements from the Q7 and Porsche Cayenne.

Volkswagen has also been offering its VR6 engine with the Passat and CC. It's mounted longitudinally and provides cost savings such as a single cylinder head versus the traditional V layout of a six-cylinder. Volkswagen pairs the 280-hp VR6 with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Standard all-wheel drive and four-wheel independent suspension help make driving the Touareg a more stable experience.

Among fleet users, the Touareg would likely offered as an executive compensation choice or for a sales fleet that chooses a mid-size SUVs for the cargo space for point-of-sale materials. The Touareg's rear cargo space comes in at 32.1 cubic feet and 64 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The Touareg gets a bell or whistle or two for 2016. Volkswagen added park distance control to the Driver Assistance Package on Touareg Sport with the tech package.

The interior offers pleasant leatherette seating surfaces and power seats with manual lumbar support.

Safety and driver support systems on the Sport model with the Technology package include a rearview camera, touchscreen navigation and a remote power tailgate with button that helps you close it when your arms are filled with materials.