Overview & Reviews

As the popularity of SUVs has grown, it seems that much of the original rugged off-road personality these models were known for has been bred out of the segment in favor of on-pavement comfort and drivability. Among luxury SUVs, that shift seems even more evident. The original Volkswagen Touareg was one of the sport-utilities that clung to those off-road roots, but the next generation made the shift toward the everyday.

It's hard to argue with the results, though. The first-generation Touareg was a capable model known for its high-class interior, off-road ability and respectable towing capacity. But it was also very heavy and had subpar fuel economy. The newer Touareg lacks those more serious off-road chops but is otherwise a superior vehicle that's more in line with what consumers want from a modern and luxurious SUV.

Current Volkswagen Touareg
The Volkswagen Touareg is a five-passenger midsize SUV that's available in six main trim levels: Sport, Lux, X Special Edition, R-Line, Executive and Hybrid. All but the Hybrid and X Special Edition can be had with either gasoline V6 ("VR6") or turbodiesel ("TDI") V6 power.

The base engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that makes 280 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque, while the turbodiesel V6 TDI generates 240 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid variant features a supercharged, direct-injection 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor that combine to produce 380 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are standard on all models.

Even the base Sport trim comes with bi-xenon headlights, a power tailgate, dual-zone automatic climate control and heated power front seats. A navigation system package with keyless entry and ignition, a rearview camera and a hands-free power liftgate is optional. Stepping up to the Lux trim gets you all that, plus a panoramic sunroof and leather upholstery. Celebrating this model's 10th anniversary, the X Special Edition is essentially a Lux with the TDI engine, exclusive paint, unique wheels and upgraded leather upholstery. The R-Line loses the hands-free liftgate, but otherwise is a Lux with 20-inch wheels, a sport body kit and a sport-tuned suspension. In addition to the Lux features, the Executive features a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a top-view parking camera and a premium sound system. Opting for the Hybrid adds a power-adjustable steering column and additional front seat functions.

In our reviews, we've found that the Volkswagen Touareg is a well-designed crossover SUV that offers commendable driving dynamics. The Touareg's base V6 is a solid pick, but we've found the more fuel-efficient TDI diesel more to our liking and well worth the added premium. On the other hand, the Hybrid model boasts the type of power and performance of a V8 engine, but its less-than-frugal fuel economy may fall short of some expectations. In essence, it consumes about as much as a V6 engine would. A major highlight for any Touareg is the cabin, which scores points for its upscale design and high-quality materials.

Used Volkswagen Touareg Models
The Volkswagen Touareg was fully redesigned for 2011 with a new focus on on-road driving dynamics and fuel efficiency. In addition to its somewhat sleeker styling, this Touareg differs from the previous one by going without a dual-range transfer case. Although that change reduced its all-out off-road capabilities, VW realized that most upscale SUV drivers likely spend most, if not all, of their time on pavement and would benefit much more from a 400-pound weight reduction and the resulting increases in fuel efficiency and on-road handling dynamics. This second-generation Touareg also provides more comfort for those in back via added legroom and a reclining seatback.

For 2013, the TDI engine's horsepower was increased from 225 to 240. The celebratory X Special Edition and sporty R-Line trims didn't debut until 2014.

The first-generation VW Touareg debuted in 2004 and lasted through 2010. Initially, it came equipped with either a 220-hp 3.2-liter V6 or a 310-hp 4.2-liter V8. Many owners considered this V6 to be underpowered, so going with the V8, especially now that depreciation has set in, probably isn't a bad idea. VW also sold a few range-topping Touareg V10 TDI models that first year -- the TDI had a diesel-fueled turbocharged V10 displacing 5.0 liters. It was rated at 310 hp and a stout 553 lb-ft of torque. Every engine was connected to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The V10 was dropped for 2005, while the original V6 received 20 more hp. Changes for '06 included upgrading the optional CD-based navigation system to DVDs and adding an available rearview camera, an auxiliary multimedia MP3 connector and a 115-volt power outlet (in place of the previous 12-volt source) in the rear cargo area. The V10 engine also made its return to the U.S. market very late into the 2006 calendar year.

Some notable engine changes occurred for '07. For that year Volkswagen brought out a new 3.6-liter V6 engine that produced 276 hp, while the Touareg's 4.2-liter V8 was given a boost to 350 hp.

In 2008, the Touareg was renamed the Touareg 2 and received a slight refresh (not a full redesign), but VW dropped the "2" two years later to once again make it just the VW Touareg. Changes included updated styling and revised feature content. This was also the last year for the big V10; it was replaced for '09 with the V6 TDI, which made 221 hp and a still robust 407 lb-ft of torque). The V8 was also discontinued at the end of the 2009 model year.

Of the few demerits attributed to the first-generation Volkswagen Touareg, mediocre backseat and cargo space were the most prominent. The lack of a third-row seat and the standard suspension's stiff ride also managed to dull the Touareg's shine, though an optional (and pricey) air suspension fixed the ride quality issues. Overall, the Touareg proved to be an excellent road tripper, with a luxuriously quiet cabin on the highway and smooth-shifting transmission.

User Reviews:

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  I Needed a Quick Vehicle - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By RayRam - November 10 - 8:10 am

  In Germany and without a car, I looked and tested just about every vehicle available. My main concern was the wait, most dealers were talking about a 10 to 12 week wait, something I could not afford. I told them Id buy something I liked and wanted but it had to be for immediate delivery. After seeing and testing about 40 cars between Audi, BMW, Mercedes and VW, I decided to go for the 2005 VW Touareg. I got a pretty good deal to include a 6 year 75K mile extended warranty. It is the only Blue Silver Metallic Touareg around here where we live. My only problem was getting used to its AWD after driving a Honda Odyssey for 5 years. I like the looks and the interior is superb.

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  Review - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By beatriz roldan - November 5 - 3:30 pm

  Safe car, fun to drive, beautiful to look at, lousy on gas, strong response when needed, beautiful interior design

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  Outstanding Vehicle - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By swiss - October 28 - 2:00 am

  After years of driving domestic clunkers (last car was Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo - typical Chrysler lousy quality and recalls like leaves in fall), finally broke down and bought an import. So far very pleased with all aspects of vehicle.

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  if only they could fix it ! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By kcir - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Loved my new v8 loaded to the nines touareg... for the 859 miles it lasted. two weeks have passed since the SECOND problem with the air suspension has surfaced and the dealer has no idea when and if the car will ever run again correctly. new models with problems. nothing is perfect, but if the defective part or the ability to repair the car do not exist, it doesnt leave you with a lot of faith in the system. by the way, the 2003 jetta rental drives like a champ and no service lights have come on.

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  Awesome SUV - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Sonja - October 16 - 3:46 pm

  We have been so happy with our Touareg!! It was a great purchase. VW was awesome to work with, and everwhere we go, everyone is so jealous of our VW. We would definitely recommend this vehicle to anyone who is looking to tow, off road, or just drive around in class and style.

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  2nd to none - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Dougy - October 12 - 3:43 am

  I looked at em all and the 2006 Volkswagen Touareg is by far the best. My single complaint is that the V6 needs a little more get-up-and- go. The lack of power wouldnt keep me from buying the vehicle again, but it is a minor drawback. However, the positives far outweigh the negatives on this vehicle. It handles incredibly well given its weight - you actually feel safer because it feels like you are driving a tank built by Porsche. I almost didnt look at this vehicle because VW has done a poor of job advertising. Even their website and brochure do not describe this vehicle well. Some of the coolest features arent found in their literature. Believe me, one test drive & your hooked.

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  wouldnt recommend to my worst enemy! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By cwhitfield - October 11 - 12:36 pm

  this car has given us so many headaches and theres not enough tylenol or advil to go around! we take care of our vehicles religously and do not drive them into the ground. within 13 months the following: rear drive shaft @ $2000 - yep, i said TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS!! this has 2 fuel pumps - so if the primary goes, so does the secondary! Primary @ $900; and the secondary @ $500 = $1300 - it poses itself as an alternator problem, but nope - it gets more expensive because its the fuel pumps! as for the battery - yes, primary and secondary too! and theyre an ass to get to..so good luck. youd probably save yourself a few hundred if you did this yourself

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  2 years and 30,000 miles - 2012 Volkswagen Touareg
  By fordecoboost - October 5 - 5:03 pm

  Quite possibly the best vehicle I have owned and this covers GM, Chrysler, Ford, Austin Healy 3000, Volvo. Volkswagen Group(Porsche & Audi). (Ford F 150ecoboost not included, The Beast). Fuel Mileage is as advertised...20-29mpg overall. 2(2 -5,800 mile rts from California to Ohio, via southern and northern routes[28.5mpg avg. Speed to 105mph]. Tire wear(Pirelli) is at the half way point, brake pads are at 9mm. Vehicle speed control maintains speed when ascending long grades(ie, New Mexico and Arizona)Not true when decending. Was given a rather late model Infinity SUV while waiting on delivery of Vdub. What a joke! Like a buckboard with confusing controls. 6 inch watery marsh, no problem.

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  My Third Touareg - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Bridget - September 28 - 11:50 pm

  This is my third Touareg, I am sold on the V8, it meets my needs. The V6 was sluggish and slow to engage. I guess I am hooked.

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  Do not buy! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By HateTheReg - September 19 - 8:33 pm

  This was hands down the WORST vehicle I have ever owned. I have driven lots of cars and SUVs, and this one took the cake in bad performance. Its beautiful, especially when you are standing beside it waiting on Roadside Assit because its DEAD! After 5 alignments in 5 months, being completely dead/towed twice, I had enough. Dont get me started on all the electrical failures, warnings, Service calls, recalls and problems I endured in the 12 LONG months I drove this horrible vehicle. And VWoA is the WORST co. on earth, not caring that they are selling a useless vehicle to unsuspecting people. They do not respond to complaints, and have no intentions of standing behind their horrible vehicle.