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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  The best of everything - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By cragger - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I love my Touareg. It handles as well as my Audi S4 and has much more utility. The build quality is impeccable and there really isnt an SUV that rides better. Of course the off road capabilities are amazing, but Ill never use them. I think its really overengineered, but it works. Dealership is great and has taken care of me thus far.

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  Outstanding - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Bob - October 15 - 5:40 am

  Replaced my 2003 Acura MDX which I thought was a great vehicle. This car outshines the acura in every respect. They changed the engine this year and its great, no complaints, but its still new. I cant feel the transmission shift. If it stays like this in the future I think Ive died and went to auto heaven.

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  Outclasses the Rest - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Sozo - October 14 - 11:40 am

  I live in Tokyo. In Japan base models come much better equipped than in N. America. I added an air suspension and leather package and only major thing missing is the s-roof & navigation. Ive owned the Lexus RX (its a Toyota Harrier in Japan - which changes your mind quickly about how luxurious it is!) and the Mercedes-Benz ML 320. The Touaregs quality through and through outclasses these cars and many others I have tested. I have not had the problems many have written about (luckily?) and except for the V6 being a bit gutless this car is fun to drive (especially in sport shift mode and sport suspension!) and costs half as much as the Porsche Cayenne (no air suspension offered on base V6 there!). Off-roading was great as well!

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  Great SUV.. a blast to drive.. - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jmob - October 14 - 2:00 am

  From the moment I got the truck, Ive loved it.. The V8 is great, powerful and very responsive. In the snow, its better then my old A6. Interior is great and roomy, the only slight I can think of is the car likes to drink gas.. Enjoy....

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  Great Vehicle - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By B.A.S. - October 1 - 5:00 pm

  I am a very picky person and I scrutinize my choices very closely and this one passed all of my tests. The interior and exterior design is superb and, being a VW, is about as high-quality as you can get for less than $100,000. It drives great, although the V6 is a bit anemic when pulling my 6,000 lb. trailer, but then again, what other V6 SUV can tow up to 7,700 lbs.? it is very comfortable (I got package 1 with mine) and the tranny shifts very smoothly. The fuel economy leaves something to be desired, I average 19 mpg with about 40% city/60% hwy driving, but it is better than what the EPA says it is (a typical VW trait) and is not bad for an SUV. It, like all VWs, is very reliable. Buy one!

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  A car for all seasons - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By bigspence - September 19 - 2:26 am

  This is the most pleasant and versatile car I have ever owned. It rides like a limo on the road and takes to the field like a John Deere tractor. The V6 has enough power to get there and pass when needed but if you want a hot rod get the V8.

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  MOST AWESOME SUV EVER OWNED - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By VW4EVER - September 14 - 10:00 am

  A TRUE JOY TO DRIVE. MY WIFE AND I WERE LOOKING AT THE BMW AND MERCEDES AND DECIDED TO DRIVE THE TOUAREG FIRST AND WE ARE GLAD. IT OUTPERFOMS OUR CURRENT ML AND WE ARE VERY HAPPY. BEST SUV WE HAVE EVER OWNED AND THIS IS #6. VW HIT A HOMERUN WITH THIS VEHICLE....

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  2004 Touareg V8 - With Premium Plus Pkg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Happy Owner in IL - September 14 - 10:00 am

  Based on 3 wk ownership. Driven Volvo, BMW, Mercedes, Acura, & Lexus, and this auto surpasses them all. Most impressive styling and ride. Quiet & funct. cabin. Well appointed interior & user friendly nav sys w/detailed mapping. Given wt of the vehicle, acceleration impressive & smooth. Optional continuous dampening control system works in conj w/ 4 corner adj air susp to give this SUV very impressive cornering. Long list of standard features & w/ PP Pkg. Would strongly suggest you look at this vehicle before you purchase from the competiton. Glad glad I did. Pricing in line with the others. IS a SERIOUS contender in the LUXURY SUV cat.

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  Excellent Peoples Car - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By E Medina - August 28 - 10:00 am

  There is a lot of reading and getting used to. The transmission is unbelievable with 6 gears and auto or standard shifting. The car is solid and perfect body work and the motor is powerful. Interior is perfect and the dash lights at night are Blue and Red for easy reading. Headlights are excellent with high intensity the brakes are excellent the best yet. There is some residue on the wheels from brake dust but a good washing will fix that. Im very satisfied and so is the wife.

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  2004 V8 Toureg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By spskcmo - August 28 - 10:00 am

  We test drove a Porsche Cayenne in March 2003. It was a good compromise for my husbands dream car and the practicality of a growing family. However, we knew the Toureg would be released soon. We are glad we did because we virtually have the same car as a Cayenne S for $20,000 less! My husband still has a Porsche on his dream car list -- just now hes back to a car for mom & dad someday. . . .