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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  What a SUV....Touareg Lover - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Linda Virtudes - August 25 - 8:33 pm

  I enjoy driving my vehicle and the suspension is very smooth. The turning radius is awesome. I am able to manuever with ease and the steering is very comfortable. The interior of the vehicle seals off the noise from the outside. The seats are very comfortable and the head space is roomy. I think its neat that the glove compartment is also air conditioned to keep your chocolates from melting.

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  Love my Touareg - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Mbaye - August 24 - 4:26 am

  I read the comments but overall, they were not bad! They were 8.3 on a scale of 10 for consumers and 7.8 for the editors! Personally, I dont think this is as bad as some "wieners" must think. Think about the alternative Toyotas! The car does not accelerate and it is made to work as intended! It is a car for raggedy and tough road conditions like the Sahara desert in Africa or the bad road in Africa! The only think I think they should improve on is MILEAGE per gallon, but again, you are not driving a hybrid here! Bottom line this is a great car, backed by a reliable builder, and a trustworthy holding company named PORSCHE! The car shares many parts with the Porsche (same chassis)!

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  Best SUV in its class - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By koolio - August 17 - 10:00 am

  This is the most impressive SUV on the market and it provides the most features for the money. Power of the V8 is phenomenal (not to mention the exhaust note), interior design and build-quality are top-notch (no other SUV comes close), exterior design is gorgeous...I can go on and on. :-)

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  2004 touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By j c - August 17 - 10:00 am

  its a good and fun car to drive; it performs very well. the only thing that it could be better is the fuel mileage.

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  Excellent - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Andre & Jane - August 11 - 7:26 pm

  So far, we have had an excellent experience with our Touareg. After 17,000 miles, we have had no issues. Its fun to drive and quiet. It has the quality materials and the look of a top luxury vehicle.

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  Nice ride - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By VWLOVER - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I think this is onw of the best SUVs ever made i like the ride confort of it i think i get all i want and need from an SUV

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  great vehicle - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jamie - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Hnadles well, love the performance. Girls love this vehicle. i love this vehicle. And the fuel isnt bad for the type of car it is!

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  Speedys Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By e30m3speedy - July 27 - 10:00 am

  This car is amazing. The drivability is similar to my three BMWs and it is a truck! Very little is compromised in this package--it tows 7700lbs, has plenty of hp (310) and drives smooth as silk with performance to match. So far Ive been enjoying everything I expect from a German car. Wunderbar!

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  Love it - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By lbeachboyr1 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Could not have bought a better suv in my opinion. The gas milage is no that great but everything else makes up for it. The leg room in the rear seat is quite roomy, I had three big adults sit in the back and they were all comfortable. Highly recommend!

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  Simply the Best - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By mjw1968 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Build quality and materials are on par or better than Mercedes Benz, Rover, BMW, et al. The appointments are first rate; everything has the feel, look and action of quality. The performance on and off road surpass or equal the mighty Rover and Mercedes, with on/off road handling surpassing both. The powerful V8 engine is so smooth and quiet one must check the tachometer for engine idle.