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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  First year faults??? - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By David Stetkiewicz - September 22 - 10:00 am

  Great ride & build quality.. Have had intermittant problem with accelerator hesitation that the dealer has not been able to correct. This hesitation has caused many near miss accidents at interscections. Problems with air ride suspension....bags will deflate without warning, causing fault message on in- dash display. will correct itself after 10-15 minutes Fuel economy is much less that expected (15-19 mpg higway, 65/70 mph)

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  Best Vehicle Ever - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Jef - September 13 - 3:53 am

  The Volkswagen Touareg is just plain fun. I got it recently, but already drove in the snow up to Lake Tahoe and went up winding highway 1 north of SF. The ride is just awesome, it has great handling, is easy to control, and is very comfortable even going through those curves. I got the blue silver which has a more silvery color at night and more blue color during the day. People turn their heads when you pass! My buddy said my truck was so much better riding and looking than his (Mercedes ML350). The ride is also very quiet which is great when you like classical music or soft jazz.

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  atrocious brakes - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Brian Randall - September 12 - 3:50 am

  In less than 20,000 miles of city driving it is necessary to replace front and back brakes at a cost of $1800.00. This is considered normal according to the service department. I have driven SUVs for 20 years and have never had to replace brakes. Volkswagen offers no assistance and only warranties for 12,000 miles, which is useless. I would warn any potential buyers of the Touareg that they can expect a $1800 brake expense every 12-20,000 miles.

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  Many improvements on the 06 Model - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Chris - September 11 - 11:36 am

  We had am 05 Touareg, which was our was worst nightmare, a total lemon. VW bought it back and gave me an 06 model. I have just about every option. My favoriate option is air suspension, its great for off-roading. This vehicle is very good off-road and in the snow The DVD navigiation system is much better than the 05 models CD navigation, it is a night and day difference. I have had no problems with my 06, nut the 05 was total debacle. Im definately on track to buy another one in a year or two, based on how my 06 has been so far.

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  the only vehicle I have ever liked - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Bsmith - September 11 - 10:00 am

  the Touareg, After I got over the silly and awkward name. I found my Touareg to be everything I never thought an automobile could be. The fit and finish was not that of what traditionally has been the $40,000 suv but only found in higher priced luxury SUVs!!! It took me some time to build up the gall to test the offroad capabilities. Because I have the adjustable air suspension I have been able to outperform my friends H2!!!! this vehicle has changed my view of Volkswagen!

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  never know if it will start - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jogarza - September 11 - 10:00 am

  This is an expensive vehicle that sould be a Suv to use it in any ocasion, but unfortunatly Im always nervous of using it because you never know if it will start when I want to go back home.

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  Do NOT buy this SUV if you live where the wind blows! - 2012 Volkswagen Touareg
  By geophyz - September 3 - 3:04 am

  I have had my beautiful Touareg for a little over a year. The colour is lovely, I love the leather seats and the basic layout. The car gets good gas mileage and has loads of get up and go. BUT, if you live anywhere that the wind blows do not buy this car. It does not hold the road in the wind and is so light you feel like it is going to blow off the road. I am trading it in for a good old heavy SUV this weekend!

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  Great SUV - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By RVW - September 1 - 1:56 am

  I bought the 2004 model (V8) earlier this year and I love it. Excellent build quality, ride, and interior comfort. I live in Brooklyn and it is still turning heads when I drive it. Only two problem - the Radio/CD player and a quick hood latch issue. The Radio / CD had to be swapped out three times, but this does not surprise me as I had the same exact issue w/ my 2002 1.8T Jetta. I dont know where VW sources their radios/ CDs from, but they need to check build quality or installation. Hood latch was fixed in ten minutes & otherwise a non-issue. Clock also runs fast about 1 min. per week - I always have to reset it!

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  Troublesome Touareg Tiresome - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Chunnel - August 27 - 12:16 am

  Pros: When it works right, AmaZING. Cons: VW is arrogant and insists that too many problems are within normal vehicle operating parameters. Driving experience: Drives nicely when aligned properly, which is rarely. Ooops, just hit a curb, need to bring it in again, now the truck is going to act squirrely again. This may have all the bells and whistles to go off road but there is a price to pay. If you off road on anything substantial, I can almost guarantee that you will damage one of the tires with a gash of some sort. And because this is an AWD vehicle, you will now need to replace ALL the tires in order to retain the proper handling dynamics and dont forget to re-align it. So On

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  Underrated All The Way. - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Earl - August 21 - 2:16 am

  Ive had the Touareg for 7 months now but I still feel in awe walking up to it and getting in. Its a beautiful vehicle. It handles really well. Its cornering, breaking, and acceleration (with the Tiptronic transmission) are great. Two things Id like to address: 1. its fuel economy isnt that bad on the V6. If you compare it to other SUVs youre getting just about the same if not better MPG than an Explorer or even a 4Runner. 2. It is agile. The reason why it feels sluggish at times is due to the fact that it goes to the 6th gear almost immediately. I see my car in 5th gear entering the freeway; of course it wont have any torque. Learn to downshift. It has awesome features, apples to apples its the best value ever!