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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  Love my VW - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By katie - May 7 - 5:50 pm

  The bug was fun, but the SUV is luxury. All the bells and whistles, plus towing at 7,500 lbs! Great on the highway and in town. Fuel cost is the ONLY drawback. The rain sensitive wipers are really nice. Buy one.

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  V10 at 6000 miles - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By cctdi - April 21 - 2:00 am

  The car went back to dealer two times; one time was the oil change, the other was to ask the question of the restrictor in the fuel tank neck. I havent experienced any scary stuff that have been post on this review. Except the clock gain one minute a day and the dealer doesnt know how to fix it.

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  The Touareg is Awesome! - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By KeithB - April 10 - 2:00 pm

  We really love our Touareg. The build quality is top notch from the first class interior to the 3.6L FSI V6 which really feels like a V8 and is more economical. This vehicle is a nice ride. I really like how comfortable the car is and that you do not hear any road noise at all. I have owned a lot of BMWs and one Audi and you just cant beat the German car feel here. I also like the idea that the Touareg is somewhat unique in that you dont really see many of them on the road. Everybody has a X5, MDX or whatever. The Touareg stands out from the rest. This vehicle is a keeper!

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  Touareg Love - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By rock - April 8 - 3:36 pm

  I fell in love with my Touareg the moment I took it for a test drive. Its fun and I feel in complete control. Its gas mileage is low, but its an SUV. I havent had an issue yet, but its still early. I enjoy it.

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  Great Ride - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By herg - April 7 - 7:23 am

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned in my 20 years of driving. VW went above and beyond on this one and the dealership was great too.

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  my experience - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Preston - March 28 - 5:06 am

  We are very happy with our SUV. It not only does it do well off-road, it is exceptional in the city. We park it on the street and are confident in its safety and reliabilty.

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  Touareg destined for Offroad - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Ravensmith - March 22 - 10:00 am

  We purchased our Touareg with the intent of using it as a true SUV/SAV. It was for my wife to haul the kids around town, for us to go camping with, and for me to take offroad with my Jeep Friends. The air suspension is AMAZING and the torque the V6 puts out has kept me up with the best of them. Fear of scratching the paint is the ONLY think that keeps me from going some places. Ive been offroad on SEVERAL Difficult rated course throughout southern Califonia and the TRex will NOT let you down. Many Pictures with two wheels in the air and still moveing forward in a straight line! And the BRAKES!!! DAMN!!!

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  2006 Volkswagen Touareg V8 - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Chris - March 19 - 4:23 pm

  Both myself and my wife test drove the Caddilac SRX, Jeep Grand Cherokee Hemi and Ford Explorer V8. After driving the VW, it was the hands down winner. The Touareg was the most comforatable, had the smoothest ride, the great acceleration and handling vehicle we drove. Couldnt wait to own it.

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  Nice Car - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By rwgputdrive - March 16 - 10:00 am

  Looks like the Porsche at 1/3 less.

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  Audi/Porsche luxury SUV for a bargain! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By brucemcg - February 24 - 10:00 am

  Buy one before the word gets out! Audi 4.2L 305HP engine (same as A8), Porsche 6 speed, Audi-grade interior, 10 air bags with safety cage, etc... This car with the same configuration in Germany sells for 68k Euro, which translates to $75-80k! You can pick one up for about $40k in the US! This SUV drives like a dream. The V8 with 6-speed is silky smooth and throws you back in your seat when you push it. If you want a super luxury SUV that should sell for $75k at the bargain price of the century, act now!!! And by the way, purchase a 100k warranty for around $1500, and have no reservations!