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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  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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  Got rid of it! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Ugh! - July 31 - 11:13 pm

  My wife and I were seduced by the looks and lure of the Touareg. We bought one without doing the research I normally do. It just looked so sweet. Well, we hated it...mostly for the TERRIBLE gas mileage. It was not comfortable to get in and out of, and the power of the V6 engine is weak. It doesnt even gome with standard power seats. Mine had a faulty back door and CD player, an underpowered engine on hills or passing, a fast clock (10 minutes a week) and when a tire was low, it required a VW appointment to reset the computer which kept telling me the tire was flat, long after I filled it. Also, the roof rack is a pain in the neck to use. Finally, this truck is unbelievably slow taking off from a stop, almost dangerously slow.

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  Please Save Yourself from VW - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jeff - June 26 - 2:30 am

  Everything started out fine with my Touareg. I have owened 4 VWs so I was excited to own a Touareg. I had read the reviews just like you and thought, OK there are a few bad apples but no problem VW will fix it. Nope they will not fix it, if you have the throttle or transmission issue they will tell you to sue. Check the web and read up, there is a class action lawsuit forming on the Touareg and VW couldnt care less. They would not repair mine after 9 times and refused to replace it or allow it as a trade in. This truck really gets only 8-16 miles per gallon. Please do your homework on this vehicle first. Check the web and see what is going on. If you have a good one be greatful... I thought my T-rex was good too. I finally sold it at 25,000 miles

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  DO NOT BUY THIS CAR - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jj - May 30 - 6:30 pm

  The Touareg on paper looks like the ultimate SUV: excellent perfomance on pavement and unbelievable off road ablility. The problem: it will be in the shop so often you will not be able to experience this theoretical performance very often. Over the first year of owning this car I have had multiple problems: stepper motor malfunction, poor remote range, door handle fell off, bizarre deafening fan noise that I was told is "normal", persistent wind noise from side mirrors, and others. And going to a VW dealer for repairs is no joy. They have no clue about customer service. The attitude of the service dept. is accusatory at best- like i caused all of the quality control problems. STAY AWAY TOUAREG.

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  frustrating to own - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By s donbeck - May 4 - 2:33 am

  Had this car for 18 months. Bought it with 36,000 miles on it in Oct 07. The tire pressure warning system has been "fixed" 6 times and is again giving the flat tire alarm which blocks all other dash display features. The rear stabilizer bar broke. The brakes had to be replaced two months after I bought the car. I got the pad wear warning alarm a week after the new brakes were installed. New tires and alignment last July. The fronts are worn down to nothing on the inside after 10,000 miles. The dealer has been great and fixed almost everything for free. They also sell Fords. Im going to trade for an Escape. Ive had enough.

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  Always Something! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By c. bennett - April 10 - 9:46 am

  I loved the look of the Touareg when I bought it and still do- unfortunately that is the only thing I still love about it! Every day there is some sort of call to action - the brakes had to be replaced far sooner than they should have (are they using Beetle brakes?), the tires lasted no time, key never works to open / unlock remotely, the aluminum trim inside dings like a soda can, the radio and other buttons are so cheaply made that the words and numbers are all coming off, it makes strange noises all of the time, and incessantly beeps. The tires always need more air. VW has been awful to deal with. The only good thing left was the awesome lumbar support, but that just broke!

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  Just traded mine in for a Turbo Outback - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Syracuse - April 9 - 11:56 am

  After many recalls, and many problems, I finally gave in and traded mine in. Took a big hit, but it was well worth it. My new car has 12,000 on it, and hasnt been to the dealer yet. VW made a great looking SUV that test drives well, but is terrible to live with. Their service department isnt up to the standards set by other manufacturers in this price range. I owned a Saab previously, and although it spent too much time in the shop, the service dept was knowledgeable and always had a loaner. Bottom line, getting rid of my Touareg was worth it (simply so I wouldnt be reminded of my poor buying decision every day).

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  Sad owner - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Tony K - April 9 - 3:53 am

  I had no idea it would eat tires every year! Gas mileage was known, but gas wasnt $4.50 at the time. Its been in the shop so much, my wife wants me to sell it now! Service sucks, they cant order the correct parts half the time so we have to go back multiple times for stupid stuff. I will NEVER buy another VW again. I tried, and it was a failure. They say the car is heavy and thats why it eats tires. B.S. My dad has a huge van loaded with his contractor stuff (much heavier than the Touareg) and he gets 30k miles no problem. I think its the 4WD system chewing up the tires. Im actively looking at a replacement even though it will cost me $. I like to keep cars 12+ years but not this time

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  Touareg Nightmare - 2010 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Nightmare - February 17 - 9:03 am

  I drive a lot of miles each year, and I liked this car when it was under about 30,000 miles. Im guessing that most of the people who are writing these reviews dont have 54,000 miles on a car this new. This car was great when I first owned it, but once I put quite a few miles on it, it turned into a nightmare. First of all this car goes through head and taillights like crazy. Ive had 3 headlights and 1 taillight replaced, and every so often the check headlight warning goes on when there is no headlight out. Gas mileage could be much better. Brakes squeal constantly & theyve already been replaced once (Not covered under warranty). Back seats take forever to fold down. Continued Below.

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  Poor Volkswagen Service - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By futbolclub - December 28 - 10:00 am

  Dublin Volkswagen in Dublin California provides the worst possible point of service in a vehicle with a factory defect and damaged the replacement equipment. The Volkswagen National Customer Service while stating they were empowered to satisfy our complaint has still not returned a call. I would suggest never buying a volkswagen product if you are considering their product line simply POOR POOR Serivce.