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 SUV Ive Ever Seen - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Filo - June 7 - 10:00 am

  I feel very sorry for the people who grossly overpaid for the Cayenne, X5, and ML 500. The Touareg is an incredible car for an even more incredible value. It features the chassis of Porsche and the engine and interior styling of Audi. Quite simply, it is the best SUV out there. This is just the beginning of great things to come from Volkswagen!

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  Off-Road Luxury - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By tmeekusa - June 7 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Touareg for the last three weeks. This last weekend we took it up the side of a mountain in CO -- literally! This car is even more awesome than they make it look. I have the V6 at high altitude and it definelty has the power to do almost anything youll want it to do! I havent even began to push it near its limits and it keeps taking everthing I throw its way!

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  Much Better than the 07 Passat - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By JimS - June 3 - 2:36 am

  I purchased an 07 Passat 3.6 fully loaded with every bell and whistle and had problems from day one and couldnt wait to trade it. I was reluctant to buy another VW but have always loved the Touareg and got a great deal on mine! It is 10 times the vehicle and I love the comfort, safety and performance of my V6, I had wanted the V8 but they didnt have any in Atlanta and none with the 350 HP engine. I had heard terrible reliable ratings for this SUV but so far I am completely pleased, it has no squeaks or rattles and very solid feel. It has horrible gas mileage, but I knew that when I bought it. I have always owned BMWs and Mercedes, the standard features on my Touareg are options on these other two. All in all, I am very pleased!

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  What a fun vehicle to drive! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By ChrisCichocki - June 1 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is practically unbeatable - assuming you have the V8 and air suspension option. The ride is smooth and unbelievably quiet, and the V8 gives you TONS of power to accelerate. And its a 6 speed automatic so all the power is easily reachable when you hit the pedal. I test drove the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Murano, Buick Rendezvous, Lexus RX300, BMW X5, Mercedes M500, Volvo XC90 T6, Porsche Cayenne S, Range Rover, Cadilac SRX, Acura MDX and Infinty FX45 (as well as a bunch of 30- 50K sedans) and I love the Touareg the most.

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  Great - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By msbeeatch - June 1 - 2:00 am

  Very fun to drive, sporty yet refined and stylish!!!

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  Drivers Wanted - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By SyouV - May 21 - 10:00 am

  All VWs are cars for Drivers. Touareg is no exception. One needs a Driving skill and focus to appreciate this car. The V8 is so powerful that a gentle but precise push on gas in needed to roll it from stop (the so- called "hesitation" problem). The ride is so quiet that air is heard flowing off vents. And one needs to buckle up before switching the ignition and fix tire pressure between weather seasons. These pretty much cover for the "lemon" issues. Then just Drive! This Car is amazing to Drive!

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  More than expected for the money - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By floridasutherner - May 15 - 10:00 am

  With all of the options that come with the Suv, I couldnt compare the price with all that I have on the Tourage verses with the BMW, Lexus & Volvo. Very Roomy in the front and backseat. Wish that it had a 3rd row option and better gas mileage, A in dash disk player would be nice as well! The interior and the drive of this SUV feels as if you had paid for a top dollar SUV and in fact, I didnt! Very eye catchy and I get alot of compliments!

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  Beautiful Ride - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By B. A. - April 20 - 4:33 am

  My wife loves her Touareg. It has a great interior, is roomy and plenty of pep.

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  Rare Find!!White w/Saddle Brown VR LUX - 2011 Volkswagen Touareg
  By bigcat56 - April 18 - 2:14 am

  This 2011 VW Touareg VR6 Lux is the BEST car I have purchased in the last 35 years. Im a big man at 63" 280lbs, hard to find any vehicle with enough space for someone my size to sit behind me, but this suv has that as well as comfort for all passengers. Looked at BMW X5, MB ML350, Nissan Murano, new Ford Edge, Volvo XC60. A complete joy to drive, plenty of power from VR6/8Spd, Classy, Luxurious interior with all the Technology you can handle. Didnt think I needed a NAV system, but this one has totally changed my mind. Standard stereo system sounds rich and full to my ears. Price point when considered with all standard equipment vs. luxury competition is within reason.

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  My Toureg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By ezachary - April 9 - 10:00 am

  Perfect vehicle for selling real estate in the mountains. Customers are comfortable and love it. Its a joy to drive. I chose the V6 even though the reviews said it would be sluggish. I havent found it to be sluggish at all. Has all the pick up and go that I need.