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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  Touareg Rocks! - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By BuilderDude - February 11 - 9:33 pm

  Ive had my 2006 Touareg V6 for a little over a week and I is a great SUV. I test drove every high end sedan and SUV and the Touareg beats them hands down. The quality, ride and comfort cant be beat. Ive also not seen another Touareg on the street since delivery and I love that. Ive owned VWs back in the early 80s and I had forgotten how well they are engineered. Dont by a Mercedes, buy a Touareg.

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  What a great ride! - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Mrs. Stacey Branger - February 5 - 1:17 am

  This is a terrific SUV. Yes, its a gas hog, but the power, control, and creature comforts out weigh that particular negative. I bought this to haul my elderly handicap parents, and their scooters around town. We all love the smooth ride, AC, and Its turning capability. Its easy to climb in and out of, and we find that even though we do not plan on having more than three adults at a time, we are all happy with the space provided inside. Check timing belt, and tires. Expensive to replace.

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  What a truck - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By nhlgirl1 - January 18 - 2:00 am

  A lot of truck for the price. My friend has the Porche model, and when I compared the two, my truck looked exactly the same with more features and a $30,000 lower price tag. This truck has everything you could want and more.

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  BEST SUV ON THE ROAD! LOVE IT! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By J Navarro - January 18 - 2:00 am

  I brought my 2001.5 Passat in for a minor repair and left with the Touareg! Though I miss my Passat, the Touareg was well worth the trade. Were the 1st in our town to have one, & we still only see another Touareg on the road every now and then- but I know this best kept secret will be out soon and others will realize what theyre missing! You get a lot of curious and approving stares in this car!

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  Dream Car - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By tj8576 - January 16 - 3:30 am

  After hearing my wife go on and on about wanting to upgrade her Jetta to a Touareg, I finally purchased her a used 2004 model with only 14,000 miles on it. I have to say this is by far the neatest vehicle on the road. It feels lke a Sherman tank, but is nimble, fun to drive, and gets a lot of attention. I would honestly say there is not another vehicle on the road that I would prefer, even if spending twice as much. VW did a phenominal job with their entry into the SUV market.

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  The Poor Mans Porsche - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Sports Driver - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Overall the car is excellent, but whenever you purchase a Touareg make sure the maintenance agreement is one purchased in the area where it will be serviced. Not all dealerships honor these agreements. Believe Me!!!!!!! One more thing, Volkswagon is still working out the kinks with all the computer chips installed in the vehicle, so you might have to visit the dealership a few times until these small annoyances are resolved.

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  Burns too much gas, but l LOVE it - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Goat Roper - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Havent had it very long, but it is the best designed SUV that I have seen or driven. I drove a Toyota Landcruiser in Africa on several occasions and loved it, but would have liked to have had this T-Reg. Only question in my mind is reliability. All these behemoths get poor gas mileage. We all should have known this when we purchased these heavyweights! Navigation system could use some software changes to make it more like what I have seen in Toyota/Lexus vehicles. The dealer told me Navigation software upgrades are coming. Not many automobiles make me want to go out into the garage to get one last look before going to bed, but this one does!!

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  Love the Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Lenlori - January 8 - 10:00 am

  Researched and test drove all the other mid-sized SUVs. Touareg was by far the best deal. Much better fit, finish and interior design than BMW, Mercedes or Lexus. V-8 gets over 19mpg on the highway with a full load. Could be better, but not bad considering vehicles weight and power. Love being behind the wheel of this vehicle. Amount of features are unreal for the price. NAV coiud be better, but gets me where Im going. Fantastic ride and handling. Luxury car quiet. No problems at all with my vehicle. Dealer has been the best Ive ever dealt with. Everyone that sees my Touareg is amazed by the quality and ride and immediately want one!

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  GREAT IS THE ONLY WORD TO USE - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Sullymfmdoc - January 3 - 10:16 pm

  I have owned a load of SUVs and this one is the best. Fun to drive, safe, although not greatest at the pump, this car will impress you as well as thrill you. Drive it to believe.

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  We Love Our Touareg! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Jim & Dera - January 2 - 10:00 am

  This machine is an awesome SUV & Sports Car all in one!!!! We successfully drove this vehicle up a snowmobile path ( former railway track here in Newfoundland .....pushing 12 inches of snow ) and thought for sure we would get it stuck in the snow!!! Lots of power on the Highway too.....our V8…. 310 HP is registered for 320km per hour! We love the interior ( lots & lots of real walnut wood trim )…… Cadillac & Lincoln should take heed here! Tire pressure monitoring system saved us trouble yesterday, front tire picked up a nail ( unsuspectingly to us ) and instrument panel warned of irregular tire pressure. Make no wonder "Motor Trend Magazine" named it 2004 Sport Utility of the year!