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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  Simply the Best - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By mjw1968 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Build quality and materials are on par or better than Mercedes Benz, Rover, BMW, et al. The appointments are first rate; everything has the feel, look and action of quality. The performance on and off road surpass or equal the mighty Rover and Mercedes, with on/off road handling surpassing both. The powerful V8 engine is so smooth and quiet one must check the tachometer for engine idle.

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  My Review - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By geojoy4 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  A very comfortable drive with plenty of driving features. Navigation computers can require alot of attention to initially learn. recommend someone take at least 1 hour in there driveway and fiddle with the navigation system

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  VERY PROUD OWNER - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By JCJ42 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  MY TOUAREG IS RESPONSIVE ... HAS EASE OF HANDLING. FEELS LIKE HAVING CONTROL OF A CAR WHEN IN REALITY ITS 6000 LBS OF A WELL BUILT TRUCK. VISIBILITY IS EXCELLENT. GREAT ATTENTION TO DETAIL AND FINISH IS OBVIOUS. AESTHETICALLY PLEASING TO THE EYE. GERMAN ENGINEERING AT ITS FINEST. VOLKSWAGEN SHOULD BE PROUD ... VERY PROUD! I AM A PROUD OWNER AND AM OFTEN REMINDED OF THAT WHEN I FIND MYSELF GIVING IMPROMPTU DEMONSTRATIONS/DISCUSSIONS TO CURIOUS STRANGERS. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK VW.

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  Love My Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Camarosa - July 21 - 2:00 am

  When I purchased my Touareg I had no intention of getting a new car. I was dropping my Jetta off for a broken tail light and decided to take the Touareg for a test drive, needless to say I signed over my Jetta and drove home in a Touareg three days later! I absolutely LOVE this truck and in spite of a few minor bugs I wouldnt trade it for anything. I get so many compliments on the truck wherever I go.

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  Beauitful, yet HUNGRY - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By newatlantaguy - July 21 - 2:00 am

  After test driving many other SUVs in this class, the VW Touareg lurred me to the bargaining table. It drives like a charm, and the options I added, (navigation, parking assistance, xenon lights) make it a pleasure to drive. Though, Im less than pleased with my need to refill the tank weekly, with an average mile per gallon of 13-14. Overall though, I dont regret my purchase, just double think my routes!

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  suprised i own a touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By lisaahern - July 21 - 2:00 am

  my husband who hates to drive suvs loves this vehicle (he drives a european performance car). as for myself i was worried about the touaregs ability to handle new england winters. to my suprise this vehicle was able to get me thru back to back noreasterner snow storms with ease. my driving views are unobstructed. the weight of the vehicle in gives me a sense of safety especially in high winds (not top heavy). as a former owner of an escape and explorer i am pleasantly surprised with this vehicle (a tank in sheeps clothing). note my other choices before purchasing this vehicle were the acura mdx, volvo xc90, bmw x-5 and this was my first choice.

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  MY BABY - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By LOU CERVONE - July 21 - 2:00 am

  A GREAT SUV.FUN TO DRIVE .TROUBLE FREE ..THE BEST MY MONEY COULD BUY.EVEYBODY NEEDS ONE OF THESE

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  clueless transmission - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By reslender - July 15 - 2:00 am

  from a dead stop car is unsure of what gear to be in and you cannot get a smooth start. if letting off the throttle to make a turn or go over a speed bump, etc., it hesitates after you reapply pressure to the gas pedal, almost like its thinking. then it suddenly goes into gear and snaps your head back. excellent on the road, horrible around town and in stop and go traffic.

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  5000 miles later - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By dlunny - July 10 - 10:00 am

  After 5000 miles and one 1500 mile trip ( three 10 hour driving days)I still enjoy every minute of being behind the wheel. Its comfortable, responsive, stabil and solid. The six cylinder engine has plenty of power.

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  6 months in, very happy with purchase - 2011 Volkswagen Touareg
  By azsundvl - July 5 - 7:59 am

  I got the Touareg for my wife however I drive it a good amount. We held off for a while on buying a SUV because we just couldnt seem to find the right fit. Were glad we waited because the Touareg is a great vehicle (looked at RX350, ML350, Q5). We do short trips and not a ton of mileage but are still averaging almost 18 mpg w/ the VR6. Theres a good amount of room without being too large of a vehicle. The driving feel and quality of vehicle is great. Theres enough power and its a great looking SUV. VW did a great job - definitely recommend it.