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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  2013 Touareg TDI - 2013 Volkswagen Touareg
  By cambino123 - August 11 - 9:19 pm

  I purchased the Treg TDI 2 weeks ago. I was looking for a high performance machine (240HP 406lb torque) that returns high MPG. I just returned from a 400 Mile road trip and still have more than half a tank to empty. The engine makes a brilliant rumble and the turbo sounds so nice at low speeds. I have the saddle brown leather which is like a baseball glove. The dashboard wood grain is so luxurious and classy, it makes my previous Lexus GS seem like a toy. This car is very well built and the construction is solid. It stands out on the road in a sea of RX350s. This is truly a dreamy SUV. Looking forward to reviewing it again 1 year from now.

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  Best SUV for the price, Major Power - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By JD - August 9 - 6:06 pm

  I bought this vehicle new almost off the line pretty much base package, no nav. Its a remarkable SUV with amazing power capability and the safest thing you can own. I have driven this car across the country four times, up and down the coast and mountains alike, and there is nothing that handles extreme weather, harsh conditions, or long rides in any category better. I love this car despite recalls (free fixes) and other issues that occur on any luxury car at a cost. I wish people appreciated the real capability and power this SUV has, its not an around town vehicle, use it, love it, or leave it.

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  tour egg? - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By -- - July 31 - 2:00 am

  cant wait for the snow! solid,smooth, great handling machine.

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  Best SUV out there............. - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jeff Smith - July 26 - 2:00 am

  i have driven most of the midsize suvs and this vehicle is bar none I would recommend it to everyone. I fish in the Everglades of Florida alot and I thought I would have a problem with the swamps I drive through. It goes places my jeep Wrangler never would. Still it has the look of a luxury suv I can go play in the mud and still go to dinner that evening (after a bath).

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  Good to go - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By salut - July 26 - 2:00 am

  Perfect so far. Loaded with just about every option. Great in snow and late winter roads in the northeast. I like the fact that you can disable many of the (over the top) features in the interior. Mileage is not great but no worse than the Suburban it replaced. Throttle and brakes are a little touchy, though the brakes work very well. Arrived with front end out of allignment. Waited forever to get a car with OnStar.

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  Down the mountain - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Appalacian Man - July 21 - 10:00 am

  I take it off the appalacian mountains on maximum state grade in the ice and snow. No problems going or coming. Great manuveability and great clearnance.

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  My Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Architect - July 15 - 10:00 am

  I love the Touareg. It is such a nice car. I love every aspect of it, especially the nice details. I love the sunroof and the seats. They are very comfy.

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  The Best Thing I Have Ever Driven! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Shea - July 14 - 11:43 pm

  I have only had my Touareg for a little over a week but I am completely in love. The cabin is beautifully and conveniently lit. It has radio controls on the steering wheel and the dash is laid out so that all info that you need is literally under your nose. This SUV even has a mini flashlight in the console! It handles like a dream and takes corners with full control. The only suggestion I would have would be to add power seats and give it better gas mileage. Other than that, you simply have to drive a Touareg to believe it. You will be hooked like me!

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  Touareg rules - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By DJ - July 14 - 7:23 pm

  I was compelled to write this review on my 06 Touareg after I saw several misguided reviews complaining about mechanical tire wear, gas mileage and maintenance. This isnt a Honda Civic, its a $40k+ 5,000 lb AWD SUV with tons of safety features and gadgets galore. Tire wear gas mileage & maintenance are all going to be higher, thats what you should expect with any luxury car. If youre not willing or prepared for higher cost of ownership, you shouldnt have bought one. Buy a Honda. That being said this is my 4th VW and although its more expensive per visit it visits the oil change half as often and has needed nothing more than oil, one set of tires and front brakes over 40k miles.

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  One of the best vehicles I have ever owned - 2012 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jurgenk - July 12 - 6:26 pm

  I wanted a mid size SUV to accomodate our growing family, but also wanted to preserve some of the fun-factor of driving. I test drove the gas and diesel ML series, and found that while its a beautiful and luxurious truck (Merc has done a great job with the evolution of the exterior and interior) it was a little slow and a little sloppy in handling compared to the others. The X5 looked awesome and is the standard bearer in terms of ride, but was too common and too expensive. The Cayenne S is equally fun but fuel thirsty and expensive. The Touareg was luxurious and crisp handling, the hybrid was extremely well-powered, and the slight improvement in efficiency a welcome bonus.