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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  Still a great SUV choice for those who tow. - 2013 Volkswagen Touareg
  By toolmanjohn - April 22 - 1:00 am

  Just around 8300 miles on my Touareg TDI, and I havent had any real problems with the vehicle. It handles like a sedan, plenty of power, and the brakes are fantastic. Mileage is better than I was hoping. THe 20mpg city would have been great, but I get 22-23 mpg consistently with a 20 mile round trip commute each day. Its VERY quiet, and this may be because the transmission shifts around 2250rpm, so the diesel nevers really works hard. This past Summer it towed my small travel trailer like it wasnt there. Easily pulls on the highway and back roads.

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  Great SUV Great Value - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By T-regDent - April 21 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my T-reg for a month and have had zero problems. Premium Plus Pkg. is the way to go. Remote key range is OK 20-30ft, but I dont need it with keyless entry. Handles well for a big (2 1/2 ton) SUV and the V-8 has plenty of power. Ext & Int fit and finish is excellent. More standard features than MDX, LX 470 or Cayenne, for less money. Air Suspension has three different ride settings and three different ride heights. This is an outstanding SUV with a huge bang for the buck.

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  A problem SUV - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By hawk94 - April 21 - 2:00 am

  Second day, green liquid was dripping down from the engine compartment. Was told its not safe to drive so its towed to fixing the leaking, a borken O- ring. Also found bump paintscratched, passagerside seat broken, roof rack base broken, it vibrates ~70mph & pulls to right. Initial quality is so poor, althoug its a brand new vehical (only 350 miles)! Whatelse is next? I wish I bought a Lexus or BMW. VW service quality was poor too. Dont buy it now until VW fixes the quality issue if you really like its offroad capability.

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  Perfect, Except for Gas Mileage - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Turner - March 22 - 3:46 pm

  I honestly think that the Volkswagen Touareg is one of the greatest vehicles of all time. Its only downfall comes only from its massive weight that hinders better performance and gas mileage. In my case, I drive a short distance to work, so I am willing to tollerate the lack of fuel economy (16 city, 19 hwy). I recently took a 1,200 mile road trip and found it to be exceptionally comfortable and easy to drive - smooth and quiet even at 100 mph. We also hit very rough weather and it was useful having the weight and the full-time all wheel drive. The sandard Dunlop tires look good but last only 25,000 miles - with few alternatives. I recommend this car highly to anyone willing to accept the gas mileage.

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  2005 - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By budsm3 - March 17 - 3:00 am

  Same comments as most of the others: Great highway ride, strong V8 performance, Best turning radius of any car I have ever owned. Handles very well. Nicely appointed interior, comfortable seats. Downside: the brakes for wear and this car is very difficult to be smooth when driving, at very low speeds the brakes grab and the throttle response is jerky. Poor Gas mileage Overall the car has exceed my expectations and most of the bugs from the 2004 models we worked out.

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  My Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By KAILITTLE - March 8 - 2:00 am

  This car is well made and a great performer. The interior is too small in the back seat and it has a very small area in the back for hauling/luggage. If you have small children and dont need to carry much, this is the SUV. It is dependable, easy and fun to drive. You get more options for the price than other SUVs in this category. The VW SUV has more horsepower than the Lexus SUVs and VW has a strong history of reliability.

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  2nd Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jlturpin - March 8 - 2:00 am

  My first VW Touareg was a VWOA buy back. Purchased a BMW 3.0 X5, did not like it and ordred another Touareg. Love the Touareg, just wish the first one would not have been a lemon.

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  Touareg Tore me away from BMW - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By C. Carden - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I was a diehard Bmw fan, I have had for. I was currently driving a 97 740il when I went to the show room to look at at what VW had and there it was the new VW What, how do you you say its name ? I fell in love who cares if it has a strange name its a conversation breaker. There I was I went from the 740il BMW to the Touareg and never looked back I dont even look for my old car in fact I dont miss it all. I love my new car. I feel safe confident and stylish, what more could a girl ask for.

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  Touareg, free folk - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By bigspence - March 8 - 2:00 am

  My experience with the car has been fantastic. I look forward to driving it every day. Its been below zero here lately with a lot of 5" snowfalls. The slippery conditions are never felt, the Touareg goes around icy corners like its on rails. It starts quickly and warms up rapidly at any temperature, and the bun warmers in the seats are great since they extend up into the lumbar region where many other models dont.

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  best suv for me - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By brbones - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I traded my bmw X5 for this suv. I love the handling, comfort, heating and overall style of this vehicle. My main complaint is the gas mileage. One final thought, these vehicles are in such demand you may have trouble getting the exact vehicle you want.