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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  monster fun - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By amnesia - April 1 - 10:00 am

  Handles like a sedan, precise steering, and great power. Drives better than an X5 - love the 4-wheel drive and diff locks; most luxurious interior for the buck. Too much steering wheel real estate taken up by 4 cruise control buttons that are rarely used. Owners manual is poor: some things are at odds with reality and the index is about as useful as LA freeway signs. Few accessories available yet.

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  I like it better than my ML350 and Q5 - 2013 Volkswagen Touareg
  By tvevans1 - March 31 - 11:00 am

  I have about 2000 miles on the vehicle and I am very pleased to date. I hope writing this review doesnt change things! I have owned numerous Audis (A6 and Q5) and still have two Mercedes (M Class and E Class) but this is my favorite vehicle so far. Probably because its my first diesel and I am averaging over 30mph with 70% non-highway and 30% highway driving. The power is awesome and the engine is very smooth. It is unbelievably quiet inside, no road or wind noise. It drives more like a SUV than a crossover but still has a car feel. Steering is very tight, turning radius excellent, handling outstanding. The brakes are good but have a little spongy feel. Not sure on reliability.

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  A great vehicle for detail reps. - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By 54implant - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I am truely enjoying my Touareg. 17 MPG is what I am currently receiving, and I think that that may increase over time. I purchased the basic V6 model without any extras, and for a work vehicle, I can say that it is more than I expected. I am amazed about how many other drivers in Houston, are stopping to look at the vehicle. If VW would advertise more, I think that you would see additional Touaregs on the road.

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  best suv - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By george caven - March 19 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle pleases me with performance and appearnce both inside and outside. I feel it is better than any other first-class suvs.

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  Best Rig Ever - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By luvmytouareg - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Totally comfortable and powerful...a smooth ride.

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  In love - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By herksrus - March 14 - 10:00 am

  Couldnt be happier. It also helps to have the worlds best VW dealer, "Sterling VW".

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  Creme of the Crop - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By MM - February 15 - 6:53 pm

  This mid-size SUV is a great SUV. It is extremely well built, the fit and finish, as well as quality of materials is excellent. On par with what youd expect from any of the top German automakers. I was a bit skeptical at first. After all dropping 50k for a VW just didnt seem to make sense, ah but when you test drive it youll love it. I did and drove a V8 fully loaded home. The ride quality is outstanding and the engine is excellent in regards to accelleration and fun to drive factor. If it continue to perform in this manner Id definitely buy another VW. Let me just say its not your Grandpas VW anymore, it a modern art masterpiece.

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  Best vehicle I ever drove/owned - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By queennella - February 11 - 6:56 am

  Being a past employee at an automobile dealership with over 9 car lines, this is by far the best vehicle I have ever driven. I purchased this vehicle in May of 04 and dread having to turn it in at the end of my drivers option lease. Not only is this vehicle reliable in all circumstances, it also is worth every penny that I spend on it a month. I wouldnt trade my Touareg for any other vehicle in on the market. Volkswagen has definitely hit a high note with this one and continues to prove that they are a company that will continue to rock the market with new and exciting merchandise in the future. I cant wait to see what they will do next to top this one.

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  Love it... - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By BulldogFTL - January 20 - 10:00 am

  I test drove all the luxury SUVs...Lexux, BMW, Mercedes, even the Touaregs cousin the Porsche Cayenne and there was no comparison. Total luxury in the interior, hot, sexy, sporty on the outside.

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  2006 Volkswagen Touareg V8 - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By joan - January 14 - 6:46 pm

  My Touareg has been great! I purchased it to transport my two Labs. It has been great for moving college kids and highway travel. Its very comfortable, and I love all the special toys. My only disappointment has been the gas mileage. Ive never driven a vehicle that didnt get good gas mileage. Because its a V8, I only get 18 mpg on the highway.