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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What a great car! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By Ben S H - November 24 - 10:00 amGreat interiar, little engine noise, great build quality. WELL DONE VW!
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A new Era for VW. - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By A1t-egg - November 24 - 10:00 amI stopped in the VW house just after the release of the T-egg just for curiosity. Frankly I did not expect much from a 4x4 VW. I was floored. It was love at first sight. The exterior lines are nicer than the Porsche and with the plush leather seats, real wood inlays and the brushed metal trim, It is on par with Cayannes interior. This vehicle is loaded with cool features (Im a gadget guy): This is the most Ive enjoyed a new vehicle in many many years. More than my Land- Cruiser, LX470 and Navigator.
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Great SUV - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By Sharon - November 19 - 1:53 amThe Volkswagen Touareg is a great car. I have a Toyota SUV, but I like this one better. It is great on the highway and in local traffic. The turning radius is unbelievable.
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LOVE IT - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By Cion - November 18 - 10:00 amHave Had It For About a week Now.....Just So Much Fun To Drive. About 20 people already have came up to me and asked what is that after i tell them they say that it is one hot lookin SUV!!!
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Structure - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By wozzie - November 17 - 6:30 pmI recently hit a large buck in my Touareg. Although the buck was large enough to total a car, my Touareg handled it perfectly (like the tank it is) and got me safely through the accident with minimal damage. Although it has lousy fuel economy, when it comes down to safety, the Touareg is an excellent vehicle to drive where I live in Pennsylvania where there are LOTS of deer.
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Touareg - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
By Corey - November 17 - 9:50 amThe vehicle overall is fantastic. It performs great, is comfortable and has all the creature comforts anyone needs. The gas mileage is awful in my V8. Reports said that it should have averaged 16-17, but I have never gotten 17 except on long trips. I average 13- 14 overall. But my biggest complaint is spending $50,000+ on a vehicle and having it in the shop a half dozen times for electrical issues. VW was supposed to have this issue solved, but apparently no one told the folks that are still making the vehicle!
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Got to check out the Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By Abbas Hassan - November 12 - 2:00 amThe handling, the performance its just amazing. The towing capacity is great. Very luxury interior as well as german suv look.
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Awsome SUV for the Money - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
By jforr - November 3 - 9:56 pmThe Touareg provides the best in on road performance combined with the best on off road performance as well. It is quiet and refined on the highway and has excellent turning radius for its size. The Touareg is by far the best value for a premium SUV.
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The Touraeg deserves a serious look - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By Touraeg Fan - October 31 - 10:00 amVW has really built a wonderful vehicle with the Touraeg. The ride, noise level (or lack thereof), interior layout, easy to read gauges and thoughtfull "extras" are outstanding. Its 4 wheel capabilities are awsome. We recently had it on a long road trip and found that the ride and handling were so good we were not nearly as tired, etc. from a long day of driving. Overall we love this car.
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Niggles - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By Captain Bob - October 31 - 10:00 amOverall I am pleased with the Touareg, although I still havent figured out why VW have adopted the curious pronunciation of the name for the US market. Complaints: After less than 3000 miles the "step up" motor needed replacing (diff. problem) didnt they launch this car in Europe some time ago? Why are there still problems? 2nd key should set the drivers seat to the 2nd drivers position, it doesnt. 7 months later one of the largest automakers is "working on it." Sure! The Homelink is impossible to program, same answer. The windshield mists up if the inside and outside temps are too disparate. Why on earth isnt the diesel going to be available in CA?
