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:
Showing 461 through 470 of 979.00-
Avoid Touareg - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
By hman - February 27 - 10:30 amThis truck is a sluggish gas guzzler. It has a cheap build and the horrible VW dealer network that treats you like a pain instead of a customer. It looks great outside, but skimps on build quality. The interior finish looks great, but uses cheap materials. Stick to Toyota or if your ego demands, BMW X5 is amazing in comparison.
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Audi/Porsche luxury SUV for a bargain! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By brucemcg - February 24 - 10:00 amBuy one before the word gets out! Audi 4.2L 305HP engine (same as A8), Porsche 6 speed, Audi-grade interior, 10 air bags with safety cage, etc... This car with the same configuration in Germany sells for 68k Euro, which translates to $75-80k! You can pick one up for about $40k in the US! This SUV drives like a dream. The V8 with 6-speed is silky smooth and throws you back in your seat when you push it. If you want a super luxury SUV that should sell for $75k at the bargain price of the century, act now!!! And by the way, purchase a 100k warranty for around $1500, and have no reservations!
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lemon - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By lemonowner - February 19 - 9:20 pmI like the way the touareg handles and looks. My main problem is all the things that have been going wrong with it.It has been back at dealership a total of 4 times already(for a total of 13 days),and Ive only had it for just under 5 months. Everything from electrical problems to the door handle becoming stuck and unable to be opened.Not what you would expect from a $.45,000 vehicle
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From an A6 to a Touareg - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By hunegnaw - February 16 - 4:30 amI have to admit, the wife and I stuggled with the idea of going from an A6 to a Touareg. To me, an SUV has always been the equivalent to owning a mini-van, but with a house and a dog (who destroyed the backseat of our A6 - - he didnt know any better), we decided to give an SUV a try. After looking at all of the options we decided to give the Touareg a try and aside from the HORRIBLE fuel economy, weve been quite impressed. Great looking, comfortable, head-turning, and a spot for Mickey (the dog) to hang out without worry.
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Poor Quality - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By NO Touareg - February 12 - 2:00 amPurchased on a Sat. afternoon. Within the 20 mile home I already had problems. First the heated seats didnt work, the CD player broke, the head lights were not aligned correctly, the steering wheel was not top centered. The car had a bad shake at 70 MPH and pulled to the right. After I got home I noticed paint discoloration on the lift gate. I did more research online and found this to be a problematic vehicle. See club touareg.com. It is filled with horror stories of poor quality, numerous breakdowns, and little available parts to fix your vehicle. I brought it back to the dealer I bought mine from on Monday and got my money and trade-in back.
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First owner of Touareg in our City - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By K Strickland - February 12 - 2:00 amThe Touareg (our 3rd VW with Jetta and Passat V6 4 Motion previously) attracted us by it exterior and interior styling. Cost for features compared to BMW and Lexus was a great value. Sold on our prior experience with VW we were immediately transfixed by the Touaregs appearance.
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Purchased October, 2003 - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By whatsnaname - January 27 - 10:00 amThe refinement, styling and attention to details is what makes me appreciate this car the most. But it is also fast, very fun to drive and versatile enough to take off road or drive to the opera. On the negative: gas mileage is around 14 mpg, I wore through my OEM Continentals in less than 20K miles, and have had a couple of quirky electronic or mechanical problems that have not recurred. Once you learn the subtlties of the "convenience package" it is great to be able to customize the features and settings that are usually factory defaults on other cars.
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Shopping - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By WForgacs - January 27 - 10:00 amI had been shopping for a SUV for a couple of years and narrowed my search to a Land Rover. My plan was to purchase a 2001 with low mileage. I had tested many with low mileage and was buying based on pedigree and comfort. I was intrigued with VW, it had many good reviews and one day decided to drive the SUV having minimal expectations. I was surprised at the finish, quality, performance, and overall impression of the car. The 6 had enough power for my needs and in my mind decided to confirm my impression with further research. 2 months later I purchased my car. I love the car it s awesome. I cant say anything to anyone about the SUV that would change this opinion. It handles like my 320 BMW
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Still breaking it in... - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By JiggyJoe Johanus - January 13 - 10:00 amWeve had this truck for just a week. We traded in our W8 Passat for a bit more vehicle and a bit more payment; my wife has had her heart set on an SUV for some time and I finally succumbed to her wishes for once. She loves it, I like it. Its roomier, nicer, and feels much more luxurious. We got the base V8 with an upgraded stereo system, bi-xenon lights and the winter package. Thus far weve only put about 400 miles on it, and no off- roading, but thats coming soon.
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Fun to Drive, but Unreliable - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By Collinite Wax - January 8 - 9:16 pmWeve had our Touareg for about a year. Handles like a sportscar and incredibly fast, and a headturner. But unfortunately, the car is extremely unreliable and has been back to the dealership 5 times for a variety of electrical problems. While the problems have been relatively minor, its hard to reconcile these annoyances with a $42K car: the passenger side mirror sticks in the reverse position, the rear latch doesnt always unlock, and the radio fades out (apparently the antenna is in a poor location in the car, according to the service manager at our dealership). The dealership has attempted to fix these problems on multiple occasions, to no avail. Our last VW, next will be japanese.
