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 41 through 50 of 979.00-
Fun with Touareg - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
By george haydu - May 27 - 2:30 amThis is a very fine and high quality vehicle. Its gas mileage could be better. I consider this the poor mans Porche.
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VW Owner - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By John - May 17 - 6:20 amGreat SUV to drive. There was no question after test driving the 4Runner & Jeep which was the best vehicle for the money.
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Wait for bugs to be worked out - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By SORBES - May 15 - 2:56 pmI have had the truck for 5 months now and I have put 5,300 miles on. My major complant is that the gas mileage is awful (I get 13.5 MPG on average using the AUTOMATIC setting compared to the VW listed 18MPG. If use the Autostick or Sport functions it drops my MPG to 10.5!!). I do find the ride to comfortable and the power to be ample, but I dont think that the Writers of these "Editors choice" pieces are taking into account the cost of the vechicle and the overall, longterm ownership of the vehicle. They dont account for the $105 oil changes and the cost of Premium gas that it requires.
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Happy, but some concerns - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By Peter Kreinheder - April 28 - 2:00 amThe Toureg is a great auto for VW to enter the SUV market. I cant wait to get the Phaeton!! The quality of the interior is superb. However I am having a lot of problems driving after snowfall, or driving thru deep snow. Snow gets stuck to the undercariage causing a lot of vibration and discomfort. This has happend 3 times this winter and have to go to a spray wash to melt off the snow. Furthermore, had to once take it in to the dealer to remove pact mud/sand from a rear well that caused significant imbalance. My other SUVs never have these problems. Our Tahoe has no problems with high snow, mud etc.
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Amazing machine - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By Steve - April 27 - 8:50 amJust bought a used 05 V-8 with 5200 miles a couple days ago. I looked at 3 dealerships in the Atlanta area before settling on the Silver/Grey model as it is in almost new condition. Although it did not have as many extras as the 04s I saw and drove this one clearly stood out to me. The fact that it was the last day of the month,a Monday and raining I felt would help with negotiations. It did. The feel of this Luxury sporty SUV is upscale all the way, fit and finish excellent and performance that is most enjoyable to experience. only dig is hard drivers seat bolsters. Maybe itll soften with time. Great ride! I compared and drove FX-35, MDX, 4Runner and this stands way above.
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Good Value - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By PGal - April 11 - 6:10 amSolid, well made German SUV with good handling for the most part. V8 gas mileage is a blended 15. Always has been hesitant off the line, but plenty of power once you are moving, great feel for a driver. Comfortable, well designed. Like the look, like the drive. Interior leather, wood appointments nice, luxury feel. For the money, this is a good luxury SUV, same new platform as Porsche Cayenne. Mechanically well built and doesnt wear out.
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Love this vehicle!! - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
By gobubba - March 24 - 11:57 pmWe have the 2007 V8 with every option available. Cant say enough about how much we love to own and drive it! Where else can you get a "car" (remember it is a unibody) that tows nearly anything a person could want to tow. It weighs about the same as a Suburban or Tahoe, so the ride and handling are superb. The factory roof rails run the entire length of the roof which makes mounting boxes or a bike rack a breeze. We bought a certified used Highlander prior to the Touareg and only owned it for two weeks before we forced the dealer to buy it back. The engine had what Toyota considers "normal" piston slap and the drivetrain whined like it was extremely worn out, also considered "normal".
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Troubles in Germany? - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By Genosite - March 23 - 2:00 amWe have the nav system, air-suspension, premium 2 pkg- essentially every option. PROBLEMS: The nav/CD system went out-we are having the third one installed. 1 of the headlights quit working twice-now fixed. One of the speakers went out-now fixed. The remote has abismal range. There was a whistling in the rear door- fixed after 3 trips to the dealer. Problem with the rear window latch causes the interior lights to remain on- being fixed as well. Our dealer has been very responsive, but in the three months we have had the car, it has been in the shop 7 times. Wondering if we got a lemon.
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Solid Uber Ute for the Money - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By allseasonswheels - March 16 - 2:00 amVWs service is absolutely unacceptable for the quality of their cars. I had a major defect in my 2004 (gas tank) and they treated it like it was a broken sun visor clip. Truly unbelievable, and quite a shame because the Touareg is a heck of a vehicle. Just pray nothing goes wrong with it, which is highly unlikely. The salesman I purchased mine from said 7 out of 10 Touaregs he sells come back to the shop for some reason or another. Most popular problem was with the radio systems.
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CMDs Touareg 2004 - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By auntcmd - March 16 - 2:00 amThis is the first time I did not have buyers remorse. The Touareg is very comfortable and was fantastic in the snow/ice, especially when I needed to get to work, no matter what. I am disappointed with the radio options (no cassette), the speed controlled volume is sporadic, the antenna was malfunctioning from my purchase date (it is now fixed after many months of trying).
