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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  Touareg - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Bob - October 4 - 3:10 am

  MANY flaws at delivery. Tires last only 14000 miles @$1150/set! Too electronically complicated.

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  X5 Beater - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By badjoujou - September 20 - 10:00 am

  I took me alomost a month to decide between the VW and the X5. Boy did I make the right call. Other than a little pep off the line the VW holds its own with the Bimmer and then some. VW has better AWD system and suspension and is just a blast to drive. If you are looking for an SUV that handles exit ramps at 80+ and can go off road, this is the place to be.

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  Flawed Design - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By blankfiend - September 19 - 4:01 am

  Id like to meet the genius who designed this beast. I was just informed by my dealer that to change the liquid cooled alternator would involve 14 hours of labor to pull the engine and cost $2118.00!!

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  2005 Touareg - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jklancaster - September 12 - 10:53 am

  I purchased a preowned 2005 Touareg with 8,000 miles on it. So far I have put on 2,000 miles in two months and I have truly enjoyed this machine. It has everything that I want in an SUV. I highly recommend the 05 model year.

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  A great SUV - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By hawk - September 2 - 9:20 pm

  Still love the truck after 5 years owning it. Only 2nd set of tires with a lot of tread left after 75000 mi. 1st set of tired was replaced at 48000mi. Still original brake. Replaced battery at 70000mi. One annoying issue was airbag light lit after my wife adjusted driver seat. Check engine light was lit once for no reason but cleared after a visit to the dealer. didnt come back for 2yr but lit again last week. beautiful interior (better than my BMW 5 and MB E class), fit and finish is top notch. gas mileage is poor but not so bad for a performance SUV. feel very safe driving it, great road manner, very solid, no rattling, no loose parts. took to the beach played sand, a very fun SUV.

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  BEWARE!!! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Dakota - August 30 - 10:53 am

  Oh, to have the decision back on whether to buy this thing. Well, I got ripped on this one. The Touareg has to be the worst value out there. Let me start with the transmission. Press the pedal half way down and it doesnt move, press a tiny bit more and it throws you in the back seat. Its impossible to drive in stop and go situations. Besides the cheap brakes pads (unbelievable amounts of brake dust), stopping is an adventure as well. Both front seats squeak already and its very top heavy. I bought a 2004 that MSRP at 51,000 for 40,000 and I cannot get rid of it after 6 months. The value drops like a rock due to the recalls, electronic problems and engine. Many recalls. STAY AWAY from it.

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  I would buy another! - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By shannywilson - August 25 - 6:03 am

  I bought my VW Touareg V6 in Oct. 05 after driving Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volvo, Toyota, you name it, I drove it. I was not a fan of VW vehicles until I sat in this ONE! I am now looking for a toy car, but dont want to give up driving this EVERY day! I cant imagine owning any other SUV. I will buy this again when a new body style comes out AND only after this has lots more miles! I highly recommend driving this and BUYING this truck!

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  Good SUV - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Eric - August 22 - 11:13 am

  I bought the 2005 VW Touareg one year ago and it has not failed to live up to my expectations. The handling is great and the interior is above average. I like the interior because it looks like a spaceship. The only thing that needs to be improved upon is when you push the gas it will shake a bit and as always the gas millage should be improved (450 till empty when you actually get 300 miles a tank).

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  Value with Style - 2011 Volkswagen Touareg
  By stcamp - August 20 - 8:12 am

  Was in the market for another SUV, yet wanted something different, not cumbersome nor boxy. Previously had an 07 BMW X5 - liked the car, yet did not like performance. With gas prices fluctuating high/low, I considered the diesel. Drove the BMW diesel, yet it was $9k more than the VW. My car is new <300 miles, yet in town I avg 19.5 and Hwy 26 mpg. As the car engine breaks in and I get my foot off the pedal, I know mileage will improve. Seats are very comfortable, interior is well designed and Navigation interface works very well. The LED headlights are distinctive and the back end of the Touareg is in my opinion...nicer than Porsche

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  No Big Problems - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Pat - August 20 - 1:16 am

  I bought the V6 Touareg before too many reviews were available. I havent had the little problems that others report. I have experienced a loud strange noise from the front axles a couple of times. Overall I am happy with the truck. I am very unhappy with the cost of service from my local dealer. Oil changes and some lubrication cost over $200.00! I cant understand that. My service is now being done by an independent mechanic.