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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  Mr Toe Rags - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By ChipRode - April 19 - 2:00 am

  I would have chosen another ML 350 but for dealer attitude, they insist on navigation systems and third row seating! Well I know where I live and I don’t plan on having kids. My first 1000 plus miles in Mr. Toe Rags tell me it’s a very nice vehicle. Gas consumption is OK at 17 mpg overall for 1057 miles but it does dip into the sixteen’s and fifteens around my short country commute to work. Yes it’s thirstier than the Mercedes. Quiet and refined it does not get buzzy at speed and it goes fast enough to get expensive tickets. It is a smooth riding, fast performing easy to drive super utility vehicle.

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  Rare Find!!White w/Saddle Brown VR LUX - 2011 Volkswagen Touareg
  By bigcat56 - April 18 - 2:14 am

  This 2011 VW Touareg VR6 Lux is the BEST car I have purchased in the last 35 years. Im a big man at 63" 280lbs, hard to find any vehicle with enough space for someone my size to sit behind me, but this suv has that as well as comfort for all passengers. Looked at BMW X5, MB ML350, Nissan Murano, new Ford Edge, Volvo XC60. A complete joy to drive, plenty of power from VR6/8Spd, Classy, Luxurious interior with all the Technology you can handle. Didnt think I needed a NAV system, but this one has totally changed my mind. Standard stereo system sounds rich and full to my ears. Price point when considered with all standard equipment vs. luxury competition is within reason.

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  Verdict is still out. - 2011 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Chicago Gearhead - April 16 - 2:00 am

  Just owned my Touareg TDI for 24 hours now. Really wanted the hybrid but the whole Chicagoland area is only getting about 10 hybrids for the whole 2011 model year. Seems like an advertising scam to me. The TDI surprisingly has little torque until past 2K rpms. My GX470 seemed to have much better torque at 1300 rpms even though it is rated at 76 less lb ft torque. Handles really well, similar to my wifes G35x. Fit and finish is well executed. I seem to have no problem meeting or exceeding the govt rated MPGs. Over all, Im happy with the purchase but at these steep prices, I dont think VW is going to sell many of these!

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  Good Looking Manufacturer Buyback - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Niels Leppert - April 13 - 10:03 am

  Factory Buyback. Our 2004 Touareg was great looking, great off-road (low-range rocks!) but was a miserable experience until the day VW (was forced) to buy it back: The V6 engine is weak and sucks down fuel. My new BMW X5 4.4i gets much better gas mileage. The Touareg had tire pressure monitoring failures from the day we bought it. We had trim and rattle problems, squealing rotors, remote lock/unlock issues, A/C windshield fogging problems, and a wiper blade that flew off in a rainstorm. 23 shops days in under 10,000 miles. After three repeat repair attempts and filing Lemon law, VW tried lawyering out of it until losing the arbitration. PS - I love my new BMW X5...Are you listening, Zieter?

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  My Toureg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By ezachary - April 9 - 10:00 am

  Perfect vehicle for selling real estate in the mountains. Customers are comfortable and love it. Its a joy to drive. I chose the V6 even though the reviews said it would be sluggish. I havent found it to be sluggish at all. Has all the pick up and go that I need.

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  3 DAYS OLD - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By AJOAB - April 9 - 10:00 am

  JUST HAD DELIVERED 2 DAYS AGO..1ST IMPRESSION LOVE IT..FEELS LIKE CAR IS WORTH A LOT MORE..HAVE V6 STANDARD NON PREMIUM..LOVE SPORT MODE..PREV CAR WAS 5 SERIES..POWER ON TOUAREG IS FAR BETTER.MY FRIENDS THINK THE CAR IS WORTH $45K..DASH V/COOL,

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  Disaster...love the car, but 10 service calls?? - 2012 Volkswagen Touareg
  By lastvw - April 8 - 11:52 am

  This has been a nightmare. I have been back to the dealer 10 times with check engine light issues and ad blue issues. brakes squeal in reverse. tires very hard to balance. great car...but I dont have the time for the service....if you buy one, must buy the extended warranty (3rd party).

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  2005 Volkswagen Touareg V8 - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By MATT MCGLASHEN - April 3 - 11:06 pm

  This vehicle has been trouble free for me, a concern with so many electronic/mechanical options, so that is good. Build quality is very good, seams are tight, everything fits well. The interior is very upscale and impresses everyone. The sound of the V8 is very sporty, many have made comments on that. The downside, the navigation system lacks detail, street names ect. I am hoping for an software update-please hear me VW! It works fine though in a basic way. The rear seat could use a little more footroom and headroom. My brother, who is a large guy, says its hard to get in and out of,either front or back. I love the sporty driving, towing ability, acceleration and looks.

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  The annoying stuff... - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Thomas - April 3 - 10:10 am

  The V6 is underpowered, but performs well for a vehicle this weight. Smooth ride and excellent handling. After 40k miles in one year, thankfully, no maintenance nightmares. Only annoying stuff that keeps you coming back to the dealership - tire pressure sensors always going out, allignment issues, and way too many recalls. Dealership (Boardwalk VW, Dallas) has an excellent service dept, highly recommended for those in DFW area. Not as well built as some suggest, a couple of creaks in dash. After reading other reviews, I would also be very upset about the reliability of this vehicle for the price paid, but overall a good experience here.

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  Disappointing From The Start - 2012 Volkswagen Touareg
  By clarkg - April 1 - 6:15 am

  My 2012 Touareg Lux TDI has been a disappointment as compared to the 2010 Touareg TDI I owned previously. The key/fob ignition system is a huge step backwards in convenience from the keyless start system. Unless you want to spend an additional $5K for the "Executive" version I have found the key fob gizmo in my 2012 "Lux" model as very difficult to operate properly. Upon stopping the engine the key fob cannot be removed from the dash socket about 50% of the time so I have to jockey the start/stop engine function until it can be extracted. If VW engineers were trying to prevent theft they actually have enhanced it as when the fob is stuck anyone can hop in and drive off.