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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  Pretty with Flaws - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By cabulldog - December 31 - 5:36 pm

  I really shopped around before purchasing my Touareg. My black exterior really gets peoples attention, and my passengers LOVE the interior. BUT, my tires wore out quickly, gas mileage sucks, get-up-and- go doesnt exist without putting it in S, or manual. Radio ate my CD, cant get it back. Passenger mirror doesnt always tilt when backing up. Rubber on inside drivers side door is peeling. Seat belt dinger... can anyone say ANNOYING? Automatic windshield wipers can scare the crap out of you on a sunny day... theyll scape across the window without notice.

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  VW HITS A HOMERUN - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By mikeYYY - December 19 - 10:00 am

  THIS VEHICLE IS THE BEST ONE THAT I HAVE EVER OWNED.IT IS FUN TO DRIVE AND IT HAS PLENTY OF POWER.THE ONLY THING THAT VW SCREWED UP WAS WITH THE NAME.

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  Fine Car So Far - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Bob A. - December 12 - 12:20 pm

  I purchased my Touareg used in June of 2006 from a reliable dealership that sold this car new. The previous owner had issues with the radio, which was replaced, tires (the dealer replaced them with top line Michelins prior to buying) and a leaking tail light. Since June, the only issue has been the tire pressure sensors, which go off frequently when the weather turns cold. Re-store and its fine again. I have heard nothing but complaints about this car and have yet to be disappointed by it. It has plenty of pick up from the V6 engine, smooth shifting through the gears, and I have averaged 18.7 MPG on for 4,000 miles. I heard VIN#s over 60,000, have fewer problems as they fixed many issues by then. Mine VIN is 63,500 (last numbers).

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  Look elswhere... - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By John K. - December 11 - 1:23 am

  On paper this looks like the Ideal SUV but after purchasing and driving for just a few days I realized I was not happy. The seating is uncomfortable, I avg. 10.6 mpg in NYC stop&go traffic (I have a heavy foot), stereo lacks bass, Navi is sub-par compared to others & consistantly off actual car location, interior trim flaked, TPM system faults frequently and the VW dealer I dealt with was the actual worst dealer I have ever seen. After servicing anything on the car i always found something they damaged or did not replace/ fix to original condition! Fed up after only 10 months and traded for a acura with much better reliablity. Overall a very disappointing experience.

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  Cable Volkswagen at its best - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By NewVWownerJosh - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Dealership was awesome. Salesman was extremely nice, John was very knowledgeable. Did everything we ever needed. The SUV is amazing! we looked all over and this one just feels and drives the best.

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  AWESOME CAR!! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Jim Ryan - December 7 - 2:00 am

  This is most likely the greatest vehicle Ive ever purchased. The last car I owned was a 2002 Cadillac Escalade, and the Toureg beats it without any doubt. The first time I saw this car, I thought it was the Porsche Cayanne. But after test- driving both, I decided that I liked the Toureg better. Porcsche should stick to making cars... I reccomend buying this car for anyone looking for a mid size SUV under $45,000. Volkswagon has done it again!

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  Love my Tourareg Executive! - 2013 Volkswagen Touareg
  By vwbmwmbguy60 - December 1 - 9:04 pm

  This is my 2nd Tourareg, my first was a 2007. I bought the overloaded Executive V6 White/Cornsilk. I love all the enhancements they have made since 07. The build quality is exceptional and I have actually used most of the gadgets it comes with. It has a nice sporty look, 20" tires and it gives you great confidence while you drive, I feel safe and sound and in great comfort at all times. It feels like a completely different vehicle from my 07, much more refined and diginified. I just came out of a 2012 BMW X5 Diesel which I loved (this is my 60th car). I also have a 13 MB C63 Coupe and 13- BMW Z4 2.8 and I find myself driving this car as my daily driver. Huge bang for the buck! $$

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  A Car As it Should Be - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By StanVWMan - December 1 - 2:00 am

  I drove many late models and tested a bunch before buying VW T-g. Go with V8. It is a good feeling to drive one of the most powerful and safe cars on the road (counting some of the 18-wheelers too). Like with many others German- designed cars - it is a car "as it should be". Particularly, an SUV as it should be. Poor us, we just didnt know how admirable a real present-days SUV can be. And poor folks settling for so- called "reliable" Honda/Toyotas "SUVs". Touareg is a car that makes you want to get up in the morning and drive (ironically for some - to work, to earn the monthly payments). Over sudden, I have a new meaning in life

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  Very Impressed - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Jalan - December 1 - 2:00 am

  Have had the V-8 for 1 week and have gone on a road trip of 500 miles. I am very impressed with the smoth drive and handling of this SUV. My wife drives a Lexus RX-300 which is nice but not in the league of this vehicle. I looked at the BMW, Volvo and the new Infiniti, but am so glad I made the correct decision.

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  VERY NICE - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By BELAM - December 1 - 2:00 am

  Have owned my new VW for a month. The truck is awesome. Test drove all of the competitors and the power is unsurpassed. Interior is second to none.