2005 Volkswagen Touareg Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.19/5 Average
194 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Touareg's standard V6 engine goes from 220 hp to 240 hp. The optional navigation system will change from CD-based to DVD-based later in the model year. The formerly standard tire-pressure monitoring system is now optional, and satellite radio is available across the board. A self-dimming rearview mirror debuts this year, along with newly styled 18-inch alloy wheels.

Pros:
  • Upscale interior, polished road manners, true off-road capability, solid construction, lengthy standard equipment list.
Cons:
  • Lousy fuel economy, not a lot of room in the backseat, no in-dash CD changer.

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 194.00
  • A great Volkswagen - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
    By -

    This vehicle replaced a pickup used for boat towing and general transportation. It has proven to be an outstanding choice with its great towing capacity and comfortable ride. Contrary to earlier reports of excessive problems, the 2005 model appears to have resolved the problems. While the acceleration is not blinding, it is adequate, the seating comfort is first rate as is the design and workmanship. The winter performance was a non-event with no problems encountered and no indications of impending difficulties. Highway travel is comfortable and mileage is acceptable at 20 mpg, 16 mpg around town.

  • DO NOT BUY THIS CAR - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
    By -

    The Touareg on paper looks like the ultimate SUV: excellent perfomance on pavement and unbelievable off road ablility. The problem: it will be in the shop so often you will not be able to experience this theoretical performance very often. Over the first year of owning this car I have had multiple problems: stepper motor malfunction, poor remote range, door handle fell off, bizarre deafening fan noise that I was told is "normal", persistent wind noise from side mirrors, and others. And going to a VW dealer for repairs is no joy. They have no clue about customer service. The attitude of the service dept. is accusatory at best- like i caused all of the quality control problems. STAY AWAY TOUAREG.

  • Just traded mine in for a Turbo Outback - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
    By -

    After many recalls, and many problems, I finally gave in and traded mine in. Took a big hit, but it was well worth it. My new car has 12,000 on it, and hasnt been to the dealer yet. VW made a great looking SUV that test drives well, but is terrible to live with. Their service department isnt up to the standards set by other manufacturers in this price range. I owned a Saab previously, and although it spent too much time in the shop, the service dept was knowledgeable and always had a loaner. Bottom line, getting rid of my Touareg was worth it (simply so I wouldnt be reminded of my poor buying decision every day).

  • Sad owner - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
    By -

    I had no idea it would eat tires every year! Gas mileage was known, but gas wasnt $4.50 at the time. Its been in the shop so much, my wife wants me to sell it now! Service sucks, they cant order the correct parts half the time so we have to go back multiple times for stupid stuff. I will NEVER buy another VW again. I tried, and it was a failure. They say the car is heavy and thats why it eats tires. B.S. My dad has a huge van loaded with his contractor stuff (much heavier than the Touareg) and he gets 30k miles no problem. I think its the 4WD system chewing up the tires. Im actively looking at a replacement even though it will cost me $. I like to keep cars 12+ years but not this time

  • love it - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
    By -

    I bought my VW with 24000 and know I have 60000. I dove it from Texas to Chicago with no problems. It is a very expensive SUV to fix, but if you change your own oil, or buy your own parts its way cheaper. Tires are the worst. I still cant find a place that to get them changed. They run from 700 to 2000 dollars.

  • Electronic nightmare - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
    By -

    Not one of VWs best efforts. Has been in the shop for warranty work seven times in less than one year - all related to the vehicles electronic warning systems. Confusing and overly complicated instrumentation/cabin controls. Abysmal gas mileage, very limited tire life - 12-15000 miles, odd size tires that very few dealers stock. Cant wait to get rid of it but none of the local dealers will touch it on a trade- in. Was offered $10,000 trade in value on a new Accord.

  • James F. Paronto - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
    By -

    I have enjoyed the pleasure of driving this quality vehicle. Other than the Pirelli tires, the vehicle has been very reliable. However, if some problem does manifest itself, VW dealer has been most helpful in correcting the problem. I would think Volkswagon would take some responsibility for the lack of wear and realibility of these tires since it was VWs engineers that chose these tires for the production line. Stepping away from the tire issue is not a good way to resolve the issue.

  • Terrible Never Buy Again!!! - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
    By -

    This is the worst vehicle I have ever owned. I would never buy a VW again. The electrical issues are overwhelming. With 3,218 miles I traded it on a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee. I lost a lot of money on the deal because of all the issues with the VW Touareg.

  • First Impressions - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
    By -

    Purchased VW Touareg after much study and comparison shopping. Considered MB ML, Accura MDX, Cadillac SRX, Lexus RX 330, Porsche Cayenne. Immediately put 3000 interstate miles on it; mileage now 8000 as car was like new demonstrator at time of purchase, due to limited availability. Never owned an SUV before; did this with much trepidation but so far no buyers remorse as Touareg appears to deliver on its promises. Reliability yet to be determined.

  • Best SUV - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
    By -

    I have owned many cars and suvs (mercedes, porsche, range rover, bmw,lexus,etc.) It takes a lot in a car to impress me and I can say that this is the most impressive SUV and one of the most impressive vehicles I have ever owned. The build quality and performance are great. It is a vehicle that may not have the eminence of a range rover, but the range rover wishes it could perform all around as well as this vehicle does. Yes there are a few flaws: like no third row and the smelly messy diesel pumps. This is by far one of the best if not the best suv on the planet. you get all of this with an average fuel economy of 22mpg. VW did their homework.

Volkswagen Touareg Reviews By Year:
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