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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  Awsome SUV for the Money - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jforr - November 3 - 9:56 pm

  The Touareg provides the best in on road performance combined with the best on off road performance as well. It is quiet and refined on the highway and has excellent turning radius for its size. The Touareg is by far the best value for a premium SUV.

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  The Touraeg deserves a serious look - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Touraeg Fan - October 31 - 10:00 am

  VW has really built a wonderful vehicle with the Touraeg. The ride, noise level (or lack thereof), interior layout, easy to read gauges and thoughtfull "extras" are outstanding. Its 4 wheel capabilities are awsome. We recently had it on a long road trip and found that the ride and handling were so good we were not nearly as tired, etc. from a long day of driving. Overall we love this car.

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  Niggles - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Captain Bob - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Overall I am pleased with the Touareg, although I still havent figured out why VW have adopted the curious pronunciation of the name for the US market. Complaints: After less than 3000 miles the "step up" motor needed replacing (diff. problem) didnt they launch this car in Europe some time ago? Why are there still problems? 2nd key should set the drivers seat to the 2nd driverÂ’s position, it doesnt. 7 months later one of the largest automakers is "working on it." Sure! The Homelink is impossible to program, same answer. The windshield mists up if the inside and outside temps are too disparate. Why on earth isnt the diesel going to be available in CA?

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  A complete Vehicle - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By arash1972 - October 26 - 10:00 am

  I just traded in my 2002 BMW 330 coupe for V8 Touareg. The car handles and accelerates like the beamer. Ride is naturally more comfortable, very quite. The interior is very luxurious with high quality material. I test drove X5 and FX45 before I opted for this car. The 6000lb gross weight and tax deduction is a great bonus on Touareg. I bought the car brand new at $2500 bellow invoice price (because of time of the year) and got a great price on my trade in ($1500 more than other dealers were offering). I sent my offer to 6 local dealers through E-mail. I choose the one who gave me the best trade in value. Mountain VW of Denver were very accomodateing.

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  A Drivers Vehicle - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Leon Rubinstein - October 20 - 7:36 pm

  Bought for wife,in truth I wanted it. Drove older one last year and read of problems and waited til now. Drove it on dirt, thru sand, mud, high speed drift on dirt, on soaked grass covered with water,etc, salesman turned white, to me outstanding. Waited til now to buy.In younger days drove sport cars,Jags, was top driver in SCCA with a back door sponsorship and a factory built race car. Not a problem,wife and kids love it especially when it gets dark out and the dash light come on,all those colors. I dont care about gas mileage,am sure my wife will advise me about it. My daughter,17,now going to Univ.in upper NY State,we live in FL,I asked her if she wanted one of these after her first year.

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  Nice Truck - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Djsamy - October 17 - 4:50 pm

  The 2007 Touareg V6 has a nice ride. Its a smooth truck and a beast in the snow.

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  Great Car - Aweful Value - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By John - October 13 - 3:56 am

  I bought a 07 Touareg a little over a year ago. At first I was very happy. But after a year a lot started happening to it. Little things... But what topped it over, after 34k miles I now have to drop 1700 for 4 new breaks and rotters. Buyer beware... if you buy a touareg you will be dropping a ton of money in it to keep it up - do yourself a favor - go buy a Acura or a Toyota... Stay away from the Touareg and your wallet will appreciate it...

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  Touareg - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Mary - October 12 - 10:40 pm

  Handles like a sports car with SUV room and feel.

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  Toureg Tough on Kids - 2010 Volkswagen Touareg
  By McDonald NC - October 11 - 6:20 am

  Ive had the Toureg for 7 months. Great for an individual or for a couple. But, the back seats are very erect and my kids wont get in the car unless were traveling less that an hour. Just not comfortable in the back seat. Also, when I lock the car with the key fob the alarm goes off about 50% of the time -- very frustrating especially when with a customer. Lastly, I am forced to use Flow Volkswagen for service-- Unbelievlably bad service. In summary, a great ride but my kids avoid it, no trunk space, and the local dealer is a nightmare. Will be selling or trading soon.

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  The best SUV for the money - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Siggi - October 6 - 10:00 am

  One of the best SUVs on the market for the money at the present time.