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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  The Best 4WD - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Gregory Chalet - August 11 - 10:06 pm

  The 2006 Volkswagen Touareg V8 is probably the most fun truck to drive. It rides very smoothly ( you dont realize you are driving 80 mph). It has no wind, road, or engine noise. It is very pacious and has a solid and luxurious feel. It has a lot of features that I really enjoy and that makes the driving experience a real delight. It is a German engineered ride at a lesser price!

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  An SUV That Can Take You Anywhere - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By docj - August 8 - 8:10 am

  We bought this SUV so my wife, a nurse, could get to work regardless of the weather. It has consistently demonstrated it can do that in some absolutely horrible conditions. We have a set of winter wheels with Pirelli Scorpion studless ice and snow tires for it and it can go just about anywhere. In good weather it is a fun SUV to drive; in sport mode it can beat most vehicles off the line. Youd never know you had 5,000 pounds under you. Reading other reviews I have no idea why people have been complaining of tire or brake life. Make sure the wheels are aligned and select tires carefully. Initial reliability was poor but has improved a lot;not cheap to fix--$1,100 for timing belt!

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  Touareg LEMON - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By pe02 - August 7 - 10:00 am

  I purchased a V6 Touareg last October and have had MULTIPLE problems with it. The keyless entry system does not always work. The homelink has been replaced, the computer board for the convenience menu failed. The brakes sound like an 18 wheeler. I had $400. mudflaps put on that are now stained from the bolts that hold them on that have rusted. The radio has a software problem that I am told that VW has no answers for and the CD player freezes at various tomes and you cannot get the cd out. I have contacted VW many times with no response. DO NOT BUY A VW, THEY DO NOT STAND BEHIND THEIR LEMONS

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  Touareg in Fort Worth - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By CowtownTouareg - July 25 - 12:00 pm

  My Touaregs gas mileage is OK, about 16 city and 20 highway. The V6 engine is smooth, quiet, and accellerates well, though it frequently upshifts. The leather interior quality is superb. Its quiet and comfortable. It has Package 4 including the upgraded stereo (fantastic) and navigation, which Im addicted to. Overall I think the Touareg is a great vehicle and I would buy one again. Its the best SUV Ive owned and feels very safe, which it is. My next Touareg may be a V8. Its frequently more than 100 degrees here in the summer and the A/C works extremely well and cools the car very quickly, and mine is black with tan leather. The rear view camera in the navigation system works great, even at night. It is a real lifesaver!

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  Major Issues - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By ttrag - July 24 - 12:43 am

  I have had my car into the shop multiple times for issues with the computer and they can not seem to get them straight. Most recently I have had to replace the brakes (including the rotors). I was told by someone in the service department that this was very common and that there were a lot of "Unhappy Touareg Customers". I was basically told that I would have to spend $1,500 dollars every two years on the brakes with this car. To add to this...when I called into Volkswagens customer care department and was told that the problem was merely related to my driving habits. I have children or pets in my vehicle most of the time and I assure you that my driving habits are average at most.

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  Constant Brake Squeal - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By carb1776 - July 23 - 6:10 am

  I looked a many SUVs like the Tribeca, Sante Fe, CR-V and choose the VW because of the leg room and comfortable ride. With 4,900 miles I regret not buying a Honda, Toyota or Nissan. I have had a brake squeal every time the brakes are applied and the VW dealer says its normal and part of the brake design. Im embarrassed to drive anyone in my vehicle. $35,000+ is a lot of money to let a vehicle sit in the driveway. You wont find a vehicle with better comfort or handling but the trade-off is the brake squeal. Its annoying and I am filing a Lemon Law complaint if it cant be fixed. I wont buy another VW again.

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  Dont pass up a chance to drive one! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By spockcat - July 12 - 10:00 am

  This car is FAR, FAR superior to the 99 ML430 I traded in. The ride is absolutely awesome and smooth with the air suspension in comfort mode or nimble and quick in sport mode. The comfort of the Nappa leather is fantastic. The 310 hp Audi 40 valve V8 makes this a super highway cruiser. This is by far the best value SUV being sold today. These features in an Audi would cost you $10k more, and $20k more in the Porsche Cayenne.

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  We love our new Touareg! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By steve maller - July 12 - 10:00 am

  We get more looks and positive comments in this car than any other car weve ever driven. The car is a great value, and we couldnt be more pleased.

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  Nice vehicle - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Karree McCarter - July 6 - 6:00 pm

  Great car, only draw back is living in a small town with limited Volkswagen mechanics.

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  excellent value - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By touaregfan - July 6 - 2:00 am

  Its been a (happy) month since I got my Touareg. The initial built quality is excellent. It looks much better (inside and out) than X5 and is a real SUV when compared to FX35. No major complaints so far.