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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  Should I buy a VW? - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By pmichaelis - June 26 - 6:30 am

  I traded a pickup for the V6 Touareg and have been happy with the choice. Its equipped with premium pkg, Xenons, tow hitch, parking aids. So far mileage has been acceptable, 15 mpg local and 19+ on Garden State Parkway. Having read of workmanship problems with early release models, I was wary of purchasing. Currently, it has been trouble free and a very acceptable mode of transport. One of the reasons for my purchase was its towing capacity, 7000+ lbs. Everyone who has ridden with me has liked the ride, quality and handling. Acceleration is adequate for a V6 engine and braking is superb. My automotive points of reference, we also own a 2004 BMW 330Ci and a 1997 Porsche 993C2S.

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  Awesome SUV - 2010 Volkswagen Touareg
  By HMB - June 25 - 5:20 am

  Its more than what I expected in an SUV. Ive owned GM all of my life, 4 to be fact, and I will never return to GM ever. This vehicle has so much power hidden under its hood. I purchased with the 19" Wheels in December and never worried about getting stuck in the snow, in fact it seemed that I had total command of the road driving in 6" of slush and never once loss control. I looked at the Arcadia, Q7, Cheyenne and CX90 and my VW has them beat hands down in Price, Performance and Fuel Economy. 28 to 34 MPG on the highway, but only 12 in the city. After 12,000 miles in just under 6 months the gas Ive saved while on the road has made a Huge impression on my GM Buddies.

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  First Year for Touareg - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Mary Lou King - June 24 - 9:16 pm

  For such a bulky vehicle (I have to fold in mirrors to get in garage), I am very cramped with the drivers seat all the way back (64"/230 lbs). It is hard to see left or right rear by turning in the drivers seat. The owners manual does NOT describe how to set the dash clock. I had to go to two dealerships (7 sales persons and three mechanics before the clock could be set). I e-mailed VW about the clock and NEVER received an answer. This truck gets very poor gas mileage (about 13 mpg) for a 6-cylinder. there is no immediate response from the gas pedal when starting out. Access to the engine appears restricted due to the intake manifold (?) covering top of engine. Ill find out for sure when its time to take a wrench to it.

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  All About Style - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By tosram - June 7 - 12:26 am

  Since I bought this car I have had two problems with it problems and now I need to turn it in for recalls (more than one). Repairs on this model are expensive.

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  Love this SUV - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By fsonline - June 1 - 8:43 am

  Its surprising to me to see in a recent magazine that the Touareg is rated as a "vehicle to avoid." I find the build quality, the ride, the power, and the comfort all to be way above par, even over Passats, and Lexus LS400s Ive owned. All issues that I have had with this truck were immediatley handled by the dealership and resolved as expected...and as part of the new model (at the time,) experience. Its a shame that VW, a company with great ideas, is becoming a notch above their "niche" despite the results, which are superb.

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  My Engine Just Blew - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By V6 2007 Treg - May 31 - 7:40 pm

  Car is at the dealer and waiting for a new engine. 4 months left on the lease and I cant wait to give it back.

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  Great and smooth ride on &off the road - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By AAA_AAA - May 31 - 10:00 am

  Have the car for 2 weeks, great ...

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  Love the v-10....No belts or chains - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By LUKE - May 29 - 7:03 am

  This has to be the best S.U.V. That i have ever drove. The fact that it has a fully geared engine is awesome!! To think the only vehicle like it, is a military vehicle. What a car

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  Professional and Sharp - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By MARGARET ADEBAYO - May 25 - 5:00 pm

  The Volkswagen Touareg is a strong and fast truck. It handles the road with ease. The brakes and safety features are great. The only thing I dislike about this truck is its poor gas mileage.

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  Its a shame - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By rwm - May 24 - 12:53 pm

  Its a shame the electronics are so bad. Its a shame the head lamps dont last very long. Its a shame you need a mortgage to pay for and oil change -- not to mention service in general. Its a shame the brakes dont last and require new rotors when changed. Its a shame nothing seems to get a complete fix. Its a shame VW didnt do a much better job on reliability.