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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  A bit disappointed - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Lisa - May 22 - 10:40 pm

  I bought my Touareg 11/2003, test drive many mid-sized suv and narrowed it down between Touareg and Acura MDX. Picked the Touareg because of style and V-8. I love the way it drives, easy to maneuver around town and great ride on the highway. BUT, the recalls and bells and whistle problems stink, its been to dealership many times. The tire pressure monitor goes off all the time, keyless entry system works on and off with no permanant fix, homelink replaced twice for an electrical short, have to keep programing the MFI door feature. Worried about after my warranty runs out and these problems continue. I have a low vin number. Thinking I should have bought the MDX. Love the V- 8 though.

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  Im impressed!!!! - 2011 Volkswagen Touareg
  By VW Driver - May 22 - 2:00 am

  This is my first SUV and 4th VW. I traded in my 07 GTI (really fun to drive, great gas mileage) for something less likely to get stuck in the snow and able to more capable for weekend trips. I was worried about the performance (corning, braking acceleration) but Im impressed that such a large SUV can move so quickly. ItÂ’s not a GTI but its great cruiser that doesnÂ’t complain when driving on twisty country roads. The panoramic sunroof is amazing!!!! The brakes are amazing and the touch screen NAV system is simple to use.

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  Cant keep it running - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By rustyII - May 18 - 2:00 am

  Its been in the shop more time (almost) than in my garage. QC saddly lacking. Engine quits unexpectedly. 6-cylinder engine hopelessly underpowered, even going uphill at freeway speeds. The goofy transmission hunts and pecks endlessly to find the right gear and has to rev the engine very high to get where it wants to go. Styling doesnt wear well either. Its looking more like a typical bar-of-soap car every time I look at it. Even the leather is showing wear and tear and is beginning to look cheap. And this is only 6-months old!! VW should concentrate on making cheap bugs and stay out of marked segments where it doesnt belong.

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  Too Much for too Little - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By JHK - May 16 - 6:53 am

  This truck is supposedly built on the Porsche Cayenne platform. It is okay, but it came from the factory with alignment problems that VW knew about, ignored, and refused to pay for. This ate up the crappy tires it came equipped with. It also has crappy brakes with poor stopping power despite ABS - Ive had many near misses. Buy a car the manufacturer stays behind. There are better options out there for the money.

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  Fisrt & Last VW - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By FLA.T-REG - May 13 - 4:50 am

  My VW experience has been horrible. I have finally given up on taking it back to the dealer for warranty issues because the problems are always there after the visit. Their response when I asked if they got everything taken care of was "couldnt duplicate the problem" or "onboard computer didnt show any issues." Well, let me tell you something, Im surprised that someone hasnt been killed (maybe they have and Im not aware) due to driving these defective vehicles. Specifically, I refer to pulling / merging into traffic and having it "fall on its nose" when you try to accelerate! This is my biggest issue with the vehicle, however I have also had all the malfunctioning warning signals, etc.

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  Horrible car - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Terrible - May 7 - 3:53 am

  I have so many problems with this car. The brakes scream every time I step on them. Just recently when ever I turn (what sounds like the fan belt) rattles when I turn. The seats are not comfortable, If you have a family and use the back seat a lot you might as well by a boulder to drive because it feels like your riding on one. I dont think the new ones are much better.

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  2005 Touareg V8 Review - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By gabbott - April 11 - 10:33 pm

  I absolutely love this car and cant wait for the V6 diesel to reach the states. I have driven the Touareg V6 diesel (overseas) and all I can say is wow. 30+ mpg and lots of torque. I compare my Touareg to my brothers 2 X5s (both diesel, 2006 & 2008). The interior layout of the Touareg is far beyond the BMW. Even my brother agrees. The newer larger X5 is a disappointment compared to the older body style. The Touaregs styling is better than both X5s. The Touareg coming in as a overweight still handles very well. The suspension does a very good job of keeping the car at its optimum performance level. The sound of the V8 is quit p;easing. I have gotten 20 MPG on the hwy at 72 MPH.

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  Cant Love it Enough! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Rose Garden - April 11 - 2:00 am

  We could not find another car like this one. As an SUV it has everything I want.

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  great suv - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By maxfactor - April 6 - 2:00 am

  This toureg is just what i have been looking for.Offroading,cruising,and still has that bgreat luxury feel.No wonder it won motor trend suv of the year!

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  My best friend on the road.. - 2013 Volkswagen Touareg
  By sumeet - April 2 - 9:52 pm

  Consumer reviews at Edmunds have been a factor in my decision making to purchase cars. I felt obliged to return this favor but was patient to write my first review. Now with 10000 miles driven on my new Touareg purchased last October , I am so happy with this SUV. To start with , simplified three levels of trim made it simple to determine which one fits my need ( X5 packages were so confusing). Driven it all over the bay area hilly terrain in wet and dry weather. The performance and handling is simply awesome. The torque makes highway merging and overtaking so easy. Its engine is super silent with stellar performance.It gives me about 29 mpg in 70/30 hwy/city. BTW, my daughter loves it too..