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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  Awe-inspiring SUV - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By aj0684 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Its an absolutely gorgeous SUV inside and out. If you love VWs and desire an SUV like my wife and I, this is it. We lease an XC90 also and this rides better. Cant wait for the snow here in MI.

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  The Touareg-fantastic car - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By sides - January 24 - 10:00 am

  This car IS all that it is cracked up to be. The drive is excellent and and so is the luxurious inside. The GPS is great and really comes in handy. It is a a fantastic car due to its versatility. It is a fantastic luxury SUV as well as an excellent offroad car (Ive taken it offroad). The car has a very smooth drive and a lot of power. 310 horse! When you shift it into Sport mode (S) it really can fly. I think this car beats the FXs and the RX330 due to its versatility and price. You get a lot more for the money. The major downside of this car is the fuel efficiency.

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  DO NOT BUY! - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By worstcarever - January 23 - 4:50 pm

  This car was horrible! It was in the shop almost every week. VW dealerships never have the parts. I think I drove a loaner car more than I drove this car. After only 1 year, I rolled a bunch of negative equity into a new car, because I just couldnt put up with it anymore. MAJOR electrical problems. Headlights would totally go out, fuel pump and fuel pump manifold out, the list goes on and on. VW service, they arent helpful. Gas mileage is horrible. Navigation is way outdated, and requires a special DVD/CD that the manufacture rarely updates. I tried to get it updated, havent updated Colorado roads since 2006! Do not buy! You will be sorry!

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  This is Awesome! - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By K.B.S. - January 16 - 7:53 am

  This vehicle is great! The build quality and rigidity are excellent and it is more comfortable than my old Cadillac Escalade! The reliability has been excellent as well, though that is to be expected from a VW. I have had no problems whatsoever. I already have almost 7,000 miles on it and it runs very well. The gas mileage isnt perfect, but considering the fact that the vehicle is built better than a tank and tows 7,700 lbs, I dont mind. The V6 is not the most athletic of engines, but the V8 is too much for me and I couldnt justify paying almost $70,000 (with options) for the V10 TDI, but it has plenty of power and is very smooth, as is the tranny. Buy one! They dont fail to satisfy!

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  2500 mile review but great so far! - 2010 Volkswagen Touareg
  By San Diego Touareg - January 15 - 10:00 am

  Have had the SUV for only 2500 miles so far. My "dream vehicle", thanks sweetie! So my 2500 mile review: great ride with comfort, style and plenty of power! Bought the TDI for its towing capacity and gas mileage. Currenlty avg. 21 MPG for both city/highway driving. Bought the luxury and technology package and havent looked back. Ride is exceptional on highway. Great in the mountains! This is a ski mobile!! Took it up to Big Bear in S. California and was great. As with other reviews dont know why it doesnt have memory seating?? Very luxurious inside. Nicest vehicle weve owned by far. Inside is small as well as back seat. Dont think it will be a problem for family of 4.

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  Not impressed with VW Toureg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Johny25252 - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Not really impressed with the SUV for the price tag Acura MDX sounds much better. Brakes touchy, interior too complicated(Control Panel), Not enough storage space, Back seating is not specious as it should be, Trunk is tricky to open, due to its shape and the way of openning. Driving it is comfy but due to brakes being so tuchy it could be less fun on a big stop and go trafic. Not really satisfied with the vehicle

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  Missing Two Important Features - 2007 Volkswagen Touareg
  By AnshuNJ - January 4 - 3:00 am

  This is an amazing small SUV, but it does not come with built-in satellite radio (its not even an option). I dont like to use standalone dashboard-mounted satellite radio player. Also, the navigation system does not have voice recognition.

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  Brilliant SUV - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Henry20 - January 1 - 12:46 pm

  My parents bought me a VW Touareg as a welcome home gift from College this May. I was excited but at the same time apprehensive because I have heard/read that this SUV has many problems et al. I got it and me and my buddies went up to New Hampshire and it was the best automobile I have ever driven in my life(last car was a 2002 330i)! I had to take it in for a glitch in the airbag system and for a temperature gauge malfunction but have been tremendously satisfied with it! Superb road handling on wet, grueling, everything-nature-throws-at-you New Hampshire backroads and on the highways. I now have 12,500 miles on my Touareg, offroading and highway/city. Definately buy if you have the chance!

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  DO NOT BUY - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Mary C - December 27 - 1:13 am

  High expectations for this model turned into nothing but a series of problems. Drive shaft at 17,000 miles, remove and install prop shaft at 17,000, new stepper motor at 16,000 relocate antenna, replace rear hatch glass latch, 11,000 miles, remove and install differential motor 17,000, defective wheel on board notice on going finally installed new computer system, new tires first 15,000 miles. I could go on and on. The straw at 85,000 needs another drive shaft and possibly a differential, cost 2000 to 6000. Continuing vibration when driving went unaddressed until it was out of warranty. Volkswagen offered us 1500 towards the purchase of a new car. DO NOT PURCHASE A TOUREG!

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  Love the Touareg - 2006 Volkswagen Touareg
  By ellie - December 26 - 6:30 am

  Consumer Reports gave the Touareg V6 low ratings. Their reviews citing "sluggishness" do not consider the tiptronic shifting or "superdrive" options. It is not a racecar, but its performance is more than adequate. Also, I get 19-20mpg in 7,500-8,700ft mountainous terrain using high quality oil; its as good or better than comparable SUVs. Ice and snow on steep hills -- no problem; the Toureg outperforms our Subaru Outback on ice because of the locking differential and torque. The heated seats sure do help on cold mornings. For driving performance, there is very little lean around corners; I feel safe while driving and would recommend this truck to anyone.