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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  Attention Ralph Nader - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Ted - July 15 - 2:53 am

  The Touareg is possibly the worst car of the modern era. There is a Horse Drawn Wagon that circles our city square that has proven more reliable than my Touareg. The problem I am experiencing is no reasonable dealer will take this vehicle on trade. I am essentially stuck with the vehicle and the $100 oil changes, $1400 dollar yearly brake jobs and constant need for premium gas. Which gets pricey considering this vehicle has the fuel efficiency of a HUMMER. Despite the hit on my resale, I dont want anyone else to get stuck with a Touareg. Frankly, I hope Volkswagen stops makings them - and I can sell mine to a museum.

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  The best and the worst - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Midlander - July 14 - 10:00 am

  Its the best vehicle I have ever owned if all works well, but 23 days of service in the first six months of ownership annihilates the pleasure. A seemingly endless series of quality problems is met with mediocre service and VWs inability to timely get replacement parts.

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  A Very Capable & Comfortable SUV - 2013 Volkswagen Touareg
  By jabteb - July 8 - 6:35 pm

  This is a very capable and comfortable SUV. TDI provides loads for power for effortless acceleration and cruising. On the road, it has great manners with precision steering and a nice road feel. In the snow and gunk 4 Motion provides super secruity. The 8 speed transmission is extremely smooth and when coupled with the TDI accelerates quickly to expressway cruising speeds. The ride is smooth and quiet with little cabin noise. Leather seating is fits the body like a glove. I only have 1500 miles on it but mileage is around 26 MPG real world with about 2/3 highway and 1/3 town. Ive already seen the advertised 29 MPG on the highway and it isnt even broke in yet.

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  at the garage al the time - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By gabor - July 7 - 10:00 am

  We loved the design and many other things. However, this car is at the garage all the time. The warning message comes up all the time , falsely stating that the tires are flat, or we shud check tire pressure. The break lights failed, then the radio/ nav system failed (they put in a new one, now we cant get certain chanels), then the hazard switch could not be turned off and neede replacing etc. We did 10000 miles and already need new tires. Tomorrow is the fifth time within 10 days that I am going to the garage...

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  Volkswagen doesnt back up its Toureg! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Arthur O Wilkonson - July 3 - 7:03 pm

  This truck has been a disaster! It has been to the dealer 30 to 40 times in the 2 years Ive owned it. It apparently cant be repaired (mechanical and computer problems), is nearing the end of its warranty period and Volkswagen has told us thats simply too bad - once we are out of the warranty period we are on our own. Ill never own another Volkswagen and I am relaying my story to as many people in the Midwest as I can.

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  Unhappy with my Touareg - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By julesvw - July 2 - 10:00 am

  I have less than 1000 miles on this, and have had numerous problems. Its already had a CD player replaced, different warning lights come on, and stay on. Its had to be towed to the dealership because it wouldnt start. Overall I would NOT recommend this vehicle to anyone. I have always driven a Volkswagen, and this is my first unhappy experience. I am also very unhappy about my "default" settings in the computer of this vehicle. It keeps locking my doors at inappropraite times. The brakes are squishy, and the drive is erratic. Its also a bit sluggish even though its a V8.

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  VW Experience - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Larry - July 1 - 8:16 am

  Compared to many others, the appearance caught my eye when shopping for a vehicle. Had planned to buy Toyota, but couldnt deal, and salesman was easy to talk to and arrange a deal when we bought both Touareg and Jetta for cash, no trade. Purchased both and drove home from Saskatoon to BC. Several recalls dealt with at Vernon VW, with staff there just the best! Hard on tires - 4th set at 112000 km! At 114000 both fuel pumps failed - go figure. Vernon VW replaced with goodwill partial warranty. Hope nothing else goes!

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  Poor Performance for 310HP v-8 - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By KJ1128 - June 18 - 10:00 am

  Very poor performance off the line for a v-8, Seems to spend most of its energy shifting through the gears (six speed). Leave plenty of room before you pulling out in front of on going traffic!!! Or it can get scary. My Toyota V-6 will run circles around it. No way to open the hatch with a manual key. Hatch locks evertime you close it. If I want it locked, Id like to be the one to do it!! Lose the rear head rest - driver cant see over them. Funky key - should detach the FOB from the key.

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  Lost of Electronic Problems - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Touareg Man - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my V8 Touareg on Columbus Day, and it has been back to the dealer 3 times in 830 miles. All the problems (several of them) relate to the onboard computer systems (check engine light, running gear, gear selector, tire monitoring system, ESP, limp home gear).

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  TOUAREG - ANYWAY YOU SAY IT - WOW - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By MILES - June 12 - 2:00 am

  BEST OF THE BEST WHEN IT COMES TO PERFORMANCE SUVS. THIS IS A POWERPACKED GERMAN ENGINEERED TOURING SUV THAT DRIVES LIKE A DREAM.