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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  Better than the Rover! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By MaryLee Hollis - July 25 - 6:20 am

  I had two Land Rovers, first the Discovery, then the Range Rover. There is no comparison between them and the Touareg. Ive had this truck for two years and with the exception of regular maintenance, I have had NO problems. Its a smart, sexy vehicle that is great to drive. I also dont feel like Im in a "mom car." I would love a few more amenities, like in BMWs, such as the trunk closure with a button, etc., but overall, this truck is a a 10.

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  BEAUTIFUL - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By MYMAL - July 19 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is absolutely beautiful all around. unique design in and out, with a gorgeous interior (have it in the Teak color & blk exterior, V8). Very quiet drive for an suv, amazing with the air suspension, feels like a sports car in the handling, has options galore included with the V8 model. I love it and have not had any problems at all. Would definitely appreciate better fuel economy, an auto-trunk open and close (b/c its heavy) but otherwise very pleased with the VW Touareg!

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  Great all around SUV - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Dustin123 - July 19 - 10:00 am

  A great all around SUV that fits our needs. We can load up the family and dog wih plenty of room. We can also put down the seats and load up on construction material from the local home center. Monster power from the V8 engine. Excellent performance on the road and off-road.

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  Quality, Comfort and Looks - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By aztrader - July 19 - 10:00 am

  I spent weeks going over Carlike SUVs and was debating between the VW, Volvo or Acura. The Volvo was too much money with the V-6 engine, but a very nice ride, the Acura had the power, but the interior felt cheap, but the VW, had the luxurious interior and loads of power with the V-8. My only complaint is the gas mileage. Very fun to drive.

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  Great SUV needs refinement - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Giminetti - July 19 - 10:00 am

  A great all around performer. Good looks still turn heads, Impressive towing capacity, European sedan like ride, handling, and sound dampening. After looking for a solid vehicle that could tow my boat and be an every day driver, I couldnt find anything that came close.

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  Torture - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Barnacle Bill - July 5 - 10:00 am

  A gorgeous SUV promising lots but one major problem. The armrests in the forward doors chafe the arms of anybody over five foot eleven. Really, really annoying and stopped the buying right there and then.

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  CROSS USA/CANADA TEST DRIVE - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By SUVW - July 5 - 10:00 am

  Through the good graces of my friend, who owns the local VW dealer (free plug: Montesi VW, North Haven, CT), I was able to pick up my new Touareg at the port and proceed to take a cross country adventure with my kids for almost the entire summer. We gave the Touareg a good test, driving 10,600 miles over six weeks, about 200 of those off-road. All I can say is that when I find a woman I like as much as this car, Ill consider a relationship. Thoroughly fun on road and off-smooth at speeds of 100mph, and the Nav system is fantastic. I ran into a Cayenne owner who was dismayed that he didnt wait for the Touareg. Need I say more?

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  Bought the wrong Vehicle - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By bleyaert - July 3 - 1:20 pm

  I picked the VW over the Acura MDX and Lexus. I thought it was cooler and more sporty. Had I known how unreliable it would be I never would have leased it. The automatic climate control would stop functioning after about two hours of driving. On long road trips, I freeze when it is cold and roast when it is hot. Just what I wanted from a $38,000 vehicle. VW cant find the problem. The front tires are showing excessive wear on the inside edge. VW service admits to seing the problem on other Touaregs, but doesnt know the cause. The "check headlight range control" warning light required three trips to the dealer to get fixed.

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  After 1 year with a used 2004 Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Turtle - July 3 - 11:56 am

  Absolutely a blast of a car to own. Fun to drive under any conditions. This car/truck has done anything Ive asked of it (off or on road). It hauls my gear and dog anywhere. While the interior has a few faults, its close in design and quality to my Audi and thats saying a lot. Yes its expensive to maintain; like any German car Ive owned. But there are a lot of resources out there to find deals and support from other owners. If youre buying a used Touareg buy the best extended warranty you can find. My repairs have been consistent with a 5 year old car but Im protected to some extent with a warranty. So in sum the most flexible car Ive ever owned and an utter pleasure to drive.

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  2004 Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
  By Bill - June 12 - 2:16 pm

  Really enjoy the handling, the sound system and the performance of the vehicle. I had to relearn how to drive because it is not very hard to average 7 miles per gallon if you accelerate quickly often.