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:
Showing 951 through 960 of 979.00-
perfect for anything - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By miron - February 28 - 10:00 ami ve compared this car to MDX, X5, RX 330, GX 470, FX 45 and XC 90. There was one single category where vw was underperforming . As you expected it is 14-18 mpg. In any other aspect Touareg is equal or better than the best of above cars. i,m thankful to folks from vw for eliminatig 99% of reasons not to have an suv
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watch out BMW, Infiniti, Lexus.. TOUAREG - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By eggyacid - February 22 - 10:00 amWell, i was in the market for a new SUV and i looked at the following... BMW X5, Infiniti FX45, Lexus RX330 and VW Touareg V8. Oh my God, there is no comparisson.... After driving a V8 Touareg, that was it.. Sign the paper and purchased the car. X5, FX45 and RX330 watch out, there is new cat in town. Jeff V8, Nav, Xenon, Convinence Package
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FUN!! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By todd doise - February 22 - 10:00 amGreat vechicle to drive. Ive gotten at least a dozen compliments from people on the road. Powerful V8 and very responive on corners. Cant wait for the snow out here on the Front Range.
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Love my Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By laxcheeks - February 22 - 10:00 amThis SUVW is tremendous. I have had nothing but enjoyment since the day I brought it home. Rides like a sedan in comfort mode and like a sporst car in sport mode. If you dont take a hard look at the VW you are selling yourself short.
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THE BEST SUV EVER BUILT!!! - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By jasontiani - February 22 - 10:00 amTHIS IS PURE PEFECTION AT ITS BEST. VW DEFINATELY HIT THE NAIL ON THE HEAD WITH THIS ONE. THERE IS NOT ANOTHER SUV OUT THERE THAT IS THIS FUN TO DRIVE AND CAPABLE OF GOING OFF ROAD AS THIS. THIS IS WITHOUT A DOUBT THE BEST SUV EVER BUILT!!!
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After owning the Touareg for over a year - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By lhoward - February 20 - 10:20 pmThis was my favorite of all time vehicle to own...for about a month. Before purchasing be well informed and do much investigating. Visit both nhtsa.dot.gov and peruse the complaints. I would also suggest the Forums on this site: visit the VW Touareg: Problems & Solutions forum for more insight before investing in this vehicle. This model has some very serious problems some of which involve safety that are not being acknowledged.
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Great Automobile - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By Gary - February 16 - 2:03 pmI did a little research before purchase. The problems some people were experiencing were frightening. After a test drive I was hooked. The only problems Ive had was to replace windshield wipers and balance 19" tires. Oh, console squeaks a little when the cockpit is cold. Driven to Florida from Texas effortlessly at high rate of speed (two speeding tickets). Excellent vehicle 8600 miles and counting. If you are considering this vehicle invest in radar detector. The Touareg is a joy to drive.
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VW Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By kevin gill - February 16 - 2:00 amNow dont let the name fool you its one of the best lux suvs out there! Edmonds says its a crossover but no crossover handels this well off road. The only thing that I wouldnt mind being changed on the Touareg is the name.
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Fantastic Value - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By DBY - February 16 - 2:00 amHave had our Touareg for about 6 weeks now. What a great vehicle. All the "bells and whistles" you could ever want at a great price (compared to competition). Subtle exterior styling, incredible interior fit and finish. Long time (and current) BMW owner and was looking at the BMW X5 (great vehicle also). But when comparing price & features, VW won by a landslide.
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SMOOOOOTH........ - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By Nick Rx - February 9 - 2:00 amJust purchaced Touareg after much research, and I am happy to say that It exceeded my expectations. The V6 has plenty of pep (even with 5 passengers) and the transmission shifts smoothly. The car handles smooth and has a great turning radius..The dash looks like an airplane at night..Just came out of an Infinity QX4 and there is no comparison in room and luxury.. Upgraded stereo is awesome..Good job VW.....
