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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Love My Touareg - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By Donald Tretler - November 4 - 8:50 amMy Touareg is a terrific looker, bold, strong, bright and Colorado Red. Not a day goes by that someone doesnt remark about how sharp she looks. She is comfortable, solid and well built. The ride is great, she handles well, just hugs the road. Visibility is good. So far she has been great in snow and I drive from NH to FL with less fatigue. The sound system is quite good, everything works and I have not had anything go wrong. I love my Touareg!!
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First Year / Bad Year - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By tybox1 - October 7 - 2:00 amI purchased the touareg and loved it for the first week then all hell broke loose, electircal problems, battery dieing, front seats had imperfections,paint was damaged by wraping for shipping, spots will not come of from the plastic and foam. My Touareg has been in the shop at least 11 times and I am requesting VW under the lemon law act a replacement. Signed Upset Mr.Jenifer
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Touareg - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By Bob - October 4 - 3:10 amMANY flaws at delivery. Tires last only 14000 miles @$1150/set! Too electronically complicated.
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X5 Beater - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By badjoujou - September 20 - 10:00 amI took me alomost a month to decide between the VW and the X5. Boy did I make the right call. Other than a little pep off the line the VW holds its own with the Bimmer and then some. VW has better AWD system and suspension and is just a blast to drive. If you are looking for an SUV that handles exit ramps at 80+ and can go off road, this is the place to be.
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Good SUV - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By Eric - August 22 - 11:13 amI bought the 2005 VW Touareg one year ago and it has not failed to live up to my expectations. The handling is great and the interior is above average. I like the interior because it looks like a spaceship. The only thing that needs to be improved upon is when you push the gas it will shake a bit and as always the gas millage should be improved (450 till empty when you actually get 300 miles a tank).
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No Big Problems - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By Pat - August 20 - 1:16 amI bought the V6 Touareg before too many reviews were available. I havent had the little problems that others report. I have experienced a loud strange noise from the front axles a couple of times. Overall I am happy with the truck. I am very unhappy with the cost of service from my local dealer. Oil changes and some lubrication cost over $200.00! I cant understand that. My service is now being done by an independent mechanic.
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UPSET WITH DEALER SHIP - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By WADE CAUSEY - August 19 - 2:00 amTHE RACKS ON THE TOP OF CAR MAKE NOISE SO BAD IT SOUNDS LIKE THE CAR IS ABOUT TO FALL APART. THE VIBRATIONS ARE OVERWHELMING. TAKE THE RACKS OFF AND THE TOUAREG LOOKS BAD. NO HELP FROM DEALERSHIP ON THIS MATTER. NAVIGATION SYSTEM PAID FOR BUT NO CDS.. ALL WE GET ARE EXCUSES.. HAD CAR SINCE DECEMBER 2003.
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Love / Hate of a V10 TDI Touareg - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By Gary - August 16 - 12:13 pmThe 2004 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI is an absolute blast to drive, the V10 engine can only be described as a torque monster. Throw in mid-20s for gas mileage and you have a great package. But...the thing has been back to the dealership every other month for a host of recurring and random problems ranging from repeated air bag faults to vibrations to interior trim that cracks in cold temperatures to power loss at speed. Needless to say, a great package has been marred by a dreadful reliability record. Unfortunately I cant tolerate the lack of reliability, so I must say goodbye to the torque monster.
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Good Compromise - 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
By Manhattan - August 14 - 10:00 amI test drove the Aviator, FX35, and the Volvo all are comparably priced. The VW does not have as much power as the FX or Aviator but has more room than the FX. Aviator comes standard with 3rd row and I didnt need that. The Volvo has just got no pep and is very boring to drive. I am very happy with my choice.
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Volkswagon Touareg - 2005 Volkswagen Touareg
By Lee Munson - August 11 - 7:43 amThis is my fourth Volkswagon I have owned. I find that Volkswagons are quality built, safe cars. The only negative I have with the Touareg is the mpg. Other than that I love the Touareg.
