2016 Touareg
Pros: Excellent performance and fuel economy from turbodiesel engine; well-tuned ride/handling balance; classy, comfortable, capacious cabin
Cons: So-so fuel economy and performance with base V6 engine; basic design is feeling a bit dated compared to some competitors
CG Says:
For 2016, the Volkswagen Touareg loses its line-topping Hybrid model but is otherwise unchanged. Lackluster demand suggests many buyers shun Touareg as too pricey for a VW, even though it undercuts some premium-brand rivals. Look past the mainstream badge, however, and you find a spacious, comfortable, classy SUV with pleasant road manners, high mechanical refinement, and terrific workmanship. Even with VW’s sullied reputation from its diesel-emissions cheating scandal, the Touareg’s turbodiesel TDI versions are clearly the best of the bunch. Though somewhat more expensive than comparable gasoline V6 models, they’re just as smooth and quiet, have far stronger midrange performance, and are much more fuel-efficient. And thus far, the diesel V6 engines have not been affected by the emissions cheating scandal. The entire Touareg lineup is feeling rather long in the tooth, but if you’re SUV-shopping only among the usual premium brands, it may prove a pleasant surprise.
| Class | Premium Midsize SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen |
| Nation of Manufacture | Slovakia |
| Base Prices | Sport: $42,705 Lux: $51,450 Executive: $59,745 TDI Sport: $50,245 TDI Lux: $54,950 TDI Executive: $63,245 |
| Base Engine 3.6-liter V6 |
| Horsepower 280 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 17 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 23 |
| Optional Engine turbodiesel 3.0-liter V6 |
| Horsepower 240 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29 |
