Pros: Well-tuned ride/handling balance; classy, comfortable, capacious cabin
Cons: So-so fuel economy and performance; basic design is feeling a bit dated compared to some competitors
CG Says: For 2017, Volkswagen Touareg drops its diesel engine. Newly standard are forward-collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning and mitigation, parking assist, and adaptive cruise control. The midrange Lux model has been rebadged Wolfsburg. Touareg is a premium midsize crossover SUV with five-passenger seating. A 280-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission is the sole drivetrain. All-wheel drive is standard. Available features include surround-view camera, steering-linked xenon headlights, and hands-free power tailgate. 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. 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. Those who desire a less expensive midsize SUV from VW should check out the new Atlas, which is expected to go on sale Spring of 2017 as a 2018 model.
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: $44,495 Wolfsburg Edition: $52,795 Executive: $60,195 |
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 |