2017 Volkswagen Touareg Wolfsburg

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.

The Facts
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

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