The Volkswagen Touareg is Volkswagen’s flagship large luxury SUV, a premium five-seat crossover sharing its platform with models like the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne. It’s known for blending comfort, capability, and advanced tech without the flashy badge of some rivals.
Availability
The third-generation Touareg (current since 2018, with a facelift around 2023-2024) is not sold in the US (where it ended after 2017, replaced by the larger Atlas). It’s still available in many markets like Europe, Australia, and others. Production of combustion-engine versions ends in 2026, with a special “Final Edition” marking the close.Key Strengths
- Spacious and comfortable: Excellent interior room for five adults, a large boot (practical for families or long trips), and superb ride quality—especially with optional air suspension. Reviewers praise its refinement, low noise levels, and long-distance cruising ability.
- Driving dynamics: Handles well for its size with precise steering, strong body control, and impressive on-road manners. Off-road capability is genuinely strong (better than many luxury rivals), with features like adjustable suspension, all-wheel drive, and towing up to 3,500 kg (about 7,700 lbs).
- Engines and performance: Primarily 3.0-liter V6 options (turbo diesel TDI in many markets, plus petrol and plug-in hybrid/PHEV variants). Diesels offer great torque and efficiency; PHEV models deliver strong combined power (e.g., up to 456 hp in the R version) with decent electric range. It’s refined and powerful without feeling flashy.
- Tech and features: Updated infotainment is modern and user-friendly (with good voice control post-facelift), plus advanced driver aids like matrix LED headlights, night vision (optional), and trailer assists.
- Value: Often seen as a “discreet luxury” option—cheaper than equivalent Audi Q7, BMW X5, Mercedes GLE, or Porsche Cayenne while offering similar (or better) hardware underneath.
Drawbacks
- No seven seats: Unlike some rivals (e.g., Audi Q7 or BMW X5 in certain configs), it’s strictly five-seater, limiting family flexibility.
- Interior polish: High-quality but not quite as premium-feeling as badge-up competitors—some call it “solid but unexciting” or less luxurious inside.
- Not the most exciting: It’s competent and understated rather than sporty or thrilling to drive. Some reviews note it’s “stuck in the slow lane” in terms of excitement.
- Pricing: Starts in the premium range (often £70,000+ in markets where sold), so it competes directly with more prestigious brands without the same badge appeal.
Recent reviews (2024-2025 models) generally rate it highly as a well-rounded, under-the-radar choice:
- Strong all-rounder with superb comfort and space.
- Excellent for towing, long journeys, or mixed on/off-road use.
- PHEV versions praised for power and efficiency.
- Overall scores often 3-4 out of 5 or equivalent, with praise for being a “budget Bentley” in feel without the price.
If you’re considering one (new or used), it’s a smart pick for those prioritizing substance over status—reliable German engineering in a practical, capable package. Test drive with air suspension if possible for the best experience.
