Used Volkswagen Touareg Review (2010-2018) MK2
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
Overview
- Very spacious
- Not as expensive as other large German SUVs
- Superb VW refinement
- Not available with 7 seats
- Not as desirable as rivals
- Some petrol engines are rather thirsty
What's the VW Touareg like?
The VW Touareg is built in the same factory as the Porsche Cayenne and shares many parts with it, but it's far cheaper as a used car, and although it doesn’t have the same cachet, some would say it’s a more enjoyable car to drive and to live with.
The model built between 2010 and 2018 had much the same look as the one that went before, but was and is quite different and much improved.
Engines
The majority of VW Touaregs on the used car market are powered by the excellent VW/Audi 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine. This is the only one in the range with reasonable economy and lowish emissions and it’s still quick by ordinary standards and hugely refined.
In early models the V6 diesel had 201bhp, which was good for a 0 to 60mph time of 8.7 seconds, whilst returning about 37mpg. Power was later increased to 262bhp and this made it capable of reaching 60mph in 7.1 seconds while still managing 37mpg.
There was also a 4.2-litre V8 diesel borrowed from Audi and a hybrid V6 petrol/electric. The V8 TDI has a hefty 335bhp, which is enough for a 0 to 60mph sprint in 5.6 seconds and yet it’s still capable of 26mpg. The 3.0-litre V6 TSI petrol/electric hybrid has 328bhp and should do 29mpg.
The hybrid does offer low emissions, but is actually not as good as the diesel V6 and neither is it as good to drive. The V6 diesel has been the only engine available since 2014 and will make up by far the largest number available used.
Driving Experience
It has better poise, taking the corners with a higher level of grip and less roll, and it's generally more refined and relaxed at cruising speeds. The V6 TDi is also just as quick as its Porsche counterpart, which uses the same engine.
They're punchy and yet still economical, and the excellent standard 8-speed automatic gearbox means it’s always in the right gear to give brilliant acceleration.
It’s a tiptronic automatic, so it has drive and sport modes as well as a manual for those who like to do things themselves.
Equipment and Practicality
The Touareg is a big well-built and very plush 4x4 that’s still very capable off-road and hugely likeable and easy to live with. When introduced to some tough terrain, nothing seems to phase it.
Comfort is in the luxury class - just where it should be - and it takes every surface completely in its stride, shrugging off speed humps with great aplomb.
Peter Hayward
Inside is the best of luxury as you would expect, although this is one large 4x4 that doesn’t have a 7-seat option. The big seats are very comfortable and still offer plenty of support, and the driving environment is marvellous.
All have a raft of electronic aids, plus large alloys, climate control, cruise and an excellent stereo system.
Even the base SE gets electric heated leather seats, sat nav, an alarm, audio remote controls on the wheel and parking sensors.
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Find your VW Touareg your way with CarStore
The SUV is still very popular, and the large luxury sector is no different. The thing is, the Touareg is a smart choice as it has a lot in common with the more expensive Porsche Cayenne. So, if you want a quality SUV which has all the bells and whistles but for a seemingly much lower price, the VW Touareg is well worth a look and could be a rather clever buy.
