Note: This performance review was created when the 2013 Volkswagen Touareg was new.
Performance: | 7.7 |
Reviewers think the Touareg performs admirably, with a standard gas-powered V6 that feels strong and an available V6 diesel engine with lots of torque and good fuel economy. They also like the way it handles, saying it is comfortable and composed, and that its steering provides good feedback to the driver.
The standard Touareg engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 280 horsepower. A 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine is optional, which produces 240 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are tied to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Gasoline models achieve an EPA-estimated 17/23 mpg city/highway using premium fuel, which is about average for the class. Diesel models get 20/29 mpg. The EPA projects that the average driver will save about $200 annually by selecting the diesel model over the gasoline model.
Reviewers are pleased with both engines, saying the gas V6 operates smoothly and has plenty of power. They especially like the diesel engine for its torque output, which they say makes it feel very light on its feet. They also appreciate the diesel’s good fuel economy. Critics say that the eight-speed transmission shifts very smoothly and makes the most of the Touareg’s power.
The Touareg comes standard with four-wheel drive on all models. Reviewers say that the Touareg handles reasonably well and doesn’t exhibit too much body lean in corners. They say it also feels reasonably compliant over rough road surfaces. While it isn’t an off-road SUV, one critic notes that it has a fairly high ground clearance and can hold its own when the pavement ends. Reviewers say the Touareg has good steering feel, and that it has fast responses that make it feel fairly nimble.
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