Touareg is among the heaviest midsize SUVs, so the relatively small V6 struggled with a full load or up steep grades hilly ascents, though but it’s otherwise adequate. VW pegged acceleration at 9.4 seconds from 0-60 mph. The V8 is stronger and more relaxed in all conditions; and did 7.9 seconds 0-60 mph in our test. Around-town response is marred by inconsistent reaction to throttle pressure, especially with the V8, and by the transmission’s occasionally tardy downshifts. The turbodiesel’s class-leading torque delivers robust acceleration and ready passing power. That V10 is also largely free of diesel smoke and smell-but not entirely. Fuel economy is similar for the gasoline engines. A test V6 averaged 12.5 to 15.1 mpg, versus 11.9 to 14.3 for a V8. VW recommends premium-grade fuel for both gasoline engines. An impressively rigid structure enhances perceived comfort in all models, but the base suspension and tires furnish the best ride: stable and fairly compliant.
It’s the best choice for on-road comfort, especially with 17-inch tires. None of the air suspension’s three firmness settings summons an optimal blend of composure and comfort. The major asset is its ability to provide 11.8 inches of ground clearance. Available 19-inch tires thump nastily over bumps. Handling cannot match sporty SUVs, such as the BMW X5 and Infiniti FX, but Touareg always feels confident, especially in highway cruising. Steering is linear but lazy in fast turns, where balance is good but marked body lean is typical of truck-type SUVs. Expect fractionally sharper feel with an air suspension. A compact turning radius aids good low-speed maneuverability, though a test V8 with 19-inch wheels exhibited drivetrain binding in slow, tight turns. Brakes feel strong, but a test V6 version suffered grabby low-speed stops. Astute AWD automatically apportioned power to claw through severe dry-surface off-road tests. Quietness rivals some upscale cars, with impressive isolation and low wind rush.
Not much is heard from either gas engine beyond a throaty purr in rapid acceleration. The air suspension muffles road noise slightly better than the base version, though 19-inch tires roar somewhat on grainy pavement. The turbodiesel clatters at idle but is well-muted otherwise. Wind rush is low for an SUV. Instruments have an aircraft-quality look, with legible gauges. Numerous buttons/controls on the dashboard and console require familiarization. Most are logically arrayed, but not all obviously identified. Climate-system controls sit too low for easy driver use or viewing. VW’s navigation system incorporates some audio adjustments. Using any of its functions demands study, but it’s no harder to operate than most others and serious Global Positioning Satellite capability is useful off-road. Quality of interior materials and assembly matches any SUV, regardless of price. Front occupants may enjoy great head room and generous seat travel. Firm, comfortable seats are marred a bit by weak cushion support in fast turns. The standard tilt/telescopic steering wheel helps dial in an ideal position, though several testers have complained that the wheel rim cuts into view of some instruments. Step-in height is moderate for an SUV, and wide doorways ease entry/exit. Rear visibility is compromised by headrests and the small back window. Some test Touaregs have had slightly distorted windshield glass. Plenty of head clearance is available in the rear, but foot space shrinks to marginal as front seats move more than halfway back. Knee room is not painfully constricted, though, and occupants get fine seat support and contour. Narrow rear doorways hamper easy exit. An impressively finished cargo bay is a bonus, but dropping the rear seatback flat requires tipping lower cushions and removing headrests. VW provides no headrest storage-a rare flaw in this thoughtfully laid out interior. The load floor is spacious enough, but somewhat high off the ground. Ample passenger-compartment storage includes an air conditioned glovebox.
Insufficient maintenance records are a nightmare for those who own a car from a luxury brand. I want to remind you maintaining one is almost the equivalent of three Toyota Vios's. If fueling up, go with a reputable gasoline station that has new and clean stock of fuel. Not to forget, choose a high octane gasoline to avoid fuel contamination and problems. Examine the exterior and you will see some Range Rover (BMW previously owned the 4x4 specialist) bits and design cues. Short front overhangs and side creases that mingle perfectly to the door handles are derived from the 3-Series sedan. If the front is the sedan side, the rear portion uncannily resembles the Range Rover, with the curved front-end blends with the sharp and angular rear. The famed "kidney grille" resides in front of the car, with it being expanded in its 2004 facelift. High quality materials (there was never a time BMW scrimped on interior quality) abound the cabin, which really justifies the then-new price tag of P4M. You will see the clash of aluminum, leather, and wood in perfect harmony.
However, radio buttons are small which you can knock the wrong station by mistake (imagine this, you are enjoying Beatles then hit to Magic playing Justin Bieber) and air conditioning controls would require time to master each function. Room is adequate for five, but the cargo area won't do justice on a shopaholic run (whether in Greenbelt, Greenhills, or Divisioria, you choose). Those who had the money to splurge get three engine options to configure their X5's. These are a M54B30 2,979cc I6 and N62B48 4,799cc V8 that needs to be fed with gasoline fuel, and a M57TUD30 2,993cc I6 diesel burner. The gasoline I6 (inline six, not configured in a "v" type) purrs well and responses to the driver's foot; the same thing goes with the diesel I6, but boy it drives fast and can handle the weight of the car. The V8 is a beast to drive, ferocious, fast, and yet functional. Pick your engine choice wisely. With its 3-Series under chassis, it drives similarly to its sedan counterpart. Steering is definitely loyal, giving excellent feedback and weighing.
