Yes, after all of the luxuriously appointed V8- and V10-powered Touareg testers Volkswagen has given me over the years, this all-black base Touareg 2 V6 is about as entry-level as I've ever seen from this model. But don't get me wrong, it's still nicer than most in its midsize SUV segment and won't disappoint those who frequent the VW brand for its upscale, premium-level interiors and superior technology. 40K threshold. So, for this reason I'm going to limit my words to this most basic of Touaregs, the model more would-be buyers are in reach of. 37,320 VW charged for its V6 version when it debuted in 2005 as a 2006 model. Sure the sticker prices have gone up ever so slightly, but I think Volkswagen has created more of a value for money statement than initially noticeable. VW didn't hold back with the Touareg 2's steering wheel though, a leather-covered rim framing a plethora of large, buttons and switches for actuating everything from the audio system and cruise control, to the trip computer. “HIGH” to “AUTO DIFF” or “LOW”, necessary for taking on those nastier trails.
So once again, while it's visually plain compared to the usual wood and leather dipped Touaregs, VW hasn't cheapened the experience with low rent duds. But really, is it all that plain inside when compared to others in this category? Aluminum-like interior trim is just about everywhere, and the textured plastic that Volkswagen has chosen for atop the dash, around the console and across the door panels is about as good as anything in this class gets. 4x4 capable SUV, its 17-inch wheels wrapped in mud and snow Pirelli Scorpion tires being difficult to push off-line), it also remains one of only an armful of luxury SUVs still capable of scaling the proverbial mountain goat trail. I have to complain I'd mention some of the obvious quibbles buyers in this market are now expecting, and not able to get with the new Touareg. 40K competitors now offer electronic parking brakes, in place of the rather archaic foot actuated, hand released system.
If anything, a handbrake would be more useful for off-roading, and therefore would be justifiable to those ready to complain about the current one. Another negative is VW's standings in third party consumer surveys and studies, especially J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS) and Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), where the German brand trails most competitors by a wide margin. Granted, these two studies use questionable methods that don't necessarily relate to reliability, but they're dark marks on an otherwise untarnished image that VW needs to deal with. 40K range, but beware of slick salespeople as a fully featured Touareg 2, even in V6 trim can escalate into lofty territory. 6,300 over the base price. 680 destination charge is added to the bottom line. In pure base form, like my tester, or when loaded up with all of its many features, the Touareg 2 is better than its predecessor in every way, and one of the best in its class. 1,210 premium, but compared to premium SUVs of similar quality, capability and style, it's a steal of a deal. 40K SUV or crossover.
When a rollover threatens, spring-loaded aluminum braces are raised behind the rear seat headrests. Door-mounted head and chest sidebags provide protection in the event of a lateral impact. With its generous wheelbase of 2.75 meters (9.02 ft) and the longest interior in its class, the Audi A5 Cabriolet has plenty of room for longer trips. That's also true for the rear seats, which can be optionally divided by a center console with two cup holders. Elegance in flowing lines, functional ergonomics, and top-quality craftsmanship are the principal characteristics of the interior - and this too is typically Audi. The teardrop-shaped settings of the instruments have already become modern classics. The centrally mounted onboard monitor is standard equipment. The formed-plastic console focuses on the driver. Flowing lines link it to the central tunnel and the door linings. If the customer has ordered either one of the two navigation systems it comes with the highly convenient MMI operating system - the best solution on the market. The low standard seats provide excellent control and support. Using seatbelts is facilitated by electric seat belt extenders.
