Any doubts about Volkswagen's ability to create a 'proper' 4x4 have been comprehensively crushed under the formidable wheels of the Touareg. The underpinnings were developed in conjunction with Porsche, which produces its Cayenne from the same platform, but Volkswagen's effort is far more impressive. It even feels classier than its overblown half-brother and is certainly easier on the eye. The Touareg certainly looks every inch the serious off-roader. Its sheer size is imposing enough, and when combined with a beefy styling approach it becomes an almost daunting prospect. But look closer and another of the Touareg's attributes becomes clear - its attention to detail. Though brawny, the vehicle's lines are far from crude. Body panels fit precisely, glazing is sealed expertly and when on the move the Touareg's design appears far smoother than when it is static. It's a similar story inside where once again the overwhelming impression is of quality and precision. Even cheaper Touaregs have a hint of luxury about them, while the more expensive models can match anything on offer from Range Rover, BMW or Mercedes.
Power output varies widely according to the precise model selected. Perhaps unexpectedly, the Touareg is also among the most capable 4x4s in serious off-road conditions. Its smooth body panels may look averse to being splashed with mud but an array of hi-tech driver aids such as hill descent assist and an unburstable low-ratio gearbox give it first class credentials in trying conditions. But a full tank of fuel is a must before heading off the beaten track, as fuel economy is hugely impacted. For all its undoubted qualities, the Touareg is simply too large for most UK roads. Country dwellers with room to roam could find a role for it, but in a congested city, running a car such as this is an absurd extravagance. Though expensive it is cheaper than its direct competitors and though VW may lack the off-road heritage of Land Rover or Jeep, the Touareg is brawny and brainy enough to easily match either. A top-spec Touareg costs very nearly twice as much as an entry-level model, which makes any general assessment of value for money difficult.
Expensive models have far superior engines but cheaper ones come with more than enough kit to avoid feeling like poor relations, so buyers really need to decide whether they want full-on luxury or presentable practicality. Fuel costs on all but the 2.5 TDi will be high and servicing is unlikely to be of the bargain-basement variety, though VW does offer a long-life servicing plan. On a more positive note, Touaregs are likely to hold their value well when it is time to sell them on. The load space is flat and regularly-proportioned with no intrusion from wheelarches, though it is perhaps not quite as large as might be expected from the exterior. The glove compartment is air-conditioned while the central armrest hides a storage well capable of swallowing a litre size drinks bottle. The Touareg lacks the numerous stowage bins and drawers of an MPV, but seems much neater and tidier as a result. Aluminium roof mounted rails are standard equipment, to which a specially designed roof-carrier system can be attached if extra capacity is required.
All controls and displays are beautifully rendered, a fact one notices particularly at night when tasteful blue and red lights illumine the dials and the front of the cabin. Controls are crisp in operation, arranged in orderly fashion and clearly marked. They are also numerous, so a close reading of the owner's manual is a must before embarking on a debut journey. The Tiptronic gearbox is smooth and clever enough that there is little to be gained from shifting manually. Cheaper Touaregs are comfortable, more expensive models are luxurious. Whatever the variant, the manner in which seats and instruments are constructed is the same - impeccable. The sense of well-being is heightened by a clever selection of interior surfaces. Wooden inlays in the dash panel, centre console, door trim and gear knob help soften what could be an overly austere treatment while even the plastics and metals are convincing. With 'Cricket' leather upholstery and 12-way electrically adjustable heated front seats, the Touareg becomes a serious alternative to the Range Rover's opulence.
