The Volkswagen Touareg is a midsize two-row SUV that competes with more expensive luxury models. From its strong engines, high-quality interior, solid build structure, and off-road prowess, the Touareg has made a name for itself in the luxury SUV segment for those willing to look beyond the non-premium Volkswagen badge. First introduced for the 2004 model year, the Volkswagen Touareg was priced lower than its esteemed German competitors. The Volkswagen shared its basic structure with the Porsche Cayenne and later, the Audi Q7. We were so impressed with the Touareg that it became the 2004 Motor Trend SUV of the Year. In 2008 the Volkswagen Touareg received a mid-cycle refresh with updated styling and new options packages. When we reviewed it, the Touareg still impressed us, but it was pricier than we expected. In addition, the heavy curb weight hampererd fuel economy and the back seat was still tighter versus the competition.
For the 2011 model year, Volkswagen released a second-generation model that was lighter, more fuel efficient, and had a new lineup of engines that included a hybrid powertrain, a first for the Touraeg. “Acceleration is impressive for a vehicle this size,” we said about the hybrid model, “and it carries itself well thanks to double-wishbone independent suspension.” In 2015, we saw a mid-cycle refresh of the Touareg. Now that the hybrid model has been discontinued and the diesel isn’t sold anymore as a result of Volkswagen’s diesel-emissions issues, the Touareg is only offered with a gas-powered V-6. With the Touareg focused on premium-minded buyers, Volkswagen is preparing a larger SUV that may undercut it in price, to compete with three-row crossovers such as the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Traverse, and Honda Pilot. For a consumer who wants a midsize, two-row premium SUV but without the large premium price, the Volkswagen Touareg should be on your list. Known for its high-quality interior, good visibility, and impressive towing capability, this SUV sticks to a solid formula that will work for a select type of buyer. The Touareg’s fuel economy could be better, and since Volkswagen axed the hybrid and stopped selling its diesel engines in the U.S., there is now only one V-6 engine choice. In a 2013/2014 Diesel Luxury SUV Comparison, the Touareg finished last behind the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mercedes-Benz ML350, and the Porsche Cayenne.
Coinciding with the Toyota Echo, the Verita seemed to follow the theme set by the Exalta and Cefiro which were released months ahead. Placing tons of wood to a vehicle that is intended towards the younger crowd isn't well received. Added to the fact hatches aren't the norm during the time. Significance rating: 3/5. Novelty got worn off, fast. Now going downmarket, Opel introduced the Astra to battle the common Corollas and Civics plying the streets. The wagon model saw nearly market monopoly (against the unloved Suzuki Esteem) while the sedan provided an expensive alternative to the Japanese. Significance rating: 3/5. It was nice, until change of plans occurred. Crisis was not a hindrance for PGA Cars to release the second generation 911 and its less expensive Boxster. Not all of us mere mortals can afford this (what more with the crisis) but seeing one pass by brings a smile to our faces. Significance rating: 4/5. The cure for any depression which involves our finances.
Another brand which was not noticed from the start that brought in a stylish hatchback. Almost 14 years later, we had not yet seen this one that popped out the classifieds. Significance rating: 1/5. Let us move on guys. PGA Cars offered this vehicle alongside the various BMWs and Range Rovers. Only the true blooded enthusiast would have knowledge of this vehicle. Not even the wealthy purchased this vehicle. Significance rating: 1/5. People knew the SUV Rover, not the sedan Rover. More modern while retaining its off-road roots, the Grand Vitara was released at the same time with the RAV4's but not to much market success. It was the first to release a V6 engine and an extended model known as the XL-7 was also launched. Significance rating: 3/5. It has its fans and a cult following. After tiring people with Corollas, its time for Toyota to give them a breath of fresh air. Imported from Japan which caused to have a price higher than a top end Corolla. Since hatchbacks back then (pun not intended) aren't popular, it failed.
