2017 Volkswagen Touareg Review

The Volkswagen Touareg was incubated in 2002 as a joint project between German automotive giants Audi, Porsche, and Volkswagen. The goal was to create an SUV that handled like a sports car. The Touareg serves as the ideal stepping stone for those aspiring to purchase an Audi Q7. Currently in its second generation, the Touareg is in dire need of an update, as its dated styling and lack of modern technology hinder its competitiveness against the likes of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Land Rover Discovery.

Key Features

Exterior

The Volkswagen Touareg 2017 features trapezoidal headlamps that flank a redesigned grille, giving it a more upright stance. The transverse chrome fins extend into the headlamps, mirroring the lower grille cordoned off by a bold strip of chrome. Large exhausts and 20-inch rims enhance its rugged appeal, while tapering taillamps pay homage to the older GTI models, emphasizing the Touareg's sporting aspirations.

You might also be interested in: Volkswagen Beetle 2017 Review

Interior

The Touareg's cockpit is ergonomically designed, allowing drivers to find comfort quickly. Finished in Bonanza Brown, the cabin exudes warmth, complemented by Burr Walnut trim and knurled aluminum rotary knobs. The low seating position aids ingress and egress, while the full-length panoramic roof creates an airy cabin ambiance.

Safety & Features

At over AED 200,000, the Volkswagen Touareg lacks essential features. It does not offer basic amenities such as USB ports and an AUX audio input, nor does it provide safety technologies like blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The onboard start-stop system, although aimed at improving fuel efficiency, can undermine driver confidence by causing the vehicle to halt completely with the steering locked and the engine off.

You might also be interested in: The Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport takes on the Peregrine Falcon in a race around the desert

Drive

Equipped with a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, the Touareg produces 280 horsepower and 360 Nm of torque, delivered via an eight-speed automatic transmission to an All-Wheel-Drive system. It averages 12 liters per 100 kilometers, showcasing efficiency and practicality with a 100-liter fuel tank that minimizes visits to petrol stations. The BlueMotion technology improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, enhanced by the onboard start-stop system.

The Touareg features a rotary drive mode selector, allowing drivers to choose between On-Road and Off-Road modes. However, this shift only activates hill descent control, without altering suspension, gearing, or throttle response. With an electric differential distributing power between the front and rear wheels, the Touareg can tackle mild wadis around the UAE, but serious off-road enthusiasts may find it lacking.

Verdict

The Touareg feels outdated compared to its modern American and British rivals. While it remains a choice for potential Audi Q7 buyers, its inability to compete may indicate a bleak future for the Touareg, or it could pave the way for the upcoming Volkswagen Teramont.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Fuel efficient when driven sedately

Cons:

• Unjustified price tag
• Extremely dated with basic amenities lacking such as USB ports and AUX audio input
• Poor fit and finish with flimsy plastics around the cabin and on the bootlid

Editor’s Picks

• Volkswagen overtakes Toyota to become top selling automaker in the world
• 2017 Mazda CX 5 vs 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan

Also See:

• Ford Escape 2017 Review
• 2018 Renault Zoe Long Range Launched in the UAE