2007 Volkswagen Touareg Review

The Touareg is now available with three different engines, two of which are new for 2007. The V6 model is now powered by a new 276-horsepower, 3.6L direct-injection V6; V8 models get a new 350-horsepower, 4.2L direct-injection V8. The V10 TDI model carries over its 5.0L diesel engine, making 310 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque-bringing a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds and having relatively impressive EPA fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city, 22 highway.

All three engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic, which allows manual gear selection, plus the 4XMOTION all-wheel drive system, oriented for on- or off-road conditions. All Touaregs have impressive approach and departure angles and are designed to handle water up to 22.8 inches deep.

With the new V6, the Touareg boasts improved acceleration, with 0-to-60 times now of 8.3 seconds, according to the automaker.

The Touareg's interior is luxurious but also utility-minded. Rugged leatherette upholstery is standard, and the rear seat is split 60/40 and folds forward nearly flat for expanded cargo capacity.

Four-wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), electronic stability control, and an electronic differential lock are standard on the Touareg, along with engine braking assist (EBA), which helps maintain stability in steep situations. For steep off-road situations, hill descent control and hill climb assist, two other electronic aids, are standard.

A four-wheel air suspension system, which can help maintain an even load when towing or off-roading, is standard on the V10 TDI and optional on the other two models.

Standard equipment includes dual-zone climate control, keyless entry with alarm, a 10-speaker sound system, 12-way power heated seats in front, and aluminum and walnut wood trim. Some useful options include side-window sunshades, which help keep the cabin cool, a power glass sunroof, and heated rear seats.
Two new gasoline direct-injected engines are added to Volkswagen's Touareg lineup for 2007. Also, a power rear liftgate and keyless access with a start/stop button are newly available options, roof rails are now standard across the line, and xenon headlamps with the adaptive front lighting system (AFS) are now standard on the V10 TDI model. see less