2013-2017 Volkswagen Touareg
History
Mention the words "German luxury car" and the very answer are the following brands: Benz, BMW, Porsche, and to a small extent, Audi. The brand Volkswagen is synonymous to the Beetle which littered Philippine streets during the 60s to the 70s and to some other models like the Kombi and Sakbayan. Further efforts from the 90s didn't make the brand back to local consciousness since they are heavily priced, as opposed to being called as the people's car. But then, VW's are positioned as a premium mainstream brand, above the likes of Toyota but below Audi.
Jumping on the SUV bandwagon too late, the Touareg was first introduced in 2002 and it shares a platform with the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7, two late bloomers in the category. The second generation model first debuted in 2010 with a newer 8-speed automatic and a wide variety of gas and diesel engines (no V10 diesel is available).
One of the vehicles introduced for the return of the Volks in 2013, the Touareg is the flagship model as well as the most expensive vehicle. This time, the diesel engine was brought here unlike the first model's gas burner. It was quietly discontinued in 2017, which we feel the cause of it is the introduction of the brand new model.
Value and Costs
Due to the fact not much were sold when brand new as well as a shorter selling time, finding a used Touareg of this vintage is a challenge but if you find one, you can get one for at least P2,000,000 with the remainder of the warranty.
Since it runs on a diesel engine, expect fuel costs to be slightly lower than several high end SUVs with gasoline powerplants. With this vehicle being new to the market (this one was sold a decade ago but in a different package), not much reports of problems were raised up.
Exterior and Interior
Sure, it may look discreet and anonymous but it still looks imposing and brute. There are two models available: a regular one and a Sports edition which has side skirts and larger rims.
Unlike some of the European competition which are notoriously known for their interiors that have smaller buttons and a transmission shift similar to a joystick of a game console, this vehicle has the opposite which is easy to use. Other niceties include an electronic parking brake and air suspension system, which rivals of the same price range get. Added bonus include ample space for five people and cargo.
Engine
Despite its bulky proportions, the 3.0 diesel having 242hp @ 3,800-4,400rpm and 550Nm @ 1,750-2,750rpm isn't a slouch mover and available torque can be had for as low as 1,750rpm.
Driving Impressions
This SUV excels in both road conditions, both on pavement and off the beaten path. The air suspension settings have a comfort mode which makes it good for a relaxed drive and sports mode for fun driving. You can have all aspects in one body.
Verdict
Based on the excellent Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, the VW Touareg is an excellent choice if you desire something different that stands out the crowd.
The Good:
- Large cabin
- Excellent off-road skills
- Road presence
The Bad:
- Bulky size not for everyone
- Unrefinement
- A dinosaur compared to modern competition
The Pick: 3.0 Super Safari
Engine: 2,967cc 24V V6 diesel
Power: 242hp @ 3,800-4,400rpm
Torque: 550Nm @ 1,750-2,750rpm
Fuel Consumption: 7-8km/L (city), 10-12km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Suspension: 4-link with air suspension
MORE INFO
Price (New): P4,390,000
Price (Now): P2,000,000
On Sale: 2013-2017
Rivals: Ford Explorer, Ford Expedition, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mitsubishi Pajero, Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
Resources:
http://www.clubtouareg.com/forums/
Contacts:
Volkswagen BGC - (02) 558-5888
