DESCRIPTION

Pros:

• TDI engine option offers power and fuel efficiency
• Hybrid drivetrain offers even more fuel efficiency
• Classy interior design
• Agile road handling dynamics with a plush ride quality

Cons:

• Not great with cargo space efficiency
• No third row seating option
• Only a small number of high tech options available

The all-new 2011 Volkswagen Touareg has been redesigned and Volkswagen engineers worked very hard adding more versatility, standard features, and an impressive number of active and passive safety features to the second generation Touareg. The design changes in the 2011 Touareg resulted in a reduction of approximately 350 pounds, from the previous model, creating a more responsive and precise driving experience. Ride comfort and vibration control have been improved which leads to responsive handling and strong dynamic stability at cruising speeds.

The 2011 Touareg offers three engine options available across 7 different trim levels. A 3.6-liter V6 FSI gasoline engine that reaches 23 MPG hwy/16 MPG city, according to EPA estimates, comes standard with the 2011 model. This represents a combined 19% improvement over the previous model.

More grunt comes from the 3.0L turbocharged V6 TDI clean diesel engine that provides a maximum torque of 406 lb-ft at 1,750 to 2,250 RPM while producing 225 HP at 2,500 to 4,000 RPM. EPA fuel economy estimates give the 3.0L TDI engine 28 MPG highway/19 MPG city. A special DeNOx catalytic converter, augmented by a special injection system that sprays a synthetic urea-based solution (AdBlue) into the exhaust, helps reduce Nox emissions by up to 90 percent, and is 50-state compliant with emissions rules.

The second generation Touareg is also VW's first production hybrid vehicle. The all-new Touareg 3.0-liter supercharged, direct injection V6 gasoline engine is paired with a special electric motor that significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions compared to the previous V8 FSI model. The electric motor is paired with a nickel metal-hydride battery pack fitted beneath the luggage compartment. Both systems are capable of running independently or together and when combined, produce a total of 380 horsepower and 428 lbs.-ft. of torque. The new supercharged hybrid gives its customers V8 power with better fuel efficiency than a V6 engine.

An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard across all Touareg models. 7th and 8th gears are setup as fuel efficient overdrive gears. Additionally, all Touareg models have a 7,700 pound towing capacity when equipped with the factory installed tow package -- regardless of the powertrain configuration.