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In bringing you this comprehensive review covering the 2009 Volkswagen Touareg, TheCarConnection.com looks to some of the most respected review sources on the Web. In order to make the review especially useful, TheCarConnection.com's editors include their firsthand driving experience and impressions in this definitive assessment.
Likes:
- Smooth ride
- Attractive, well-appointed interior
- Refinement and quiet
- Top safety protection
Dislikes:
- Backseat and cargo space are disappointing
- Surprisingly tough to maneuver and park
- Low fuel economy (gasoline engines)
The 2009 Volkswagen Touareg is a mid-size SUV that blends softer styling with very serious off-road capabilities. Although the Touareg is luxurious and comfortable, it’s woefully inefficient—both in terms of space and fuel economy.
The Volkswagen Touareg got a modest restyling for last year, and VW felt it warranted a moniker change to "Touareg2." The newer styling elements include more brightwork around the headlights and front air intakes, while a new LED rear lamp takes the place of the lighting on the original Touareg. Wind-tunnel testing leads to a more aerodynamic shape, while roof rails are now included as standard fare, and a discreet rear spoiler blends in much better with the silhouette.
The 2009 Volkswagen Touareg is a capable luxury SUV, which means that the interior is a drastic departure from VW's traditionally Spartan cabins. Upscale touches include fine leather, metal, and wood interior materials, while soft-touch plastics round out the cabin design. Fit and finish is superb as well, and while most gauges are easy to read, there is a rather confusing array of buttons and controls.
Seating and utility is a bit of a mixed bag on the Touareg. The front seats are spectacular, managing to be both luxuriously soft yet firm enough for ache-free long drives—and the driving position is nice and upright—but the rear seats disappoint. The second-row bench is comfortable, but there’s no third-row seat and surprisingly little room for either passengers or cargo in back.
