2013 Volkswagen Touareg vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

The Touareg lacks a third-row seat, and to some shoppers that's going to be a deal-breaker, especially for a larger, more substantial vehicle like this.

Even though the Touareg has a VW badge, because of its price we have to compare it more to luxury models like the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

The M-Class was recently redesigned, with much-improved interiors and better refinement, while keeping some level of off-road ability.

BMW's X5 still provides a more engaging drive but isn't quite as spacious and versatile as some of the entries here.

The Infiniti FX remains our pick for performance on a curvy road.

The Audi Q7, which is closely related to the Touareg, does include a third row, as well as a warmer interior design, for only modestly more.

Among mainstream models, we think the Honda Pilot matches up best against the Touareg's chunky, more upright design and purpose.

The Pilot is responsive and relatively efficient, and it somehow makes better use of interior space, although we like the Touareg's interior appointments better.