Eveyrtime people speak of the VW Toureg, you will constantly hear of “Its very underrated”, “It shares the same platform with the Bentayga, Cayenne and Q7” and more. We tested it to find out if it really is good and to also find out why it doesnt have as much traction as the other products mentioned.
The current Toureg design has been around since 2018 and last year VW did some updates with minor design changes. The issue with the design is its close in execution to the Tiguan, something thats more limiting than rivals from BMW and Mercedes which have siblings in Premium Segments.
The standard IQ.Light HD matrix headlights with three LED modules and three L-shaped LEDs for the daytime running lights, as well as the new illuminated center horizontal strip that extends from both sides of the Volkswagen logo make a significant impact on both looks and night driving. All rivals need you to add extra money for similar systems and this is a big plus on the Toureg.
The R-Line spec on test came with 21 inch wheels alloys in a design that most people assumed were of an EV spec.
The rear LED lighting can be tailored to suite the “dynamic signalling” you want when you lock or unlock the Toureg. The twin exhaust and the R-Line decals on the side confused people into thinking this is a full on R model.
The interior is a masterclass in quality with fit and finish thats right up there with the best in the segment. The standard spec is extensive with a large infotainment screen side by side with a digital instrument cluster. As impressive as the infotainment screen is, the fact that you need to stretch to access controls is a let down and it shows its age where newer models get a similar screen size but positioned closer to the driver. Stowage space is good around the cabin for the driver and passengers.
The electrically operated front seats come with heating and cooling function but the “pièce de résistance” of these seats is the massage function which is addictive. The seating position is easy to adjust for both seats and steering allowing one to easily find a comfortable position. The standard entertainment system fell well short of expectations but there is a R21k Dynaudio option for those that seek crystal quality sound with Bass. This system should have been made standard.
Rear seat comfort is ok but the sense of occassion falls short of its rivals from BMW and Mercedes. Space is ample giving rear passengers that “Minister” feel thanks to side window blinds.
The multi zone climate control ensures that each Toureg occupant can get the temperature they want.
The Toureg spec in Mzansi only comes in 5 seat configuration. This means if one needs to carry large stuff, you can fold the seats and get a very roomy cabin.
The 190kW 3.0 Litre V6 Turbodiesel is one of the best units for someone seeking ample Torque and smoothness from an engine. 550Nm comes low in the rev range and allows the 8 speed auto to stay in higher gears without impacting the driving experience. 4Motion comes standard with the air suspension giving occupants that carpet ride sensation, such is the comfort. When in a hurry, the Toureg struggles to give a dynamic feel even if you put the Drive Mode to the sportiest setting. It doesn’t have the body control one gets from its rivals. The air suspension also allows one to raise the Toureg when driving off road.
At R1 763 900 for the R-Line spec, the new Touareg comes standard with a 5 year/100 000km Maintenance Plan, 3 year/120 000km warranty, 12-year anti-corrosion warranty meaning in that time you only spend on fuel and tyres. It’s also well specced at the price, giving far better value when compared to rivals from BMW (X5), Porsche (Cayenne), Mercedes (GLE). I do feel if VW were to go more dynamic on the design, the Toureg will be more noticeable on the road thus allowing more people to consider it as an option.
