Introduced in 2002, the Touareg is a result of a collaboration between Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche. It was designed to be an off-road capable SUV with all the amenities and driving experience of a sports car. The project involved over 300 members.
The first result of this project was the PL71 platform, which was applied to the Volkswagen Touareg, Porsche Cayenne, and Audi Q7. However, the designs, features, and technologies of these three models are different.
The name “Touareg” is derived from the Tuareg people who primarily live in the Sahara Desert in North Africa. They are known as the “lords of the desert” and do not succumb to any difficulties.
The name “Touareg” is derived from the Tuareg people who primarily live in the Sahara Desert in North Africa. They are known as the “lords of the desert” and do not succumb to any difficulties. And surely, Volkswagen wants to embody that spirit in the Touareg.
Exterior Design: Simple German Style
Similar to other Volkswagen models, the Touareg features a simple, understated design that is true to the German aesthetic. The front fascia emphasizes the horizontal lines of the grille and air intakes, reminiscent of two other Volkswagen models, the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7.
Similar to other Volkswagen models, the Touareg features a simple, understated design that is true to the German aesthetic.
The car is equipped with Bi-xenon headlights integrated with LED daytime running lights. The headlights feature an automatic leveling function that adjusts the light range based on vehicle speed, and a curve lighting function that allows the headlights to pivot left or right when the vehicle is at speeds between 50-120km/h. Additionally, the low beam lights up when making a turn at speeds below 50km/h. The car also has a headlight cleaning function, leaving home feature, adaptive lighting control, automatic windshield wipers, and speed-dependent wipers.
In terms of the body design, the Volkswagen Touareg does not feature prominent body lines like other luxury SUVs, which are typically designed to enhance athleticism. However, this may be a deliberate choice by Volkswagen to give the car a more commanding presence. Upon closer inspection, the shape of the Touareg is reminiscent of its siblings, the Porsche Cayenne, with its rounded and appealing lines. Additionally, the side of the car features power-folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals, auto-dimming and memory functions, and 20-inch alloy wheels.
In the rear of the Volkswagen Touareg, notable features include a power tailgate, large stainless steel exhaust tips, rear lights and a reversing camera, part of the 360-degree camera system.
Interior Design: Understated Elegance
The interior of the Volkswagen Touareg is not flashy or extravagant like other luxury SUVs, but it provides a good sense of quality and sophistication.
The interior of the Volkswagen Touareg is not flashy or extravagant like other luxury SUVs, but it provides a good sense of quality and sophistication.
The interior features a predominantly brown color scheme, with aluminum accents on the edges and buttons. Glossy Vavona brown wood is used on the dashboard, gearshift lever, and door trim. Overall, the combination of brown and black creates a warm and cozy feeling, targeting a more mature audience. The three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel is sporty and features multi-directional adjustment, automatic retraction in the event of a collision, and integrated volume and hands-free control buttons. Behind the steering wheel is the “Premium” digital instrument display, which is colorful and provides a wealth of information.
The center of attention is the touchscreen display with the “RCD” infotainment system, which includes a 6-disc CD changer, MP3, MP4, AUX support, and 8 clear and distinct speakers. However, a drawback in this area is that the touchscreen is not very responsive, and there is no Bluetooth connectivity for playing music from a smartphone. Below the infotainment system is the dual-zone independent air conditioning with rear air vents. As an imported European vehicle, the Touareg also features a 3-mode heating function, although a cooling function would be more suitable for the Vietnamese climate. Additionally, the car could benefit from a sunroof, which would enhance its appeal for a large SUV. The Touareg has two starting modes: Start/Stop button or key.
The rear seats of the Volkswagen Touareg are genuinely spacious.
Due to the long wheelbase of 2,893mm, as well as the dimensions of 4,801 mm length, 2,208mm width, and 1,709mm height, the Volkswagen Touareg offers ample space in the rear. Even individuals taller than 1.8m can comfortably fit in this space. The vehicle also offers acceptable cargo space with a capacity of 907 liters, and when the second-row seats are folded down, it increases to 1,814 liters, convenient for long journeys.
The best part about the Touareg’s cabin is the seating.
The best part about the Touareg’s cabin is the seating. The seats are wrapped in soft, comfortable Vienna leather, one of the highest quality leathers from Volkswagen. They can be adjusted in 14 directions (for both front seats) and have a memory function. The seats’ gentle contours give both the driver and passengers a feeling of relaxation, even on long journeys.
Safety Features: Peace of Mind on Every Journey
In terms of safety, the Volkswagen Touareg provides peace of mind with its comprehensive safety features, including 6 airbags, ABS, emergency brake assist, traction control, electronic stability control, and electronic brake-force distribution.
In terms of safety, the Volkswagen Touareg provides peace of mind with its comprehensive safety features.
In addition, it features electronic differential lock, cruise control, electronic differential lock control, off-road ascent assistance, hill descent control, electronic parking brake combined with auto-hold and a 360-degree camera system, allowing the driver to feel confident in navigating tight spaces.
Performance: “German-Standard” SUV
As with any German vehicle, drivers can feel confident in the performance of the Volkswagen Touareg. It provides a pleasant driving experience, typical of German vehicles.
As with any German vehicle, drivers can feel confident in the performance of the Volkswagen Touareg.
The first impression when stepping into the cabin is one of excitement. The manufacturer has done a great job in arranging the various areas, making them user-friendly, intimate, and providing a clear view. The welcoming feeling during the first experience made me want to immediately test drive this German-style SUV.
The Volkswagen Touareg is equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine with direct fuel injection, producing a maximum power of 280 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and a maximum torque of 360 Nm at 3,200 rpm. It is coupled with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and a sport mode. With this engine, the Touareg provides a reassuring driving experience even at low speeds. The power steering is not overly heavy and allows for easy maneuvering in the city. The accelerator and brake pedals have a comfortable and responsive feel.
When driving on the highway, the Volkswagen Touareg demonstrates stability.
When driving on the highway, the Volkswagen Touareg demonstrates stability. I felt this strongly while traveling at speeds of 80-90 km/h in heavy rain with standing water on the road. The car’s tires gripped the road well, providing a sense of security. This can be attributed to the fact that the Touareg shares the same chassis as its higher-end counterparts, the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7.
The water fording capability of the car is 500mm, and the ground clearance is 222mm, not as impressive as pickup trucks, but sufficient when needed.
The sound insulation of the Volkswagen Touareg at high speeds is quite good, as there is no noise from the engine, wind, or other vehicles. The car has two driving modes: Onroad and Off-road. In Off-road mode, the Touareg is equipped with a permanent 4Motion all-wheel drive system with an electronically controlled center differential lock that easily tackles challenges. The water fording capability of the car is 500mm, and the ground clearance is 222mm, not as impressive as pickup trucks, but sufficient when needed.
Although equipped with a relatively large engine, the Touareg may not satisfy those who prefer a sportier driving experience. The engine noise is not particularly exciting. However, if you enjoy a smooth and quiet ride, the Touareg will definitely win you over. Another significant drawback of the Touareg is its fuel consumption when driving in the city, which exceeds 10 liters per 100 km. However, it would be unreasonable to expect fuel efficiency from an SUV with a 3.6L engine.
Conclusion
In the Vietnamese market, the Volkswagen Touareg is a unique SUV with its own distinct character. It should technically be in the same segment as the Audi Q7, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE. However, due to brand differences, the Touareg has created its own niche.
If the Touareg can leverage its strengths and demonstrate its value to customers, it can definitely convince discerning Vietnamese consumers.
If the Touareg can leverage its strengths and demonstrate its value to customers, it can definitely convince discerning Vietnamese consumers who are in search of a spacious and comfortable SUV with a smooth and luxurious feel. The car is currently sold at 2.629 billion VND (including VAT).
4banhteam (forum.autodaily.vn)
Photos: Le Hung
