2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2

Performance

Two of Touareg's three available engines get an upgrade this year, and there's news of a fourth waiting in the wings. The former 3.2-liter V6 has been enlarged to 3.6 liters. The 280 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque it produces are plus 40 and plus 41, respectively, over the previous motor. The new, FSI six is almost a full second quicker from 0-60 (now 8.3 seconds). On the V8 side, displacement remains the same, at 4.2 liters, but horsepower is bumped up by 40, to a new total of 350. Torque similarly grows by 23 lb.-ft. (to 325), and the new eight is a half second faster from 0-60 (now accomplished in 7.1 seconds).


The V8 really impresses with the smoothness of its power, however, with the 40 added ponies, the V6 becomes a very attractive alternative. Buyers may well wish to pocket the difference and spend it on select options. V6 and V8 engines are expected to account for 90 percent of all Touareg 2 sales, but the mighty V10 twin turbo diesel returns as well. The pricey powerhouse didn't get a power boost, but at 310 hp, and a jaw dropping, 553 lb. ft. of torque, it hardly needs one. Fuel economy is not a strength for Touareg 2. V6 models are rated at 14/19 city/highway, and V8s check in at an estimated 12/17. The model average figures to improve next year, when a new, smaller turbo diesel engine is added to the option list. The 3.0-liter V6 will make 230 horsepower and will be 50-state eligible.

Handling

Happily unchanged is Touareg's off-road prowess. Touareg 2's numbers are nothing to get hung up on—literally. With standard, steel suspension, it boasts 28-degree approach and departure angles. The numbers increase to 33 degrees fore and aft with optional air suspension. Touareg 2 can climb a 45-degree slope, traverse a lateral incline of 33 degrees, and ford water up to 20 inches deep (23 inches with air suspension). All Touareg 2s are fitted with four-wheel drive, with off-road requisites like a low range for the transmission and locking differentials. Electronic aids like Hill Descent Assist and Hill Climb Assist maintain a controlled engine speed, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering through technical terrain without worrying about the pedals. We've driven the latest edition on light off-road trails and the previous version on some of Moab's finest slick rock. Tackling all on just street tread, Touareg 2 is an eye-opener, impressively capable. But, judging from the numbers, that's a well-kept secret. Volkswagen's research shows that just four percent of buyers got a Touareg because it had four-wheel drive; only two percent purchased it because they want to venture off-road.


While few may realize how good it is in the dirt, all would know if it stumbled on pavement. Touareg 2's road chops are equally up to the task. Ride quality is long-trip comfortable, handling is stable and predictable and the driving is more sedan than SUV—more fun than we're used to seeing in this segment. A handful of new safety features ride along with you (ABS Plus, Fading Brake Support, Dry Braking) along with enhancements to the Electronic Stabilization Program (improved under steer logic) to keep you headed in the right direction, regardless of road conditions.


Prices for Touareg 2 start at $39,985 for a V6 model, $48,985 for V8, and $68,985 for V10. Volkswagen estimates that some 70 percent of its buyers will choose the V6, and will shop it against the Acura MDX, Lexus RX350 or Volvo XC90. Touareg 2 will look good in that company. Dollar for dollar, it's as accomplished and refined a dual use traveler as anything in its class. The reviews on Touareg 2 are in and they're thumbs up. This is one of those rare occasions when the sequel is better than the original. (www.vw.com)