2015 Volkswagen Touareg Review
2015 Volkswagen Touareg Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Powerful and fuel-efficient engines
- confident handling
- high towing capacity
- classy interior
- respectable off-road capability.
Cons
- No third-row seat
- hybrid model's questionable value.
What’s new
For 2015, the entire Volkswagen Touareg lineup enjoys mild styling changes and gains xenon headlights and LED taillights. A new suite of standard and available driver-assistance safety features debut as well, including blind-spot and lane-keeping warnings and adaptive cruise control with forward-collision warning and brake intervention.
Edmunds says
Changes to the 2015 Volkswagen Touareg are subtle, but help keep this midsize crossover SUV competitive. The Touareg retains its satisfying performance and luxury in an unpretentious package.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2015 Volkswagen Touareg V6 Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$282/mo for Touareg V6 Sport
Touareg V6 Sport
vs
$201/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Vehicle overview
Outside of the automotive industry, it's a little-known fact that the Volkswagen Touareg is the product of a joint venture with Audi and Porsche, so it has a more regal pedigree than just about anything else in this price range. In fact, it shares two of its three available powertrains with the highly regarded (and highly priced) Porsche Cayenne. In a way, you could view this midsize Touareg as a real bargain.
The Touareg seats only five, but does so in quiet and classy comfort. This year's exterior and interior freshening do improve the impression of luxury, while the utility it already had is enhanced with more standard features for 2015. The addition of a suite of available electronic safety systems brings the Touareg in line with others in this aspirational segment.
In terms of performance, the all-wheel-drive Touareg is amply powered by a standard and stout V6, an optional and very efficient diesel engine or a high-performance hybrid power plant that blends a supercharged V6 engine and an electric motor for a total of almost 400 horsepower; the latter two are identical to those found in the Porsche. The Touareg's responsive steering, supple ride and flawless high-speed composure make it a perfect companion for road trips.
If you're shopping for a crossover SUV in this price range, there are some great choices. If it's something family-friendly that you're after, the similarly priced but much roomier three-row 2015 Acura MDX would be a better way to go. The 2015 BMW X5 bests the Touareg in curb appeal and performance, though it is more expensive. On the opposite end of the price spectrum, we'd recommend the sharp-looking 2015 Ford Edge and the multitalented 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Still, if you're looking for equal parts performance and luxury in an unpretentious package, there aren't many midsize luxury SUVs that put it all together as well as the 2015 Volkswagen Touareg does.
Performance & mpg
The 2015 Volkswagen Touareg's engine lineup starts with a 3.6-liter gasoline V6 that generates 280 hp and 265 pound-feet of torque. The TDI models boast a turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel V6 rated at 240 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard either way. During Edmunds testing, a Touareg TDI ran from zero to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, which is about the same as a gas-powered V6 midsize SUV and pretty quick for a diesel.
The Hybrid model has its own thing going on, and it's the most powerful Touareg you can get. Featuring a supercharged 3.0-liter gasoline V6 paired with an electric motor, the combination cranks out a whopping 380 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque. At the Edmunds test track, the Hybrid sprinted from zero to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds, making it one of the quickest SUVs in its class regardless of powertrain. Also, in certain conditions at cruising speeds, the gasoline engine shuts off and the transmission disengages, allowing the Touareg to essentially coast. Finally, the Touareg Hybrid can cruise at speeds up to 31 mph on electric power alone. The eight-speed auto and all-wheel drive are also standard here, as is automatic engine stop-start to help save fuel at stoplights.
EPA fuel economy estimates for the base gasoline V6 version stand at 19 mpg combined (17 city/23 highway), while the TDI V6 rates a remarkable 23 mpg combined (20/29). The Hybrid splits the two, checking in at 21 mpg combined (20/24).
Regardless of powertrain and when properly equipped, the Touareg can tow up to 7,700 pounds, which is more than many competitors.
Safety
The 2015 Volkswagen Touareg comes standard with traction and stability control, antilock disc brakes, hill hold assist, front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and post-collision automatic braking to ensure the vehicle remains in place.
Sport with Technology (and above trims) also comes with blind-spot monitoring and a rearview camera, while an upgraded top-view camera is standard on Executive and Hybrid models. On Lux and Executive, lane-keeping assist, frontal collision warning and frontal collision mitigation with automatic braking is optional, but they're standard on the Hybrid.
Note that VW's Car-Net telematics system is not offered on the 2015 Touareg.
In Edmunds brake testing, the Touareg Hybrid stopped from 60 mph in an impressive 121 feet, while a TDI, at 123 feet, nearly matched that effort.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2015 Touareg its top rating of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset impact test and the side-impact and roof-strength tests. The Touareg's seat and head restraint design was also rated "Good" for whiplash protection in rear impacts.
Driving
There's a sense of substance and purpose in the way the 2015 Volkswagen Touareg goes down the road, but it's not so large that it ever feels unwieldy. In fact, thanks to its exceptionally responsive hydraulic-assisted steering (the Hybrid has electric-assisted power steering), the Touareg can be genuinely fun to drive, and it offers more road feel than some others in its class. It also excels on the highway, where low noise levels and exemplary stability at speed give it a cool, confident demeanor that's instantly likable.
Thanks to a permanent, mechanical center differential dictating front/rear power delivery and adaptive side-to-side torque distribution, the all-wheel-drive Touareg remains composed on loose off-road surfaces despite its lack of low-range gearing. With a respectable amount of ground clearance and a compliant suspension, it powers over washboard roads, and through light snow and light-duty trails without breaking a sweat.
The Touareg's regular V6 engine is smooth and powerful, and the eight-speed automatic transmission provides almost imperceptible upshifts along with responsive downshifts on demand. But the torque-rich TDI V6 is the one to get if you want both performance and fuel efficiency, not to mention superior driving range. From inside the quiet cabin, most people would never know there's a diesel engine powering the SUV, and it's just as quick as a typical gasoline engine.
The Hybrid, however, is the head-scratcher: Yes, it's quick, but it's well off the TDI's fuel efficiency, and its eye-watering price makes it a questionable value. If you think of the Hybrid as a performance-enhanced variant (rather than a fuel-saving one), then both of these aspects make perfect sense.
Interior
The Touareg's interior lacks the glitz and glamour of traditional luxury-brand SUVs, but there's a strong vibe of quality and craftsmanship nonetheless. The materials are rich-feeling and pleasing to the eye, especially the new chrome and wood accents. The restyled knobs and buttons move with robust precision, and white LED ambient lighting bathes the cabin. Its handsome and highly legible gauge cluster is supplemented with a crisp graphic display that allows customization and illustration of the Driver Assistance package, if so equipped.
Although the Touareg doesn't have a fancy infotainment system with a fancy name, it does give you a standard touchscreen interface with a large screen and sharp graphics. Even better, it's easy to use. The Executive model's punchy Dynaudio sound system is one of our favorites; it's a shame you can't get it on lower trim levels.
The Touareg is strictly a two-row, five-passenger SUV, but its rear seat is quite versatile, offering reclining seatbacks and 6.3 inches of fore/aft seat travel. Rear-seat legroom is competitive for a midsize SUV, while the seat bottom is high enough to give rear passengers both solid thigh support and a nice view out.
Cargo capacity measures 32.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 64 cubic feet with the 60/40-split rear seatbacks stowed. The Hybrid model's battery pack is located in such a way that cargo capacity is unaffected, which isn't always the case with a hybrid.
2015 Volkswagen Touareg models
The 2015 Volkswagen Touareg is a midsize five-passenger luxury SUV offered in base Sport, Sport with Technology, Lux, Executive and Hybrid trim levels. All but the base Sport and Hybrid offer either a gasoline (VR6) or diesel (TDI) V6 engine.
The Sport starts with 18-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, automatic wipers, foglights, roof rails, heated mirrors, a power liftgate, a manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats (with manual lumbar adjustment), heated front seats, leatherette (premium vinyl) upholstery, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and an eight-speaker sound system with 6.5-inch color touchscreen control, a six-CD changer, HD and satellite radio with iPod integration.
The Sport with Technology trim, which comes standard with the TDI engine, adds keyless entry and ignition, a navigation system with an 8-inch color touchscreen, blind-spot monitoring, a rearview camera, a trailer hitch and a hands-free power liftgate that you can open by waving your foot under the rear bumper.
The Lux starts with the Sport with Technology equipment and adds 19-inch wheels, front and rear parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, power-folding exterior mirrors (auto-dimming on the driver's side), leather upholstery, wood trim, front-seat power lumbar adjustment, driver memory functions and power rear-seat releases in the cargo area.
The Executive has all of the Lux's features, and adds distinctive 20-inch wheels, a top-view parking display with four cameras, upgraded trim, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, rear sunshades and a premium 10-speaker Dynaudio sound system.
A Driver Assistance package is available on the Lux and Executive trims. This includes lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control and front-collision warning with brake intervention.
Although the Hybrid is the most expensive Touareg, it downgrades to 19-inch wheels and the midlevel audio/navigation system (versus the Dynaudio setup). Otherwise, the Hybrid is equipped similarly to the Executive, and it also adds the Driver Assistance package, a power-adjustable steering column and passenger-seat memory settings.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#24 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Volkswagen Touareg from 2008-2022.$587/yr
vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.36x/yr
vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).13.3%
vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2015 Volkswagen Touareg.
5 star(81%)
4 star(11%)
3 star(3%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(5%)
27 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
If God designed a vehicle this would be it
Michael U, 10/07/2015
2014 Volkswagen Touareg TDI Executive 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A)
This is the greatest Vehicle I've ever driven, I absolutely love it!!! If you notice this car, see the price tag and move on because its a VW; you're doing yourself an injustice. It handles and performs like a sports car, it rides and feels like a luxury suv, it tows like a full size truck, it performs admirably off road, and It has stunning looks without being pretentious. I've been a … Toyota/Lexus person for a long time and for whatever reason, I thought negatively of VW. After searching and searching for an SUV that has good gas milage, could tow , fits my outdoor lifestyle, and is a comfy fun everyday driving car; my search kept leading me to the Touareg. I tested it over and over again, compared it to every comparable vehicle in the market and I couldn't find a reason not buy this car. I get 575 miles on a tank of gas, it tows my airstream with ease, takes my buddies and I to Colorado for mountain bike trips in luxury, and It puts a smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel. Its an absolutely joy to drive.
5 out of 5 stars
Best vehicle I have owned
Steve R, 06/21/2016
2014 Volkswagen Touareg TDI Lux 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A)
Like no other vehicle. There is no other vehicle period that can tow, handle, 4wd traction, and accelerate like this vehicle...and still get 30 mpg cruising at 70 mph down the highway. Fast. Quiet. Reliable. Incredible torque and towing ability. Very attractive...in and out. Crazy solid. Overbuilt. A Porsche Cayenne in plain clothes. As long as VW makes them...I will own one.
5 out of 5 stars
Love our Diesel (TDI) Touareg
Eric Lea, 01/07/2017
2014 Volkswagen Touareg TDI Lux 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A)
The GREAT: For the most part this is an exceptional vehicle. The 3L Diesel is the best engine ever put in an SUV...we'll see following the recall. 30 MPG on the freeway; 28 MPG over and back a mountain pass; 700 mile range; what is not to like about that? My Touareg that tows nearly 8000 pounds gets better fuel economy then my brother-in-law's toy Forrester.
The not so Great: For … the price, it is fairly technologically behind the pack. None of the new generation of active safety features (lane keeping, radar cruise, auto breaking) are included. While there is a just fair quality back-up camera and a good interior display, there is absolutely nothing up front...no beep, beep sensors, nothing. Rather an oversight in a vehicle of this class.
The interior is average, but nice. Exterior is boring, but a great wolf-in-sheep's-clothing. Every bit the value and capability of an ML350 Bluetec without the vandal-bait 3-point star. If you're looking to fly beneath the radar, this is your SUV.
2020 update—Still loving it. Maintenance is a little steep, but nothing outside the norm for European cars. Drove it from West Yellowstone to Portland, OR on a single tank of fuel (33 MPG/800 miles of range).
5 out of 5 stars
Solid as a Rock
hardware, 05/19/2020
2014 Volkswagen Touareg V6 R-Line 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
I drove a pickup truck for 25 years before getting tired of the bulk and getting a new 2014 Volvo S60 T6 that I had for six years and wanted something new. I looked at all types of cars and kept coming back to the Touareg. I looked for a month - test drove a number of TDI's but I wanted something with less miles - the TDI's were coming with VW warranties because of the diesel-gate issue … but I couldn't find any with less than 60-70,000 miles on up. I found a 2014 VR6 R-Line in mint condition with 42,000 miles and I love it. The R-Line was only in the states for the 2014 model year - in both VR6 and TDI versions. People rave about the TDI's but I'm not a mechanic and right or wrong I just felt more comfortable buying the VR6. It has plenty of power. The only downside is it takes premium and with a 26 gallon tank - the extra half buck a gallon adds up. I love everything about it - performance - the quality of everything in the interior - huge panoramic sunroof, great stereo system and nav - everything just seems a step up and rock solid - handles great for an SUV and I think it's a really sharp vehicle. I don't envy anyone regardless of what they're driving when I'm in it. Try one - you'll love it.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2015 Volkswagen Touareg, so we've included reviews for other years of the Touareg since its last redesign.
2015 Touareg Highlights
SUV
V6 Sport
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $44,705 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $282/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 32.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Touareg include:
- Back-up camera
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Lane Departure Warning
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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