Overview

The Touareg has a distinctive first - it is the first sports utility vehicle ever from Volkswagen. It received a total design overhaul in 2008. Touareg 2, Volkswagen's premium midsize SUV loses the "2" suffix for 2010. The optional V8 engine has been discontinued along with adaptive cruise control, lane-change assist and the locking rear differential. Wood interior trim and Bluetooth handsfree connectivity is now standard.The major players that the 2010 Volkswagen Touareg competes with are Lexus RX 350, Acura MDX, and Infiniti FX 35.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2010 Volkswagen Touareg is a midsize five-passenger SUV available in two trim levels that correspond to engine options: VR6 FSI and V6 TDI. The VR6 FSI model is powered by a 3.6-liter gasoline V6 that makes 280 hp and 266 pound-feet of torque, while the V6 TDI features a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 good for 221 hp and a whopping 407 lb-ft of torque at just 2,250 rpm. A six-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive and a low-range gear for serious off-roading are standard. The towing capacity of these two trims is in the region of 7700 lbs, one of the highest in its category. The 2010 Volkswagen Touareg returns a mileage of 14/19 mpg (city/highway). The TDI is rated at 18/25 mpg.

Build and Styling

The VR6 FSI rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels with foglights, automatic headlamps and wipers. A convenient power tailgate, comfortable sunroof, rear parking assist, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, 12-way power driver and eight-way manual passenger heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, walnut wood accents, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth and a 10-speaker CD stereo with satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack are among the other features. The V6 TDI has all these features but adds a turbodiesel V6 engine.

Safety Features

Anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist; anti-intrusion side door beams; anti-slip regulation; deformable steering column; hill descent and incline roll-back control; full-length side curtain airbags; front-seat side airbags and stability control are some of the several safety features found in the two trims of the 2010 Volkswagen Touareg.