Volkswagen Touareg

The Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission

It is all smooth sailing with the eight-speed automatic transmission equipped . It shifts up and down between gears without hesitation. Responsive and fluid, you will never feel as though it is spending time searching for gears. Everything about the Touareg's demeanor is compliant. Even the steering feels responsive and stable. You can round through turns without worry and push it hard to accelerate on the highway.

The Dynaudio Confidence Sound System

Love cranking up your music and envisioning yourself at a concert? You can do that with the Touareg's optional Dynaudio Confidence sound system. Found on the Executive trim level, you can enjoy the crystal-clear sound without overly intrusive bass. Dynaudio manufactures pro and consumer speakers, and they know how to make a high-powered sound system like the one found in the Executive trim. You get 14 speakers placed throughout the Executive's cabin as well as an 8-inch MSP subwoofer; this advanced audio system will even adjust itself according to the road conditions.

The All-Wheel-Drive System

All-wheel-drive comes equipped on the Volkswagen Touareg, and this is especially helpful for those who have to drive through rough winters. It also comes in handy for off-roading. A lot of high-end SUVs do not give you enough ground clearance coupled with a good AWD system. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) just will not cut it off the beaten path, but the AWD system on the Touareg is impressive at handling all kinds of bumps in the road and off the road. The Touareg has enough ground clearance to make the ultra compliant suspension and AWD easy to take on mountain roads, and it can also handle backcountry roads without hassle.

A Sluggish Acceleration

Many vehicles in this segment can get up to speed quickly, but the 2017 Touareg only manages to get from 0 to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds. The 2011-2015 Touaregs can do better (with 0-60 times ranging from 5.9 to 7 seconds). The 2017's V6 engine becomes strained during acceleration, struggling to make it up to speed.

A Small Cargo Area

The Touareg's maximum of 64 cubic feet is an industry-leading number. While there are some clever design components, the 32.1 cubic feet that you get with all seats left in place is not as much as its rivals. The tall, boxy shape lends some added versatility, but you will have to stack cargo up high if you have a lot to put in.

Smartphone App Integration Not Included

A lot of newer vehicles include smartphone app integration, but the later Touaregs (included the 2016 and 2017 models) do not have smartphone app integration from Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Other automakers were putting smartphone app integration into their vehicles during these model years, which makes their total absence on the Touareg problematic for anyone wanting to sync their smartphone apps to their vehicle.