2009 Volkswagen Touareg: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2009 Volkswagen Touareg is the addition of a TDI model with a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6. Otherwise, this is a quiet follow-up to the 2008 refresh, with no major changes to the design or core hardware.
About the 2009 Volkswagen Touareg
1st generation Touareg (2004-2010), second year after the 2008 Touareg 2 refresh and two model years before the all-new 2011 redesign.
Volkswagen positioned the Touareg as a premium five-seat SUV that mixed a quiet, upscale cabin with genuine off-road hardware. Unlike many car-based rivals, it kept full-time four-wheel drive with low-range gearing, strong towing ability, and hill-control systems, while still aiming for a polished everyday driving experience. That made it a good fit for shoppers who wanted luxury-level comfort and capability without moving to a luxury brand.
The 2009 Touareg is a five-seat SUV with an upscale cabin and full-time four-wheel drive with low-range gearing for difficult terrain. The Base model represents the core gasoline Touareg, while the TDI emphasizes stronger low-speed pulling power and better fuel economy. Both have comfort and convenience features such as heated front seats, a sunroof, a power liftgate, and front and rear parking sensors.
What changed, by category
2009 Volkswagen Touareg specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, Turbo Diesel, 3.0L | V6, 3.6 Liter / V8, 4.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Tiptronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 13–14 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 18–20 mpg |
| Horsepower | 280–350 hp | |
| Torque | 265–324 lb-ft | |
| Max Towing | 7716 lb | 7716 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 71 cu-ft | 71 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.6 in | 35.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is new on the 2009 Volkswagen Touareg?
The key change is a new TDI model powered by a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6. A Base trim also joins the lineup, while the Touareg's design and core mechanical setup remain largely unchanged.
Is the 2009 Volkswagen Touareg a redesign?
No. The 2009 Touareg is the second model year after the 2008 Touareg 2 refresh and remains part of the first generation. Its main update is the new diesel model rather than a redesign.
What engine was added to the 2009 Volkswagen Touareg?
A 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6 was added in the new TDI trim. It was positioned as the more fuel-efficient choice, with strong low-speed pulling power for highway driving and towing.
What stayed the same for the 2009 Volkswagen Touareg?
The overall design, core hardware, and gasoline V6 and V8 setups carried over. The Touareg retained its six-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive with low-range gearing.
What features distinguish the 2009 Touareg TDI?
The 2009 Touareg TDI combines its 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6 with full-time four-wheel drive, a six-speed automatic transmission, heated front seats, a sunroof, a power liftgate, and front and rear parking sensors.