2004 Volkswagen Touareg New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2004 Volkswagen Touareg?
Volkswagen presents its very first SUV, the Touareg. Three engines avail themselves: a 3.2-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission produces 220 horsepower; a 4.2-liter V8 makes 310 horsepower; and a 5.0-liter V10 turbodiesel generates the same horsepower as the V8 but with 553 lb.-ft. of torque. All versions offer an impressive level of standard features. The V6 comes with wood trim, automatic temperature control, tire pressure monitor and power sunroof. The V8 ups the bling factor with power seats, leather interior and 18-inch wheels. The V10 includes bi-Xenon headlights, additional chrome trim, a silver-finish roof rack, on-board telematics with multi-function display monitor, larger front brakes, air suspension, and Servotronic power steering. A keyless access system, parking assist sensors, navigation system, 19-inch alloy wheels, upgraded audio, Nappa leather upholstery, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel and four-zone climate control system are among the Touareg’s upscale options. The Touareg shares much of its structure and basic underpinnings with the more expensive and more sporting Porsche Cayenne.

Advantages of the 2004 Volkswagen Touareg:

• Car-like handling balanced with truck-worthy off-road capabilities
• Interior design and materials are worth writing home about
• Stout diesel engine option
• Impressive 7,700-pound towing capacity
• Porsche engineering for a Volkswagen price

Objections to the 2004 Volkswagen Touareg:

• Fussy second row seat folding procedure
• Integrated radio and navigation systems are somewhat complicated to operate
• Size of cargo space is not impressive
• Syrupy control response

Editor's Advice:
The 2004 Volkswagen Touareg may be a tardy entrant to the sport-ute arena, but it benefits from years of studying what jibes with consumers, and delivers the results in a appealing package. Not satisfied with just being a mild-mannered car-based crossover, the Touareg possesses the muscles of a boulder-basher, with 11.8 inches of maximum ground clearance, a low-range transfer case and Hill Descent Control. Of course, most Touaregs will never leave the pavement, so it manages to shine on-road with driving dynamics befitting the character of the German automaker – it’s sporty without sacrificing a comfortable ride. Expect more than a fair degree of coddling in the elegant interior, rivaling such luxury competitors as the Infiniti FX and the Lexus RX 330.