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In-depth review

Volkswagen Touareg SUV (2018 onwards) review

Motoring Today Editorial · Updated 24 Jul 2026 · 8 min read· 2018–onwards

The Volkswagen Touareg SUV, the epitome of luxury motoring, now brings a new electrifying twist, with an impressive 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating and a plush interior that guarantees comfort and performance. Priced from approximately £50,000, this sophisticated beast aims to impress commuters seeking both style and functionality.

The Volkswagen Touareg is an exceptional choice for those seeking a luxury SUV that marries advanced technology with superb driving performance. Its blend of comfort, versatility, and eco-friendly options, particularly in its hybrid form, coupled with a rich heritage of design, makes it a wise investment for any discerning driver. For anyone in the market for a premium SUV, the Touareg should be near the top of their list.

At a glance

227

hp · Power

547

miles · Range / tank

7.4s

0–60 mph

££

Running costs

From £942/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Luxurious and spacious interior
  • Impressive performance and handling
  • Cutting-edge technology and safety features

Consider alternatives if

  • Higher price point compared to competitors
  • Boot space could be more generous
  • Complex infotainment system requires acclimatisation

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£942/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £5,700 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Premium

Above average monthly commitment.

Theo's AI summary

The Volkswagen Touareg is an exceptional choice for those seeking a luxury SUV that marries advanced technology with superb driving performance. Its blend of comfort, versatility, and eco-friendly options, particularly in its hybrid form, coupled with a rich heritage of design, makes it a wise investment for any discerning driver. For anyone in the market for a premium SUV, the Touareg should be near the top of their list.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£177/month

Insurance

£151/month

Road Tax

£50/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£438/month

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Safe, secure and confidential

The handling of the Touareg is impressive, providing a blend of precision and control that inspires confidence whether navigating tight city streets or winding country roads.

Motoring.Today score

How good is the Volkswagen Touareg?

60/100
Overall
Running costs52
Safety74
Family & practicality87
Insurance25

Reliability is from real DVSA MOT pass rates; running costs, insurance, safety and practicality from manufacturer specs (MPG/CO₂, insurance group, Euro NCAP, dimensions). Overall is a fixed weighted blend (family 17% · safety 18% · insurance 15% · reliability 25% · running cost 25%), from a sample of 109. A guide, not a guarantee.

Verified spec data

Specifications

Performance

Power

201–455 bhp

0–60 mph

4.9 s

Fastest in range

Top speed

155 mph

Engine

2,967–2,995 cc

Economy & running

Fuel economy

24.1–42.0 mpg

WLTP combined

Miles per £

4.5 mpp

CO₂

51–252 g/km

Insurance group

36–49 of 50

Road tax

£600/yr

Standard VED

Dimensions & practicality

Length

4,878 mm

Width

2,193 mm

Height

1,709 mm

Wheelbase

2,904 mm

Kerb weight

2,017 kg

Seats

5

Doors

5

Euro NCAP safety

5/5 · 2018

Safety assist

81%

Figures span the 32 recorded trim variants (2014–2024). Exact figures vary by trim, options and model year — always confirm on the specific car's listing.

Real DVSA data

MOT reliability

Avg pass rate

86%

First-time MOT

Valid MOT in stock

100%

1 of 1

Median MOT left

6 mo

Top failure area

Suspension

100% of failures

Check this Touareg before you buy

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Volkswagen Touareg impresses with its premium interior and advanced technology. Critics laud its comfortable ride and excellent performance, particularly with the V6 diesel engine. However, some reviewers note a steep price and reduced boot space compared to rivals.

Read full review
Autocar

The Touareg's design is elegant and sophisticated, combining robust SUV styling with a modern twist. The interior is spacious and high-quality, though some feel the exterior could be more distinctive within its competitive class.

Read full review
WhatCar

The Touareg offers solid build quality and is generally deemed reliable, but some owners report issues with electronic features over time. Costs for servicing and repairs can also be higher compared to alternatives.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Volkswagen Touareg are designed to accommodate a range of customer needs, making it accessible to both private buyers and fleet purchases. Competitive interest rates and flexible plans make owning this luxurious SUV a practical reality for many.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the Volkswagen Touareg are competitive for its class, blending luxury with practicality. Its efficient engines provide respectable fuel economy figures, particularly for those who opt for the hybrid variant, which further reduces costs associated with traditional fuel consumption.

Charging & fuel

For hybrid models, charging options are plentiful, with compatibility alongside home installations and public charging stations. The petrol variants still maintain excellent fuel economy, ensuring that drivers have options that suit both budgets and lifestyles.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2018

    Launch of the new generation Volkswagen Touareg, featuring innovative hybrid technology.

  2. 2021

    Introduction of enhanced electric models, marking Volkswagen's commitment to sustainable mobility.

Read full launch story

The Volkswagen Touareg was initially designed to cater to the premium SUV market while blending off-road capability with luxury. Its purpose extends beyond mere transportation, aiming to provide a sophisticated, versatile driving experience for adventurers and families alike. Since its inception, the Touareg has evolved significantly, embracing technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. Recent models reflect a gradual transition towards electrification, acknowledging the importance of sustainability while retaining the rugged charm and performance that has defined the Touareg since its launch.

Compare with alternatives

The Volkswagen Touareg SUV (2018 onwards) stands out in the competitive luxury SUV market for its balance of comfort, off-road capability, and value against its rivals.

BMW X5

Reference only

Luxury SUV known for sporty handling and high performance.

vs features
The X5 offers a more performance-oriented driving experience with advanced tech, but the Touareg excels in cabin quality and off-road capabilities.
vs price
The X5 is typically more expensive than the Touareg, especially with customizations and options.
No Motoring.Today review

Audi Q7

Reference only

Premium large SUV balancing luxury and practicality.

vs features
The Q7 features a slightly more refined interior and tech offerings but can feel bulkier; the Touareg focuses on a more rugged and spacious feel.
vs price
Pricing is relatively similar, but the Q7 may be slightly more premium depending on options.
No Motoring.Today review

Volvo XC90

Reference only

Family-oriented luxury SUV noted for safety features and interior comfort.

vs features
The XC90 tends to have superior safety tech and a soothing interior compared to the Touareg's more dynamic design and off-road capabilities.
vs price
Pricing is in a similar range, but the XC90 may carry a slight premium for its safety features.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

Volkswagen Touareg SUV (2018 onwards) for sale on Motoring.Today

Volkswagen Touareg SUV (2018 onwards) trim & engine line-up

Representative trims and engines recorded for this model.

TrimFuelPower0–60EconomyCO₂Ins.New price
3.0 V6 TSI eHybrid 4Motion R 5dr Tip AutoAutomatic · 4 wheel drive · 2023–NowPetrol Parallel PHEV455 bhp5s59 g/km49£82,840
3.0 TSI eHybrid 4Motion Elegance 5dr Tip AutoAutomatic · 4 wheel drive · 2023–NowPetrol Parallel PHEV375 bhp5.7s51 g/km47£71,280
3.0 V6 TSI PHEV 4Motion R 5dr Tip AutoAutomatic · 4 wheel drive · 2021–2022Petrol Parallel PHEV455 bhp4.9s52 g/km48£80,350
SEL 3.0 V6 TSI 340PS 4Motion Tiptronic auto 5dAutomatic · 4 wheel drive · 2019–2022Petrol335 bhp5.7s24.6 - 25.9 mpg247 g/km41£60,290
SE 3.0 V6 TDI SCR 286PS 4Motion Tiptronic auto 5dAutomatic · 4 wheel drive · 2019–2021Diesel281 bhp6.1s33.2 - 34.9 mpg211 g/km40£52,075
SEL Tech 3.0 V6 TDI SCR 231PS 4Motion Tiptronic auto 5dAutomatic · 4 wheel drive · 2019–2020Diesel227 bhp7.3s32.5 - 34.4 mpg214 g/km37£50,205
R-Line Tech 3.0 V6 TDI SCR 286PS 4Motion Tiptronic auto 5dAutomatic · 4 wheel drive · 2018–2023Diesel281 bhp6.1s32.5 - 34.4 mpg215 g/km41£65,960
R-Line Tech 3.0 V6 TDI SCR 231PS 4Motion Tiptronic auto 5dAutomatic · 4 wheel drive · 2018–2023Diesel227 bhp7.4s32.1 - 34.4 mpg215 g/km39£63,280
3.0 V6 TDI BlueMtn Tech (262bhp) Response 5d Tip AutoAutomatic · 4 wheel drive · 2015–2019Diesel258 bhp7.1s42 mpg180 g/km42£36,695
3.0 V6 TDI BlueMotion Tech SE 5d Tip AutoAutomatic · 4 wheel drive · 2014–2019Diesel201 bhp8.4s42 mpg176 g/km40£44,730

Specs by trim

R-Line 3.0 V6 TDI SCR 231PS 4Motion Tiptronic auto 5dDiesel Automatic · 2018–2022
Power
227 bhp
0–60 mph
7.4 s
Top speed
138 mph
Torque
500 Nm
Economy
32.5 - 34.4 mpg
Range
536 mi
CO₂
215 g/km
Insurance group
39
Road tax
£600
New price
£59,795
R-Line 3.0 V6 TDI SCR 286PS 4Motion Tiptronic auto 5dDiesel Automatic · 2018–2022
Power
281 bhp
0–60 mph
6.1 s
Top speed
147 mph
Torque
600 Nm
Economy
32.5 - 34.4 mpg
Range
536 mi
CO₂
214 g/km
Insurance group
41
Road tax
£600
New price
£62,475
SEL 3.0 V6 TDI SCR 231PS 4Motion Tiptronic auto 5dDiesel Automatic · 2018–2023
Power
227 bhp
0–60 mph
7.4 s
Top speed
138 mph
Torque
500 Nm
Economy
33.2 - 34.9 mpg
Range
547 mi
CO₂
213 g/km
Insurance group
37
Road tax
£600
New price
£56,505
3.0 V6 TDI 4Motion SEL Tip Auto 5dDiesel Automatic · 2018–2023
Power
281 bhp
0–60 mph
6.1 s
Top speed
147 mph
Torque
600 Nm
Economy
33.2 - 34.9 mpg
Range
547 mi
CO₂
212 g/km
Insurance group
40
Road tax
£600
New price
£59,185
R-Line Tech 3.0 V6 TDI SCR 231PS 4Motion Tiptronic auto 5dDiesel Automatic · 2018–2023
Power
227 bhp
0–60 mph
7.4 s
Top speed
138 mph
Torque
500 Nm
Economy
32.1 - 34.4 mpg
Range
529 mi
CO₂
215 g/km
Insurance group
39
Road tax
£600
New price
£63,280
R-Line Tech 3.0 V6 TDI SCR 286PS 4Motion Tiptronic auto 5dDiesel Automatic · 2018–2023
Power
281 bhp
0–60 mph
6.1 s
Top speed
147 mph
Torque
600 Nm
Economy
32.5 - 34.4 mpg
Range
536 mi
CO₂
215 g/km
Insurance group
41
Road tax
£600
New price
£65,960

+ 19 more trim variants

FAQs

What are the main features of the Volkswagen Touareg?
The Volkswagen Touareg boasts a luxurious interior, impressive safety ratings, advanced driver assistance technology, and exceptional performance, making it suitable for both urban driving and long-distance cruising.
How economical is the Volkswagen Touareg?
The Touareg achieves around 37-40mpg, with low emissions from its hybrid variants, offering a practical choice for families and commuters.
What notable updates came with the 2018 Touareg?
The 2018 Touareg introduced premium upgrades with a sleek design, advanced technology, and enhanced electrification, reinforcing its status as a luxury off-roader.
Is the Volkswagen Touareg suitable for off-road driving?
Yes, the Touareg features all-wheel drive and a robust design, making it capable of handling diverse terrains while maintaining luxury and comfort.
What financing options are available for the Touareg?
Starting at approximately £50,000, the Touareg offers financing through Volkswagen Finance, with options like PCP at 6.9% APR for budget-conscious buyers.

Volkswagen Touareg SUV (2018 onwards) (2018–onwards)

From £942/month