2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2 V8 FSI
A Touch Improved |
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One
doesn't opt for the Volkswagen Touareg because it offers good fuel economy.
If you happen to be a VW fan, you'll enjoy the Touareg just as much,
though. Well, even if you're not particularly fond of Volkswagen vehicles.
We liked the Touareg this time around much better than when it first
appeared on the market. It performs well, is comfortable and comes with
every amenity you could want. We noticed several on the street during
the week we were test-driving the Touareg; many in the same Reflex Silver
Metallic color. Options
on our 2008 Touareg 2 V8 included the Luxury Plus Package (keyless entry
start/stop Dyna audio 4-zone Climatronic heatable rear seats ($3,400);
the Technologie package (DVD-based navigation system with sound upgrade,
rear view backup camera, 6-disc trunk mounted CD changer,
Aux Audio input jack ($3,350); 4-corner Air Suspension ($2,750); Rear
differential lock ($700); and trailer hitch ($500).
Restyled for 2008, Touareg 2 was available to the
public in June of 2007 as the next generation. A premium SUV, Touareg
2 has been completely redesigned from the front end to the back. Even
with a newly styled front grille, Touareg 2 is recognizable as a VW.
on the V8 FSI and V10 TDI. New
chrome "eyebrows" are standard on all models. The front bumper, side
mirrors and newly shaped headlamp housings with polycarbonate lens covers
are also new for 2008.
A new roof edge spoiler for improved aerodynamics
updates the rear, as do the brake light housings with improved LED lighting.
A sporty glazing treatment distinguishes the 2008 lights. The
exhaust system tailpipes take on a new look,
as well as an upgraded color palate featuring Alaska Gray,
Galapagos, White Gold and Cranberry. The 17-inch alloy wheels have been
redesigned and are standard on the V6 FSI. The V8 FSI and V10 TDI twin
turbo models get a standard 19-inch alloy wheel.
The interior of the Touareg 2 has also been updated
and refined. The comfort factor is noticeable and driving this generation
Touareg is a pleasure when compared to its predecessor. The ride is
smoother, less harsh and the seats exceptionally comfortable. As the
flagship SUV in the VW's lineup, Touareg costs some serious cash, but
owners are rewarded with a lot of goodies.
Materials have been upgraded for 2008 with classier
textures and colors. While the sportiness of the VW heritage remains,
Tourareg 2 has a decidedly upscale feel this time around.
Seating has been redesigned with a standard 12-way
power driver's seat. The controls have been grouped a little differently
and are easier to decipher. The Climatronic system is easy to operate
and heats up quite fast. As with many new high-end vehicles on
the market today, the Touareg 2 has an optional keyless access with
Start/Stop button. The only catch: You have to remember to bring the
key with you. That is, of course, if you are someone who locks your
vehicle. And I suppose there still are parts of the country where this
isn't a worry.
The power liftgate is standard and helps when you're
loaded down with gear. My rear-seat passenger enjoyed his very own controls
for the heated seat and climate control to the rear area. Sirius satellite
radio is a plus; we always enjoy it.
The optional Technologie audio package was more than adequate
and provides great sound. With 10 speakers and 620 watts of power
output, the sounds only got better.
Stepping up into the Touareg 2 can be a challenge for someone
under 5'2", which isn't unusual in today's SUV's.
Volkswagen has also made improvements to the Touareg
2's engineering components, including the use of the FSI fuel management
system that produces more horsepower and better performance. This is
obvious when heading out into the passing lane or entering a highway.
The Touareg 2 performs effortlessly. However, when warming up, there
is still that annoying lag when tapping the accelerator.
New functions have been added to the ESP (Electronic
Stability Program) and now include a Hydraulic Braking Assist, Active
Rollover Protection, Fading Brake Support and Understeer Control Logic.
ESP Dry Braking and ABSPlus are also new for Touareg 2, as are new packaging
options: A Lux Package, Lux Plus and Technologie. Our test vehicle came
equipped with the latter two bringing the bottom line just under $60,000.
One feels very safe when in the Touareg 2, around
town or on the highway. This of course comes at no small price. VW's
warranty has also improved and includes a 5 year/60,000-mile powertrain,
and a 4 yr/50,000-mile new vehicle limited
warranty. |
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SPECS
MSRP: $48,320; total vehicle price $59,700; destination $680 Transmission: 6-speed Tiptronic; 4Xmotion permanent 4WD with low range gear Length: 187.2 in. Weight: 5,486 lbs. Tires: 275/45R19 all-season Warranty: 4 yrs/50,000-mile New Vehicle Limited; 5 yrs/50,000-mile Powertrain Limited; 12 yrs/unlimited mileage Limited Warranty against corrosion perforation; 4 yrs/50,000-mile 24-hour roadside assistance. |
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Reviewed
by Susan Frissell, Womenwithwheels.com |
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