VW Touareg 2011 review

This is Volkswagen's second crack at the Touareg. The second generation sports utility vehicle (SUV) features lightweight construction techniques, more fuel-efficient engines and other advanced technologies.

All new models are fitted with VW's fuel-saving BlueMotion technologies including brake energy recuperation and automatic engine shutdown at traffic lights. The 3.0-litre 150 TDI is the entry level model, priced from $62, 990.

VALUE

Certainly not the most expensive SUV out there and not the cheapest either, so you'd expect a bit of kit for your doe and Touareg delivers, especially in the technology department.

Standard equipment includes nine airbags, stability control and anti-lock brakes, with brake assist and electronic brakes force distribution. Entertainment and technology equipment fitted as standard includes coloured multi-function display and Bluetooth connectivity.

TECHNOLOGY

The eight-speed automatic is a real bonus, with seventh and eighth overdrive gears reduce fuel consumption and cabin noise into the bargain. Scores 3.5 out 5 from the Government's Green Guide (Prius scores five), with a greenhouse rating of 6.5 and air pollution rating of 5 out of 10.

DESIGN

It's 144mm longer than before with a 49mm longer wheelbase which translates to more rear legroom and more luggage space. Despite being lower and thus appearing sleeker, the new Touareg is larger than the previous model. It is almost 50mm longer in wheelbase, its overall length has increased by 144mm, yet it weighs up to 90kg less and is up to 20 per cent more fuel-efficient.

SAFETY

Like its predecessor this one scores a full five stars for safety in crash tests, with a total of nine airbags standard. Auto Hold and Hill Hold Assist apply the brakes automatically when the vehicle comes to a stop and a radar monitors the traffic ahead, warning the driver and priming the brakes in readiness to avoid rear enders.

DRIVING

It might be the entre to the Touareg range, but there's nothing entry level about the way this one goes. With 150kW of power and 400Nm of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic, it is surprisingly responsive for a  two tonne plus vehicle.

Fuel economy has been shaved to an official 7.2 litres/100km (we were getting 8.6). At 9.0 seconds for the dash from 0-100km/h it's quick out of the gates and cruises easily and economically. Really there's no need to step up to the more powerful version of this engine unless you want the extra kit that you get with it.

The four wheel drive system in this model features a Torsen limited-slip differential that distributes torque between the front and rear wheels and has a maximum gradability of 31 degrees.

Selecting the off-road drive program tunes the ABS (ABSPlus), EDL and ASR for off-road activity, activates Hill Descent Assist and adjusts the shift points of the automatic gearbox.

VERDICT

Perhaps the only major drawback with Touareg is the fact you can't get one with seven seats. This is the major attraction of these vehicles for families. Othewise it's a classy four-wheel drive which will appeal to both fashion conscious and technologically minded buyers.