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2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2
2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2 Review
A Mightier Touareg
Now called the Volkswagen Touareg 2, this comfortable and capable SUV gets a minor facelift and adds a few features for 2008.
In its base form, the Volkswagen Touareg 2 comes powered by a direct-injection 3.2-liter V6 engine that provides acceptable, though far from exhilarating, acceleration. The 4.2-liter V8-powered version boasts about 25 percent more power for more thrust. Fuel economy with either version is paltry compared to many similar-sized (albeit less off-road capable) car-based crossover SUVs.
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A V10 turbodiesel version of the Volkswagen Touareg 2 generates more horsepower than the V6, but somewhat less than the V8; however, it affords much more low-end torque than either of them (over 550 pound-feet), which translates into extremely quick acceleration on demand — probably more than most SUV drivers would ever need on the road. It’s also slightly more fuel efficient than either of the gasoline engines. Unfortunately, because it doesn’t meet emissions requirements in California and a few other states that have similar environmental restrictions, the V10 can only be sold in 45 states. A cleaner-burning version of the V10 that will be 50-state compliant is expected down the road.
The only transmission available on the Volkswagen Touareg 2 remains a sophisticated six-speed Tiptronic automatic that adapts shift patterns to driving style and allows manual gear selection. Equipped with any of the three available engines, the Touareg 2 can tow over 7,700 pounds with proper equipment, which compares favorably with all but the largest domestic-brand SUVs.
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The Volkswagen Touareg 2 is equipped with a sophisticated four-wheel antilock disc braking system with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist and Fading Brake Support for confident stopping abilities, particularly in panic-braking situations. An ABSPlus function helps to shorten the vehicle’s stopping distance on loose surfaces by temporarily locking the wheels to allow road material to collect into blocks under the tires.
Volkswagen Touareg 2 Vehicle Summary
While its sophisticated suspension system and standard 4Motion permanent all-wheel-drive system enable it to tackle rough terrain, the Volkswagen Touareg 2 handles better on the road than do many truck-based SUVs. VW’s Servotronic variable-assist power steering system is included with the V8 and V10 versions for easier and quicker response. A rear air suspension is available to further improve the already supple ride. An impressive array of standard chassis-control features includes traction control, electronic stability control, hill descent assist and hill ascent assist, all of which combine to improve traction and safety, on-road and off.
The Volkswagen Touareg 2’s interior is plush and comfortable, with front and side airbags for occupants up front and side-curtain airbags for front-seat and back-seat passengers. Walnut wood trim is optional. It comes with many comfort and convenience features, like a power liftgate, Electronic Parking Assist proximity warnings and Sirius satellite radio. However, unlike its more family friendly competition, the Volkswagen Touareg 2 doesn’t offer third-row seating, which limits the total occupant capacity to five; a rear DVD entertainment system is likewise unavailable.
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Optional premium features include heated seats and steering wheel, Keyless Access entry/start system, a navigation system with rearview camera, four-zone climate control and a 525-watt Dynaudio audio system.
You need to drive off-road, haul heavy loads or require substantial towing capabilities; you prefer SUVs that behave more like cars than trucks on road; you like driving a vehicle that not everyone has; you value refinement; fuel economy is not a priority.
A smaller, less-expensive SUV would suit your needs; you don't need to drive off-road or tow heavy loads; you need seating for more than five occupants.
Five adults fit comfortably in the Touareg’s handsome interior; while a tilting/telescoping steering wheel is standard, adjustable pedals are not offered; as with many large SUVs, a high step-in height can complicate ingress and egress for shorter passengers.
According to Merriam-Webster Online, a Touareg, also spelled Tuareg and pronounced TWAH-reg, is a member of a nomadic people in the central and western Sahara Desert.
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