Model tested: VW Touareg 3.0-litre V6 TDI 225 PS
Price: £35,707
Date tested: June 2007
Road tester: Adrian Higgins

Overall rating: 82%
VW's upmarket off-roader is one of the best-looking 4x4s around. But is beauty only skin deep or is the Touareg more than just a pretty face?

1. Looks
The Touareg is one of the best-looking vehicles we've tested. Many manufacturers claim their models boast presence and dynamism – the Touareg actually delivers.
10/10

2. Looks inside
Recognisably a VW but very much at the top-end, the Touareg boasts a clean, stylish, roomy interior. The sat-nav sits in a central console and the materials are of a high quality.
9/10

3. Practicality
The boot can swallow 550 litres with all seats in place, or 1,570 litres with them folded. There are plenty of places for odds and ends plus an air conditioned glove box.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
The Touareg handles well, feels very stable through corners and lives up to its luxury tag by leaving the driver feeling fresh after a long journey.
8/10

5. Performance
The 3-litre V6 TDI Tiptronic takes 9.9 seconds to travel from 0-62mph and has a top speed of 125mph. This edition is sprightly thanks to the 369Ib ft of torque.
8/10

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6. Running Costs
The 3-litre diesel averages 26.9mpg and comes with a three-year/60,000-mile mechanical warranty. Servicing intervals are variable.
5/10

7. Reliability
VW has a well-deserved reputation for reliability and the Touareg we drove seemed of a very high quality – both in terms of build and material - throughout.
8/10

8. Safety
Touaregs have six airbags ESP, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist. The Touareg also carries a five-star EuroNCAP rating.
9/10

9. Equipment
Our Touareg featured a DVD sat-nav and six-CD changer, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, leather heated seats and wood trim.
8/10

10. X-Factor
It's practical, fun to drive and shifts along at a fair rate. But we reckon the real reason for buying this car is its drop-dead gorgeous, and looks even better driven than stationary.
9/10