The second-generation Touareg comes with a number of cleverly executed visual updates. Volkswagen revised the front grille and headlight assembly not only to give the vehicle a more masculine look, but also to further differentiate it from the mass, including its Cayenne cousin. With its commanding presence, the Touareg can either be classified as a big midsize SUV or a small full-size SUV. It's a comfortable highway cruiser and a competent off-roader, but in the city, the Touareg feels somewhat clumsy.
Tall stance
You don't step into the Touareg; you climb on board. Inside, there are few changes to report. Passengers still benefit from generous room and useful storage. The interior is warm (literally) to the extent that one feels the need to constantly keep the ventilating system on, probably due to the materials and large greenhouse. Fortunately, the climate control system works beautifully and, for open-air enthusiasts, the power sunroof can be used to cool the interior: when open, wind turbulences are kept in check so as not to disturb the occupants. The quality audio system will satisfy music lovers thanks to its clarity and user-friendliness, not to mention the cabin's soundproofing.
Spacious trunk
Once, I had to use the entire cargo area to carry a couple of boxes. I appreciated all the available room, but I was disappointed by the fact that you need to take the headrests off to fold the seatbacks completely flat. The latter, by the way, require extra effort to manipulate. In addition, the door and cargo thresholds are too high to load items easily. Of course, that's the price you have to pay to benefit from a high ground clearance and be able to overcome obstacles.
Behind the wheel
The driving position is adequate. On the other hand, getting used to the many different controls requires a certain amount of time. The comprehensive instrument panel features easy-to-read gauges and informs the driver of everything that's going on. However, depending on your height, the steering wheel may obstruct the speedometer. Forward visibility is good -- especially with the pair of wipers that effectively clear the windshield, even under heavy rain -- but things get more complicated at the back; you have to correctly position both mirrors to reduce blind spots. As for the headlights, they offer a good view over a sizeable range, even in corners, which I find excellent and particularly safe.
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| The Touareg 2 is perfectly at ease off the beaten paths. |
Tall stance
You don't step into the Touareg; you climb on board. Inside, there are few changes to report. Passengers still benefit from generous room and useful storage. The interior is warm (literally) to the extent that one feels the need to constantly keep the ventilating system on, probably due to the materials and large greenhouse. Fortunately, the climate control system works beautifully and, for open-air enthusiasts, the power sunroof can be used to cool the interior: when open, wind turbulences are kept in check so as not to disturb the occupants. The quality audio system will satisfy music lovers thanks to its clarity and user-friendliness, not to mention the cabin's soundproofing.
Spacious trunk
Once, I had to use the entire cargo area to carry a couple of boxes. I appreciated all the available room, but I was disappointed by the fact that you need to take the headrests off to fold the seatbacks completely flat. The latter, by the way, require extra effort to manipulate. In addition, the door and cargo thresholds are too high to load items easily. Of course, that's the price you have to pay to benefit from a high ground clearance and be able to overcome obstacles.
Behind the wheel
The driving position is adequate. On the other hand, getting used to the many different controls requires a certain amount of time. The comprehensive instrument panel features easy-to-read gauges and informs the driver of everything that's going on. However, depending on your height, the steering wheel may obstruct the speedometer. Forward visibility is good -- especially with the pair of wipers that effectively clear the windshield, even under heavy rain -- but things get more complicated at the back; you have to correctly position both mirrors to reduce blind spots. As for the headlights, they offer a good view over a sizeable range, even in corners, which I find excellent and particularly safe.
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| Getting used to the various controls requires a certain amount of time. |