The V6 Touareg is fitted with standard 17-inch alloy wheels while the V8 wears 18-inch alloys - imposing 19-inchers are optional. All of the wheels exhibit an authoritative, yet sporty appearance. They are shod with all-season rubber, except in the case of the 19-inchers which are encircled by performance treads.
 |
| Four-wheel anti-lock vented disc brakes are standard on all trim levels. (Photo: Volkswagen AG) |
Even with high quality rolling stock and cutting-edge 4-Motion technology, the Touareg must eventually come to a stop. Four-wheel anti-lock vented disc brakes are standard on all trim levels. Although I haven't had the opportunity to slam my size 10s down on the power-brake pedal, from the material I have examined I feel confident that braking will be just a rewarding as its acceleration.
 |
| Volkswagen's Intelligent Crash Response System greatly reduces the possibility of trapped occupants and fire, and better yet, comes standard. (Photo: Volkswagen AG) |
In addition to anti-lock brakes, the Touareg protects its occupants with driver and front passenger airbags, plus side curtain airbags for driver, front passenger and rear passengers. That's almost as many airbags likely to be found at a political fundraiser - or for that matter a convention of automotive journalists with jokes like that.
Volkswagen's sport utility is also equipped with something called an Intelligent Crash Response System as standard equipment. If a certain severity of crash is detected, all doors automatically unlock, the battery terminal automatically disconnects, the fuel supply is automatically terminated, warning hazards are automatically engaged, high consumption electrical components are automatically shut off and an emergency signal is automatically sent to OnStar Telematics (if equipped). If you didn't catch that, it all happens automatically so no need to worry. These steps greatly minimize the possibility of trapped occupants and fire.