Volkswagen Touareg III

Touareg in brief

The Touareg has been in production since 2002 and comes in three generations: 7L (2002–2010), 7P (2010–2018) and CR (from 2018). All are five-seaters — there’s never been a three-row Touareg. The first generation was co-developed with the Porsche Cayenne, while later models share technology with the Audi Q7 and other group SUVs.

In Lithuania, the Touareg is bought as a comfortable car for long journeys and towing heavy trailers — most versions allow a braked trailer weight of up to 3.5t. In the used market, 7P generation models with the 3.0 V6 TDI diesel engine are most commonly found.

Which generation to choose

The 7L generation (2002–2010) is now quite old: most cars have high mileage, and the complex technology — pneumatic suspension, large engines — can be expensive to run. Such a car is only worth buying with a checked history and considering potential repair costs.

The 7P generation (2010–2018) is the most popular in the used market. It’s lighter and more economical than its predecessor, features an eight-speed automatic gearbox and a more modern interior. Models updated in 2014 received newer, more powerful diesels and a slightly revised appearance.

The CR generation (from 2018) is built on the MLB platform: it's larger, more luxurious and often features the digital Innovision Cockpit with a large screen. This generation is still quite pricey in the used market, but it offers the most advanced driver assistance systems and plug-in hybrid versions.

Engines and transmissions

The 7P generation predominantly features the 3.0 V6 TDI diesel — usually around 240–262 hp, with a less powerful version around 204 hp. Less commonly found are the 4.2 V8 TDI (around 340 hp), the petrol 3.6 V6, and the 3.0 V6 hybrid (around 380 hp).

In the CR generation, the 3.0 V6 TDI is offered in around 231 and 286 hp, the petrol 3.0 V6 TFSI in around 340 hp. There's a plug-in hybrid eHybrid (around 381 hp) and the sporty Touareg R (around 462 hp), and in the early production years, there was also the 4.0 V8 TDI.

Both the 7P and CR generations come with an 8-speed automatic transmission and the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. In the 7P generation, you could order the Terrain Tech package with a lowered gear ratio and differential lock, while the air suspension was usually an optional extra in both generations.

What to check when buying a used Touareg

The timing chains of the 3.0 V6 TDI engine are at the rear of the engine, making their replacement expensive. The cold engine shouldn't rattle after starting. For diesel cars, check the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and EGR valve, and in newer models, the AdBlue system.

If the car has air suspension, make sure it doesn't sag when parked, the compressor doesn't run too long, and the height adjustment works in all modes. During the test drive, the automatic gearbox should shift smoothly, without any jolts.

Many Touaregs were used to tow trailers, so check the tow hitch, transmission, and suspension condition. Inspect the underbody for signs of rust and uneven gaps, and review the service history for any records of technical inspections.

Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and year. The 7P generation Touareg in Germany was often sold in one main version with additional equipment packages, so the equipment greatly depends on the specific car.

CR generation trim comparison

For most buyers, the best Touareg CR generation with the 3.0 V6 TDI engine is the Elegance or Atmosphere for comfort, R-Line for looks. The Touareg R is worth considering only if you want maximum power, while a smaller budget is better served by the refreshed 7P.

Frequently asked questions