2017 Volkswagen Touareg Pros vs Cons
What’s New for 2017?
Unfortunately, you can no longer opt for a diesel engine. The good news is that the 2017 model comes equipped with a greater number of advanced safety technologies.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg – The Pros
1. Excellent Automatic Transmission
All versions of the SUV come equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It helps you to get the most performance out of the Touareg’s V-6 engine. When accelerating on the road, the automatic transmission shifts quickly and accurately. If you need to haul a load, you can always rely on the transmission to choose the most appropriate gear.
2. Solid Handling
Drivers will love the VW Touareg’s surefooted handling. Although the SUV weighs more than 4,500 pounds, it feels remarkably light on its feet. The Touareg remains stable even when taking a sharp curve. Drivers give the SUV high marks for its responsive steering system. Whether you are traveling on the interstate or cruising on a rural road, you will feel confident while behind the wheel.
3. Can Tow a Hefty Load
The 2017 Volkswagen Touareg is a good alternative to a pickup truck. With a towing capacity of more than 7,700 pounds, the SUV will have no trouble pulling a camper or a fishing boat. You can also use the Touareg to tow another vehicle. A trailer hitch comes standard on every trim.
4. Smooth & Quiet Ride
Although the Touareg does have an athletic character, it still manages to deliver a smooth ride on the road. Its suspension system provides the ideal balance of sportiness and comfort. The SUV is perfect for the families who love to travel. Its cabin remains extremely quiet when traveling at highway speeds.
5. Impressive Off-Road Performer
Unlike many of today’s crossover SUVs, the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg is a formidable off-road machine. Nearly eight inches of ground clearance helps the Touareg to overcome nature’s obstacles. All trims benefit from an advanced AWD system, which helps you to easily churn through mud and snow. The Touareg is highly recommended for the drivers who like to go camping.
6. Refined Styling
There are plenty of car shoppers who will appreciate the Touareg’s refined styling. It packs a lot of style without being overly flashy. Bi-xenon headlamps now come standard. Flaunting a sporty set of 21-inch wheels, the top-of-the-line Executive trim has an especially commanding road presence. Some of the attractive paint colors include Deep Red, Reef Blue, and Sand Gold.
7. 100,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty
In the past, the Touareg hasn’t been known for being the most reliable SUV. Various issues forced owners to spend extra time in the repair shop. To give buyers an extra sense of protection, Volkswagen now backs the Touareg with a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. If you experience a problem within the warranty period, VW will cover the cost.
8. Nice Standard Features
Every trim comes loaded with luxurious goodies. Noted for its sharp graphics, the standard infotainment system is extremely responsive and easy to use. While leather upholstery is found in the higher trim levels, VW’s V-Tex premium vinyl upholstery looks just as attractive. Some of the other standard equipment includes a hands-free tailgate, heated front seats, and navigation.
9. Powerful Dynaudio Sound System
For the drivers who desire an enhanced music-listening experience, the Executive trim’s Dynaudio sound system is bound to leave them impressed. You will be surrounded by a total of 10 premium speakers. Even when turning up the volume, the system’s sound quality remains exceptional.
10. Standard Safety Technologies
By loading the new Touareg with an impressive list of standard safety technologies, Volkswagen transformed it into a more appealing family vehicle. If you happen to lose focus while on the road, the SUV’s autonomous braking system can take control. Blind-spot monitoring gives you an additional sense of security on the highway. You will also benefit from a post-collision braking system and lane departure warning.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg – The Cons
1. Below-Average Fuel Economy
Don’t expect the Touareg to deliver great fuel efficiency. It is rated to return 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The SUV’s mediocre fuel economy could be a concern for the drivers who commute on a daily basis.
2. Relatively Expensive Price Tag
The 2017 Volkswagen Touareg is more expensive than some of today’s other midsize SUVs. Even the base trim demands nearly $50,000. For the folks who want the luxurious Executive model, they will be spending at least $60,000.
3. Slower Than Some Competitors
Most drivers are unlikely to complain about the Touareg’s overall performance. However, a 0-60 time of 7.7 seconds puts it behind the competition. The new BMW X3 offers far quicker acceleration.
How it stacks up to the competition:
Some of the key rivals include the 2017 Acura MDX and the 2017 Ford Explorer. In comparison to the Ford Explorer, the VW Touareg has the most upscale interior. Meanwhile, the Touareg’s impressive off-road prowess gives it an advantage over the Acura MDX.
Conclusion:
In terms of driver fulfillment, the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg stands out from the crowd. Although only a single engine is now offered, its 280-horsepower output is enough to keep most people happy. An advanced AWD system gives you superior traction in snowy weather. While the base model deserves some serious consideration, the top-of-the-line version comes equipped with luxuries such as a high-powered sound system and a 360-degree parking camera.
