The stigma of old, unreliable diesel engines is hard to shake, especially if you remember the smoky, underpowered diesels of the 1980s. For many, diesel still conjures images of slow, polluting vehicles. However, European automakers like VW, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have been working to redefine diesel’s image, and the 2011 Vw Touareg TDI is a prime example of this effort. VW aims to prove that a modern diesel SUV can be powerful, refined, and efficient enough for everyday American drivers. With a robust 225 horsepower and a substantial 406 lb-ft of torque, the 2011 Touareg TDI might just change your perception of diesel. In fact, this diesel Touareg boasts more torque than the supercharged hybrid version, making it the torquiest Touareg available in the US at the time.
Luxurious and Well-Equipped Interior of the 2011 VW Touareg TDI
Stepping inside the 2011 Touareg TDI, you’re greeted with an interior that rivals luxury brands. The cabin shares the same high-quality materials and meticulous construction as the Touareg Hybrid. Soft-touch plastics, precise panel alignment, and an overall premium feel make it easy to forget you’re in a Volkswagen and not an Audi. Despite the upscale interior, US buyers missed out on the “Driver Assistance Pack” available in Europe, which included features like radar cruise control and blind spot monitoring – a surprising omission given the Touareg’s premium aspirations and price point.
Package Options and Features
Speaking of price, the test model reviewed was equipped with the top-tier “Executive package,” pushing the total to $57,500. The base TDI model started at $47,950. While seemingly expensive, this was a strategic move by VW to offer a more accessible price point compared to previous diesel SUVs in their lineup. This was achieved by streamlining options and bundling them into packages. Even the base model is well-equipped, but the $3,850 “Lux” package adds desirable features like 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, walnut trim, leather seats with 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and electric rear seat releases. The “Executive package” takes it further with 20-inch wheels, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, keyless entry and start, parking sensors, and a premium Dynaudio sound system. Regardless of the package, all 2011 Touareg TDI models come standard with the user-friendly VW RNS 850 navigation system, complete with iPod/USB integration, Bluetooth, and Sirius satellite radio.
Technology and Infotainment System
The RNS 850 navigation system features a bright, high-resolution eight-inch color touchscreen that remains easily readable even in direct sunlight. VW opted for a touch-driven interface, differing from systems like Mercedes’ COMMAND, BMW’s iDrive, and even Audi’s MMI, which often incorporate rotary controllers. The system’s layout is intuitive and straightforward, and the 3D mapping is competitive with other navigation systems on the market. While the reviewer noted a preference for a higher placement of the screen for better visibility and reduced distraction while driving, the system is generally well-regarded. One minor drawback mentioned was the traffic notification system, which, unlike many modern systems, does not overlay traffic speed information directly onto the map display using color-coded lines.
Powerful and Efficient Diesel Engine of the 2011 Touareg TDI
Under the hood of the 2011 Touareg TDI lies the same 3.0-liter, 24-valve DOHC V6 diesel engine found in its cousin, the Audi Q7. This engine, first introduced in 2004, is a proven performer in Europe and powers various luxury vehicles, including the VW Phaeton, Audi A8, and Porsche Cayenne. Refinement is a key characteristic of this engine, befitting its application in luxury vehicles. Even in colder temperatures (around 31 degrees Fahrenheit during the test week), the Touareg TDI started quickly and smoothly, much like a gasoline engine, dispelling the common diesel stereotype of difficult cold starts. A slight hint of diesel vibration and clatter was noticeable upon initial startup, but it quickly subsided, settling into a remarkably smooth and quiet purr, exceeding expectations for a diesel engine.
Driving Dynamics and Towing Capability
On-Road Performance
On the road, the 225 horsepower and abundant torque of the TDI engine provide more than adequate power for confident acceleration, even on short freeway on-ramps. Independent testing clocked a 0-60 mph time of 6.97 seconds, which is quicker than VW’s official figures and surprisingly brisk for a vehicle of this size and weight. This performance even rivals the base Porsche Cayenne, suggesting VW might have understated the Touareg TDI’s acceleration to avoid overshadowing its Porsche sibling. Turbo lag is present but minimal, reminiscent of older turbocharged cars, adding a touch of character rather than being a hindrance. A significant contributor to the engine’s responsiveness and overall driving experience is the new 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.
Off-Road Prowess (Limited in US trim)
As expected, the Touareg TDI excels off-road, thanks to its well-chosen gear ratios and ample low-end torque, making it capable of tackling steep inclines. However, its off-road potential in the US market is somewhat limited. Due to low demand and a focus on weight and cost reduction for the US market, VW opted not to offer the more advanced 4xMotion 4WD system with low range, keeping it exclusive to Europe. Similarly, the adjustable-height suspension also remained unavailable for American buyers. US models also come with a less desirable collapsible spare tire. Despite these limitations, the standard 7.9 inches of ground clearance and the full-time 4Motion AWD system still provide considerable off-road capability, arguably sufficient for even challenging trails.
Towing Capacity and Comparisons
With the discontinuation of the Ford Explorer and GM’s GMT360 SUVs shifting away from RWD-based platforms, many mid-size SUVs in the US lost their higher towing capacities. The 2011 Touareg TDI fills this gap, offering a segment-leading towing capacity of 7,700 lbs. This makes it an ideal choice for those needing a daily commuter that can also confidently tow trailers, boats, or campers on weekends. For comparison, the Mercedes ML350 BlueTEC is rated at 7,200 lbs, and the BMW X5 xDrive35d at 6,500 lbs. American alternatives like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango can tow similarly (around 7,400 lbs), but require thirsty V8 engines to achieve those figures. Other tow-capable SUVs in the segment include the V8 Nissan Pathfinder (7,000 lbs) and Lexus GX460 (6,500 lbs). The test vehicle was put to the towing test, effortlessly handling a 4,000 lbs load of bricks on a 2,100 lbs trailer, further highlighting the Touareg TDI’s towing prowess and the smooth operation of the 8-speed ZF transmission, especially appreciated when towing uphill.
Fuel Efficiency and Economy of the 2011 Touareg TDI
While many competitors can match the Touareg TDI’s towing capability, its fuel economy is where it truly shines. Compared to the Dodge Durango’s EPA rating of 14/20 mpg, the Touareg TDI boasts an impressive 19/29 mpg. This is also slightly better than the diesel offerings from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Real-world testing during the review week yielded an average of 27.7 mpg in mixed driving, a remarkable 30.5 mpg on a 160-mile road trip, and even 16.5 mpg while towing two tons of bricks. Compared to the base V6 gasoline Touareg, the TDI offers a significant 24% improvement in fuel economy for a $3,000 price premium. Considering fuel prices at the time of the review (premium gasoline at $4.41 and diesel at $4.48 per gallon), the break-even point for the diesel premium was estimated to be around 75,000 miles, depending on driving habits.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 VW Touareg TDI a Good Buy?
Over the course of a 1050-mile week, the 2011 Touareg TDI impressed with its fuel efficiency, requiring only one diesel fill-up for over 600 miles of driving. VW succeeded in creating a diesel SUV that delivers excellent fuel economy both with and without a trailer, while also offering a degree of off-road capability. While the higher cost of diesel fuel and the niche market for diesel vehicles in America might be considerations for some buyers, the Touareg TDI presents a compelling alternative, especially in an era of potentially sustained high fuel prices. If you’re considering a Touareg, the TDI model is definitely worth a serious look and a test drive, potentially offering a more rewarding ownership experience than the base V6 gasoline version.
Performance Statistics (as tested):
- 0-30 mph: 2.2 seconds
- 0-60 mph: 6.97 seconds
- Average Fuel Economy: 27.7 MPG (Observed Highway: 30.5 MPG)
