Exterior
The Volkswagen Touareg has always sported a distinctive, rounded design, and the 2014 model is no exception. For those accustomed to the sharp lines of pickup trucks, the Touareg’s bubbly silhouette might seem unusual, yet its curves are undeniably well-placed, creating an appealing aesthetic. The front fascia features bright, LED-accented headlights that confidently light the way, while the large taillights ensure high visibility for drivers behind you. The judicious use of chrome trim adds a touch of sophistication, and surprisingly, the 20-inch wheels appear perfectly proportioned to the vehicle’s size, enhancing its overall stance.
However, one design element that feels somewhat out of place is the trailer hitch receiver. Once noticed, its integration appears less refined, slightly disrupting the otherwise clean lines of the SUV’s rear. This is a surprising oversight, especially considering the meticulous attention to detail evident in the design of the exhaust tips, suggesting a potential area for improvement in future models.
Volkswagen’s choice of “toffee brown” paint for the press fleet Touareg might be seen as an attempt to appeal to automotive journalists. While opinions on wood-toned cars can be subjective, the Touareg carries this color with grace, demonstrating its ability to look good in a less conventional shade.
Interior
Prepare for a bold statement: the interior of the 2014 Volkswagen Touareg TDI approaches perfection, at least in terms of design and comfort. The large, circular gauges are illuminated with crisp white-on-black text and accented by red needles, ensuring excellent readability. The seats are athletically contoured and upholstered in a smooth material that provides both comfort and support. They strike a balance, being firmer than typical American car seats but less aggressively firm than the leather found in BMW or Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
The rear seats mirror the comfort of the front. Even with a three-across bench configuration, passengers in the Touareg Executive trim enjoy heated and reclining seats. The panoramic sunroof, measuring a generous 57.2×39 inches, offers the cabin’s best view, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and light.
The controls are intuitively placed and easy to reach. However, a notable ergonomic issue was raised by a passenger: the prominent transmission tunnel intruding into the front passenger footwell can make foot and purse placement awkward. For families considering the Touareg, it’s advisable for the front passenger to personally assess seat comfort during a test drive, particularly concerning foot space.
While the black and two-tone brown color scheme tested might not appeal to everyone, the “saddle” leather option presents a more visually appealing and premium aesthetic for the interior.
Audio, Infotainment, and Gadgets
The Dynaudio sound system in the 2014 Touareg Tdi is undoubtedly high-quality, yet it might not completely captivate audiophiles. Despite equalization adjustments, it seemed to lack the powerful punch expected from a premium audio setup. Furthermore, adjusting basic audio settings like bass, treble, and midrange requires navigating deep into the infotainment system’s menus, which can be inconvenient.
The navigation system offers both flat and 3D map perspectives, the latter including 3D renderings of buildings, a visually interesting but perhaps functionally unnecessary feature. A standout feature of the guidance system is its integration with the driver information display located between the speedometer and tachometer. This screen provides turn-by-turn directions, including lane guidance and information on services available at upcoming exits. The system is remarkably detailed, even displaying logos for businesses like Starbucks as you approach, suggesting a unique advertising partnership with Volkswagen. This feature definitely enhances the user experience and provides valuable, timely information.
However, the GPS voice for turn-by-turn directions is described as jarringly robotic. This is a common complaint in many vehicles, and the Touareg’s voice sounds outdated, reminiscent of early 1990s toy technology. A more natural and pleasant voice would significantly improve the navigation experience, particularly in urban driving environments where auditory cues are highly beneficial.
Engine Performance: The Refined TDI Diesel
The 2014 Touareg TDI boasts what is described as one of the most refined diesel engines experienced, especially when compared to older diesel technologies found in commercial trucks or older Mercedes models. The 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 TDI engine from Volkswagen delivers 240 horsepower and a substantial 406 lb-ft of torque. This power translates to effortless merging onto highways and ample grunt for tasks like snow plowing. Running on ultra-low sulfur diesel, as mandated, the engine operates with minimal noise and virtually no noticeable diesel odor, making it difficult to distinguish from a gasoline engine in terms of auditory and olfactory experience.
Fuel economy is another strong point. For a vehicle capable of carrying numerous passengers and cargo, the Touareg TDI achieves nearly 30 MPG on the highway. Real-world testing yielded over 22 MPG across almost 500 miles, encompassing a mix of cruising, spirited driving, and performance testing, highlighting its efficiency even under varied driving conditions.
Gearbox: 8-Speed Automatic Excellence
The 8-speed automatic transmission in the 2014 Touareg TDI is a highly impressive component. In standard “D” drive mode, shifts are exceptionally smooth and seamless. Engaging “S” mode, just a notch below Drive, unlocks a more dynamic driving experience. While paddle shifters are absent, manual gear selection via the gear stick offers reasonably quick responses, providing a degree of driver engagement when desired.
Braking and Hill Descent Control
The Touareg TDI provides confident stopping power thanks to its four power-assisted 13-inch disc brakes. In “Off Road” mode, the hill descent control system intelligently manages speed when descending steep inclines at speeds below 20 MPH, enhancing safety and control in challenging terrains.
Testing on various surfaces, including pavement, loose gravel, and wet dirt, demonstrated the brakes’ capability to bring the Touareg to a rapid halt, especially when paired with appropriate tires.
Ride and Handling Dynamics
The suspension of the 2014 Touareg TDI is tuned to provide a responsive on-road driving experience, feeling sufficiently firm for confident handling, although it can transmit bumps somewhat noticeably. Volkswagen’s engineering prioritizes on-road performance, reflecting the typical usage of SUVs, a design choice that is generally well-suited for most drivers.
Telescopic dampers and an anti-roll bar contribute to keeping the Touareg stable and flat in corners. The 4Motion permanent all-wheel-drive system, featuring a Torsen center differential, seamlessly distributes power, enhancing traction and stability without driver intervention.
The traction control system is effective but not infallible. While hill descent control works well at lower speeds (under 20 MPH) on slippery slopes, at higher speeds, the rear end can be surprisingly easy to provoke into losing traction, as demonstrated in a minor, mailbox-related incident. Driver awareness and appropriate speed are still crucial, even with advanced traction aids.
Hauling, Towing, and Cargo Capacity
The tested Touareg TDI was equipped with the optional tow package, including a Class III receiver and a substantial 7,700-pound towing capacity. Although towing tests were not conducted, based on the engine’s performance without a trailer, it is expected to handle boats under 25 feet and two-horse trailers with ease.
The Touareg’s cargo area is dog-friendly, comfortably accommodating two medium-sized dogs, although this does reduce luggage space. A harp, however, proved too large even with the rear seats folded down, which expands cargo volume to 64 cubic feet. Folding the rear seats and operating the rear hatch are conveniently power-operated via buttons in the cargo area, features initially deemed superfluous but appreciated in daily use.
The cargo cover is designed to automatically lift for easy access to the 31 cubic-foot storage area behind the rear seats, but its automatic lifting mechanism was found to be somewhat oversensitive, opening when not intended.
Off-Road Capabilities and Maneuverability
The 2014 Touareg TDI demonstrates impressive fording depth and traction in challenging off-road conditions. It confidently navigated slick mud, wet rocks, and frozen riverbeds during testing. Provoking wheelspin for off-road photography proved surprisingly difficult, highlighting its robust off-road grip. More detailed information on its off-pavement performance can be found in a dedicated off-road review.
The SUV is equipped with multiple cameras, including a 360-degree top-down view, selectable manually through the infotainment system. This view automatically engages with the backup camera when reversing, greatly aiding maneuverability in tight spaces and off-road environments.
Value Proposition
The price point is a notable consideration for the 2014 Touareg TDI. While the gasoline-powered Touareg starts at a more accessible price, the TDI model begins at a higher price. The top-of-the-line Executive trim tested commands a significant price. Comparatively, an Audi Q7 Prestige TDI, in its highest trim, is only slightly more expensive. Alternatively, the price could also purchase two used Range Rovers.
However, Audi options can be considerably more expensive than Volkswagen’s, and the running costs of a Range Rover could quickly offset any initial savings. The Touareg also offers a more understated presence compared to the flashier Audi Q7, Range Rover, or Porsche Cayenne.
Verdict: A Refined and Capable SUV
Living with the 2014 Volkswagen Touareg TDI for a week was a genuinely enjoyable experience. It’s a pleasure to drive, aesthetically pleasing, and features a dream-like interior. If you can afford it and prefer a more subtle luxury SUV compared to its Audi and Porsche counterparts, the Touareg TDI is an excellent choice. However, exploring the used market for a slightly older model might present a more financially prudent option.
Specifications As Tested
2014 Volkswagen Touareg TDI Executive
MSRP: $61,760.00
Engine: 3.0 TDI V6. 240hp @ 4,000 RPM, 406 lb-ft of torque @ 2,000 RPM
Transmission: ZF 8 speed automatic with 4Motion permanent all-wheel drive and Torsen center differential
Fuel Economy: 20 City/23 Combined/29 Highway (EPA) — 22.1 MPG observed
Cargo Volume: 32.1 cubic ft, 64 cubic ft with seats folded
Curb Weight: 4,974 lbs
GVWR: 6,305 lbs
Payload: 1,155 lbs
Towing Capacity (with Towing Package): 7,716 lbs
Approach Angle: 26º
Departure Angle: 26º
Breakover Angle: 21º
