The Volkswagen Touareg II (7P), produced from 2010 to 2011, represents the second generation of Volkswagen’s mid-size luxury SUV. Positioned above the Tiguan in Volkswagen’s lineup, the Touareg aimed to compete with established European and Japanese rivals like the BMW X5, Porsche Cayenne (with which it shares a platform), and Land Rover Discovery. The 3.0 TDI V6 4MOTION Automatic model, detailed here, was a significant offering, particularly in European markets, emphasizing fuel efficiency and capable all-wheel-drive performance. While not widely sold in the United States during this specific generation, the Touareg has consistently represented Volkswagen’s foray into the premium SUV segment.
Volkswagen Touareg II (7P): An Overview
The 7P generation Touareg marked a substantial evolution over its predecessor, boasting a more refined interior, improved on-road handling, and a wider range of technology. The 3.0 TDI variant, powered by a robust diesel V6, was a popular choice for buyers prioritizing economy and torque. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, standard on this model, provided enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. This generation also saw increased emphasis on safety features and driver assistance systems, aligning with contemporary automotive trends.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Touareg II 3.0 TDI is a 2,967 cc (181.06 cu. in.) V6 diesel engine, designated CASA or CNRB depending on specific market variations. This engine produces 240 horsepower at 4,000-4,400 rpm and a substantial 550 Nm (405.66 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2,000-2,250 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. This combination results in a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 7.8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 7.4 seconds, with a maximum speed of 218 km/h (135.46 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 9.1 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4 kg/Nm, contributing to responsive and confident driving dynamics.
Design & Features
The Touareg II (7P) is a five-door, five-seat SUV characterized by its sophisticated and understated design. Its exterior styling features clean lines, a prominent grille, and sculpted body panels. The interior is well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort and practicality. Key features of this model include a spacious cabin, comfortable seating, and a versatile cargo area offering between 580 liters (20.48 cu. ft.) and 1,642 liters (57.99 cu. ft.) of space depending on the rear seats’ configuration. Standard safety equipment included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and the vehicle featured electric power steering for improved responsiveness. The Touareg’s design prioritized a balance between luxury, practicality, and off-road capability, making it a versatile vehicle for a wide range of drivers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touareg |
| Generation | Touareg II (7P) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (240 Hp) 4MOTION Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 218 km/h (135.46 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 240 Hp @ 4000-4400 rpm |
| Torque | 550 Nm @ 2000-2250 rpm (405.66 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CASA, CNRB |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2174 kg (4792.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2860 kg (6305.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 686 kg (1512.37 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 580 l (20.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1642 l (57.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal | 18.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 4795 mm (188.78 in.) |
| Width | 1940 mm (76.38 in.) |
| Height | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2893 mm (113.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1656 mm (65.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1676 mm (65.98 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
The Volkswagen Touareg II (7P) 3.0 TDI V6 4MOTION Automatic represented a compelling package for buyers seeking a luxurious, capable, and relatively fuel-efficient SUV. Its blend of performance, practicality, and technology solidified its position as a strong contender in the competitive mid-size SUV segment, particularly within the European market.
