Volkswagen Touareg II (7P) 4.2 FSI V8 (360 Hp) 4MOTION Tiptronic

The Volkswagen Touareg II (7P), produced between 2010 and 2014, represents the second generation of Volkswagen’s mid-size luxury SUV. Positioned above the Tiguan in Volkswagen’s lineup, the Touareg II aimed to compete with established premium SUVs like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and Porsche Cayenne – the latter sharing a platform with the Touareg. The 4.2 FSI V8 4MOTION Tiptronic model, detailed here, was a flagship offering, emphasizing performance and all-weather capability. While the Touareg wasn’t a high-volume seller in the United States compared to its competitors, it offered a compelling blend of luxury, technology, and Volkswagen’s renowned engineering.

Volkswagen Touareg II (7P) 4.2 FSI V8: An Overview

The 7P generation Touareg marked a significant step forward in refinement and technology compared to its predecessor. It featured a more sophisticated chassis, improved interior materials, and a wider range of available features. The 4.2 FSI V8 model, equipped with Volkswagen’s naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine, was the performance leader of the range. It combined substantial power with a smooth, refined driving experience, further enhanced by Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. This model was particularly popular in European markets where larger displacement engines were more common and appreciated.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the Touareg II 4.2 FSI is Volkswagen’s CGNA 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine produces 360 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 445 Nm (328.22 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) technology to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The power-to-weight ratio of 5.8 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 4.7 kg/Nm contribute to brisk acceleration. The Touareg 4.2 FSI can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.5 seconds, and 0-60 mph in approximately 6.2 seconds, with a top speed of 245 km/h (152.24 mph). The eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission provides smooth and responsive gear changes, while the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction in all conditions. The engine’s 4163 cm3 displacement (254.04 cu. in.) and 12.5:1 compression ratio contribute to its performance characteristics.

Design & Features

The Touareg II adopted a more mature and sophisticated design language compared to the first generation. The body style is a classic five-door SUV, offering seating for five passengers. Key design elements include a prominent front grille, sculpted headlights, and a robust overall stance. The interior focused on providing a luxurious and comfortable environment, with high-quality materials and a well-designed dashboard. Standard and optional features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, navigation, and a variety of driver-assistance systems. Safety features were a priority, with the Touareg II equipped with ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4795 mm (188.78 in.) in length, 1940 mm (76.38 in.) in width, and 1709 mm (67.28 in.) in height – provide a spacious cabin and ample cargo capacity. Trunk space ranges from 520 liters (18.36 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1642 liters (57.99 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down. The Touareg II also boasted off-road capabilities, with a wading depth of 580 mm (22.83 in.) and approach, departure, and ramp-over angles of 30°, 30°, and 27° respectively.

Technical Specifications

The Volkswagen Touareg II 4.2 FSI V8 4MOTION Tiptronic offered a compelling package of performance, luxury, and capability. While not a mainstream success in all markets, it remains a respected and capable SUV, appreciated by those seeking a refined and powerful driving experience.