The Volkswagen Touareg II (7P), particularly the facelifted version produced from 2014 to 2015, represents a significant evolution in Volkswagen’s luxury SUV offerings. Positioned as a premium competitor to vehicles like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class (later GLE), and Porsche Cayenne (with which it shares a platform), the Touareg II aimed to deliver a blend of on-road refinement, off-road capability, and sophisticated technology. The 4.2 V8 TDI 4MOTION Automatic model, equipped with a powerful diesel engine, was a flagship variant, offering substantial performance and towing capacity. While the Touareg wasn’t widely sold in the United States during this generation, it was a popular and well-regarded vehicle in Europe and other international markets.
Volkswagen Touareg II: A Detailed Overview
The Touareg II, introduced in 2010, was a substantial upgrade over its predecessor. The 2014 facelift brought revised styling, enhanced technology, and improved efficiency. The vehicle’s design emphasized a more mature and sophisticated aesthetic, moving away from the more rugged appearance of the first-generation Touareg. The focus shifted towards providing a comfortable and luxurious driving experience, while still maintaining the brand’s reputation for engineering excellence and all-weather capability. The 4.2 V8 TDI model, in particular, catered to buyers seeking a powerful and refined SUV for long-distance travel and demanding conditions.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Touareg II 4.2 V8 TDI is a 4.1-liter (4134 cm3 or 252.27 cu. in.) V8 diesel engine, designated CKDA. This engine produces 340 horsepower (Hp) at 4000 rpm and a substantial 800 Newton-meters (590.05 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750 and 2750 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger and intercooler to maximize power and efficiency. Power is delivered to all four wheels via Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination results in impressive performance figures: acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes just 5.8 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a calculated 5.5 seconds. The Touareg II 4.2 V8 TDI boasts a maximum speed of 242 km/h (150.37 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 6.8 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 2.9 kg/Nm, contributing to its responsive and capable nature.
Design & Features
The Touareg II is a five-door, five-seat SUV characterized by its elegant and understated design. The 2014 facelift included subtle but noticeable changes to the front and rear fascias, including revised headlights, a new grille, and updated taillights. The interior is designed with a focus on comfort and luxury, featuring high-quality materials and a well-appointed cabin. Standard features typically included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation system. Advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, were also available, enhancing safety and convenience. The Touareg II offers a generous amount of cargo space, with a minimum of 697 liters (24.61 cu. ft.) and a maximum of 1642 liters (57.99 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The vehicle’s robust construction and 4MOTION system provide excellent off-road capability, making it suitable for a variety of terrains.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touareg |
| Generation | Touareg II (7P, facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 V8 TDI (340 Hp) 4MOTION Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 239 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 242 km/h (150.37 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CKDA |
| Engine displacement | 4134 cm3 (252.27 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.4 l (9.93 US qt | 8.27 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2297 kg (5064.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2960 kg (6525.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 663 kg (1461.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 697 l (24.61 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1642 l (57.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 4801 mm (189.02 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 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 255/55 R18; 275/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 9J x 20 |
The Volkswagen Touareg II 4.2 V8 TDI 4MOTION Automatic represented a compelling package for buyers seeking a luxurious, capable, and high-performing SUV. Its blend of power, refinement, and advanced technology solidified its position as a strong contender in the premium SUV segment, particularly in markets where diesel engines were favored.
