The Volkswagen Touran I (facelift 2006) 1.4 TSI (170 Hp) DSG is a compact minivan produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen between 2007 and 2009. Positioned as a practical and versatile family vehicle, the Touran aimed to bridge the gap between smaller hatchbacks and larger MPVs. This iteration, featuring the 1.4 TSI engine paired with a Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG), represented a significant step forward in terms of fuel efficiency and performance within the segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Touran was a popular choice in Europe, offering a compelling alternative to rivals like the Renault Scenic and Opel Zafira.
Volkswagen Touran I (Facelift 2006): An Overview
The Touran I, launched in 2003, was Volkswagen’s entry into the increasingly popular compact minivan market. The 2006 facelift brought styling updates, improved interior materials, and crucially, the introduction of advanced engine technologies like the 1.4 TSI. This engine, combining turbocharging and supercharging, provided a balance of power and economy. The DSG transmission further enhanced the driving experience, offering smooth and rapid gear changes. The Touran’s five-seat configuration and flexible interior made it well-suited for families and those requiring adaptable cargo space.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Touran I (facelift 2006) 1.4 TSI is its 1390 cc inline-four cylinder engine. This powerplant, designated BLG, produces 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The innovative combination of a turbocharger and a supercharger – a configuration known as twin-charging – is key to its performance. The supercharger provides instant boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag, while the turbocharger takes over at higher speeds for sustained power delivery. This results in a responsive and flexible engine character. The engine’s specific output is impressive, generating 122.3 horsepower per liter. Coupled with the six-speed DSG transmission, the Touran achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 8.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 212 km/h (131.73 mph). Acceleration to 60 mph is calculated at 8.1 seconds. The engine meets Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Touran I (facelift 2006) is a five-door minivan with a practical and functional design. Its exterior styling is typical of early 21st-century Volkswagens, characterized by clean lines and a relatively understated appearance. The facelift brought subtle changes to the front and rear fascias, including revised headlights and taillights. Inside, the Touran prioritizes space and versatility. The rear seats can be folded flat or even removed entirely, creating a large cargo area. With all seats in place, the trunk offers 667 liters (23.55 cu ft) of space, expanding to 1989 liters (70.24 cu ft) with the rear seats folded. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust body structure. The interior materials were upgraded in the facelifted model, offering a more refined feel. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4391 mm (172.87 in) in length, 1794 mm (70.63 in) in width, and 1652 mm (65.04 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2678 mm (105.43 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touran |
| Generation | Touran I (facelift 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (170 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg, 9.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 119.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 168.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 122.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1750 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BLG |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1423 kg (3137.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 667 kg (1470.48 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 667 l (23.55 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1989 l (70.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4391 mm (172.87 in.) |
| Width | 1794 mm (70.63 in.) |
| Height | 1652 mm (65.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2678 mm (105.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Volkswagen Touran I (facelift 2006) 1.4 TSI DSG offered a compelling package for families seeking a practical, efficient, and relatively sporty compact minivan. Its innovative engine technology and versatile interior made it a popular choice in the European market.
