The Volkswagen Touareg II (7P) 3.0 TDI V6 (225 Hp) 4MOTION Tiptronic represents Volkswagen’s second generation of its mid-size luxury SUV. Produced from 2010 to 2012, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, where it competed with vehicles like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and Audi Q7. While not widely sold in the United States during this specific generation, the Touareg has always represented Volkswagen’s ambition to compete in the premium SUV segment, offering a blend of on-road comfort, off-road capability, and sophisticated technology. The 7P generation marked a significant step forward in refinement and features compared to its predecessor.
Volkswagen Touareg II (7P): An Overview
The Touareg II, designated internally as the 7P, was a collaborative effort with Porsche, sharing a platform with the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7. This collaboration allowed Volkswagen to leverage advanced engineering and technology, resulting in a vehicle that offered a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and practicality. The 3.0 TDI V6 4MOTION Tiptronic variant, specifically, was a popular choice in Europe due to its fuel efficiency and strong torque output, making it well-suited for both long-distance highway driving and challenging terrains.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Touareg II 3.0 TDI lies a 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine, producing 225 horsepower at 3500-4000 rpm and a substantial 550 Newton-meters (405.66 lb-ft) of torque between 1750-2250 rpm. This engine, identified by the code CATA, features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and an intercooled turbocharger, optimizing both power delivery and fuel economy. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to balanced handling. The power-to-weight ratio of 10 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 4.1 kg/Nm demonstrate the engine’s efficiency. Power per liter is rated at 75.8 Hp/l. The engine is paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear changes. Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction in various driving conditions, distributing power between the front and rear axles as needed. This combination results in a capable and refined driving experience, suitable for both on-road and off-road adventures.
Design & Features
The Touareg II boasts a sophisticated and understated design, characterized by clean lines and a robust SUV profile. It’s a five-door, five-seat SUV with dimensions of 4795 mm (188.78 in) in length, 1940 mm (76.38 in) in width, and 1732 mm (68.19 in) in height. The vehicle’s design prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality. Inside, the Touareg II offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials. Key features include comfortable seating, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a range of advanced safety technologies. The trunk space is generous, offering 580 liters (20.48 cu. ft) with the rear seats up and expanding to 1642 liters (57.99 cu. ft) when folded down. The Touareg II incorporates a particulate filter to reduce emissions, reflecting a growing emphasis on environmental responsibility. Ground clearance is a respectable 201 mm (7.91 in), and approach, departure, and ramp-over angles of 26°, 26°, and 21° respectively, enhance its off-road capabilities. A wading depth of 500 mm (19.69 in) further supports its all-terrain prowess.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touareg |
| Generation | Touareg II (7P) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (225 Hp) 4MOTION Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 225 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 550 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm (405.66 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CATA |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.4 mm (3.6 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2256 kg (4973.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2860 kg (6305.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 604 kg (1331.59 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Length | 4795 mm (188.78 in.) |
| Width | 1940 mm (76.38 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2208 mm (86.93 in.) |
| Height | 1732 mm (68.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2893 mm (113.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Front overhang | 916 mm (36.06 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 986 mm (38.82 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
The Volkswagen Touareg II 3.0 TDI V6 4MOTION Tiptronic offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a luxurious, capable, and efficient SUV. Its blend of performance, technology, and practicality cemented its position as a strong contender in the premium SUV segment.
