The Volkswagen Touareg III (CR), specifically the 2.0 TSI 4MOTION Tiptronic variant, represents the third generation of Volkswagen’s mid-size luxury SUV. Produced from 2018 to May 2023, this model aimed to blend practicality, comfort, and technology within the competitive SUV segment. While the Touareg has been a mainstay in European markets since its introduction in 2002, it has seen more limited sales in the United States, often positioned as a more understated alternative to offerings from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. The “CR” designation refers to a significant mid-cycle refresh, bringing updated styling, technology, and powertrain refinements. This version focused on providing a balance between fuel efficiency and performance, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and capable SUV.
Volkswagen Touareg III (CR) 2.0 TSI: An Overview
The Touareg III, and particularly the 2.0 TSI model, was designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers. It offered a spacious interior, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a comfortable ride. The 2.0 TSI engine, while not the most powerful option in the Touareg lineup (larger V6 and V8 engines were also available in some markets), provided a good balance of performance and fuel economy. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, standard on this model, enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. The Tiptronic 8-speed automatic transmission allowed for both convenient automatic operation and manual gear selection for a more engaging driving experience.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Touareg III (CR) 2.0 TSI lies a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine, designated EA888 / CYRB. This engine produces 252 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 370 Nm (272.9 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1600 and 4500 rpm. The direct injection and multi-port manifold injection system contribute to efficient combustion and responsive performance. The turbocharger and intercooler further enhance power output. This powertrain configuration allows for a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 6.5 seconds, and a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 6.8 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 229 km/h (142.29 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 8.1 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.5 kg/Nm, contributing to a spirited driving experience. Fuel consumption is rated at 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l).
Design & Features
The Touareg III (CR) is a five-door SUV with seating for five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by clean lines, a prominent grille, and sophisticated lighting elements. The CR refresh brought subtle styling updates, including revised bumpers and headlights. Inside, the Touareg offers a premium and well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials and comfortable seating. Key features include a spacious trunk offering between 810 and 1800 liters (28.6 – 63.57 cu. ft.) of cargo space depending on the rear seats configuration. Standard and optional features typically included advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The infotainment system, featuring a large touchscreen display, provides access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4878 mm (192.05 in.) in length, 1984 mm (78.11 in.) in width, and 1686 mm (66.38 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2899 mm (114.13 in.). The drag coefficient of 0.322 contributes to improved aerodynamic efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touareg |
| Generation | Touareg III (CR) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TSI (252 Hp) 4MOTION Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | May, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 26.1 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 31.4 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 11.1 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 229 km/h (142.29 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 252 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 127 Hp/l |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1600-4500 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CYRB |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2029 kg (4473.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 810 l (28.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1800 l (63.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4878 mm (192.05 in.) |
| Width | 1984 mm (78.11 in.) |
| Height | 1686 mm (66.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2899 mm (114.13 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.322 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives four wheels permanently |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 19 |
The Volkswagen Touareg III (CR) 2.0 TSI 4MOTION Tiptronic offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a refined and capable SUV. Its blend of performance, efficiency, and technology made it a competitive option in its segment, particularly for those prioritizing a comfortable and practical driving experience.
