2007-2009 Volkswagen Touareg 3.6L

Overview

The Volkswagen Touareg, introduced for the 2004 model year, represented the brand’s entry into the luxury SUV segment. Developed on the PL71 platform, the Touareg was the result of a joint engineering project between Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche, sharing its architecture with the Porsche Cayenne and the Audi Q7. This collaboration focused on creating a vehicle that balanced off-road capability with on-road refinement, utilizing a sophisticated 4XMotion all-wheel-drive system with a locking center differential and low-range gearing.

For the 2007-2009 period, the Touareg received a significant mid-cycle update, often referred to as the “Touareg 2.” This refresh introduced a revised front fascia, updated interior materials, and improved electronic systems. The 3.6-liter VR6 engine became the primary gasoline powerplant, replacing the earlier 3.2-liter unit. This engine featured a narrow-angle cylinder configuration, which allowed for a compact footprint while delivering increased power and efficiency. The vehicle was manufactured at the Volkswagen plant in Bratislava, Slovakia, alongside its platform siblings.

Marketed as a premium alternative to established Japanese and American SUVs, the Touareg targeted buyers seeking a blend of European driving dynamics and utility. Its heavy-duty construction and high towing capacity made it a popular choice for those requiring a vehicle capable of both daily commuting and towing heavy trailers. While the Touareg was praised for its build quality and interior comfort, it remained a niche product in the United States due to its higher price point and complex maintenance requirements compared to domestic competitors.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Touareg
Model Year	2007-2009
Generation	1st Generation (Facelift)
Trim	VR6
Body Style	5-door SUV
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size Luxury SUV
Vehicle Class	Sport Utility Vehicle – 4WD
Market	USA
Platform	PL71
Assembly Plant	Bratislava, Slovakia
Country of Origin	Slovakia
Production Start	2007
Production End	2009
VIN Identifier	WVG
Base MSRP	$39,000
Destination Charge	$775
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	VR6
Engine Name	3.6L FSI
Engine Code	BHK / BHL
Engine Configuration	V6 (Narrow-angle)
Displacement	3.6 Liters
Bore x Stroke	89.0 mm x 96.4 mm
Compression Ratio	12.0:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	7.2 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower	280 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Torque	265 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm
Redline	6,500 rpm
Drivetrain	4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S6)
Final Drive Ratio	3.70:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91
EPA City MPG	14
EPA Highway MPG	19
EPA Combined MPG	16
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	14.7
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	26.4
Estimated Driving Range	422 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	–
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	7.8 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	16.1 seconds
Top Speed	130 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	135 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.78g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	187.2
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	75.9
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	68.0
Wheelbase (in)	112.4
Front Track (in)	64.7
Rear Track (in)	65.7
Ground Clearance (in)	8.3
Curb Weight (lbs)	5,000
GVWR (lbs)	6,400
Towing Capacity (lbs)	7,716
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,400
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	100
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	31
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	71
Turning Circle	38.1 ft
Approach Angle	28 degrees
Departure Angle	28 degrees
Breakover Angle	22 degrees
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	–
Side Impact	–
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.5-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog with Multi-function Display
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	10-speaker system
Speaker Count	10
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance	4 years / 50,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	–
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Salzgitter, Germany
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	1st: 4.15, 2nd: 2.37, 3rd: 1.56, 4th: 1.16, 5th: 0.86, 6th: 0.69
Differential Type	Locking Center
Cooling System Capacity	12.0 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	220
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2007-2009 Touareg 3.6L is recognized for its robust build quality and sophisticated chassis, offering a driving experience that feels more substantial than many of its contemporaries. However, prospective owners should be aware of the high cost of maintenance associated with German luxury engineering. Common issues include electrical gremlins related to the complex CAN-bus system, premature wear on suspension components, and potential carbon buildup on the intake valves due to the direct-injection fuel system. While the VR6 engine is generally durable, it requires strict adherence to oil change intervals using high-quality synthetic lubricants. In the used market, these vehicles are often priced attractively due to their reputation for high repair costs, making them a high-risk, high-reward proposition for enthusiasts who can perform their own maintenance or have access to a specialist independent mechanic.