2009-2010 Volkswagen Touareg 3.0L

Overview

The 2009-2010 Volkswagen Touareg TDI represents a significant chapter in the brand’s luxury SUV history, marking the reintroduction of clean diesel technology to the North American market. Built on the PL71 platform, which it shared with the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7, the Touareg was engineered to bridge the gap between mainstream SUVs and high-end luxury off-roaders. This generation benefited from a mid-cycle refresh that updated the front fascia, refined the interior materials, and introduced the highly regarded 3.0-liter V6 TDI engine.

The 3.0L TDI engine was designed to provide a balance of high torque and improved fuel efficiency compared to the gasoline variants available at the time. By utilizing common-rail direct injection and advanced emissions control systems, the Touareg TDI offered a substantial towing capacity and long-range cruising capabilities. Its permanent all-wheel-drive system, featuring a center locking differential and low-range gearing, ensured the vehicle maintained genuine off-road credentials while providing a sophisticated on-road experience. The Touareg was manufactured in Bratislava, Slovakia, alongside its platform siblings, maintaining a reputation for robust build quality and heavy-duty chassis construction.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Touareg
Model Year	2009-2010
Generation	First Generation (Facelift)
Trim	TDI
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	2002
Production End	2010
VIN Identifier	WVW
Base MSRP	$43,800
Destination Charge	$800
Total MSRP	$44,600
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	EA896
Engine Name	3.0L V6 TDI
Engine Code	CATA
Engine Configuration	V6
Displacement	3.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	83.0 mm x 91.4 mm
Compression Ratio	16.5:1
Aspiration	Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery	Common Rail Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	8.7 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 507.00 / 5W-30
Horsepower	225 hp @ 3,500 rpm
Torque	406 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm
Redline	4,600 rpm
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S6)
Final Drive Ratio	3.27:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Diesel
Recommended Octane	–
EPA City MPG	18
EPA Highway MPG	24
EPA Combined MPG	20
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	11.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	26.4
Estimated Driving Range	630 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	–
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	8.5 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	–
Top Speed	125 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	–
Lateral Acceleration	–
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	187.1
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	75.9
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	68.0
Wheelbase (in)	112.4
Front Track (in)	64.6
Rear Track (in)	65.7
Ground Clearance (in)	8.3
Curb Weight (lbs)	5,300
GVWR (lbs)	6,500
Towing Capacity (lbs)	7,716
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,200
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	100
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	31.0
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	71.0
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	Dynaudio Premium
Speaker Count	10
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Győr, Hungary
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Center Locking
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	220
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2009-2010 Touareg TDI is highly regarded in the used market for its exceptional torque and highway cruising comfort, often sought after by enthusiasts who prioritize towing capability and long-distance efficiency. Reliability is generally considered solid for the powertrain, though owners should be diligent regarding the maintenance of the diesel emissions system, specifically the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and AdBlue system, which can become problematic if the vehicle is used exclusively for short, city-based trips. Electrical gremlins related to the complex cabin electronics are occasionally reported, and prospective buyers should verify that the air suspension—if equipped—has been serviced or shows no signs of leaking. Despite these maintenance considerations, the Touareg TDI remains a compelling value proposition for those desiring a premium, heavy-duty SUV experience at a fraction of its original cost.