2011-2012 Volkswagen Touareg 3.6L

Overview

The 2011-2012 Volkswagen Touareg represents the second generation of the brand’s premium mid-size SUV. Introduced for the 2011 model year, this generation moved away from the heavy, off-road-focused architecture of its predecessor in favor of a lighter, more refined chassis. By utilizing the PL72 platform, shared with the Porsche Cayenne, the Touareg achieved a significant reduction in curb weight, which improved both handling dynamics and fuel efficiency. This design shift prioritized on-road comfort and luxury while maintaining the brand’s reputation for high-quality interior materials and solid build construction.

Under the hood, the North American market received the 3.6-liter VR6 engine as the standard powerplant. This narrow-angle V6 configuration provided a balance of power and smoothness, paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. Unlike the first generation, which offered a low-range transfer case, the second generation opted for a more sophisticated electronic torque management system, reflecting the changing demands of the luxury SUV segment where owners prioritized highway performance and all-weather capability over extreme rock crawling.

Positioned as a premium alternative to mainstream SUVs, the Touareg targeted buyers seeking German engineering and understated styling. Its manufacturing took place at the Volkswagen plant in Bratislava, Slovakia, a facility known for producing high-end SUVs for the Volkswagen Group. Throughout its production run, the vehicle was recognized for its towing capacity and interior ergonomics, cementing its status as a capable long-distance cruiser that bridged the gap between mass-market vehicles and high-end luxury competitors.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Touareg
Model Year	2011-2012
Generation	2nd Generation (7P)
Trim	Sport, Lux, Executive
Body Style	5-door SUV
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size Luxury SUV
Vehicle Class	Sport Utility Vehicle – 4WD
Market	USA
Platform	PL72
Assembly Plant	Bratislava, Slovakia
Country of Origin	Slovakia
Production Start	2010
Production End	2018
VIN Identifier	WVG
Base MSRP	$44,450
Destination Charge	$820
Total MSRP	$45,270
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	VR6
Engine Name	3.6L FSI
Engine Code	CDVA
Engine Configuration	V6
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	6.9 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower	280 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Torque	266 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm
Redline	6,800 rpm
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S8)
Final Drive Ratio	3.70:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91 AKI
EPA City MPG	16
EPA Highway MPG	23
EPA Combined MPG	19
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	12.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	26.4
Estimated Driving Range	500 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,800
CO₂ Emissions	460 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	3
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	2.8 seconds
0-60 mph	7.2 seconds
0-100 mph	19.8 seconds
Quarter Mile	15.5 seconds
Top Speed	140 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.78g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	16.5 lb/hp
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	188.8
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	76.4
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	86.0
Height (in)	67.2
Wheelbase (in)	113.9
Front Track (in)	65.0
Rear Track (in)	65.8
Ground Clearance (in)	8.0
Curb Weight (lbs)	4,660
GVWR (lbs)	6,173
Towing Capacity (lbs)	7,716
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,513
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	103.6
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	32.1
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	64.0
Turning Circle	39.7 ft
Approach Angle	26 degrees
Departure Angle	26 degrees
Breakover Angle	20 degrees
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
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	12
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	Salzgitter, Germany
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	4.92, 2.84, 1.92, 1.43, 1.21, 1.00, 0.83, 0.69
Differential Type	Torsen Center Differential
Cooling System Capacity	12.5 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	220
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2011-2012 Touareg is widely regarded for its exceptional build quality and highway stability, offering a driving experience that feels more substantial than many of its Japanese or American competitors. Reliability is generally solid for the 3.6L VR6 engine, though owners should remain vigilant regarding the cooling system components and potential electrical gremlins within the complex infotainment and convenience modules. In the used market, these vehicles offer significant value for those seeking a premium SUV experience at a fraction of the original MSRP, provided the service history is documented. Prospective buyers should prioritize models with consistent oil changes and verify that the transmission shifts smoothly, as the Aisin eight-speed unit is robust but requires proper maintenance to ensure longevity. While it lacks the modern connectivity features found in newer vehicles, its mechanical refinement and towing capabilities remain highly competitive for its age.