2013-2016 Volkswagen Touareg 3.0L

Overview

The 2013-2016 Volkswagen Touareg represents the latter half of the second generation (Type 7P) of the brand’s flagship mid-size luxury SUV. Developed on the PL72 platform, which it shared with the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7, the Touareg was engineered to bridge the gap between mass-market utility and premium performance. Unlike its predecessors, this generation focused on weight reduction and increased structural rigidity, resulting in improved handling dynamics and fuel efficiency without compromising the vehicle’s established off-road capabilities.

The 3.0L TDI Clean Diesel variant became a primary choice for North American consumers seeking a balance of high torque and long-range cruising efficiency. This engine, part of the EA897 family, utilized common-rail direct injection and selective catalytic reduction to meet stringent emissions standards of the era. Positioned above the Tiguan in the Volkswagen lineup, the Touareg targeted buyers who required a high towing capacity and a refined interior environment, often competing against established luxury rivals from BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Production for the global market took place at the Volkswagen Bratislava Plant in Slovakia. Throughout its 2013-2016 model years, the vehicle received minor equipment adjustments, including updates to infotainment systems and driver-assistance features. While the Touareg was eventually phased out of the United States market following the 2017 model year to make room for the larger, three-row Atlas, it remains recognized for its robust build quality and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Touareg
Model Year	2013-2016
Generation	2nd (Type 7P)
Trim	TDI Sport, Lux, Executive
Body Style	5-door SUV
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size Luxury SUV
Vehicle Class	Standard 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	~$52,000
Destination Charge	$910
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Diesel
Engine Family	EA897
Engine Name	3.0L TDI V6
Engine Code	CNRB
Engine Configuration	V6
Displacement	3.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	83.0 mm x 91.4 mm
Compression Ratio	16.8:1
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	8.1 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 507 00 / 5W-30
Horsepower	240 hp @ 3,500-4,000 rpm
Torque	406 lb-ft @ 1,750-2,250 rpm
Redline	5,000 rpm
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S8)
Final Drive Ratio	3.27:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Diesel
Recommended Octane	–
EPA City MPG	20
EPA Highway MPG	29
EPA Combined MPG	23
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	–
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	26.4
Estimated Driving Range	765 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	–
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	7.2 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	15.5 seconds
Top Speed	135 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.81g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	188.8
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	76.4
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	86.0
Height (in)	68.2
Wheelbase (in)	113.9
Front Track (in)	65.0
Rear Track (in)	65.8
Ground Clearance (in)	7.9
Curb Weight (lbs)	4,868
GVWR (lbs)	6,393
Towing Capacity (lbs)	7,716
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,525
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	26.0 degrees
Departure Angle	26.0 degrees
Breakover Angle	–
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	8.0-inch touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog with color MID
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	Győr, Hungary
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Torsen Center Differential
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	220
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2013-2016 Touareg TDI is highly regarded in the used market for its exceptional highway range, towing stability, and premium cabin materials that rival luxury-segment competitors. Prospective buyers should be aware that while the 3.0L TDI engine is robust, it requires strict adherence to maintenance schedules, particularly regarding the AdBlue (DEF) system and fuel system components. Owners should verify that the vehicle has received the necessary emissions-related modifications mandated by the 2016 settlement, which often includes an extended warranty on specific powertrain components. Common areas for inspection include the air suspension system on higher trims and the electronics associated with the infotainment interface. Despite the higher cost of specialized diesel maintenance, the vehicle remains a compelling choice for those prioritizing long-distance comfort and heavy-duty utility over modern connectivity features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.