Description: Mid-Size Luxury Sport Utility Vehicle
Base MSRP Range: $37,320 - $44,660
Invoice Price Range: $33,896 - $40,527
Where built: Slovakia
The SUV from VW is a five-door model with a tight unibody structure. It's sleek in style, large in scale for the mid-size class and provides a spacious cabin with seats for five plus plush appointments. Touareg employs VW's four-wheel-drive (4WD) traction device labeled 4XMotion, which provides uncanny stick-it-down traction for all wheels, plus optional locking rear differential and an air suspension.
Engines contain six, eight or even ten cylinders. For 2006, the base plant is new -- a 3.6-liter VR6 with direct injection and output of 276 hp, which marks a 36-point improvement over the previous 3.2-liter VR6. Optional is a 4.2-liter V8 worth 310 hp or a massive turbo-diesel 5.0-liter V10 that knocks out 310 hp. Touareg V10 TDI also has a six-speed automatic transmission, electronic stabilization program (ESP) and a device called Hill Descent and Climb Assist to keep wheels tethered to a steep grade.