Summarize

The most technologically advanced Volkswagen of its era, the third generation Touareg V6 TDI Executive takes the brand into new territory north of the R1-million Rand mark for the first time. 

Not that any of its rivals are outside of that bracket, but the big Volkise is actually a bargain in its own right – replace that VW badge with a star or a propeller and you add a hundred grand to the asking price just like that. And it’s just as good as either of those cars too.

In fact in many ways, Touareg is probably better than its natural rivals – it’s a tech masterpiece considering its 12-inch display Digital Cockpit with button-minimised 15-inch Discover Premium infotainment.

Wider and longer yet 106kg lighter than before, its 190kW 600Nm 3-litre turbodiesel V6  matches the best of what its Hun home rivals can offer to return impressive performance, stopping our clocks at a pretty compelling 6.43 seconds to 100km/h with more than adequate grant and power wherever else you need it.

That lighter weight brings deft handling and impressive road holding for a big SUV and it’s a really pleasant place to be – wafting along graciously is an absolute pleasure in Touareg. It’s reasonable enough on fuel and once you become au fait with all that tech, travelling in Touareg becomes a special pleasure.

All Touareg’s latest connectivity, a brilliant set of assistance devices, comfort, light and infotainment systems are controlled via the multifunction steering wheel, gesture and voice control, while the optional night vision-equipped advanced safety package fitted to our test unit takes it to another level.

A few years ago, a friend asked my advice on the best SUV to buy. Now he’s about to upgrade to his third Touareg with this one and he’s been delighted every step of the journey. I’d not hesitate to suggest the same again… 

QUICK TEST: Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI

Engine:    190kW 600Nm 2967cc turbo diesel V6

Drive: 8-speed automatic AWD

TESTED: 

0-100km/h: 6.43 sec   

0-160km/h: 16.61 sec

400m: 14.5 sec @ 151km/h

80-120km/h: 4.65 sec

120-160km/h: 7.56 sec       

CLAIMED:       

VMax: 235km/h 

Fuel: 8.2 l/100km

CO2: 188 g/km

Warranty/Service 5y 120K/3y 90Kkm

LIST PRICE: R1.02M

RATED:      86%