Volkswagen Touareg (2010 - 2018) 4.2 V8 TDI Altitude 5d Tip Auto (2011/11) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
I think it says I like a quality product but am not a racer. More likely, I am someone who is considerate of quality, engineering but doesnt feel it necessary to make a statement (a la X5, Cayenne, Range Rover perceptions).
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Kids love the car as it is large enough for all five of us plus luggage, yet also discrete.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes - for all the positives previously described: Speed, adaptability, comfort, sensible design, quality.
What are you likely to buy next?
Same again. I am hoping VW will further develop the hybrid engine for more performance with economy, while also salving the environmental conscience.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£51,000
When did you buy the car?
July 2011
Did you get a good deal and why?
Bought as a Director's car - ie demonstrator - after 3 months use with 850 miles on clock. As not new, price was 20% less than if new.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Had owned previous 5.0 v10 tdi Touareg. New model is faster, more economical, better handling. Also, I think, an example of a large vehicle that doesnt scream "look at me everyone" (a la Cayenne, RangeRover) but that is well engineered and high quality.
What was the dealer like?
Very good. Efficient, effective, clear and helpful. No overselling or hyperbole, just facts and consistently good responses to queries.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Great. Fast enough, nice handling, good around corners and easy to park despite size. My wife was scared to drive initially, but after one attempt, she loved the car and now takes in preference to her own.
What's it like to park?
No problem to park. Doesn't seem a large car, despite that fact that it actually is. Somehow, it seems to feel and look smaller than the Cayenne, which shares the same original design.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Only one thing - the radar adaptive cruise control, which the dealer has struggled to correct, as a new system to them. However, three attempts have sorted the issue under warranty.
What's most practical about your car?
The very large loadspace with the back seats down - and the electronic rear opening tailgate. Great for hauling bikes with out an external rack; trips to tip; taking offspring plus luggage to uni, etc.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Panoramic roof - great to have daylight inside the whole car. I also love the adaptive cruise control as it keeps me safe and helps me stick to speed limits without danger of creeping acceleration.
