Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
JUST like the name derivation, the Volkswagen Touareg also conveys that nomadic-like character to surpass anyone’s expectation from a luxury sport-utility vehicle (SUV).
Sharing the same platform with the Porsche Cayenne and the stretched Audi Q7, it may very well possess the elements of excellence, but until you experience this midsize crossover is when you realize that it has more compelling features to offer. Tested for this month was the second-generation Touareg Sport Edition in Oryx White Pearl.
What attributed to the exterior’s imposing presence is the combination of broad body and low roofline, along with sharp profiles on the hood. That stylish fascia is where the Volkswagen signature appearance flaunts. It highlights the pattern of slender bi-xenon headlamps equipped with bright LED daylight-running lights, aligned to the front grille with binary chrome lines and the manufacturer’s emblem in the middle. Those three separate gratings in the bumper are not there merely for added aesthetics. It allows more ventilation, particularly those two on the sides, where the turbo intercooler is installed. While the flanks have silhouettes similar to the Q7, the rear end is more evocative to the Cayenne, with the LED taillights flowing along the curves on the rear panels and tailgate. Additionally, there are silver anodized front chin, rear skirt and roof rails for that sporty touch. Those subtle black plastic trims in the wheel arcs supplements the enormous multispoked 20-inch alloy wheels with wide 275/45 series tires to project an athletic stance.
Customary to most Volkswagen vehicles is the almost monochromatic, conservative, yet absolutely elegant cabin. The dashboard does not have the usual modern curvatures to lean toward a more straightforward and ergonomic layout. Several silver metallic inserts and chrome trims accentuate the dark-themed interior, along with the piano-black finish for the center console with two large cup holders. The vivid instrumentation panel may have analog-looking meters, but those are actually electronically controlled with a colored multi function display in the middle with driver-alert system. “Cricket” seats are not only wrapped in fine leather material but padded perfectly for lumbar and lateral supports. Together with the three-spoke chunky steering with vertical and telescopic adjustments, finding the perfect driving position is easy. Not two-, but four-zone air-conditioning dissipated the heat quickly and sustained a cool cabin ambient. Practically, every passenger is provided with air vents in the front, and even at the rear.
After firing up the ignition, the engine emitted a steady, yet muffled, humming sound that is stimulating and sports car alike—far from the typical diesel-clanking noise. From stationary, the throttle was less responsive during parking and other slow-driving situations. But on the road, the staggering output from the 3.0-liter V6 TDi became more evident. With the maximum torque available in the low-end range, the throttle only needed to play between 1,500 and 2,000 rpm for overtaking or swift-speed increments. Beyond that range is a kind of rapid acceleration that requires utmost attention and respect. Not even the extra weight of the four-wheel drivetrain and huge wheels created any hindrance. On the other hand, the coupled eight-speed automatic transmission demonstrated seamless and even gearing. In fact, you can choose not to utilize the manual mode, as it always remains within the powerband, except for engine braking. Another highpoint is the fuel-efficient final gear that maintained the vehicle at high-speed limits just below 2,000 rpm.
Not all SUV damping system are created equal. Only few are endowed with the advancements and flexibility to endure almost any road conditions. With the Touareg’s adaptive air suspension system, it defies the limitations in achieving the ideal driving dynamics—on the fly. Clustered below the shift lever are the Adaptive Chassis Control functions. Between the two knobs is a tiny roller-type switch that adjusts the damping grades. In “Comfort” mode, it was nothing short of an executive sedan-like softness that can absorb road imperfections and suppress noise, vibrations and harshness (NVH). The “Sport” setup, on the other hand, quickly leaned the system toward the stiff side. Combined with the lowest height adjustment, the vehicle not only became more aerodynamic but also nimble and agile. Meanwhile, the “Normal” level falls in between and ideal for common driving conditions. Considering the lack of step board, you can also employ the elevation controls for ease of ingress and egress.
Aside from the standard safety features, the Touareg is more than capable in applying sufficient stopping force. Those large rotor discs with abundant brake pistons worked well with the existing antilock brake system (ABS) and Brake assistant. There were absolutely no severe reactions even on sudden application, just the gradual and controlled deceleration. When backing up, the rearview camera will display (via the 8-inch infotainment screen) distance and turning guidelines to further avoid unnecessary collisions.
When Volkswagen set its goal to create an off-road SUV that could handle like a sports car, it has conceived the Touareg Sport Edition exactly the way it imagined it to perform. In spite of being a luxury crossover, the Touareg is also built to withstand the dirt and rough roads, where it can also unleash its unyielding might.