VWAG PRESS RELEASE:
Initial Facts
Outstanding on-road and off-road characteristics set new standards
Permanent four-wheel drive, full air suspension, the world's most powerful passenger car diesel engine
Wolfsburg. The countdown is running to the third phase of Volkswagen's luxury segment campaign: the sporty Passat W8 and the innovative Phaeton will soon be joined by the Touareg, an exclusive off-road vehicle. Hallmarks: outstanding on-road and off-road characteristics, permanent, electronically controlled four-wheel drive, double wishbone suspension, depending on the engine fitted, full air suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers fitted as standard, high-torque engines with five, six, eight or ten cylinders, excellent comfort on long drives, and elegant and progressive interior and exterior design.
The Volkswagen Touareg will be introduced to the market in autumn 2002. Its namesake is a people in the Sahara, also known as the knights of the desert. They are famed for their traditions, pride, intelligence and dignity, and ability to adapt to difficult conditions. This name symbolises the ability of the Volkswagen off-road saloon to adapt to very different driving conditions.
With a length of 4.75 metres (187 inches), a width of 1.93 metres (76 inches), a height of 1.72 metres (67.7 inches), and a wheel base of 2.86 metres (112.6 inches), the Touareg is firmly placed in the off-roader luxury segment. The all-round specialist with a top speed of over 250 km/h (155 mph) is a unique vehicle. The new Volkswagen is a crossover vehicle, and will call to mind not only an off-road vehicle, but also a sporty luxury class estate car. Technically and visually, the Touareg combines the best of three worlds.
Firstly: The Touareg is a full-blooded off-road vehicle. Power is transferred to the driven wheels via a transfer box, which has off-road gear ratio reduction fitted as standard, and three locking differentials. The multi-plate clutch, fitted as standard, is automatically controlled by the running gear electronics - depending on conditions, up to 100 percent of the traction force can be transferred to either of the two axles. A rotary control switch in the cockpit can be used to activate the differential lock manually. The four-wheel EDL, fitted as standard, determines exactly in which ratios the power is distributed to the wheels. An electronically controlled rear axle differential lock with multi-plate clutch, and as part of the off-road package, a front axle lock and variable anti-roll bars, are planned for heavy off-road driving.
Short overhangs, ground clearance of up to 300 millimetres (11.8 inches), and a wading depth of 585 millimetres (23 inches) provide the technical prerequisites for exceptional off-road suitability. Gradability of 100 percent and the ability to roll to 45 degrees, make the vehicle suitable for extreme off-road conditions.
Secondly: The Touareg is an agile and safe vehicle for all types of journeys. The double wishbones front and back with a noise-insulated sub-frame give the vehicle the noise level and comfort of a luxury saloon, coupled with the precision of a sporty passenger car. Pneumatic suspension and continuous damping control give the car an unprecedented level of suspension comfort - both on-road and off-road. A switch in the cockpit allows the driver to select a more sporty or a more comfortable suspension.
The fully galvanised, unitized, four-door body has extremely good stiffness, which not only comes into its own in extreme off-road conditions, but which forms the basis of the Touareg's high level of comfort and high quality. The interior design, in the style of the Phaeton, uses a large range of high-quality equipment to underline its positioning as a luxury vehicle. Elaborate seats, a fully adjustable steering wheel, and a separate (optional) air conditioning system for the rear seat passengers (4-zone Climatronic) enable vehicle occupants to travel in comfort and luxury.
Crashworthiness and safety equipment meet the toughest specifications. The vehicle does not have an aggressive off-road design, thus paying heed to weaker road users in the event of a collision. Non metal wings and a soft aluminium bonnet show that Volkswagen is has met its responsibilities in its off-road vehicle. The high standard of passive safety includes front, side and curtain airbags, active head restrains in the front, and three-point seat belts on all seats fitted as standard.
ABS, TCS (traction control system), ESP (electronic stabilisation programme), EBC (engine braking control) and HBA (hydraulic brake assist system) are fitted as standard and give the safety level of the best passenger cars. The brake system with fixed-callipers and ventilated disc brakes provide good braking characteristics - even when the vehicle is full and its high towing capacity fully utilised.A further safety feature: if the car is fitted with pneumatic suspension, it is automatically lowered by 25 millimetres (.98 inches) when its speed reaches 125 km/h (77 mph).
Thirdly: The Touareg is a multi-functional business and leisure vehicle. The luggage compartment has a large tailgate - the window can be opened separately . Its capacity is variable in the range 555 to 1,570 litres (19.5 cu.ft. to 55.4 cu.ft.) . Its towing capacity of max. 3.5 tonnes (7716 lbs.) makes the Touareg an ideal towing vehicle. High-torque engines, permanent four-wheel drive, with fully automatic drive train control (lock management) and off-road gear ratio reduction fitted as standard, allow the car to master extreme conditions.
At the German market launch, the Touareg will be available with a 3.2-liter V6 petrol engine and a 5.0 litre V10 TDI engine.The V6 engine has a power output of 162 kW / 220 bhp and develops up to 305 Newtonmetres (225 lbs-ft) of torque. The world's most powerful passenger car diesel engine is the V10 TDI with unit injectors and bi-turbo charging. It has a power output of 230 kW / 313 bhp and develops an impressive 750 Newtonmetres (551 lbs-ft) of torque at 1800 rpm. Two other engines will be added to the line-up at a later date:a new five-cylinder TDI with 2.5 litres displacement and a 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine. Six-speed gearboxes are fitted as standard - the choice between automatic and manual is determined by the engine size. With the automatic gearboxes, the driver can use DSP (dynamic shift programme) the Tiptronic gear lever, or, if fitted, the steering wheel paddles, to influence gear shifting.
In summary: The Touareg, with its torsional rigid body, running gear for all conditions and four-wheel drive, has all the necessary features for best performance both on-road and off-road. Depending on conditions, it is both a sporty luxury estate car and a very tough off-road vehicle.
(edited for metric to english conversions)
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: 1KillerGTI at 3:30 PM 4-26-2002
I LIKE 
#1?
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: Hajduk at 3:33 PM 4-26-2002
I LOVE IT!!!
looks like a mini-phaeton with big wheels
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (VeeDubDriver)
Posted by: ACD at 5:30 PM 4-26-2002
Tower-reg
Tour-reg
I'm usually good at pronounciation but I cant remember any words with a "OUAR" construction.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (ConfesS4)
Posted by: gizmopop at 5:31 PM 4-26-2002
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (gizmopop)
Posted by: JoeJetta91 at 5:35 PM 4-26-2002
but when that day comes, we'll own one... soccer mom mobiel... hehe
i'll still be perfectly content with my jetta's
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (JoeJetta91)
Posted by: jakub kaminski at 5:37 PM 4-26-2002
quote:
volkswagen you idiots
WHY NOT BRING OVER THE DIESEL
[Modified by jakub kaminski, 10:42 PM 4-26-2002]
Because we don't have low sulphur fuel in North America. Blame the oil companies not VW.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (Hajduk)
Posted by: DaveInDallas at 5:56 PM 4-26-2002
Also, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE bring over a DVD based Sat Nav system.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (jakub kaminski)
Posted by: lip at 5:57 PM 4-26-2002
If this thing could tow, then they probably would have a great bit of success selling a diesel version
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (lip)
Posted by: JoeJetta91 at 6:03 PM 4-26-2002
quote:
volkswagen you idiots
WHY NOT BRING OVER THE DIESELBecause we don't have low sulphur fuel in North America. Blame the oil companies not VW.
I thought it was because of the Trucking companies, who don't want the more expensive fuel. I would think the oil companies would just love to sell more gas.
I think the Touruauruaruarrurueg looks like a CR-V with a passat nose on it. Taillights are nice, and I think the interior is very nice as well. The body could have used some more pronounced wheel arches or something.... looks kind of sparse.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (lip)
Posted by: Jouko Haapanen at 6:06 PM 4-26-2002
quote:
Because we don't have low sulphur fuel in North America. Blame the oil companies not VW.
True, but how does dodge and ford get away with their V10 Diesel engines? Do they get some kinda work truck exemption? (maybe a US specific questions?)
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (Raring 2 Go)
Posted by: Reflex5.5 at 6:39 PM 4-26-2002
Looks much better than the porsche pos but it's still another over-sized, over-priced, over-weight, over-consumming SUV for midlife crises babyboomer, people who don't know sh1t about cars and posers!
My congradulations to the exceptions that actually drive these things off road...
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: Msquared at 7:13 PM 4-26-2002
~M
PS: I wanna try the V10 TDI !!!! 
[Modified by Msquared, 1:13 AM 4-27-2002]
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (GTI666)
Posted by: DubberFromCT at 7:13 PM 4-26-2002
quote:
What a waste of frikin' time!!!
Looks much better than the porsche pos but it's still another over-sized, over-priced, over-weight, over-consumming SUV for midlife crises babyboomer, people who don't know sh1t about cars and posers!
My congradulations to the exceptions that actually drive these things off road...
I agree w/ you 100%. The last thing this world needs is another SUV. I'm willing to bet 95% of those bought will never even touch dirt. Buy a passat or audi variant instead.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwzx)
Posted by: DGMVW at 7:34 PM 4-26-2002
Did anyone notice any parts that we mod onto our MK4 cars?
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: NCabbyT at 7:40 PM 4-26-2002
-b
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: mhjett at 7:58 PM 4-26-2002
That looks SO much better than the Porsche!! Classy SUV vs. worst looking SUV in the world (the Cayenne)!!quote:
I like the rims in the first photo.
I second that ... DO they come in 5x100?!?
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (jeremyt)
Posted by: longshanks at 8:15 PM 4-26-2002
If this thing could tow, then they probably would have a great bit of success selling a diesel version"
Really? Here in the Northwest we can't get enough of them!
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (PDXREFLEX)
Posted by: JoeArlo at 8:58 PM 4-26-2002
quote:
If they can make a 1.9 run on our cheapo diesel, why can't they make the V 10 run on it? I also think it's a lot of BS that the trucking companies could pollute a lot less with better fuel, but they lobby for the cheap stuff to save a buck.
a 1.9TDI PD gets 150hp
a 1.9TDI crappy american fuel version gets 90hp
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (futuraboy)
Posted by: a4GTIguy at 10:23 PM 4-26-2002
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (a4GTIguy)
Posted by: danix at 10:41 PM 4-26-2002
It's kinda a shame that VW didn't stay loyal to the car industry and kept promoting merely car auto sales... but they have to get in to where the money is really going...
I wonder what kind of gas mileage this gets, how much it will base retail for???? Anyone heard yet???
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (PDXREFLEX)
Posted by: aamsel at 10:51 PM 4-26-2002
mormit
Post Title: Re: That's no F'ing VW!!!! (MORMIT)
Posted by: GTIfreak at 12:14 AM 4-27-2002
nuff said
Post Title: Re: That's no F'ing VW!!!! (GTIfreak)
Posted by: AutobahnTDI at 12:26 AM 4-27-2002
But do we really need another SUV???
NO!!!
Now that the prices of oil are going up, these kind of cars will suffer.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: 17 at 12:40 AM 4-27-2002
quote:
Neither vehicle will offer a manual six-speed transmission here in North America.
Why am I not surprised ? Still makes me
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: mnalla at 1:52 AM 4-27-2002
Great design VW. Move over X5 and ML 320.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (mnalla)
Posted by: rensho at 2:23 AM 4-27-2002
I will not settle for less. VW you must provide the V10 to the US family
[Modified by Gary Ramey, 4:31 AM 4-27-2002]
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: 83Caddy16v at 7:55 AM 4-27-2002
The a 5-cylinder TDI version would be a good differentiator versus the competition.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (Gary Ramey)
Posted by: SAEDave at 8:04 AM 4-27-2002
I like.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (kasimir)
Posted by: EZ at 10:54 AM 4-27-2002
EZ
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (PDXREFLEX)
Posted by: matt007 at 10:55 AM 4-27-2002
quote:
Really? Here in the Northwest we can't get enough of them!
This is one *beautiful* SUV!
The interior looks awesome and the outside looks *very* classy!
[Modified by matt007, 7:55 AM 4-27-2002]
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: profbooty at 10:57 AM 4-27-2002
it is definatlyone of the better looking suvs,(the bmw x5 is the nicest looking). i curious how well it really handles off road though.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: VDUBfanatic at 11:44 AM 4-27-2002
I would rather have a VW than a Porsche.
SUV speaking of course. I mean, if I had to buy one or the other.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: MZMDCM99 at 12:01 PM 4-27-2002
front looks very Passat
rear looks very Phaeton
nice design. Should sell well.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (GTI666)
Posted by: vwnb99 at 1:09 PM 4-27-2002
and to the SUV winers!... Hey not everybody out there wants a little sub compact (ie GTI) to putz around in all day!
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: radiospace at 1:12 PM 4-27-2002
What's the point?
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (PDXREFLEX)
Posted by: jok3sta at 1:57 PM 4-27-2002
thats all i have to sayBetter 1
or better 2
VW nailed it - Porsche blew it
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (thalter)
Posted by: RayD at 5:00 PM 4-27-2002
quote:
biggest disapointent from VW in along time. Give me things like a 4Motion Golf before you start selling wannabe SUV's. It all comes down to the dollar though...
Wannabe SUV? Better read the specs again... it even as a true low-range gear set. Compared to 90% of the other pseudo off-road SUVs out there, this is quite capable.
I can understand your frustration in regards to more 4motion derivatives on the Golf platform, but at this point you are going to have to wait for the Golf V.
Personally I think the Touareg turned out much better than I expected (especially after seeing the Cayenne photos). Everyone at VW says that the Touareg looks much better in person than in photos too. Should be interesting. At least they didn't do it half-assed...
Plus, there are nice profit margins in SUV's... this will help defray costs of cooler stuff on the Golf platform in the future.
-jamie
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (radiospace)
Posted by: kasimir at 5:31 PM 4-27-2002
quote:
Pretty bland, in my opinion. And no, the Porsche looks better (not that the Porsche looks particularly good, but at least it has some personality).What's the point?
The Porsche looks too HYUNDAIisch, isn't it so?
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (kasimir)
Posted by: radiospace at 10:08 PM 4-27-2002
quote:The Porsche looks too HYUNDAIisch, isn't it so?
No, I don't think the Porsche looks like a Hyundai. The front end looks like...a Porsche. The Porsche looks sportier and has a lot more personality. The VW is just blah. (And the big Phaeton is the same way...Blah).
I wouldn't drive either one of these cars but if I had to choose...no question: Porsche, hands down.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: kmead at 11:19 PM 4-27-2002
Cool thing that VW is going to put V10 diesel into production.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (kmead)
Posted by: kevwithoutacorrado at 12:30 AM 4-28-2002
You Must Love The Dub
But Even The Dub Can Fail
I Hate S.U.Vs
Kevin
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (kevwithoutacorrado)
Posted by: RGordini at 12:54 AM 4-28-2002
Volkswagen Germany doesn't speak about this model... no news available on their web site. http://www.volkswagen.de
I wonder is this SUv will see the light... it could be sold real quick..
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (sharan2000)
Posted by: sharan2000 at 1:08 AM 4-28-2002
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (PDXREFLEX)
Posted by: volksportguy72 at 1:31 AM 4-28-2002
When can I get one for my Passat GLX? I NEED!!!
Post Title: Bring the diesel(s) to the U.S.......PLEASE!
Posted by: DaveInDallas at 7:44 AM 4-28-2002
I know that the V10 can't make it here until we (hopefully) adopt the low sulpher standards that Europe has (which I hear is around 2006). But don't they have other diesels (the 5 cylinder turbo, maybe?) that can run on our current diesel?
If VW brought this over, they would annihilate the competition! I want an SUV that gets at least 25 mpg!! Other than that, give me third row seating and a DVD based Sat Nav and I'll be one happy Touareg owner.
Post Title: Re: Bring the diesel(s) to the U.S.......PLEASE! (DaveInDallas)
Posted by: wvwga0169 at 8:12 AM 4-28-2002
Just at a time when I am finding the limitations of My A6 and have to retire my Cherokee, this comes along 
Perfect for towing the Miata to buttonwillow, willow springs, el centro. Looks comfortable and roomy for driving to work.
Has the capabilities for climbing dunes at pismo or anza-borrego.
Comes in at a very competitive price.
Were it not for my weariness of the VW/AUDI dealer network, I would be ready to trade keyrings today. But after spending a fat chunk on the A6 I am still dissapointed that the customer service for a doomed lemon ML320 still rates at 110% better than any customer service I've ever recieved from any VW/AUDI service department. Lies lies lies! But thats another story.
Here's hoping the VAG party pulls it together and has a smashing success
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (RGordini)
Posted by: Eolair at 12:54 PM 4-28-2002
quote:
I am just wonder how large is the european market is for this
kind of car since the gas is arond $6 a gallon?
Well, here in Germany itīs 4US$/gal at the moment.
And thatīs why we get the diesel versions (Iīm predicting a diesel share of at least 70% once the smaller diesel is out).
But Iīm sure the majority of Touareg sales will be in the US, SUVs and AWD cars have less than 10% market share and without a diesel those are (almost) unsellable
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: kt's_gti at 3:58 PM 4-28-2002
Look at that wheel gap Okay, really....it doesn't look bad.....not a fan of the interior though
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (kt's_gti)
Posted by: ReverendHorton at 9:05 PM 4-28-2002
To all those who will continue to ask the questions:
Why did VW build an SUV? Volkswagen is in the business of selling cars. Period. SUVs sell well and have good margins. Don't act so ignorant. You can still like your car.
Why don't we get the diesel engines? These diesel engines run on low-sulphur diesel fuel which, at present, is unavailable in the U.S. It is mandated to be in supply by 2006. We will not see any of these new diesel engines until then. VW simply does not have the option of selling a car for which correct fuel cannot be purchased.
Why isn't VW offering the six speed manual as an option? For one, it probably isn't the option of choice for most of the target customers for this vehicle. Secondly, who is to say that it will not be a delayed introduction? When the W8 Passat was introduced, the six speed was not going to make it to our shores, either. Now it is.
Last of all, how can anyone whine that VW is abandoning it's traditional customer? For the drivers, we get the GTI 337, one of the most driving-oriented machines that VW has ever imported. All of the newer models are the benchmark for style, build quality and features in nearly every class and enjoy some of the highest resale values in the business. The 1.8T and VR6 are well known and respected engines in the performance arena. Ok, so the dealers need some vast improvement (with exceptions), the stock suspensions keep us wondering and the stock tires are more suited for highway cruising than corner-carving... If you are freaking out over this, what are you going to do when VW introduces the next van/people-mover to the US market??
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (1KillerGTI)
Posted by: hawc at 8:49 AM 4-29-2002
I really like it though, but I would prefer a Passat Wagon 4motion with the V-10 TDI.
Post Title: Re: Re: (Derek)
Posted by: MuckChiller at 9:23 AM 4-29-2002
They don't even have to be actual seats, just enough to squeeze a couple more kids in the back.
Take 1 potential buyer off your projected sales list.
Post Title: Re: Bring the diesel(s) to the U.S.......PLEASE! (wvwga0169)
Posted by: HIDGolf at 9:25 AM 4-29-2002
quote:
Can I say OVERSIZED VW logo on the hatch... VW has a trend of getting bigger and bigger logos on their cars.... I Wonder what will be the size by 2010
Man, have you ever seen a aircooled transporter? the emblem was the size of the wheel covers...to many VW owners forget the company's roots...
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (danix)
Posted by: profbooty at 1:13 PM 4-29-2002
quote:
No stick, no sale, even if they do bring the diesels over.
I don't think you see sticks on very many SUV's (I've seen em on wranglers, but they aren't SUV's). I believe jeep used to offer it on cherokees(now replaced by the liberty). Most SUV buyers buy em for onroad use in place of a station wagon which was mostly an automatic market anyways.
It would be nice if they offered it in stick, but then again it would also be nice if you could get your VW made to order instead of waiting for the right one to be shipped over.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (profbooty)
Posted by: melech at 1:29 PM 4-29-2002
Ok, well it's not a bad effort, but I think the looks are a bit uninspiring. I suppose the target market is somewhat conservative, however.
Nice interior, tho.
Post Title: Re: Re: (Derek)
Posted by: 1.BillyT at 2:39 PM 4-29-2002
quote:
Why don't we get the diesel engines? These diesel engines run on low-sulphur diesel fuel which, at present, is unavailable in the U.S. It is mandated to be in supply by 2006. We will not see any of these new diesel engines until then. VW simply does not have the option of selling a car for which correct fuel cannot be purchased.
That's a d*mn shame. with a 7700 pound towing capacity, and 550 ft/lbs or torque at 1800 rpm, I would mkae one of thse my tow vehicle in a second. Don't get me wrong, I still love the big F-350 powerstroke, but this thing is half as big, just as powerful, and is a VW. I would love to have the TDI motor in one. The 4.2 V8 would be good too, but for 35K plus, I would have to go with the powerstroke.
Post Title:
Posted by: asap at 4:42 PM 4-29-2002
Volkswagen did the same thing with the Phaeton the concept looked so much better. All of the new VW are to plain they need to go the extra mile audi and bmw got it down VW needs to learn from them. It hurts me to say this but its true.
Post Title:
Posted by: GT1373A at 5:27 PM 4-29-2002
quote:
I think this one is so much better looking.
Volkswagen did the same thing with the Phaeton the concept looked so much better. All of the new VW are to plain they need to go the extra mile audi and bmw got it down VW needs to learn from them. It hurts me to say this but its true.
I agree. Both concepts looked better than the final product.
Post Title: Re: (GT1373A)
Posted by: ASurroca at 6:24 PM 4-29-2002
As for the CR-V... I really don't see any resemblance to the Honda CR-V except insofar as both vehicles are SUVs
As for the conservative styling... thank God! Would you rather Volkswagen made another Aztek/Avelanche type of truck complete with razor sharp edges, plastic body cladding and altezza lights? I think the subtle curves in the body are fantastic. The only other SUV that can compare is the BMW X5
Post Title: Re: (ASurroca)
Posted by: Eric Dow at 8:10 PM 4-29-2002
My friends and their Jeeps better be looking for me, I'm going 4x4 next year!quote:
I think the Honda Pilot will eat this things lunch. The Honda seats 8, and has a decent interior for 8 grand less. Few if any of these will ever spend any time off road so why bother making a industry standard AWD system. I see my days as a VW owner disappearing, they have been the only car I have owned (for 20 years now) and they are definitely abandoning the reasons I have always bought them.
I agree, who needs yet another bloated SUV that soccer moms can drive over curbs with. Gag
IMO VW is going after a different market share...a more upscale one. The Pilot is a great SUV but isn't it MINIVAN (read ODYSSEY) BASED ? and not a true off roader? I though I remebered readingthat itwas based on the MDX with is based on the honda minivan. And yes while most will never be driven off road, the higher end SUVs are all very capable (G500 & ML, LX470 etc) so why wouldn't VW try to make an industry standard AWD.
VW is smart for tapping into this market. Since it is already gluytted they needed smething that would standout. I think this does stand out.
The bottom line is this...The more VEHICLES VW sells the more they will make and te more they will be willing to bring over less profitable cars...polo, 4motio ngolf etc
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (VdubbaU Guy)
Posted by: ASurroca at 10:51 AM 4-30-2002
quote:
The bottom line is this...The more VEHICLES VW sells the more they will make and te more they will be willing to bring over less profitable cars...polo, 4motion golf etc
Agreed. Volkswagen's tactic seems to involve 1. moving their line slightly upscale, 2. Making a new line of super-upscale cars, starting from the top downward, 3. Allowing the prestiege and technology from those cars to trickle down to the rest of the line.
Years ago, no one even noticed the Passat, and now its the sedan other car companies wants to copy. And their W8 is comparable with a top-end BMW 3-Series or a bottom-end BMW 5-Series.
Next comes the Phaeton to out-do the most exclusive luxo cars, so as to establish that Volkswagen can make such a vehicle. The W12 supercar to prove they can make a supercar like the best of them. The Touareg to prove they can make (and possibly beat) trucks like the BMW X5 and Mercedes ML320.
I think that if they whip their dealers into shape well enough, which they are working on, and work out the kinks (window regulators etc. ), once people start seeing executives (even just a few) in Phaetons and rich soccer moms in Touaregs (probably a dozen, as this will sell like hotcakes), we'll see a surge in sales for the rest of Volkswagens. Especially since the A5 gen. cars are all evidently getting styling cues from the Phaeton, Passat, and Touareg. Basically, VW will be able to sell more econo and midsized cars at higher prices than the competition (which they already do) and more people will be willing to spend the extra cash because of percieved quality thanks the VW's upscale line...
Sooo.. what I mean to say is, with these developments here, I think the A5 generation is going to be one of the most kickarse ones for us dub fans yet. I think we're going to see a lot of nice technology from the high end trickle down. Like the 3.2L V6, 4motion on models other than the Passat, and so forth. I've even got a good feeling VW will eventually bring the Polo over so as not to price themselves out of the econo market
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (ASurroca)
Posted by: Big CADDY at 10:54 AM 4-30-2002
)}quote
window regulators..... jeeze I have yet to own a VW that doesn't have a problem with them... We will see with the new Jetta 1.8T.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (Big CADDY)
Posted by: ASurroca at 11:50 AM 4-30-2002
quote:
regulators..... jeeze I have yet to own a VW that doesn't have a problem with them... We will see with the new Jetta 1.8T.
That reminds me... I always use it as a Vortex joke, but I'm on my second dub and its never failed I will consider myself lucky
Post Title: great, another suv endangering the lives of others
Posted by: jordicalifornia at 9:54 PM 4-30-2002
Be responsible - driving is for drivers - SUVs are not. Get them off the road! Offer an SUV driver a dollar to take the bus - take action!!
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (jordicalifornia)
Posted by: sswxy at 1:09 AM 5-1-2002
As far as I know, touareg is designed to give less threat to other road users. IMO, touareg is 1000 times more friendly to other road users than Hummer H2, Explorer, and many other monster SUV. quote:
not paying attention to DRIVING, side swipes a cyclist then t-bones, or gives it up the rear to a small car, perhaps a fellow VW owner in his/her Polo or Golf or 337.
Puhlease, give us a farquing break!! Perhaps you don't understand, desire or even need the utility of an SUV, but there are people on this planet, other than yourself, that do have needs which are met by an SUV.
Let me take this oppurtunity to suggest you test drive some of the newer SUV's and while your at it, do some friggin research!! The majority of the new SUV's have equal, or MORE (would you believe it) safety features than passenger cars. SUV's are now built on better platforms, and handle very well.
I'm sure VW put unlimited resources into developing the safest vehicle possible, which is a fair statement that can be backed up by the crash records of all current VW vehicles.
I'm done for now.
thanks for the audience
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (MuckChiller)
Posted by: Big CADDY at 8:42 AM 5-1-2002
quote:
"Jakub Kaminski,
How many TDis did VW sell last year. My local dealer has trouble getting rid of them.
Send them to Michigan then, we can't keep them on the lots!
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (MuckChiller)
Posted by: Sortafast at 11:42 AM 5-1-2002
quote:
Perhaps you don't understand, desire or even need the utility of an SUV, but there are people on this planet, other than yourself, that do have needs which are met by an SUV.
I'm just wondering what the Toueaurueuaeuruaerururug can do that a 4Motion Passat Wagon can't.
Ford a river? Do ya think someone who does such things is really gonna buy the VW or opt for something more "burly" like a Crapalanche?
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (Anakin)
Posted by: MuckChiller at 1:06 PM 5-1-2002
Hauling cargo longer than the interior is a snap now as the T-reg has a separately opening window tailgate. That feature in itself is a HUGE benefit of the T-reg.
Alas, it doesn't seat 7. No worries, I can't wait to put my deposit down on a Microbus!!!!!
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (MuckChiller)
Posted by: sharan2000 at 1:41 PM 5-1-2002
New conversation: Microbus or Sharan ?
No questions asks I choose the Sharan.
[Modified by sharan2000, 6:42 PM 5-1-2002]
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (Anakin)
Posted by: danderson at 3:13 PM 5-1-2002
Why, it can tow 7700 pounds. That's as much (or more) than an Explorer, a Durango, a Tahoe, or even the half-ton Suburban! It's definitely more than anything Mercedes, BMW, or any of the Japanese have to offer.
I'm as "anti-SUV" as any VW owner. But, I need a tow-vehicle to tow my car to the track. A covered trailer and gear, plus the weight of the car, can easily breach the 5000 lb towing capacity of many of the mid- to large- SUV's out there. I, for one, will be looking at the Touareg with a keen eye when it's introduced.
...Besides, all my tools are metric. ...If I get an American tow vehicle, I'll have to get a whole new set o' tools...
Dave
'95 Jetta GLX - for everyday
'89 Porsche 911 - for the track
'02 Audi 1.8TQ Avant - for the wife
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: W8 at 3:50 PM 5-1-2002
I hate the name as well.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (W8)
Posted by: sharan2000 at 3:58 PM 5-1-2002
In fall 2002 the Toureg is launched onto the market in Europe, says volkswagen.de I bet it sell really quick.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (sharan2000)
Posted by: W8 at 6:37 PM 5-1-2002
quote:
Why would they change the name? The other dealer brands can't say anything then just say: "oh god we are going to loose money again"In fall 2002 the Toureg is launched onto the market in Europe, says volkswagen.de I bet it sell really quick.
Although it would probably sell pretty well no matter what it's called, Touareg doesn't roll off the tongue with ease, nor is it easy to spell. Case in point: look at how you spelled Touareg -- you forgot an "a".
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (W8)
Posted by: sharan2000 at 8:30 PM 5-1-2002
can happen to anyone... Beside Touareg rolls well on the tongue in german...but for those who doesn't know german it could not be rolling.again I'll wait to see it in real...
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (danderson)
Posted by: MuckChiller at 9:04 PM 5-1-2002
quote:
Why, it can tow 7700 pounds. That's as much (or more) than an Explorer, a Durango, a Tahoe, or even the half-ton Suburban! It's definitely more than anything Mercedes, BMW, or any of the Japanese have to offer.
True, my Mountaineer with the V8 and towing package is rated at 7300lbs.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (GTI666)
Posted by: sswxy at 1:11 PM 5-2-2002
quote:
What a waste of frikin' time!!!
Looks much better than the porsche pos but it's still another over-sized, over-priced, over-weight, over-consumming SUV for midlife crises babyboomer, people who don't know sh1t about cars and posers!
My congradulations to the exceptions that actually drive these things off road...
I'm 50 and you're right I never drive off-road; but, seriously, I'm considering to buy two of this baby, one for myself and one for my daughter. This baby is the best looking SUV, IMO, in the market and it carry a VW badge. I don't mind if VW want to name it 
turtle.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: vuu16v at 1:32 PM 5-2-2002
We are all drawn together by our love for Volkswagens. I'm 40 and I drive off road regularly and have never owned an SUV. I was also mamed by a 50 something woman in a 94 Sedan Deville (No ABS) had to have been engrossed in a novel or something. All dumbs do not drive SUV's! Just more than their share.
Now what we have hear is a totally different kind of SUV. The Volkswagen of SUV's
I think it's great! Everything about the exterior styling is right on the mark. So far the only SUV I thought looked 1/2 way decent was the RX 300. The Tourreg outshines it by far. The only thing I find fault with is the center dash section. I'm not thrilled with the interior of the Phaeton either. Like most, I think the Audi's have the most attractive interior on the road. I suspect they are intentionally steering away from Audi styling as they move VW up market, but I think they are missing the mark on the interior design. Nothing I'd call ugly, but it doesn't make my heart flutter like an A8 or A6 dash. Disharmonious comes to mind, but I'm not a designer so I'm having a hard time explaining it. I'd like to hear others critique the interior aesthetics.
I agree with the others that we should at least get to choose one diesel engined car. It was economy of operation that initially hooked me on VW with my first Rabbit diesel. It annoys me that I don't have a choice. I think a lot of people would want a 30 mpg clean burning SUV. I would.
The only other thing I want to critiscise is the lack of a multi adjustable suspension. Safety and Fuel economy have been the things that have kept me away from SUV's so far (and the bad image they're getting from their idiot drivers. ) I'd be willing to forego one or the other to buy a VW SUV, but not both. I'd rather buy a used allroad than a Toureg in it's current form.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (CarLuvrSD)
Posted by: DaveInDallas at 10:03 AM 5-3-2002
quote:
...
The only other thing I want to critiscise is the lack of a multi adjustable suspension.
I thought I read that this has a multi adjustable suspension. I believe its standard on the W8, optional on the 6 cylinders. I believe one of the knobs between the shift gate and cupholders control it.
I wish it had a third row seat. The Germans are well known for their engineering prowess; from what I've read the suspension and all wheel drive is incredible, however, I believe "practicality factors" such as third row seating and lower price will find more buyers leaning towards the upcoming Honda Pilot and Volvo XC90.
The perfect Touareg?!? In my opinion, one with a third row seat, the Sat Nav system, and a TDI.
p.s. It would be awesome if Audi got a version of this and had their stylists update the exterior and interior!
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (MuckChiller)
Posted by: profbooty at 11:06 AM 5-3-2002
Putting all the safety features you want on an SUV won't compensate for greater weight and ride heigher over your typical car (or even a car that is just as heavy) which has similar features. Those are two things which will make it more difficult for such a vehicle to manuever.
That being said, MOST people do not need an SUV, but could be just as equally served by a wagon or minivan (both of which can be found in AWD models). Sure you can tow stuff in an SUV, but that can be done with any truck. (read auto.com's take on the cadalac version of the avalance pickup/sport ute, its pretty funny). Most people buy SUV's because they are trendy or because they feel 4WD will "save" them in the snow (its totally overated, 4wd won't compensate for poor driving mistakes, heck you are better off practicing in the snow than relying soley on 4wd). 5% of the buyers probably need an SUV and use it for what it was intended, the rest are posuers (read posuer.4x4.org, its written buy a big offroad wrangler fan). You sound like you use it for what it was meant for, but I don't like to be surrounded on the road by a bunch of people who can't drive them properly, especailly when i ride my motorcycle (that can be VERY scary).
I think this new VW is the nicest looking SUV out there besides the X5. It would be nice if more manufactures took styling cues to make SUVs more visually appealing instead of just bigger and taller.
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (profbooty)
Posted by: Gremlin at 11:53 PM 5-3-2002
Do we really need another SUV? VW should come up with something to compete with the WRX on the Rally level... (It kind of seems to me that within the last year or two, they seem to be getting further and further away from their demographic.) But if they had something like a Carrado, rised up with some major suspension- I'd buy it as a second car in a heart beat!
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (Gremlin)
Posted by: rocco at 1:13 AM 5-4-2002
Right on top of things. Way to capture that market. Right on Gremlin
[Modified by rocco, 10:14 PM 5-3-2002]
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (PDXREFLEX)
Posted by: TURBODIESEL at 2:29 AM 5-4-2002
OTOH, the Touareg seems to be one of the few SUVs that would pose less of a safety threat to others through the use of softer plastics and lower height of their bumpers as well as better handling characteristics, and would return decent performance and fuel economy if the TDI was ever brought here to NA. It would also provide a touch of class and high degree of utility at a price comparable to many smaller luxury avants.
In the next few years, I will be helping to relocate my folks and possibly be moving myself, so I will need a vehicle with good cargo capacity. The Passat Wagon may fit the bill especially if 4Motion is offered on the 1.8T with a CVT. But sadly, I must admit that as a single guy, the prospects of driving a wagon would not be as cool as driving a fairly safe, relatively economical, yet stylish SUV. (Besides, with a diesel engine, the Touareg would probably last longer with far less maintenance than say a W8 Passat.)
The only real gripe I have with the Touareg is its stupid name. As a former owner of a Merker xr4Ti, I can attest that the name of a vehicle has a lot to do with how well it does in the general marketplace. As VW fans, many of us appreciate how great the Touareg is compared to most other SUVs. When Mr. & Mrs. John Q. accidently come across the Touareg in their pursuit of finding the perfect SUV, they'll probably stop immediately after admiring its looks since its name will likely conjure up in their minds the thought of what else is quiirky about the thing.
If VW was smart, they would hold a naming contest for its new SUV, which may also give it better public exposure.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (VW-Fan)
Posted by: VW-Fan at 10:15 AM 5-4-2002
Would that mean the Touareg would be the first VW in NA available with the six speed Tiptronic transmission. which has been in the works for the last few years? Now that would be truly interesting.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (VW-Fan)
Posted by: HydeDTD at 10:54 PM 5-4-2002
The Tauoreg is not a truck.
Consider that a change in momentum requires a force by a time.
?P = F * t
If we rearrange the equation to isolate F (force):
F = ?P / t
Softer cars take a longer time to change their momentum. Thus, if the denominator (t) is larger, the the resultant force (F) must be smaller because they are inversely proportional.
Thus, the Tauoreg is safer when interacting with smaller cars, and the occupants in the Tauoreg will be fine.
The cyclist? Dead any way you look at it.
Just cause you drive an Insight doesn't mean you don't have to pay attention.
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (maxintosh)
Posted by: JohnTT at 11:23 AM 5-6-2002
Bring on the TDI!!!!I was saving for an Expedition with the 4.5 Baby Powerstroke, but Ford has delayed it for a few years.
Touareg
Length 187"
Width 76"
Height 67.7"
Wheel Base 112.6"
Ground Clearance Up to 11.8"
Cargo Room 19.5-55.4 cu. ft.
3.2 V6 220hp/225lbs-ft
4.2 V8
2.5 TDI
5.0 V10 TDI 313hp/551lbs-ft
2003 Expedition
Length 205.8"
Width 78.7"
Height 77.6"
Wheel Base 119"
Ground Clearance 8.9"
Cargo Room 20.7-110.4 cu.ft.
4.6 V8 232hp/291lbs-ft
5.4 V8 260hp/350lbs-ft
2002 Explorer
Length 189.5"
Width 72.1"
Height 71.4"
Wheel Base 113.7"
Ground Clearance 8.5"
Cargo Room
4.0 V6 210hp/254lbs-ft
4.6 V8 239hp/282lbs-ft
[Modified by Essayon, 9:33 AM 6-24-2002]
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (Essayon)
Posted by: Geordie at 4:41 PM 5-7-2002
I will not have another automatic transmission. I refuse to be ground into the class of those who cannot think for themselves.
So, can I buy a v10 Tdi 6 speed in Germany and bring it over?
Automatic transmission is a scheme to increase service revenues, in half a million miles my manual transmission service costs were $0.
[Modified by Geordie, 1:43 PM 5-7-2002]
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (Geordie)
Posted by: M0 at 6:14 PM 5-8-2002
quote:
The Touareq seem's to be designed for the North American Market only..Volkswagen Germany doesn't speak about this model... no news available on their web site. http://www.volkswagen.de
That is because Europeans are not stupid and don't waste their money on sh1t like SUVs...
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (GTI666)
Posted by: DaveInDallas at 3:27 PM 5-10-2002
quote:
The Touareq seem's to be designed for the North American Market only..Volkswagen Germany doesn't speak about this model... no news available on their web site. http://www.volkswagen.de
Um, actually they do. Check out http://www.vwtouareg.com
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (DaveInDallas)
Posted by: RonN at 11:54 AM 5-12-2002
quote:
Microbus looks huge regardless of the name...
People always make this mistake, seeing the word "micro" and thinking tiny, but ignoring the word "bus", and then wondering why the Microbus is so large. If you took a city bus and made a mini-version, it would still be gigantic compared to a minivan. The Microbus isn't called the Microvan is it? It's the Microbus. That's why it's the size of a fullsize van (which itself is basically a mini-bus).
There
Post Title: Re: great, another suv endangering the lives of others (ASurroca)
Posted by: sharan2000 at 2:17 PM 5-12-2002
Exterior
Interior
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (Futura-GTI)
Posted by: mattvwscirocco at 12:32 PM 5-16-2002
Matt
'87 VW Scirocco 16V
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: VWBLUBAYOU at 6:53 PM 5-19-2002
VW V-10 TDI----313hp and 551lb-ft Torque???? In a SUV????
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (VWBLUBAYOU)
Posted by: ASurroca at 4:58 PM 5-20-2002
quote:
313hp and 551lb-ft Torque???? In a SUV????
The BMW X5 4.6i already has a V8 that pumps 340 hp and 350 lb-ft Tq... top end Escalade pumps out 345 hp and 385 lb-ft Tq. And the Excursion's V8 diesel pumps out 250 hp and 525 lb-ft Tq. The Touareg V10 TDI won't be too much more powerful than those...
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (ASurroca)
Posted by: chrisprocyk at 2:33 PM 5-24-2002
And for a diesel person the EXTRA 60hp (vs. Excruciation) sounds like quite a bit!!! That used to be closer to our total!
In defense of Navistar, although the VW motor is more powerful, commercial duty truck engines are engineered on the expectation of running full out most of the time- so there's a durability/power tradeoff. VW doesn't expect it's motor to be asked to run 12 straight hours @highway speed with a total vehicle weight on the order of 25K pounds. It would probably melt itself into a lump of hi-tech materials if attempted.
[Modified by chrisprocyk, 11:35 AM 5-24-2002]
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (chrisprocyk)
Posted by: ASurroca at 6:25 PM 5-26-2002
quote:
VW doesn't expect it's motor to be asked to run 12 straight hours @highway speed with a total vehicle weight on the order of 25K pounds. It would probably melt itself into a lump of hi-tech materials if attempted.
Nah, it'd probably do just fine... however, if asked to do that every day for years on end, like commercial trucks do, it would probably fizzle away to dust before you can make your first payment
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: N.E.R.D. at 10:04 AM 5-28-2002
quote:
regulators..... jeeze I have yet to own a VW that doesn't have a problem with them... We will see with the new Jetta 1.8T.That reminds me... I always use it as a Vortex joke, but I'm on my second dub and its never failed
1996 Golf GL bought new, 126,000 start up and drive every day miles and never the slightest problem, oh in all honesty, at 120,000 or so I replaced the plastic coolant hose connector on the cylinder head because it was leaking ever so slightly, but by far my best friend ever!
Now if I can only figure out how to pay for a 313hp, 550lb/ft torque Touareg beast, my short list of ultra-dependables would welcome it also!
[Modified by i81b4u, 8:07 PM 6-1-2002]
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (i81b4u)
Posted by: Eric Dow at 11:46 PM 6-8-2002
And YES! My first weekend out would be to Berago Springs down in San Diego to see how much dirt I could throw at my buddies in their Jeep Grand Chickories
Go VW! Would have prefered the AAC though in all honesty.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (Raring 2 Go)
Posted by: tjl at 1:34 AM 6-11-2002
quote:
Because we don't have low sulphur fuel in North America. Blame the oil companies not VW.True, but how does dodge and ford get away with their V10 Diesel engines? Do they get some kinda work truck exemption? (maybe a US specific questions?)
Lack of low sulfur diesel fuel makes it more difficult to meet emission limitations. However, "trucks" have more lenient emissions limitations, so it may be possible for a large "truck" to have a diesel engine running on high sulfur diesel fuel, but a more economical and less polluting car would not be allowed.
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (tjl)
Posted by: evlgreg at 9:39 PM 6-17-2002
You are a european automaker. We buy your products because of the type of vehicle you make, namely suited toward the european market.
Recently a report was released that americans buy 90% automatic transmission and 10% manual transmission vehicles while europeans purchase the exact reverse. (90 manual, 10%auto_)
Look at your numbers and tell me what your target market purchases. (not the US in general) I am willing to bet that much more than 10% of your sales is attributed to manual transmission vehicles. The reason all the sales in the US is auto is because THAT'S ALL THEY OFFER!
We want to buy sporty european cars that get good gas mileage and we can shift them ourselves. I want to buy a capable off road and heavy snow vehicle (yes I will be going off road on a regular basis) that has a MANUAL TRANSMISSION.
VW need to at least offer the option to the public that has driven manual VW cars for so long.
I'm very dissapointed. This is actually the first SUV that I was considering purchasing because it actually should be the first "Utility" vehicle. I won't buy it unless you offer the MANUAL TRANSMISSION.
On a lighter note:
For your first commercial you should attach a cable to the tow assembly of the Touraregegrege, run it to the rear tow assembly of the Cadillac SUV and have a "tug-o-war". Make sure you drag the Cadillac through about 20" of water so that is stalls and then drag it through some dirt bumps while it has no power and the VW is accelerating, if you are lucky it will roll onto it's side and continue getting dragged for a few feet.
Evlgreg
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (evlgreg)
Posted by: dianalynnxk at 10:57 PM 6-17-2002
quote:
sure you drag the Cadillac through about 20" of water so that is stalls and then drag it through some dirt bumps while it has no power and the VW is accelerating, if you are lucky it will roll onto it's side and continue getting dragged for a few feet.
AH HAHAHAHAHA
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (vwvortex1)
Posted by: trevorc at 12:44 AM 6-19-2002
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (trevorc)
Posted by: ASurroca at 4:17 PM 6-19-2002
quote:
Now, if someone could put it into PhotoShop, add some skid plates, the Dakar fittings from the SEAT Dakar TDI, some real tyres, and some lights it would be ready !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What for? Once Dakar comes around, we'll see the Toureg all decked out and in action for real I'm sure Vortex will have a cover story, if not MotorsportVortex will
Post Title: Hello VW! Dont even think about denying us a TDI V10
Posted by: teamviper at 10:03 PM 7-28-2002
Enjoy! - AUTOSTADT
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (Roger Moore)
Posted by: anothercar at 8:32 PM 12-20-2002
All those letters and formulas...wow!
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (CTVW)
Posted by: Roger Moore at 8:54 PM 12-21-2002
quote:
So I'm going by my local dealer earlier this week and thought what the heck, I'll stop in and see what they know about the Touareg (like possibly the correct pronunciation). The salesman's quote was "that isn't even real, they aren't going to build it, VW is just floating a trial balloon to judge potential customer feedback." To which I replied thank you very much, on my way out the door. Seems like VW spent a lot of money (along with Porsche) on something that doesn't exist. What was it all those press folks drove. I really hope VW does some serious dealer upgrading before the upgraded equpment arrives.
I hear ya, they need to do something! Quick!
Post Title: Re: FIRST PHOTOS: Volkswagen Touareg SUV (Roger Moore)
Posted by: anothercar at 8:28 AM 12-22-2002
, but will be available with both the new vr6, and a yet to be disclosed v(not w)8 approximately two months later. VW is producing approx 50 trucks a day as we speak, for europe with expected unit of 35,000 in the USA for 2003. Maybe the VW dealership in hicktown, west pedunk doesnt keep up with or read their dealer communications, but if you spend about, say 5 minutes and do a search on VW and touareg (if you can remember how to spell it) using a search engine (which the vw dealer cant use evidently either) you'll find a ton of info on the trucks...check out Jan car and driver while your at it....or maybe VW''s website...I cant believe I am defending the production of a car via a post...anyone want to buy a few lotus' (4) or a 308gtbi european edition? I need room in my hanger for a few new toys...I was thinking maybe a horse and buggy from the other guys vw dealership, i heard they've perfected lights that work at night! wow
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