Volkswagen Touareg (03-09) - Review

The Touareg has a roomy interior that feels well insulated from the outside world. Engine noise is muted, and from 2007 there is a new design of door mirror to improve aerodynamics and reduce wind noise. All models come with air conditioning and electric windows, as well as adjustable vents in the rear.

The rear seats have a 60/40 split, but can't slide or be removed, which hampers family practicality. Cubbies include a large air-conditioned glovebox, cupholders and various storage bins. Extra storage is available in the spare wheel compartment, if you choose to have the spare mounted on the tailgate (this is a cost option). The boot offers a total of 555 litres of storage space and up to 1,570 litres (up to roof height) with the rear seats folded down.

The interior has a real premium car feel, having more in common with the Volkswagen Phaeton luxury saloon than the smaller cars in the range. Both front seats adjust for height, even on the cheapest models. New features available from 2007 include Front Scan - a form of adaptive cruise control which can slow the vehicle to a complete halt. Side Scan is also new for 2007 which warns the driver if another vehicle is in his or her blindspot, working as a lane-changing aid. The quality is exceptional and the large buttons and switches add to the rugged off-road feel. The layout isn't especially modern, but the controls are all easy to work.