Volkswagen Touran (03-10) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 18 November 2009
Volkswagen's Touran is a seven-seat people carrier that's been on sale in the UK since 2003. It’s more traditionally styled than other people carriers, but its boxier shape means plenty of room for passengers in the back. It comes with seven-seats as standard but buyers can specify a five-seat version at no extra cost. Safe, spacious and comfortable the Touran is a good all-rounder, although it's far from exciting to drive. A facelift in 2007 brought a new look to the front (the headlights and chrome grille are new), smarter materials inside and a nifty optional extra that gives the car the ability to park itself. There's also an eco-friendly Bluemotion model available which averages an impressive 52mpg.
4.5 out of 5

Safety

The Touran was originally awarded a four-star Euro NCAP crash test safety rating, but this later increased to a five-star rating following the standard fitment of seatbelt reminders and better side impact protection. Dual front and side airbags and ABS (with electronic brakeforce distribution) are standard and relaunched models from late 2006 also have front head airbags and electronic stability programme as standard. Security-wise, remote central locking and deadlocks are standard and there are plenty of hidden on-board boxes for hiding valuables.

NCAP Test

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    5 out of 5
  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    3 out of 5
4.5 out of 5

Reliability

Owners have reported a few small niggles and some minor electrical problems with the Touran but the majority of drivers submitting reviews to parkers.co.uk are happy with the car. The cabin is superbly screwed together, with no rattles or unexplained noises.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

Recalls to fix the bolts on a fuel pump and to rectify the fly wheel. Check that all electronics are working.