2004 Volkswagen Touareg Review
Price Estimate: $753 - $1,222
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Upscale interior, polished road manners, amazingly adept off-road, solid construction, lengthy standard equipment list.
Cons
- Poor fuel economy, not a lot of room in the backseat, no in-dash CD changer.
What’s new
The five-passenger Touareg is an all-new midsize SUV from Volkswagen. Designed to provide both excellent handling on pavement and a high level of off-road ability, the Touareg, despite its unibody design, is a real SUV, not a soft-roader. Alongside that, buyers can look forward to beautifully furnished cabins equipped with plenty of standard convenience and safety features.
Edmunds says
A pleasant blend of the pavement-dwelling crossover and the rugged off-roader swathed in Volkswagen style.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
8 listings
- 72,491 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 13 City / 19 Hwy MPG
- Optimum Motors (220 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
- Auto Climate Control
Close
Located in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
15 Combined MPG (13 City/19 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WVGBC77L44D060561
Stock: 060561
Certified Pre-Owned: No- Photos not available
- 73,015 miles
- Frame damage reported, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 13 City / 19 Hwy MPG
- D and D Motors (298 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
- Auto Climate Control
Close
Located in Columbus, OH
Visit D and D Motors online at www.ddmotorsllc.com to see more pictures of this vehicle or call us at 614-449-2277 today to schedule your test drive.
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Issue reported
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: Yes
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
15 Combined MPG (13 City/19 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WVGBC77L24D056363
Stock: 10412
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 01-23-2026
Vehicle overview
Volkswagen attacks the 2003 luxury market in earnest with a two-pronged strategy: the Phaeton sedan in the super-luxury segment and the Touareg sport/utility in the luxury SUV marketplace.
Co-developed with Porsche to save investment costs, the Volkswagen Touareg shares the Porsche Cayenne's basic platform and structure, but little else. The name stems from the African Sahara, where it means "knights of the desert," and is used to identify a people known for their traditions and ability to adapt to difficult conditions. It is sized to be a smidge longer and a skosh wider than a BMW X5.
While Volkswagen may change the name for the vehicle's launch in the United States, the hardware will remain the same as its European counterpart. A unibody crossover SUV, the Touareg sports permanent four-wheel-drive system comprised of a transfer case, multi-plate clutch and three locking differentials. Though the hardware sounds serious, the Touareg is designed to perform as well on the road as it does off, where the majority of owners are likely to drive. Still, up to 100 percent of the engine's power can be transferred to an individual axle if the need arises.
Two engines are likely to be available when the Touareg arrives stateside. Standard will be a 230-horsepower 3.2-liter V6, while the same 300-horse 4.2-liter V8 found in the Audi A6 and A8 will be available under the truck's aluminum hood.
Underpinning the new VW SUV will be a driver-selectable, fully pneumatic, double-wishbone suspension with continuous damping control and a feature that automatically lowers the truck closer to the ground as speeds increase. Volkswagen went to great lengths to keep noise, vibration and harshness from irritating occupants. For example, the front sub-frame uses special noise insulation to help keep the cabin serene.
Inside the Touareg there is room for five adults in a luxuriously outfitted atmosphere. Front passengers get multi-adjustable seats, while those in the rear benefit from a three-zone climate control system that lets them set their own temperature. The airbag system is comprehensive, including front, side and curtain airbags for maximum protection. Active head restraints further keep front seat occupants from getting hurt.
Other notable technologies that will appear on the Touareg include ABS with hydraulic brake assist (HBA), electronic stability programming (ESP), and engine braking control (EBC).
The Touareg is set to debut at the 2002 Paris Motor Show, and should arrive in U.S. showrooms in the middle of the 2003 calendar year.
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
Owners definitively appreciate the 2004 Volkswagen Touareg for its remarkable driving dynamics and refined interior. Many describe it as both sporty and powerful, with an engine that delivers impressive acceleration and sure-footed handling in various driving conditions, including snow and rain. The Touareg's luxurious interior also stands out, providing a comfortable, high-end atmosphere that continues to impress despite the vehicle’s age. Its solid construction offers a reassuring sense of safety and durability, which is particularly valued by those accustomed to less robust SUVs. Additionally, the Touareg's towing capability garners praise, easily managing heavy loads such as horse trailers and race cars. Its off-road performance equally impresses, with owners enjoying the SUV's ability to navigate difficult terrains with ease. Even after many years and miles, the Touareg maintains its visual appeal, often turning heads and receiving compliments for its enduring design.
Common Issues
The 2004 Volkswagen Touareg is definitively plagued by reliability concerns, particularly in its electronic systems and drivetrain components. Owners frequently encounter electrical issues that manifest as persistent warning lights, such as tire pressure monitoring system failures, which resist straightforward resolution. The air suspension and electronic modules often demand costly repairs, with some owners reporting frequent shop visits and extended downtime. Mechanical troubles, too, are common; ignition coils, alternators, and the driveshaft are known to fail prematurely, leaving drivers frustrated and occasionally stranded. Routine maintenance is unusually expensive for this model, with oil changes and brake replacements costing significantly more than for other vehicles. These high operating costs are compounded by the Touareg’s notable thirst for fuel, often yielding fuel economy figures that fall short of expectations for a vehicle of its class. Despite its capabilities, the ongoing financial and time investment required has led many owners to view the Touareg as a financial burden rather than a reliable daily driver.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2004 Volkswagen Touareg definitively delivers a mixed experience for everyday drivers, balancing performance and comfort with notable reliability challenges. While the luxury feel and capable performance are undeniable, the ownership experience is frequently disrupted by costly repairs and mechanical issues. For many drivers, the joy of driving this SUV—its sportiness and refinement—clashes with the frustration of ongoing and expensive maintenance needs. Some find the Touareg rewarding, especially when tackling tough terrain or undertaking towing tasks, appreciating its robust power and smooth handling. Yet, these benefits often come with the caveat of significant time and financial commitments to keep the vehicle in top condition. Day-to-day, the interior's comfort and features continue to win hearts, although intermittent issues with electronics can dampen the overall user experience. Ultimately, owning a Touareg becomes a careful balance of enjoying its drive and managing the demands of its upkeep.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$409/mo for Touareg V6
Touareg V6
vs
$248/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Reliability
The 2004 Volkswagen Touareg has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 4 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
4 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 17V583000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 20Ai
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-02-18 to 2006-11-30
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 73941
- Defect Description:
- Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2004-2007 Touareg vehicles. These gasoline-powered vehicles have a fuel filter flange that may crack, allowing fuel to leak.
- Defect Consequence:
- A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Corrective Action:
- Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel filter flange for cracks, replacing the flange if cracks are found. If no cracks are found, a protective cover will be installed onto the filter flange. These repairs will be performed free of charge. Owners were sent interim notices informing them of the safety risk on November 17, 2017. A second notice will be sent when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20Ai.
- Recall Number:
- 04V592000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- UY
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-03-26 to 2004-09-20
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 50483
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN PASSENGER CARS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." ALL THREE REAR SEAT POSITIONS AND THE FRONT PASSENGER POSITION ARE EQUIPPED WITH SEAT BELT RETRACTORS THAT HAVE A LOCKING FEATURE WHICH CONVERTS THE RETRACTOR FROM AN EMERGENCY LOCKING RETRACTOR (ELR) MODE TO AN AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR (ALR) MODE FOR THE PURPOSES OF CHILD RESTRAINT INSTALLATION. THE BELT MAY DEACTIVATE THE ALR MODE WITH CERTAIN CHILD RESTRAINTS.
- Defect Consequence:
- WHEN INVOLVED IN A CRASH, THE CHILD RESTRAINTS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SECURED, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES OR DEATH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL PERMANENTLY INSTALL A 'CLIP' IN EACH OF THE TWO REAR OUTBOARD SEAT BELTS. THE CLIPS WILL PREVENT UNWANTED DEACTIVATION OF THE ALR MODE WITH CHILD SEAT INSTALLATIONS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 11, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VW AT 1-800-822-8987.
- Recall Number:
- 04V233000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- VN
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-04-01 to 2003-12-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 24269
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE REAR SEAT BELT LATCH ATTACHMENT BOLT MAY HAVE BEEN INSUFFICIENTLY RIVETED.
- Defect Consequence:
- IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE BELT BUCKLE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JUNE 21, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.
- Recall Number:
- 03V266000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- WS
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-04-01 to 2003-07-25
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 670
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS) WIRING HARNESS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY ROUTED DURING ASSEMBLY. AN IMPROPERLY ROUTED TPMS WIRING HARNESS MAY CONTACT THE PARKING BRAKE CABLE SPRING.
- Defect Consequence:
- IF THIS HAPPENS, THE TPMS WIRING CIRCUIT COULD BE INTERRUPTED, RESULTING IN AN INOPERATIVE TPMS, AND CAUSING A SHORT-TO-GROUND CONDITION THAT COULD POTENTIALLY RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TPMS WIRING HARNESS ROUTING AND, IF NECESSARY, CORRECT THE WIRING HARNESS ROUTING. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 18, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VWOA AT 1-800-893-5298.
Warranty
4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 12 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
Volkswagen Touareg Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(66%)
4(16%)
3(12%)
2(5%)
1(1%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Been a great car for us
4.5 out of 5 starsVW Fan, 08/22/2010
2004 Volkswagen Touareg V8 AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 8cyl 6A)
The car has the amenities of a luxury car, handles like a sports car, has the power of a muscle car, all with great off road capabilities. 100K+ miles and has never left us stranded. The body style doesn't show its age and still turns heads on the road. We live in the country and it has survived the gravel roads as an everyday driver for my wife. Its great for travel (other than the … mileage) and gives a sense of safety and security no matter the driving conditions.
Where are you guys shopping at?!
5 out of 5 starsDiana, 01/30/2016
2004 Volkswagen Touareg V6 AWD 4dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 6A)
I bought this car used at 100,000 had it for over 2 years. I've had absolutely no issues. I've had my breaks changed and tires and it didn't break the bank. Word to the wise make friends with someone who is familiar with these cars. My mechanic changes my breaks for under $100 [i purchased the brakes] my tires are 20" run me $123 a piece cash! Shop around and you won't spend so much the … dealer over charges EVERYONE KNOWS THAT!!'
Love my Tourareg
5 out of 5 starsKaren, 01/23/2016
2004 Volkswagen Touareg V8 AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 8cyl 6A)
I really love this car and have been driving it for the past six years. I am really sad that the new SUVs do not come with the V-8. Sad sad sad!
What was I thinking!
3.13 out of 5 starsJ Walker, 09/22/2009
2004 Volkswagen Touareg V6 AWD 4dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 6A)
Problems: $1800 to replace wires in electrical system (quoted$6000); $175 to replace power mirror knob; $875 for driveshaft; $700 to fix AC and rear latch release; $50 per coil wire, bought at least 8, not to mention plugs--currently been told airbag inflator needs replaced ($580) and catalytic converter ($1000). My father is a car dealer, so I bought this from the VW lease line at … the auction w/39,000 miles. Had to replace the coil wires and plugs within 1 month. I've been able to save money on some parts and labor with one of my dad's mechanics. Only take to VW when I have to. Always some light on-tire; airbag; brake sensor (need to replace the sensors). Be prepared to spend $$$
2004 Touareg Features & Specs
SUV
V6
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $35,900 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 15 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $409/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 31 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Touareg include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRolloverNot RatedDynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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