2013 Volkswagen Touareg Review
Price Range: $7,900 - $9,995
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- High-class interior
- powerful and fuel-efficient engines
- high towing capacity.
Cons
- No third-row seat
- upper trims get costly.
What’s new
For 2013, the Volkswagen Touareg gets new wheel and trim options, while the diesel engine's output increases to 240 horsepower. The hybrid model gets LED taillights.
Edmunds says
The 2013 Volkswagen Touareg delivers a surprising level of luxury and makes a formidable competitor to established high-end marques.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
56 listings
- $9,995fair price$524 below market
- 134,182 miles
- 5 Seats, 20 City / 29 Hwy MPG
- 20 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in Manassas, VA
Important Information.Condition: Vehicle is sold AS-IS. For added peace of mind, extended warranty options are available through third-party providers...
- Vehicle History:
- 1 accident, 4 owners, personal use only
- Features and Specs:
- 23 Combined MPG (20 City/29 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- WVGEP9BP9DD005210
- Stock:
- 005210
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 07-25-2025
- $7,900great price$2,254 below market
- 148,285 miles
- 5 Seats, 20 City / 29 Hwy MPG
- 24 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in Arlington, VA
- Vehicle History:
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use only
- Features and Specs:
- 23 Combined MPG (20 City/29 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- WVGEP9BP6DD001065
- Stock:
- 7051
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
Vehicle overview
Volkswagen doesn't usually enter into the typical consumer's discussion of luxury brands. Aside from the short-lived Phaeton executive sedan, VW remains a staunchly working-class badge. Nevertheless, the 2013 Volkswagen Touareg challenges such perceptions with a combination of power, performance and interior comfort that rivals BMW and Lexus. Take any seat in the Touareg and you are bound to ask: "This is a Volkswagen?"
The Touareg crossover SUV offers buyers a trio of engine choices, including a capable V6, a burly and economical V6 diesel and a supercharged V6 hybrid that delivers V8 power with V6 fuel economy. And as befits a model that shares its basic platform with the Porsche Cayenne, the Touareg feels solid and confident on the road.
High-quality materials, rich wood and metallic accents, and contemporary electronics and entertainment interfaces fill out the Touareg cabin, and the sliding and reclining second-row seat is pretty useful. But there's no third-row seat as in some other similarly sized crossovers, while the Touareg's cargo capacity is middling at best.
If interior room is a priority for you, both the 2013 Acura MDX and new Infiniti JX probably would be better choices. Meanwhile, the 2013 BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class display more premium badges, also offer diesel engines and are slightly more sophisticated overall. On the hybrid front, the 2013 Lexus RX 450h is a notable bargain when you compare it to the Touareg Hybrid. Fortunately for anyone shopping this segment, there's not a loser in the bunch, and the Touareg holds its ground among an impressive group of rivals thanks to its strong performance, plentiful standard features and upscale design.
Performance & mpg
The 2013 Volkswagen Touareg comes with a 3.6-liter V6 that generates 280 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. TDI models come with a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 good for 240 hp and a prodigious 406 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard across the lineup.
The Touareg Hybrid is motivated by a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor. The combination generates an impressive 380 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque, enough to catapult this Touareg from a standstill to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds, according to Edmunds testing. The eight-speed auto and all-wheel drive also are standard.
EPA fuel economy estimates show the gasoline V6 is capable of 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined, while the TDI is rated at an impressive 20/29/23 mpg. The Hybrid -- tuned more for performance than maximum economy -- rates only slightly lower than the TDI at 20/24/21.
Properly equipped, the Touareg can tow 7,700 pounds, which is more than most competitors.
Safety
Every 2013 Volkswagen Touareg comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, hill-hold assist, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.
In Edmunds brake testing, the Touareg Hybrid stopped from 60 mph in an admirable 121 feet. In crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Touareg earned a top score of "Good" in frontal-offset, side-impact and roof strength tests.
Driving
The 2013 Volkswagen Touareg lacks a low-range transmission for off-road excursions, yet still provides a fair amount of trail prowess thanks to minimal front and rear overhangs, decent ground clearance and a compliant suspension. But most Touaregs will not see rigorous dirt duty, and in the urban wilds most drivers will appreciate the sharp steering response that makes the Touareg feel like a smaller vehicle.
The regular V6 engine is refined and suitably powerful, but we think the diesel V6 is worth the extra cash, considering its superior torque and fuel economy. The Hybrid is impressively quick and impressively fuel-thrifty, but given its substantial price premium, we'd certainly hope so. The diesel just makes more sense if mpg is your priority.
Regardless of engine choice, the eight-speed automatic transmission shifts with an almost imperceptible ease, and the Touareg feels confident and quiet at highway speed. Even over rough road or varied highway surfaces, the Touareg doesn't break stride, offering a solid, composed feel over bumps.
Interior
Few consider Volkswagen a luxury automaker, but the Touareg's interior transcends its humble badge and holds its own against pricier crossover SUVs. The Touareg cabin isn't as tech-forward as an Acura MDX or as refined as a BMW X5, but it is still an enveloping place to sit, surrounded by soft-touch surfaces and cushy seats.
The Touareg does not offer a third-row seat as some other midsize SUVs do, limiting occupant capacity to five. The Touareg exploits the configuration, however, with a 60/40-split rear seat that can slide 6.3 inches fore and aft and features reclining seatbacks. Second-row legroom matches up to the rest of the class at about 37 inches. Cargo capacity is 32 cubic feet with the rear seats up, and 64 cubic feet when stowed.
Finally, the navigation system uses crisp graphics and an intuitive touchscreen interface, while higher trim levels feature the very nice 10-speaker Dynaudio stereo system.
2013 Volkswagen Touareg models
The 2013 Volkswagen Touareg is a five-passenger midsize crossover SUV available in Sport, Lux, Executive and Hybrid trim levels. All but the Hybrid offer either a gasoline (VR6) or turbodiesel (TDI) V6 engine.
The Sport comes with 18-inch wheels, bi-xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, foglights, roof rails, heated washer nozzles, a power liftgate, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power/heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker sound system with touchscreen control, a six-CD changer, satellite radio and iPod connection. Adding the optional navigation system also includes an 8-inch color touchscreen and a rearview camera.
The Lux bundles the Sport equipment with the navigation package and adds 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, heated mirrors, leather upholstery, 12-way power front seats (with power lumbar support for the driver), driver memory presets and power rear-seat releases in the trunk. Moving up to the Executive adds 20-inch wheels, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, different wood trim, keyless ignition/entry and a premium Dynaudio sound system.
The Hybrid takes the Executive level trim, substitutes 19-inch wheels and adds LED taillights, rear parking sensors, a power-adjustable steering column, passenger seat memory presets, power lumbar seat support and metal door-sill plates.
Options are few and include a roof spoiler, a trailer hitch, mud guards and a rubber or carpeted mat kit.

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Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
The 2013 Volkswagen Touareg impresses owners with its blend of luxury and practicality. Owners frequently highlight the comfort and spaciousness of the interior, with particular praise for the seats that provide long-lasting comfort even on extended road trips. Additionally, the SUV's build quality stands out, offering a solid and secure driving experience that rivals more expensive luxury brands. The vehicle's ride comfort and quietness, even at high speeds, further enhance its appeal, making it a favored choice for long-distance travel. Another standout feature is its capable all-wheel-drive system, which many users find reassuring and effective in various weather conditions. Owners also commend the Touareg's powerful performance, especially appreciating the torque and efficiency of the TDI model.
Common Issues
The 2013 Volkswagen Touareg is often critiqued by owners for its high maintenance costs. Several drivers report specific issues with the vehicle's components, such as the expensive battery replacement process which involves removing the driver's seat. Steering-related problems, like oscillations and vibrations at certain speeds, have frustrated some owners, with multiple service visits failing to resolve the issue entirely. The multimedia system also draws criticism, particularly for its unintuitive interface and limitations in organizing music files, which detracts from the overall in-car entertainment experience. Moreover, persistent electronic glitches, such as erratic seat memory functions, add to the inconvenience for some users. Finally, while the SUV's towing and driving capabilities are praised, the cost of routine maintenance compels some owners to reconsider their investment in this otherwise capable vehicle.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2013 Volkswagen Touareg garners day-to-day satisfaction from many drivers, who appreciate its combination of comfort and capability. Despite concerns about maintenance costs, the SUV's reliable performance and luxurious feel keep it in high regard among owners. Drivers frequently mention the smooth ride quality and substantial road presence, which contribute to a confident and enjoyable driving experience. There is a sense of pride in owning an SUV that offers both the rugged capability for off-road adventures and the refined elegance expected of a luxury vehicle. Those who prioritize a powerful drivetrain are particularly enamored with the TDI variant, praised for its impressive torque and fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the Touareg stands out as a solid choice for those seeking a vehicle that can seamlessly transition from daily driving to long trips and diverse driving environments.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$319/mo for Touareg VR6 Sport
Touareg VR6 Sport
vs
$236/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Reliability
The 2013 Volkswagen Touareg has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 3 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, ranks it #24 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Reliability Rating by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#24 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$587/yr
vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Frequency
1.36x/yr
vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Severity
13.3%
vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
3 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:
- 18V329000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 01C5/01C6
- Manufactured from:
- 2011-02-16 to 2015-04-02
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 252
- Defect Description:
- Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015 e-Golf, 2011-2015 Touareg, 2012-2015 Tiguan, and 2011-2016 Golf and 2011-2013 GTI vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.
- Defect Consequence:
- If the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.
- Corrective Action:
- Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles to make them fully compliant or Volkswagen will repurchase them if necessary, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed July 13, 2018. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
- Recall Number:
- 16V170000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 46G4
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 46574
- Defect Description:
- Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Touareg vehicles. The brake pedal pivot pin may be missing a securing clip, allowing the pivot pin to move and the brake pedal to dislodge.
- Defect Consequence:
- If the brake pedal dislodges, the driver may not be able to apply the brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake pedal assembly to verify the presence of the securing clip and install any missing securing clips, free of charge. The recall began on April 27, 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 46G4.
- Recall Number:
- 16V035000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 53B8
- Manufactured from:
- 2010-03-20 to 2015-04-11
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 825
- Defect Description:
- Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2011-2015 Touareg Hybrid vehicles manufactured March 20, 2010, to April 11, 2015. The hybrid battery tray may not drain water sufficiently. If water collects in the hybrid battery tray, it may cause an electrical short in the high voltage battery.
- Defect Consequence:
- An electrical short in the high voltage battery increases the risk of a fire.
- Corrective Action:
- Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a fitted drain valve to allow water to drain properly, free of charge. The recall began late February 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this 53B8.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 10 years / 100,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 12 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Free maintenance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
Volkswagen Touareg Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(76%)
4(13%)
3(11%)
2(0%)
1(0%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
I like it better than my ML350 and Q5
4.88 out of 5 starstvevans1, 09/24/2012
2013 Volkswagen Touareg TDI Lux 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A)
I have about 2000 miles on the vehicle and I am very pleased to date.
I hope writing this review doesn't change things!
I have owned numerous Audi's (A6 and Q5) and still have two Mercedes (M Class and E Class) but this is my favorite vehicle so far.
Probably because it's my first diesel and I am averaging over 30mph with 70% non-highway and 30% highway driving.
The power is awesome and … the engine is very smooth.
It is unbelievably quiet inside, no road or wind noise.
It drives more like a SUV than a crossover but still has a car feel.
Steering is very tight, turning radius excellent, handling outstanding.
The brakes are good but have a little spongy feel.
Not sure on reliability.
2013 Touareg TDI
4.88 out of 5 starscambino123, 10/09/2012
2013 Volkswagen Touareg TDI Executive 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A)
I purchased the Treg TDI 2 weeks ago.
I was looking for a high performance machine (240HP 406lb torque) that returns high MPG. I just returned from a 400 Mile road trip and still have more than half a tank to empty. The engine makes a brilliant rumble and the turbo sounds so nice at low speeds. I have the saddle brown leather which is like a baseball glove. The dashboard wood grain is so … luxurious and classy, it makes my previous Lexus GS seem like a toy. This car is very well built and the construction is solid. It stands out on the road in a sea of RX350's. This is truly a dreamy SUV. Looking forward to reviewing it again 1 year from now.
Best SUV Diesel in North America that provides excellent gas mileage.
5 out of 5 starsflatbudget, 02/01/2013
2013 Volkswagen Touareg TDI Lux 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A)
Purchased my 2013 TDI LUX a week ago. Been very pleased with the truck. Traded both my 2005 F250 Powerstroke truck and my VW JSW TDI. The torque is phenomenal and it tows my 2005 Custom Laser Boat with 496 HO mercruiser stern drive. ~5000 lbs. boat and trailer combined. I love every feature this SUV offers. Towing my boat on Sport mode keeps the RPM in its maximum torque values. Again, … another german engineering at its best. The mileage per gallon either towing or around town beats any gas engines out there. Reliability and longevity of a diesel is absolutely uncontested.
VW should be selling more of these ...
5 out of 5 starsearly74b, 12/14/2012
2013 Volkswagen Touareg VR6 Sport 4dr SUV AWD w/Navigation (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
Getting this Touareg was a big step up from the '09 VW Routan SEL that I traded in for it as I no longer needed the 3rd row but wanted something a bit more luxurious, etc. and this SUV fits the bill! Very solid build quality, exceptional navi/voice controls, upscale digital info screens (both between the front gauges and main screen) and VW's leatherette 'feels' and acts just like real … leather although perforated to be cool during summer. Tons of room in rear seats (slide back 6" for more leg room) and ride, power, smooth 8-speed trans all excellent. Executive class cruiser! Test drive other mid-size SUV's and then drive one of these and you'll see the difference --
2013 Touareg Features & Specs
SUV
VR6 Sport
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $43,945 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $319/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 32.1 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Touareg include:
- Back-up camera
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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