CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 300
Average Price: Around £27,500

Volkswagen Touareg (2018-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Luxurious to travel in	Lacks the brand appeal of a BMW or Audi SUV
Good to drive	Uses a lot of fuel
Makes for a fine tow car	No seven-seat option

Quick Summary

The Volkswagen Touareg (2018-present) is a spacious and luxurious large SUV that combines practicality with refined driving dynamics. The third-generation model, updated with a mild facelift in late-2023, offers generous interior space with reclining and sliding rear seats, and a cavernous 810-litre boot (655 litres in plug-in hybrid versions). Available with petrol, diesel, or plug-in hybrid powertrains, the Touareg delivers effortless performance and impressive nimbleness for its size, though it prioritises comfort over exhilaration. The range spans from the entry-level diesel to the flagship plug-in hybrid Touareg R with 456bhp and around 30 miles of EV range.

Whilst not quite as polished as premium rivals like the Audi Q7 or BMW X5, the Touareg represents excellent value as a used purchase. Running costs are moderate, with the lower-powered diesel achieving 34.4mpg, though larger engines and the plug-in hybrid are less frugal. The car features variable service intervals and comprehensive technology across all trims, including LED headlights, touchscreen infotainment, and adaptive cruise control. As a new car, its high price makes it difficult to recommend over premium competitors, but on the used market it becomes a compelling proposition for those seeking a practical, well-appointed family SUV.

Best for: Buyers seeking a spacious, luxurious large SUV with excellent practicality, those requiring a capable tow car, and used-car shoppers wanting premium features at a more accessible price point.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising premium brand appeal, buyers needing seven seats, or drivers concerned about fuel economy and running costs.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Touareg if: You're seeking a spacious, luxurious large SUV with excellent practicality, require a capable tow car, or want premium features at a more accessible price point as a used purchase.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise premium brand appeal, need seven seats, or are concerned about fuel economy and running costs.

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Touareg (2018-present) is a strong contender in the large SUV segment, offering genuine luxury, practicality, and refined driving dynamics at a more accessible price than premium rivals. Whilst the Audi Q7 edges ahead on brand prestige and the Volvo XC90 offers Swedish elegance, the Touareg delivers excellent value, particularly on the used market. It lacks the seven-seat versatility of the XC90 and doesn't quite match the premium feel of the Q7 or Mercedes-Benz GLE, but for buyers prioritising space, comfort, and practicality without the premium price tag, it remains a compelling choice.

Read our full Volkswagen Touareg Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from May 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.

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