BMW X7 vs. Volkswagen Touareg: Complete comparison 2026

BMW X7 represents the pinnacle of luxury and spaciousness in the SUV segment, as envisioned by the Munich-based automaker, and offers uncompromising comfort combined with powerful engines. Against it stands the Volkswagen Touareg, a premium and technologically advanced model that is the flagship of the Wolfsburg brand and focuses on versatility and elegant design. This comparison will show which of these two German interpretations of a large SUV offers a better combination of features and value for demanding customers.

At first glance, it is clear that the BMW X7 and the Volkswagen Touareg are in slightly different size leagues. The BMW X7 is a full-size seven-seater SUV, which is clearly reflected in its monumental dimensions. It is designed to offer maximum space and comfort, and its presence on the road is unmissable. The Volkswagen Touareg, although also a large and premium SUV, has a more compact footprint and is a five-seater as standard, making it a more agile companion in city traffic.

The biggest difference is noticeable in length. At 5151 mm, the BMW X7 outgrows its competitor by a full 273 mm. This difference is key to the existence of the third row of seats and the generous legroom in the second row. The wheelbase is also longer, by a significant 201 mm, which translates into excellent driving stability on the motorway. In contrast, the Touareg, with its 4878 mm length and shorter wheelbase, is much easier to park and feels more nimble in narrow streets.

The BMW X7 also dominates in height (by 88 mm) and width (by 16 mm). The taller body structure gives the crew a better view of what is happening around the car and a feeling of safety, but at the same time it makes getting in slightly more difficult and raises the centre of gravity. The Touareg is lower and has a sportier, more dynamic feel. The minimal difference in width means that both cars require the driver's attention in narrow lanes and older car parks, but the Touareg has a slight advantage here too. The choice thus depends on priorities: the maximum space and dominance of the X7, or the more balanced and practical dimensions of the Touareg.

Key Dimensions Comparison

The boot volume is a key parameter for large SUVs that often influences the purchase decision, and it is here that the BMW X7 and Volkswagen Touareg differ fundamentally. The difference stems from the different concepts of the two cars – while the Touareg is a classic five-seater SUV, the X7 offers three rows of seats as standard and can accommodate up to seven passengers. This has a dramatic impact on the basic usability of the luggage compartment.

The third-generation Volkswagen Touareg (from 2018) boasts one of the largest boots in its class. In its five-seater configuration, it offers a generous 810 litres. This space is easy to use, has a regular shape and can easily accommodate luggage for the whole family on a long holiday, sports equipment or a large shopping trip. In contrast, the BMW X7 (G07 generation) is much more variable in this respect. If you use all seven seats, the luggage space shrinks to a modest 326 litres. This is barely enough for a few smaller bags. However, as soon as you electrically fold down the third row of seats and turn the X7 into a five-seater, you get a very decent volume of 750 litres, which is almost comparable to the Touareg.

The biggest difference becomes apparent when maximum cargo space is needed. After folding down both the second and third rows of seats, the BMW X7 transforms into a small van with a cavernous 2120 litres of space. In this respect, it clearly dominates and shows the advantage of its overall size. The Touareg, after folding down the rear seats, still offers an excellent 1800 litres, which is more than sufficient for most situations, but it is not enough to match its Bavarian rival. It is also important to mention that the plug-in hybrid versions of the Touareg (eHybrid and R) have a slightly smaller boot due to the battery – the basic volume is 665 litres and the maximum is 1675 litres.

The choice between these two cars from the point of view of the boot is therefore about priorities. If you regularly carry more than five people, the X7 is the only choice, but you have to accept the compromise of a small boot when fully occupied. If five seats are enough for you, the Touareg will offer a slightly larger and more practical boot in its basic configuration. For those who occasionally need to transport a really bulky load, however, the clear winner is the BMW X7.

For many buyers in the large SUV segment, the ability to tow a heavy trailer is a key factor. Whether it's a caravan for a family holiday, a horsebox or a boat, towing capacity is often decisive. In this respect, the battle between the BMW X7 and the Volkswagen Touareg brings a surprisingly clear result – a dead heat.

Both cars, across all relevant engine versions of the G07 generation for BMW and the third generation for Volkswagen, offer the same maximum braked trailer weight of a respectable 3500 kg. This value represents the practical maximum for passenger cars and ensures that neither model will let you down when performing demanding transport tasks. Whether you choose a diesel, petrol or, in the case of the Touareg, even a plug-in hybrid powertrain, the towing capacity remains unchanged.

The same is true for unbraked trailers, where both models can handle the standard 750 kg. This is great news for those interested in a used car – they don't have to limit their choice of engine for fear of lower practicality. In this discipline, therefore, neither car scores a point, and the choice will be based on completely different preferences.

The engine lineup is one of the biggest differences between the BMW X7 and the Volkswagen Touareg. While BMW relies on its tradition of refined inline-six and powerful V8 engines, Volkswagen focuses on robust V6 engines and is one of the few in the segment to also offer powerful plug-in hybrid variants. For the used car buyer, it is crucial that both models have previously offered unique and now-discontinued diesel engines with extreme torque, which represent a tempting but specific choice.

BMW X7: The Kingdom of Inline Engines

The engine range for the BMW X7 (pre-facelift G07 generation, produced until mid-2022) is built on three-litre inline-six engines, which are typical for the brand with their velvety refinement and willingness to rev. The base is the petrol xDrive40i and the diesel xDrive40d (which replaced the previously available xDrive30d). Both engines provide more than enough power for the large SUV and are paired as standard with xDrive all-wheel drive and an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. For those looking for maximum performance, there is the M50i version with a turbocharged 4.4-litre V8. A speciality on the used car market is the M50d version, available only until 2020 – its inline-six diesel engine, boosted by four turbochargers, was a technical marvel and offered crushing torque.

Volkswagen Touareg: The Power of the V6 and a Plug-in Hybrid Future

The third-generation Volkswagen Touareg relies primarily on proven three-litre V6 engines. The most common is the 3.0 V6 TDI diesel engine, which was available in two power variants (170 kW and 210 kW) and is an ideal choice for drivers with high annual mileage due to its combination of power and reasonable fuel consumption. The petrol alternative is the 3.0 V6 TFSI. Like the X7, the Touareg also had a unique top-of-the-line diesel in its lineup – the monstrous 4.0 V8 TDI, which was sold only briefly until 2020 and its 900 Nm of torque makes it a legend. What the X7 from this period does not offer, however, are plug-in hybrids. The Touareg has two versions: the more economical eHybrid and the sporty Touareg R, which combine a petrol V6 with an electric motor and allow for purely electric driving.

Verdict for Different Types of Drivers

• For lovers of performance and refinement: The BMW X7 with the inline-six xDrive40i or the V8 M50i is the clear choice. It offers a smoother engine operation and a sportier character.
• For high-mileage drivers: The Volkswagen Touareg with the 3.0 V6 TDI (210 kW) engine provides an excellent combination of torque and efficiency on long journeys. An alternative is the BMW xDrive40d.
• For technology enthusiasts and city driving: The Touareg with the eHybrid or R plug-in hybrid powertrain is unbeatable. The ability to drive on electricity reduces local emissions and running costs.
• For collectors of unique vehicles: Both the BMW X7 M50d and the Volkswagen Touareg 4.0 V8 TDI are fascinating machines that are no longer in production. They represent the pinnacle of diesel engineering, and their value as used cars will likely depreciate more slowly.

The right choice of engine is key to long-term satisfaction. This is doubly true for such large and heavy SUVs, as the engine must effortlessly handle the high weight while keeping running costs within reasonable limits. Our recommendations are based on a combination of performance, real-world fuel consumption, owner feedback, and mechanical reliability. BMW traditionally relies on its excellent inline-six engines, which offer a sporty character and velvety smooth operation, while Volkswagen bets on the proven and robust technology of its V6 TDI engines, known for their massive torque.

For the BMW X7, we recommend: xDrive40d (340 hp)

The inline-six diesel engine with mild-hybrid technology is an almost ideal choice for the BMW X7 G07 (produced from 2020). It offers a massive 700 Nm of torque, available at low revs, which allows the 2.5-tonne colossus to accelerate with absolute ease and without any noticeable effort. In addition, the mild-hybrid system contributes to smoother starts and reduces fuel consumption.

• Why it's the best choice: This engine represents the perfect balance between stunning performance, refinement, and acceptable running costs. In real-world driving, fuel consumption on long-distance journeys is around 8-9 l/100 km, which is an excellent figure for such a large and powerful SUV. The inline-six configuration is typical for BMW and guarantees exceptionally smooth and balanced operation.
• Known risks: As with any modern diesel, the diesel particulate filter (DPF) is sensitive to frequent short city trips, which can lead to it clogging. The B57 engine is generally reliable, but problems with the EGR valve cooler or oil leaks can occasionally occur. It is important to check the service history and ensure that the car has received regular maintenance.
• Who it's ideal for: For drivers who often travel long distances, require confident performance for motorway driving, or need to tow heavy trailers. It's an engine that provides a feeling of endless power without the need for frequent visits to the petrol station, unlike powerful petrol variants.

For the Volkswagen Touareg, we recommend: 3.0 V6 TDI (286 hp)

The six-cylinder turbodiesel is the most common and proven choice for the third-generation Touareg (from 2018). The version with 210 kW (286 hp) and 600 Nm of torque is the golden mean, providing more than enough performance for daily use and longer journeys. This engine is known for its robustness and reliability across the entire VW Group.

• Why it's the best choice: This is a proven and powerful unit that perfectly suits the character of the Touareg. It offers refined operation, strong pull from low revs, and surprisingly favourable fuel consumption, which can easily be kept under 9 l/100 km in combined operation. In combination with the eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, it forms a very harmonious package.
• Known risks: With 3.0 TDI engines, it is important to ensure regular and timely oil changes. At higher mileage, problems with the timing chain tensioner or oil leaks, typically in the area between the cylinders, may occur. The AdBlue injection system (SCR) can sometimes be sensitive, so it's a good idea to check that the vehicle is not showing any related error messages.
• Who it's ideal for: It is a versatile engine for drivers looking for a reliable partner for family travel, daily commuting, and towing heavy loads. For lovers of extraordinary performance, the briefly offered 4.0 V8 TDI engine (2019-2020) is also worth mentioning, which is now a rare but all the more tempting used car with a crushing 900 Nm of torque.

Official fuel consumption figures are one thing, but the reality of everyday driving often shows different numbers. This is doubly true for such large and heavy SUVs. To get the most accurate picture, we looked at data from drivers themselves, for example, from the German portal Spritmonitor.de, which collects real experiences from thousands of owners. And it is these figures that reveal how both cars perform in normal use.

On paper, the differences may seem small, but in practice, consumption depends on the specific engine and driving style. In the table below, we present the average real-world consumption for the most common engines of both models from years that are relevant to the used car market.

*The consumption of a plug-in hybrid is highly dependent on regular charging. The value shown applies to the first 100 km with a charged battery.

Several trends are clear from the data. In a direct comparison of the six-cylinder diesels, which are the most common choice for both models, there is almost a consensus. BMW's modern inline-six in the 40d is, on average, a few tenths of a litre more economical than Volkswagen's V6 TDI, but in real-world operation, this difference is negligible. For long-distance travellers, both variants are an excellent choice that can keep consumption below the 10 l/100 km mark.

A similar pattern emerges with the petrol six-cylinders – both power units require an average of 11 litres. The powerful V8 versions are logically the thirstiest. However, the comparison between the petrol BMW M50i and the diesel Touareg V8 TDI is interesting here. Although they offer stunning performance, the V8 diesel in the Volkswagen is 2 to 3 litres per 100 km more economical in the real world.

The key difference comes from Volkswagen with its plug-in hybrid version, the Touareg R. For drivers who have the opportunity to charge regularly and whose daily mileage does not exceed 40-50 km, this is by far the most economical option. In this mode, you can drive with minimal petrol consumption. Conversely, if the battery runs out, consumption will approach that of the petrol six-cylinder. Therefore, consumption is not the main deciding factor unless you are considering the plug-in hybrid, which only the Touareg offers. In both diesel and petrol versions, the two cars are very similar, and the differences in fuel costs will be minimal.

When looking at the used car market, there is a clear price difference between the BMW X7 and the Volkswagen Touareg. Although both models offer a premium experience, their market positioning and purchase prices differ, which logically translates into the value of cars that are approximately four years old.

Volkswagen Touareg: A More Affordable Entry into the Premium Class

The third-generation Volkswagen Touareg (produced since 2018) represents the more affordable choice in this duel. For 2022 models, prices on the Czech used car market most often range from €54,000 to €60,000. The price, of course, depends on the specific engine, equipment level, and mileage, which for these vehicles is usually between 50,000 and 80,000 km. The Touareg thus offers technology related to the Audi Q7 or Porsche Cayenne at a significantly lower price, making it an attractive choice for drivers looking for maximum value.

BMW X7: The Price Tag Matches Absolute Luxury

The BMW X7 (G07) trades for significantly higher amounts on the used car market. For comparably old models from 2022, you should expect a price that usually ranges between €66,000 and €74,000, and it can be even higher for better-equipped or more powerful versions. The price difference compared to the Touareg thus amounts to several thousand euros. This difference is due not only to the more prestigious brand but also to the standard third row of seats, more luxurious interior materials, and often more advanced technology on board.

Summary

While the Volkswagen Touareg is a smart choice for those who want a premium SUV with excellent technology for a more reasonable price, the BMW X7 justifies its price with a higher level of luxury, space, and prestige. The decision, therefore, depends on the buyer's priorities and budget – whether they prefer the more rational choice in the form of the Touareg or indulge in the more opulent and spacious X7.

When choosing a large family SUV, safety is an absolute priority. Although it might seem that both premium vehicles would offer top-notch protection, their paths diverge in the stringent Euro NCAP tests. It is important to realise that the methodology of these tests is constantly becoming stricter, and therefore the year of testing is a key factor for comparison. Newer tests place greater emphasis on active assistance systems and the protection of vulnerable road users.

BMW X7

It may come as a surprise to many that BMW's flagship model, the X7, has never undergone crash tests by the Euro NCAP organisation. However, this does not automatically mean it is an unsafe vehicle. The reason is more to do with pricing policy and lower sales volumes compared to more mass-market models. Euro NCAP focuses primarily on the best-selling cars on the European market. Although we do not have an official rating, the X7 is equipped with an extensive set of standard passive and active safety features, as befits a vehicle in this category. The body's rigidity and technology are largely shared with the X5 model, which received five stars in 2018.

Volkswagen Touareg

The Volkswagen Touareg was tested by Euro NCAP in 2018 and received a full five-star rating. This result attests to a high level of safety across all monitored categories. It achieved an excellent 89% for adult occupant protection and 86% for child occupant protection. A score of 72% for the protection of vulnerable road users (pedestrians and cyclists) and 81% for assistance systems demonstrate that the Touareg was already equipped with modern safety technologies at the time of its launch.

Verdict and comparison table

Although the BMW X7 undoubtedly has a robust construction and modern technologies, the absence of an official rating from Euro NCAP is a significant drawback for some buyers. In contrast, the Volkswagen Touareg has its qualities confirmed by its five-star rating from 2018. Although several years have passed since the test and the methodology has become stricter again, its results still represent a very high standard of safety. For the customer for whom transparent and independently verified safety is key, the Touareg is the more certain choice.

In addition to the standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that may be decisive for the customer. While BMW focuses on luxurious details and maximum comfort for seven passengers, Volkswagen concentrates on technological innovations and practicality for five.

BMW X7: A luxury lounge on wheels

The BMW X7 prides itself on a feeling of exclusivity and offers features that move it closer to luxury limousines than to ordinary SUVs.

• Sky Lounge panoramic roof: One of the most attractive features is the glass roof, which can create an impressive atmosphere at night thanks to thousands of light points imitating a starry sky. This adds a unique visual dimension to the interior.
• CraftedClarity glass elements: The gear selector, iDrive controller, and start/stop button can be made of hand-cut crystal glass. While it is just a design detail, it significantly enhances the feeling of luxury in the cabin.
• Full-fledged third row of seats: Unlike many competitors, the X7 offers comfortable seating even in the third row, even for adult passengers on longer journeys. The seats are fully electrically operated, which makes handling them easier.
• Two-piece tailgate: The lower part of the boot lid opens separately and can support up to 150 kg, making it a practical bench for changing shoes or having a small picnic. It also makes loading smaller items easier.
• Air suspension as standard: Every BMW X7 is equipped with adaptive air suspension on both axles as standard. This not only ensures an exceptionally comfortable ride but also allows the vehicle's ride height to be changed – for example, lowering it for easier loading of luggage or raising it for off-road driving.

Volkswagen Touareg: A digital fortress

The third-generation Touareg presents itself as the brand's technological leader, bringing features to the segment that were previously reserved for premium brands only.

• Innovision Cockpit: The interior is dominated by the combination of a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a huge 15-inch infotainment screen. This unit creates the impression of a single curved display that minimises the number of physical buttons and concentrates all controls in a digital environment.
• IQ.LIGHT LED Matrix Headlights: Each headlight consists of 128 individually controlled LEDs. The system can "carve out" surrounding vehicles from the high-beam cone with incredible precision, ensuring maximum illumination without dazzling other drivers.
• Night Vision: The Touareg was one of the first cars in its class to offer a night vision system. An infrared camera detects pedestrians and animals in front of the car before the driver can see them, alerting them to the danger on the digital instrument cluster.
• Active Stabilizers and All-Wheel Steering: For an additional fee, the Touareg could be equipped with electromechanically controlled stabilizers, which significantly reduce body roll in corners. Combined with rear-axle steering, the car is surprisingly agile for its size and easy to maneuver in the city.
• Huge Luggage Compartment: Since the Touareg does not offer a third row of seats, it has one of the largest luggage compartments in its class. The basic volume of 810 liters is absolutely extraordinary, and folding down the rear seats creates an almost perfectly flat surface.

BMW X7

Advantages:

• Luxury and Representative Appearance: The X7 is BMW's flagship SUV, which is reflected in the premium materials, top-notch workmanship, and opulent atmosphere in the interior. Its impressive design clearly signals its position at the top of the model range.
• Exceptional Space and Comfort for Seven Passengers: With a length of over 5.1 meters and a standard third row of seats, the X7 offers full-fledged travel for up to seven adults. The air suspension ensures a smooth and exceptionally comfortable ride.
• Top-Tier Technology and Modern Equipment: The car is equipped with the latest generation of the iDrive infotainment system, a curved display, and a wide range of assistance systems. It offers features like five-zone climate control or heated and cooled cup holders.
• Powerful and Refined Engines: The engine range includes powerful six- and eight-cylinder engines that provide superior dynamics despite the car's weight of over 2.3 tons. All engine versions are equipped with 48V mild-hybrid technology.
• Versatility and Practicality: Despite its luxurious character, the X7 is surprisingly versatile. It can handle long highway journeys, off-road driving, and, thanks to a boot volume of 750 liters (with the third row folded), transport large cargo.

Disadvantages:

• High Running and Service Costs: Owning an X7 is financially demanding, whether it's fuel consumption (especially for the eight-cylinder versions), insurance, or the cost of spare parts and service.
• More Difficult Maneuverability in the City: Its impressive dimensions (5.2 m long, 2 m wide) make parking and moving in the tight spaces of city centers and parking garages difficult.
• Potential Problems with Electronics and Chassis: Used cars may experience issues with the infotainment system (freezing), air suspension, or electrical components, which are expensive to repair.
• Controversial Front-End Design: Especially after the 2022 facelift with split headlights, the design of the front end is perceived as controversial and may not appeal to everyone.

Volkswagen Touareg

Advantages:

• Excellent Price-to-Value Ratio: The Touareg offers technology and comfort comparable to premium competitors (it is built on the same platform as the Audi Q7 or Porsche Cayenne), but at a more favorable price.
• Exceptional Driving Comfort and Handling: Thanks to the air suspension, active stabilizers, and rear-wheel steering, the ride is exceptionally comfortable, and the car is surprisingly agile even in corners.
• Spacious and Practical Interior: The interior is well-made, offers plenty of space, and has a huge luggage compartment of 810 liters. The rear seats are also slidable.
• Economical and Reliable 3.0 TDI Engines: The diesel six-cylinder is refined, provides solid performance, and achieves favorable fuel consumption for such a large SUV, often between 6-8 l/100 km.
• Understated Premium Character: The Touareg provides the luxury and technology of the premium segment without being ostentatious, which many owners appreciate.

Disadvantages:

• Higher Maintenance and Service Costs: Although the purchase price is lower than its premium rivals, maintenance and potential repairs (especially of the air suspension and electronics) can be financially demanding.
• Risk of Air Suspension Failures: In older used cars, the air suspension is one of the most common sources of problems, with the first faults appearing after as little as 80,000 km.
• Does Not Offer a Seven-Seater Version: Unlike the X7 and some other competitors, the Touareg cannot be ordered with a third row of seats.
• Reliance on Touch Controls: In versions with the large 15-inch "Innovision Cockpit" display, most functions, including the climate control, are operated via touch, which can be distracting while driving.

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, breakdown statistics, and service data, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of used cars should watch out for. Although both cars are technologically advanced, some specific faults may appear as the mileage increases.

BMW X7 (G07, from 2019)

The BMW X7 is generally considered a reliable car, but its complexity means that some areas require increased attention. Most reported problems relate to minor electronic glitches rather than serious mechanical failures, especially in younger model years.

• Electronics and Infotainment: Models from 2019 and 2020 occasionally experienced minor software bugs. These could include the iDrive screen freezing, problems with Bluetooth connectivity, or occasional false warning messages. Most of these issues were resolved with a software update under warranty. When buying a used car, it is a good idea to verify that the car is running the latest version of the system.
• Engine and Cooling: Petrol engines, especially the powerful V8 in the M50i model (N63), are sensitive to the quality and regularity of oil changes. Due to the location of the turbochargers in the "hot V" between the cylinder banks, there is high thermal stress, which can lead to faster degradation of seals and plastic components of the cooling system. In B58 engines (xDrive40i), coolant leaks may occur, especially around the water pump or expansion tank.
• Chassis: The air suspension is robust, but as with any complex system, its functionality needs to be checked. The compressor and air bellows are the most stressed parts. Any hissing, slow lifting of the car, or error messages on the dashboard signal a potential problem.
• Recalls: Several recalls have been issued for the X7 model. One concerned the possible overheating of the starter's electrical contacts in cars manufactured between 2018 and 2025. Another addressed the software protection for the starter against overload in models from 2018–2020. It is crucial to check whether all these actions have been performed on the specific vehicle.

Summary for the BMW X7: The problems are mostly minor and can be resolved with a software update. However, a careful independent inspection of the car's technical condition is important, especially for V8 engines, where the risk of costly repairs may be higher.

Volkswagen Touareg (CR, from 2018)

The third-generation Touareg shares its platform with premium siblings like the Audi Q7 or Porsche Cayenne and is considered a very solidly built car. Nevertheless, some typical problems of VW Group cars do appear.

• Electronics and Assistance Systems: The most common complaints from owners are about the electronics. In models from the first years of production (2018–2019), there were problems with the adaptive cruise control (ACC) and the Front Assist system, which reported temporary unavailability. The problem was often related to dirty or poorly calibrated sensors. The infotainment system can occasionally freeze or respond slowly, which is usually resolved by a software update.
• 3.0 TDI Engine: This engine is generally considered reliable, but it has its specifics. At higher mileage (over 150,000 km), an oil leak from the oil cooler, located between the cylinder banks, may occur. With increasing mileage, there is also a risk of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, especially if the car is often driven on short city trips.
• Chassis and Brakes: The air suspension is durable, but after 80,000 km, the first signs of wear on the compressor or leaks in the bellows may appear. Due to the vehicle's high weight, you should expect faster wear of brake discs and pads, which may require replacement as early as 40,000–60,000 km.
• Recalls: The Touareg has had several recalls. One concerned the nuts on the rear axle transverse arm, which could crack due to corrosion in models from 2020. Another dealt with a faulty electric tailgate drive in models from 2019.

Summary for the Volkswagen Touareg: The Touareg is a mechanically durable car, but its Achilles' heel can be the complex electronics, which can act up occasionally. A thorough, comprehensive inspection of the vehicle before purchase is essential here, focusing primarily on the functionality of all assistance systems and the condition of the air suspension.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key, and premium SUVs are no exception. Here are a few specific points to focus on for the BMW X7 and the Volkswagen Touareg, as both models have their known weaknesses.

What to Look Out for in a Used BMW X7

The BMW X7 (G07, from 2018) is a complex and technologically packed vehicle, which requires a careful inspection. A thorough physical inspection of the used car is an absolute necessity.

• Air Suspension: During the test drive, try all the height and stiffness settings of the suspension. After the car has been parked for a while, check that it isn't "sagging" to one side, which would indicate an air leak from the bellows. Repairs are very expensive.
• Infotainment and Electronics: Spend time clicking through the entire iDrive system. Check that the system doesn't freeze or restart and that all functions (navigation, cameras, connectivity) work smoothly. Software updates can solve some problems, but a hardware fault would be expensive.
• Engine and Cooling (especially the 40i): With the petrol six-cylinder engines (B58), focus on possible coolant leaks. Check the engine bay and under the car for any pink traces of dried fluid. Any sign of overheating during a longer test drive is a warning signal.
• Signs of Brake and Tyre Wear: Due to the car's high weight (over 2.3 tonnes), the brakes and tyres suffer from faster wear. During the drive, watch for vibrations in the steering wheel when braking, which indicates warped discs. Check the tread depth and evenness of tyre wear on all four wheels.
• Panoramic Roof: On cars with a panoramic roof, check its functionality and look for signs of leaks on the headliner or around the A-pillars. Mechanism failure or leaks can lead to damage to the interior and electronics.

What to Look Out for in a Used Volkswagen Touareg

The third-generation Touareg (CR, from 2018) is generally reliable, but here too, there are areas that deserve attention. A comprehensive vehicle inspection is always a safe bet before buying.

• Functionality of Electronic Assistants: Thoroughly test the adaptive cruise control (ACC) and the Front Assist system. Occasional failures of these systems have been reported in models manufactured after 2015. During the test drive, watch for any error messages on the display.
• Air Suspension in Early Model Years: Cars from 2018 and 2019 may be more prone to problems with the front shock absorbers and the air suspension in general. Listen for any unusual sounds from the axles and check if the suspension compressor isn't running too often or too loudly.
• Automatic transmission behavior: The 8-speed automatic transmission should shift smoothly and without jerking, both during calm and dynamic driving. Try to accelerate sharply and then decelerate smoothly to check the downshifting speed. Any hesitation could indicate an impending problem.
• TDI engines and DPF: With diesel engines, especially if the car has often been driven on short city routes, there is a risk of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging. Check for excessive smoke from the exhaust and ensure the car accelerates smoothly without power lags.
• Recall history: Check if all relevant recalls have been performed on the specific vehicle. These included, for example, an oil leak from the gearbox (2019 models), loosening of the steering connection (2018-2019 models), or the seat belt buckle (2018 models).

Sources: ADAC, svetmotoru.cz, garaz.cz, emobility.cz, motorvize.cz, autickar.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.