Volvo XC90 vs. Volkswagen Touareg: Complete comparison 2026

The Volvo XC90, a Swedish icon of safety and minimalist design, boasts a luxurious interior and advanced technologies. Against it stands the Volkswagen Touareg, a German engineering masterpiece that focuses on robustness, powerful engines, and impressive off-road capabilities, also known in some regions as the Volkswagen Touareg R-Line. Let's take a detailed look at how these two premium rivals fare in a head-to-head comparison.

Exterior Dimensions: A Battle of Centimetres

At first glance of the Volvo XC90 and the Volkswagen Touareg, it's clear that both vehicles belong to the large SUV category. However, their philosophies differ in their basic proportions. While Volvo focuses on length and height, indicating a focus on maximum interior space and family use, Volkswagen counters with greater width and a lower build, giving it a more dynamic and sportier stance.

The biggest difference is noticeable in length. The second-generation Volvo XC90 is more than 7 centimetres longer than the third-generation Touareg. This added length directly translates into interior space and allows the Volvo to offer an optional third row of seats, making it a full-fledged seven-seater. This is a key advantage for large families. On the other hand, the shorter Touareg will be slightly more agile when manoeuvring in narrow city streets and crowded car parks.

Body Width and Height

In terms of width, the Touareg has a clear advantage, being approximately 5 centimetres wider than the XC90. This not only gives it a more robust appearance but also provides more shoulder room for the occupants and contributes to better stability in corners. The Volvo, on the other hand, is about 6 centimetres taller, which gives passengers a feeling of airiness, a better view from the car, and easier entry. However, the higher centre of gravity may be slightly noticeable during more dynamic driving.

The wheelbase is key to interior spaciousness and driving comfort. Here too, the Volvo dominates with a wheelbase that is a full 8 centimetres longer. The longer wheelbase has a positive effect, especially on the longitudinal space for rear-seat passengers, and contributes to excellent stability at high speeds on the motorway. The Touareg, with its shorter wheelbase, may feel slightly more agile when changing direction.

Boot Space: A Battle of Litres and Versatility

The size of the luggage compartment is a key factor in large SUVs, often deciding the purchase, especially for families. Both the Volvo XC90 and the Volkswagen Touareg offer impressive figures in this regard, but each focuses on slightly different priorities. While the Touareg excels in basic volume, the XC90 counters with maximum capacity and, above all, the versatility of a seven-seater layout.

In a direct comparison of standard five-seater versions, the third-generation Volkswagen Touareg comes out on top, offering a generous basic volume of 810 litres. This is significantly more than the second-generation Volvo XC90 (models around 2019-2021), which has a volume of 709 litres in a five-seater configuration. In practice, this difference becomes apparent when packing for a longer holiday, as the Touareg can fit one extra suitcase without needing to fold down the seats.

However, the situation is reversed when the rear seats are folded down. Here, the Volvo XC90 wins with a maximum capacity of up to 1874 litres compared to 1800 litres in the Touareg. The main advantage of the Volvo, however, is the option of a seven-seater version. With the third row of seats active, the boot shrinks to approximately 302 litres, but this flexibility can be priceless for large families. In plug-in hybrid versions, the volume is reduced in both models – the Touareg eHybrid still offers a decent 665 litres, while the XC90 T8 drops to 262 litres due to the placement of the batteries.

Towing Capacity: Clear Dominance by Volkswagen

Towing capacity is one of the key differences between these two premium SUVs and can be an absolutely decisive factor for some buyers. If you are looking for a vehicle that can tow almost anything, the Volkswagen Touareg is the clear winner here.

The third-generation Volkswagen Touareg, produced since 2018, offers an impressive and uniform maximum braked trailer weight of up to 3,500 kg across all engine options. Whether you choose a diesel V6, a petrol engine, or even a plug-in hybrid version, you can always rely on this top-tier figure. This makes it the ideal partner for towing large caravans, horse trailers, or heavy boats.

On the other hand, the second-generation Volvo XC90 (from 2015) is somewhat more modest in this respect, although its capabilities will still be more than sufficient for most users. The highest values, 2,700 kg, are achieved by the more powerful diesel versions (e.g., D5, B5 Diesel) and petrol models (T6, B6). For the popular mild-hybrid petrol B5 versions and the T8 plug-in hybrids, expect a slightly lower capacity of 2,400 kg. It is therefore crucial to check the specification of the particular car, as the differences between individual engine options are significant.

For unbraked trailers, both models agree on the standard value of 750 kg.

So, if maximum towing power is your absolute priority, the Volkswagen Touareg is the unbeatable choice. For those who do not need to tow the heaviest loads but still appreciate great versatility, the Volvo XC90 offers a very solid, though not as dominant, alternative.

Engine Duel: Four-Cylinder Efficiency vs. Six-Cylinder Power

When choosing an engine between the Volvo XC90 and the Volkswagen Touareg, we encounter two completely different approaches. Volvo bets on a single strategy: all its engines are two-litre four-cylinders, with performance differentiated by various forms of supercharging and electrification. On the other hand, Volkswagen offers a more traditional range dominated by six-cylinder engines and even a briefly available eight-cylinder, which will appeal to drivers who prefer the power and refinement of larger displacement engines. This differing philosophy fundamentally affects not only the dynamics and fuel consumption but also the overall character of both vehicles.

Volvo XC90: The Intelligent Power of a Two-Litre

With the second generation of the XC90, produced since 2015, Volvo has taken the path of downsizing and electrification. The foundation is always the two-litre four-cylinder Drive-E engines. The range includes both mild-hybrid (designated "B") and powerful plug-in hybrid versions (designated "T8"). Diesels, such as the D4 and D5, were later replaced by the mild-hybrid B5 Diesel, which combines decent performance with lower emissions. The T5 and T6 petrol variants (supercharged by both a turbo and a compressor) were gradually replaced by the B5 and B6 mild-hybrids. The top of the range is the T8 plug-in hybrid, which, thanks to the combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, offers astonishing performance and the ability to drive on pure electricity. All engines are paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission as standard.

Volkswagen Touareg: The Heart of a Champion with Six and Eight Cylinders

The third-generation Touareg, introduced in 2018, is the complete opposite of the Volvo. The heart of the lineup is primarily the three-litre six-cylinder engines. The most common choice is the 3.0 V6 TDI diesel engine, available in two power variants, which provides massive torque and is ideal for long journeys and towing heavy trailers. For petrol lovers, there is the 3.0 V6 TFSI.

A unique find on the used car market is the 4.0 V8 TDI engine, which was only offered in 2019 and 2020. With 900 Nm of torque, it was one of the most powerful diesel engines ever in a passenger car. Like Volvo, VW also offers plug-in hybrids: the more economical eHybrid and the sport-tuned Touareg R. All engines are connected to an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive.

Summary:

• For drivers who prefer modern technology and lower running costs, the Volvo XC90 is the clear choice. Its mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid systems are efficient, and although they are "only" four-cylinders, the performance is more than sufficient.
• For drivers who require maximum power for towing, travel long distances, or appreciate the smooth operation and sound of multi-cylinder engines, the Volkswagen Touareg will be the right choice. Its V6 and especially the rare V8 TDI engines offer an experience that a four-cylinder cannot compete with.

Choosing the right engine is absolutely crucial for long-term satisfaction with a large premium SUV. While Volvo has opted exclusively for four-cylinder engines supplemented by electrification, Volkswagen has stuck to a more traditional approach with large-volume six-cylinder engines and, for a short time, even an eight-cylinder for the Touareg. Our recommendations are based on a combination of performance, real-world fuel consumption, owner feedback, and mechanical reliability.

For the Volvo XC90, we recommend: Mild-hybrid B5 Diesel (173 kW/235 hp)

The best choice for an XC90 from around 2020 is the diesel mild-hybrid four-cylinder designated B5. It offers an ideal balance of sufficient performance, favourable fuel consumption, and reliability. Although a 2.0-litre displacement may seem small for such a large car, thanks to twin-turbocharging and the support of a 48V mild-hybrid system, it delivers 235 horsepower and a solid 480 Nm of torque. The mild-hybrid system helps especially during acceleration, smooths out the operation of the start-stop system, and slightly reduces fuel consumption. In real-world driving, this engine can achieve a consumption of between 7.5 and 8.5 litres per 100 km, which is an excellent figure for an SUV weighing over two tonnes. The engine is refined and well-soundproofed, so its four-cylinder design does not disturb the occupants. In terms of reliability, it is a proven unit, but like any modern diesel, it requires regular longer journeys for proper regeneration of the diesel particulate filter (DPF). It is the ideal engine for drivers who frequently travel long distances and are looking for a maximally efficient and comfortable powertrain.

For the Volkswagen Touareg, we recommend: 3.0 V6 TDI (210 kW/286 hp)

For the Volkswagen Touareg, the clear and most widespread choice is the 3.0 V6 TDI diesel six-cylinder, specifically in the more powerful variant with 286 horsepower and a massive 600 Nm of torque. This engine represents the classic school of thought and is a perfect fit for the character of a large SUV. Its main advantages are its velvety smooth operation, confident pull throughout the entire rev range, and the feeling of having power in reserve in any situation. Despite its larger displacement and two extra cylinders, its real-world consumption is only slightly higher than the Volvo's, typically between 8 and 9.5 liters per 100 km. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive. In terms of long-term reliability, these six-cylinders are among the best in the VW Group, but with used cars, it is essential to thoroughly check the service history. The unit is ideal for drivers who demand uncompromising power, often tow trailers, or appreciate the refinement and sound of a six-cylinder engine. For lovers of maximum performance, there was also a fascinating 4.0 V8 TDI version (310 kW/421 hp) from 2019-2020, but it is now very rare and more demanding to service on the used car market.

Real-World Consumption: A Battle of Four-Cylinder vs. Six-Cylinder

The on-paper consumption figures provided by manufacturers are one thing, but the everyday reality on the road often shows completely different numbers. This is doubly true for large and heavy SUVs like the Volvo XC90 and VW Touareg. To get the most accurate picture, we rely on data from hundreds of drivers on portals like the German Spritmonitor.de, which reflect actual operating costs.

Both cars offer modern mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, but their basic philosophies differ. While Volvo relies exclusively on turbocharged two-liter four-cylinder engines, the Volkswagen Touareg keeps larger-displacement six-cylinders in its lineup, complemented by a top-of-the-range eight-cylinder. This difference is logically reflected in fuel consumption.

Real-World Fuel Consumption Comparison

The following table shows the average consumption of the most common engine versions of the second-generation XC90 and the third-generation Touareg, which are most relevant to the used car market.

*The consumption of plug-in hybrids varies extremely depending on the usage style. The low value corresponds to frequent charging and shorter trips, while the high value corresponds to driving with a depleted battery over longer distances.

Interpretation and Recommendations for Buyers

The data clearly reveals several key insights. In the diesel version, the smaller two-liter engine of the Volvo XC90 B5 is slightly more economical than the 3.0 TDI six-cylinder in the Touareg, although the difference is not dramatic. In reality, it's around 8.4 l/100 km. The Touareg, with its more refined six-cylinder, averages about 8.6 l/100 km, which is still a very acceptable figure for such a large car.

A more significant difference appears with the petrol powertrains. The four-cylinder B5 in the Volvo averages around 10.2 l/100 km in real-world driving. The 3.0 TFSI six-cylinder in the Touareg is noticeably thirstier, and its consumption rarely drops below 11.5 l/100 km.

Plug-in hybrids are a separate chapter. Their laboratory-tested consumption of around two to three liters is, in practice, only achievable with daily charging and short-distance trips of up to about 40-50 km. Once the battery is depleted, for example on the motorway, the petrol consumption of both models rises to ten to eleven liters per hundred kilometers. They are therefore an ideal choice for drivers with regular access to a charger and predominantly shorter daily commutes.

For long-distance travelers, diesel engines remain the best choice. The Volvo will offer slightly lower running costs, while the Touareg counters with the superior refinement and authority of its six-cylinder engine. Consumption could thus be a deciding factor primarily for the petrol versions, where the difference is most striking. For diesels and hybrids, the choice will depend more on the driving profile and personal preferences.

Price Comparison: Which Used SUV is More Affordable?

A look at the used car market reveals a clear price difference between the Volvo XC90 and the Volkswagen Touareg. Although both models belong to the premium segment, the Swedish SUV is generally the more affordable option.

Volvo XC90: Premium Comfort at a More Favorable Price

The second-generation Volvo XC90 (produced since 2015) holds its value, but it can be purchased for significantly lower prices compared to the Touareg. The prices of used models, of course, vary depending on the year of manufacture, mileage, engine, and equipment level.

• Older models (2016-2018): Prices for older units with higher mileage (over 200,000 km) start at approximately €21,000. Most cars in this category are equipped with a diesel engine.
• Models around 4 years old (2020-2021): For cars from 2020, the average price is around €33,000. Well-maintained units with lower mileage and rich equipment, such as Inscription or R-Design, can cost over €37,000.
• Nearly new cars: The offer of nearly new cars at dealerships can reach up to €76,000, which still represents an interesting saving compared to a new car.

Volkswagen Touareg: German Quality Holds Its Price

The third-generation Volkswagen Touareg (produced since 2018) maintains a higher price tag on the used car market. This is due to both its newer platform and the strong demand for this model.

• Models around 4 years old (2020-2021): The average price for a 2020 model is around €39,000. Four-year-old cars with the popular 3.0 TDI engine and in the sought-after R-Line trim are often sold for prices exceeding €41,000.
• Nearly new cars (2022-2023): For newer used cars, for example from 2023, a price of around €54,000 is not uncommon. These cars typically have low mileage and are in almost new condition.
• Most affordable units: Even the cheapest third-generation examples with higher mileage from the first years of production (2018-2019) rarely fall below the €33,000 mark.

Summary: From a price perspective, the Volvo XC90 is clearly the more affordable choice. It offers a comparable level of luxury and space, but can be purchased on the used car market for significantly less money. The Volkswagen Touareg holds its value better and remains a more expensive car even when used, which reflects its more modern technology and position within the Volkswagen Group.

Safety: A Battle of Five-Star Titans

When it comes to safety, both the Volvo XC90 and the Volkswagen Touareg are at the absolute top. Both SUVs boast a five-star rating from Euro NCAP crash tests, but it's important to look at the details, especially the year the tests were conducted. The Euro NCAP methodology is constantly becoming stricter, so a direct comparison of percentage results from different years is not entirely conclusive.

Volvo XC90

Volvo builds its reputation on safety, and the XC90 is proof of that. The second generation, produced since 2015, underwent Euro NCAP tests in the year of its launch. It received a stunning rating that was, in many ways, ahead of its time. In the safety assist systems category, it was the first car in history to achieve a 100% score, a testament to its exceptionally advanced set of accident prevention technologies. Even years later, its results in adult (97%) and child (87%) protection remain top-notch. However, the 2015 tests did not yet include some scenarios that are common today, such as detecting cyclists when turning.

Volkswagen Touareg

The third generation of the Volkswagen Touareg, introduced in 2018, underwent Euro NCAP tests in the same year. As a result, it was evaluated according to stricter criteria than the XC90, which already included tests for autonomous braking with cyclist detection. Despite the more demanding methodology, the Touareg received a full five stars and demonstrated excellent results in all key areas. Adult occupant protection was rated at 89% and child protection at 86%, figures very close to its Swedish competitor. In the safety assist systems category, it scored 81%.

Verdict and Comparison of Results

Although both cars offer an exceptional level of safety, the Volkswagen Touareg has undergone a newer and more demanding set of tests. Its five-star rating from 2018 thus reflects more modern standards and the ability to respond to a wider range of risk situations that the methodology at the time took into account. While the Volvo XC90 set a new benchmark in 2015, especially in the area of assistance systems, its certification is older. For a used car buyer who emphasizes the latest standards in active and passive safety, the Touareg's more recent test may be a slight advantage. In practice, however, both models are at the absolute pinnacle and provide their occupants with first-class protection.

*Note: The 100% score in the safety assist category for the Volvo XC90 was achieved under the methodology valid in 2015. Under later, stricter assessments, the percentage would be lower.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that may be decisive for a potential buyer. Each manufacturer approaches innovation and comfort in its own way, which is reflected in the unique details and functions that define the character of these premium SUVs.

Volvo XC90: Scandinavian Luxury and Safety

Volvo has long built a reputation as a brand focused on safety and minimalist, functional design. The XC90 continues this trend and adds several clever solutions that make everyday use more pleasant.

• Sensus Infotainment: The centerpiece of the dashboard is a vertically oriented touchscreen that resembles a tablet. This system, first introduced in this generation of the XC90, integrates most of the vehicle's functions – from navigation and media to climate control and car settings. Its operation is intuitive and helps to minimize the number of physical buttons.
• Pilot Assist: This advanced assistance system is a step towards autonomous driving. It can keep the car in its lane, control its speed, and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead at speeds of up to 130 km/h. It is an ideal assistant on long motorway journeys, where it significantly reduces driver fatigue.
• Room for Seven: The Volvo XC90 comes standard with three rows of seats. The third row is also designed to provide enough comfort for adult passengers up to 170 cm tall, which is not a given in this class. The seats can also be easily folded into the floor to create a completely flat loading area.
• Integrated Child Seats: Selected models can be equipped with an integrated child booster seat in the second row of seats. This clever solution makes travelling with children easier and eliminates the need to handle portable car seats.
• Bowers & Wilkins Audio System: For music lovers, Volvo offers an optional audio system with 19 speakers and a power output of 1400 W. Its specialty is the "Concert Hall" mode, which simulates the acoustics of the Gothenburg Concert Hall and provides a completely immersive sound experience.

Volkswagen Touareg: The Technology Flagship

The third-generation Touareg became a showcase of the most advanced technologies for Volkswagen. It focuses primarily on digitalization, driving comfort, and innovative features that place it at the top of its segment.

• Innovision Cockpit: The interior is dominated by the fusion of a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a massive 15-inch infotainment display. Both screens form a single curved unit oriented towards the driver. This solution has almost completely eliminated physical buttons and offers vast possibilities for personalization and information display.
• Rear-axle steering: The Touareg offers an all-wheel steering system where the rear wheels can turn up to 5 degrees. At low speeds, they turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels, significantly reducing the turning circle and making city maneuvering easier. At higher speeds, they turn in the same direction, which increases stability and agility during lane changes.
• IQ.Light LED Matrix Headlights: Each front headlight consists of 128 individually controlled LEDs. The system can "mask out" oncoming and preceding vehicles, allowing for driving with high beams permanently on without dazzling other drivers. The technology also intelligently illuminates traffic signs or pedestrians.
• Electromechanical active roll stabilization: This system uses electric motors to suppress body roll in corners. The result is significantly greater comfort on uneven surfaces and, at the same time, sportier and more stable handling during dynamic driving.
• "Night Vision" system: The Touareg can be equipped with a thermal imaging camera that detects people and animals in front of the vehicle at night. The image is projected onto the digital instrument cluster, and in case of danger, the system warns the driver and activates the brakes, which can prevent serious accidents in reduced visibility.

Volvo XC90

Advantages:

• Exceptional safety: Volvo has long built a reputation for producing the safest cars, and the XC90 is the flagship of this philosophy. It boasts top ratings in Euro NCAP tests and an extensive suite of assistance systems as standard.
• 7-seat option: Unlike the Touareg, the XC90 offers a third row of seats as standard or as an option, making it a more practical choice for large families.
• Elegant and luxurious interior: The XC90's cabin is characterized by a minimalist Scandinavian design, the use of high-quality materials (leather, wood, metal), and an overall premium feel.
• Efficient plug-in hybrid versions: The T8 and T6 Recharge variants offer high performance along with the possibility of a purely electric range (up to 70 km), which is ideal for daily city driving.
• High level of comfort: The air suspension (in higher trims) and a superbly soundproofed cabin ensure exceptionally comfortable travel, even on long journeys.
• Prestigious design: Even years after its launch, the car's design looks modern, elegant, and dignified, giving it a strong image.

Disadvantages:

• Only four-cylinder engines: The lineup completely lacks six-cylinder engines, which may deter some potential buyers of a premium SUV in terms of refinement and sound.
• Smaller trunk in the five-seat configuration: With all seats in place, the Touareg offers a significantly larger basic luggage compartment volume.
• Reliability issues in early model years: Models from 2015-2017, in particular, may suffer from minor electronic glitches or design flaws, such as a noisy air conditioning system or interior creaks.
• Higher purchase price and service costs: As a premium SUV, the Volvo holds a higher price, and the costs of maintenance and potential repairs can be substantial.

Volkswagen Touareg

Advantages:

• Excellent driving characteristics and comfort: The Touareg shares its platform with the Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne, and Bentley Bentayga, which is reflected in its top-tier driving performance, agility, and excellent absorption of bumps, especially with air suspension.
• Refined and powerful six-cylinder engines: The availability of strong and proven diesel (3.0 TDI) and gasoline (3.0 TSI) six-cylinder engines is a major advantage over the four-cylinder Volvo.
• Huge luggage compartment: In its basic five-seat configuration, the Touareg offers an impressive trunk volume of 810 liters, which is a top value in the segment.
• Modern digital interior: The optional "Innovision Cockpit" with its giant 15-inch infotainment display connected to the digital instrument cluster looks technologically advanced and offers wide personalization options.
• Great off-road capabilities: With the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system and the optional off-road package, the Touareg can handle more challenging terrain better than most of its competitors.

Disadvantages:

• No seven-seat option: The absence of a third row of seats is a major drawback for large families and limits its practicality.
• The interior feels less premium than Volvo's: Although the build quality is high, the overall impression of the cabin is not as luxurious and cozy as in the XC90; technical and functional elements tend to dominate.
• Higher fuel consumption for gasoline engines: Especially in city traffic, the six-cylinder engines can be noticeably less fuel-efficient than Volvo's mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
• More conservative design: The Touareg's appearance is less distinctive and may seem too subdued for some compared to the elegant and timeless design of the XC90.

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, breakdown statistics, and feedback from owners, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that used car buyers should watch out for. Although both models are considered premium and generally reliable, neither is flawless, which is why a thorough technical inspection of the car before purchase is important.

Volvo XC90 (2nd generation, from 2015)

The second-generation Volvo XC90 is a technologically advanced and safe car, but some of its modern systems can be a source of occasional problems, especially in older model years (before the 2019 facelift).

• Infotainment and electronics: The Sensus system is elegant, but in early models, it could occasionally freeze, respond slowly, or restart on its own. Most of these issues were resolved with software updates, so it's crucial to check if the car has the latest version. There are also complaints about occasional battery drain for no apparent reason or false error messages (e.g., about headlight failure).
• Air suspension: Models equipped with air suspension offer excellent comfort but pose a potential risk of expensive repairs. The compressors can fail, and the air bellows can start to leak over time. During a test drive, it's necessary to try all modes and listen to see if the compressor is running too often or making unusual noises.
• Engines and gearbox: The D5 diesel engines are generally reliable, but like all modern diesels, you need to be mindful of the exhaust gas treatment systems (EGR valve, AdBlue). The T8 plug-in hybrid versions can experience problems with the hybrid system, especially with the electric rear axle drive, which is expensive to repair. The eight-speed automatic transmission is mostly smooth, but some units have been reported to hesitate or jerk slightly.
• Brakes and wear: The XC90 is a heavy vehicle, which leads to faster wear of brake discs and pads, especially in non-hybrid versions. When buying, it's a good idea to check their condition and service history.

Overall, the problems with the Volvo XC90 are of a more minor nature, relating to electronics and consumable parts. More serious engine or transmission failures are less common, but with more complex versions (air suspension, hybrid), increased caution and a thorough physical inspection of the used car are warranted.

Volkswagen Touareg (3rd generation, from 2018)

The third-generation Touareg is technically related to the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, which gives it a premium character but also complex technology that requires careful maintenance.

• Electronics and infotainment: Similar to the Volvo, the software here can also act up occasionally. Some owners have reported occasional freezing or slow response from the massive infotainment display. Most problems are solved by software updates, which are usually carried out during service inspections. Isolated problems with electronic assistants such as ACC or Front Assist have also been recorded.
• Air suspension: The air suspension system is a common source of problems across Touareg generations, and the third generation is no exception. Air leaks, compressor failure, or height sensor malfunctions can occur. Repairs are financially demanding, so a careful inspection of the used car is a must.
• 3.0 V6 TDI engine: This engine is the most common and is generally considered robust. Nevertheless, it can experience typical problems of modern diesels: clogging of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) during frequent short trips, EGR valve faults, or problems with the injectors. Coolant leaks can also occasionally occur.
• Gearbox and chassis: The eight-speed automatic transmission is reliable, but there have been isolated reports of jerky shifting or shuddering when starting off. On the chassis, in addition to the air suspension, it's a good idea to check the condition of the bushings and stabilizer links, which can suffer on poor quality roads.

The Volkswagen Touareg is an overall solidly built car, but its biggest risk lies in the complexity of its systems. Problems with the air suspension and electronics can trouble owners, while the V6 diesel engine is reliable with proper maintenance. The key to trouble-free ownership is regular service and prevention.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key, and you shouldn't underestimate it even with premium SUVs. Here are a few specific points to focus on with these two models to make your choice the best it can be.

When choosing a Volvo XC90:

• Check the Sensus infotainment: The vertical touchscreen is a dominant feature of the interior, but in older units, its response can be slower, or it might occasionally freeze. During the test drive, try all the main functions – navigation, pairing a phone via Bluetooth, the radio, and the car's settings. Any stuttering or restarts could mean an expensive software update is needed.
• Thoroughly test the air suspension: If the car is equipped with it, pay maximum attention to it. Try changing the car's ride height and listen to see if the compressor runs for too long or makes suspicious noises. While driving over bumps, focus on any knocking or jolts that would signal an impending expensive repair.
• On the T8 hybrid, focus on the battery: The plug-in hybrid version is tempting, but the condition of its high-voltage battery is key. After a full charge, check the range in pure electric mode, which should not differ dramatically from the stated values (taking into account age and weather). A loss of capacity can mean an investment of thousands of euros. A comprehensive vehicle inspection can also reveal hidden problems.
• Monitor the behavior of the automatic transmission: The eight-speed Geartronic automatic should shift smoothly and without hesitation. During the test drive, try accelerating both smoothly and sharply (kick-down). Any jerking, delayed reactions, or jolts during shifting, especially when cold, indicate a potential problem.
• Look for signs of electrical problems: The XC90 is full of electronics, which can lead to occasional battery drain. Ask the owner how often they drive the car. If the car has been standing for a long time, check that it starts without problems and that no random error messages appear on the dashboard.

When choosing a Volkswagen Touareg:

• Air suspension functionality is a priority: Similar to the Volvo, the air suspension is an Achilles' heel here as well. Test all driving modes that change the ride height. The car should not spontaneously lower on one side after being parked. Any hissing or error message on the display indicates a problem with the system's seal or the compressor.
• Explore the digital cockpit and infotainment: The third-generation Touareg impresses with its large displays (Innovision Cockpit). Make sure everything runs smoothly, the touch controls respond correctly, and the system doesn't freeze. Check if the software is up-to-date, which can resolve many minor bugs from the first years of production.
• Pay attention to the automatic transmission during the test drive: The eight-speed Tiptronic transmission is generally reliable, but wear can become apparent at higher mileage. Pay attention to the smoothness of shifts at low speeds and when crawling in traffic. A noticeable jerk when downshifting or accelerating from a stop can signal the need for an expensive oil change or mechatronics repair.
• Verify the condition of the eHybrid system: For the plug-in hybrid version, focus on the functionality of the charging and the availability of the electric mode. Are there any error messages related to the hybrid system on the display? A thorough technical inspection of the car is an absolute necessity for such a complex powertrain.
• Listen for noise from the steering and axles: During the drive, slowly go over transverse bumps and, in a parking lot, turn the steering wheel to full lock in both directions. Any creaking, popping, or knocking can indicate worn bushings, control arms, or a problem with the steering, which are more common and costly faults on a heavy SUV.

Sources: ADAC, auto.cz, mdcr.cz, techfocus.cz, autoweb.cz, autobox.cz

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