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2011 Volkswagen Touareg TDI Executive Review

Capable Clean Diesel SUV

A three-quarter front view of a 2011 Volkswagen Touareg TDI Executive

In short: A luxurious diesel-powered SUV.

True to its European roots, Volkswagen has been trying for decades to make diesel converts of us all, and with the 2011 Touareg TDI Executive, the German brand makes a strong case for its favorite alternative fuel. Getting up to 28 mpg highway out of its peppy, 225-horsepower V6 engine, this capable clean diesel bests the fuel economy of the Touareg Hybrid and has a starting price nearly $13,000 cheaper than its battery-powered sibling.

Although it does no favors for the Touareg's fuel rating, the SUV's standard 4Motion permanent all-wheel drive system imparts a remarkably sure-footed feeling that is complemented nicely by a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. Other cool amenities include an intuitive on-board navigation system, rearview camera and Bi-Xenon high-intensity headlights. A step up to the premium Executive package will get you a set of posh 20" Pikes Peak alloy wheels, keyless access with push-button start and a state-of-the-art sound system; however, the hefty price increase may not be worth the perks. The 2011 Volkswagen Touareg is also available with a standard gasoline engine or a supercharged hybrid V6.

Warranty/Service: 3-year/36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty; 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty; 12-year/unlimited mile limited warranty against corrosion perforation; 3-year/36,000-mile 24-hour roadside assistance; 3-year/36,000-mile Carefree Maintenance.

QUICK SHEET

Base Price: $57,500 / As Tested: $58,320

Technical Specifications

Vehicle type: front engine, all-wheel drive, 5-passenger, 4-door SUV

Engine: 3.0-liter TDI Clean Diesel V6
Horsepower: 225 hp @ 3,500-4,000 rpm
Torque:406 lb-ft @ 1,750-2,250 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic with manumatic shifting

Curb weight: 4,974 lbs
Wheelbase: 113.9 in
Length/Width/Height: 188.8/76.4/67.3 in
Turning circle: 39 ft

Brakes: power-assisted vented disc brakes with ABS
Suspension: independent double wishbone steel spring front and rear suspension

Traction: electronic stabilization control; auto-hold and hill hold assist; anti-slip regulation

Top Speed: 130 mph (governor limited)
0-60 mph: 7.9 seconds

EPA City: 19 mpg
EPA Highway: 28 mpg

Safety: driver and front passenger front and thorax airbags; front and rear side curtain airbags

Likes: quality build; spacious

Dislikes: mpg; price

Check out other Volkswagen models
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Visit the Volkswagen website

Photography: AlphaMedia

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(Updated: 10/17/11 NW)

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