"Is there another large imported SUV that offers better value for money than the Volkswagen Touareg?" The Touareg, Volkswagen's flagship model, has consistently gained popularity, boasting over 1.1 million units sold globally. However, it seems to have less preference in the domestic market, which is disappointing.
For reference, the model I test-drove was the new Touareg Prestige trim, priced at 100.99 million KRW (approximately $76,000). However, due to various promotions and financial benefits, you can purchase it for just under 80 million KRW (around $60,000).
Additionally, existing Volkswagen customers or those purchasing within three months of selling their previous vehicle can benefit from a loyalty program worth 1.65 million KRW (approximately $1,250). The Touareg also comes with a five-year, 150,000 km warranty and covers up to five deductibles for repairs on accident vehicles.
Considering the discount promotions, when you look at other imported large SUVs in the same price range of around 80 million KRW (approximately $60,000), none match the value of the Touareg. Even the domestic Palisade exceeds 70 million KRW (around $53,000) for fully loaded models.
The new Touareg, equipped with air suspension and the latest convenience options from the Volkswagen Group, truly represents exceptional value.
Moreover, the Touareg shares the same platform with renowned luxury models from the Volkswagen Group, such as the Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Cayenne, and Audi Q8, which significantly enhances its fundamental quality.
I own a Porsche Cayenne, but after driving the Touareg, I noticed many familiar aspects in terms of size, ride comfort, and various convenience options.
While there is a clear differentiation in the quality of interior materials and layout compared to sibling models that exceed 100 million KRW (around $76,000), the Touareg still offers many superior options compared to competing imported large SUVs in the same price range.
Compared to competing imported large SUVs priced around 100 million KRW (approximately $76,000), the Touareg offers many advantages in terms of options. Thus, even with a purchase price in the high 80 million KRW (around $60,000) range, the term "value for money" fits perfectly.
The air suspension allows for convenient height adjustments when loading or unloading items from the trunk, with a switch conveniently located on the right side of the trunk.
Above all, the new Touareg features the "IQ Light LED HD Matrix Headlamps," which truly revolutionize nighttime driving.
However, I remember spending several hundred thousand KRW (approximately $500) on this headlamp option when I purchased my new Porsche Cayenne, so it’s frustrating to see it included as standard on the Touareg.
There are features related to semi-autonomous driving, including adaptive cruise control that maintains distance from the vehicle ahead and lane-keeping assist. Despite having a diesel engine, the six-cylinder model runs smoothly, making it difficult to notice significant differences in noise levels compared to gasoline models.
The design feels fresh after the facelift, and even without opting for the higher R-Line trim, I find the Prestige trim to be sporty enough. The 20-inch wheels, which may appear small for the size, surprisingly do not feel out of place in person.
That's the end of my Touareg test drive review. Volkswagen Korea plans to release the much more affordable new model "Atlas," which will have a similar body size to the Touareg, by the third quarter of this year. This move is expected to enhance Volkswagen Korea's competitiveness in the domestic large SUV market more than ever.
I will share more about the Atlas soon. Stay tuned...
