The Good
The 2004 Touareg offered a potent V6 or V8 engine providing strong performance. Its comfortable ride and well-appointed interior appeal to those seeking luxury. Practical buyers appreciate its off-road capability and towing capacity. Its distinctive design also attracts those seeking a unique SUV, while its initial lower price point offered value.
The Bad
The 2004 Touareg has known weaknesses, particularly regarding reliability. Electrical issues, air suspension problems, and drivetrain malfunctions are common concerns. High maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs are also crucial factors to consider before purchasing this model year. Regular maintenance is critical.
2004 Volkswagen Touareg: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.2L V6: 220 horsepower
- 4.2L V8: 310 horsepower
- Horsepower:
- V6: 220 hp
- V8: 310 hp
- Fuel Economy:
- V6: Approximately 14 mpg city / 18 mpg highway
- V8: Approximately 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- V6: Approximately 9.5 seconds
- V8: Approximately 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,700 lbs (with the V8 and proper equipment)
- Trim-Level Features:
- V6: Standard features included dual-zone climate control, premium sound system, leatherette upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, alloy wheels.
- V8: Added features such as leather upholstery, wood trim, sunroof, upgraded sound system, heated front seats, navigation system (optional). Higher trims also included air suspension, which provided adjustable ride height.
- Off-Road Features: All models included 4XMOTION all-wheel drive system, offering impressive off-road capabilities. Available features such as locking differentials further enhanced off-road performance.
2004 Volkswagen Touareg Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Touareg |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door V-8 |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | EMDEN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2306.97 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.2 V-8 |
| Engine Size | 4.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $42,640 USD |
| Invoice Price | $38,620 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $615 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Volkswagen Touareg Have?
Recalls for the 2004 model year have addressed issues such as potential fuel leaks and problems with the braking system. Long-term reliability concerns center around the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as many components are complex and require specialized knowledge to service. Owners often report experiencing multiple failures within a relatively short period, making long-term ownership potentially costly. The 2004 model year, being the first year of production, tended to have more issues compared to later model years, though later years still experienced similar issues at a lower frequency. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle's maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic specializing in Volkswagen vehicles.
How long will the 2004 Volkswagen Touareg last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for both front and rear passengers. Optional features included parking sensors.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) were generally positive when the vehicle was new. However, it's important to remember that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2004. While the 2004 Touareg provided adequate safety for its time, newer vehicles offer more advanced safety technologies and structural designs. Specifically, NHTSA gave it 4 out of 5 stars for frontal crash protection and 5 out of 5 stars for side crash protection. Always refer to official sources for the most accurate information.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2004 Volkswagen Touareg Prices and Market Value
2004 Volkswagen Touareg Cost of Ownership
2004 Volkswagen Touareg Fuel Efficiency
2004 Volkswagen Touareg Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2004 Volkswagen Touareg Recalls & Defects
Seat Belts
Seat Belts:rear/Other
Electrical System:wiring
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
2004 Volkswagen Touareg Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Volkswagen Touareg Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Better alternatives include the Acura MDX, which offers superior reliability and a more predictable ownership experience, albeit with less off-road prowess. The Lexus RX330 is another strong contender for reliability and comfort, though it lacks the Touareg's ruggedness. Similar alternatives, if off-road capability is a priority, could include the Land Rover Discovery, but bear in mind it also has reliability concerns. Ultimately, the Touareg's appeal hinges on its blend of luxury and off-road ability, but potential buyers must be aware of the associated risks in terms of reliability and maintenance.
Ranks #1771 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1771 | 2004 Volkswagen Touareg | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Volkswagen Touareg a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
xping on December 10, 2020
Reliable and built solidAfter driving the Pilot, Ridgeline, Highlander, Santa Fe, and several others, the Sorento EX V6 was by far the best value for my money. It is solidly built, quiet, and smooth. The ride is like a Lexus and it handles almost like a sedan. It's just the right size, has very comfortable seats and is loaded with technology! On my first 500+ mile trip, I averaged 28.8 mpg. If you're looking for a new crossover in this segment, put this one on your short list to test drive.
VWOwner95 on June 16, 2020
This car is a monster! Goes anywhere Wrangler willThis vehicle has shown me that you don’t need a rough riding wrangler to go off road and have fun! The smooth power from the 4.2 V8 will get you to 60 from a stop in under 8 seconds. The permanent AWD system with low range mode and a center differential lock lets you go places you never could before. 10/10 would recommend buying another one
Stoked on August 8, 2019
This car always runs well and I feel safe!I am frustrated that even after recall two of my rear seat belts are unusable and I have 3 girld10-13 and a 4 year old boy. We can no longer use as a family safely & our local karmart vw service dept said "too bad. It's 2k to fix. ðŸ˜Â
Vic on March 31, 2018
Its very reliableIt has enough room that I was looking for. Love the heated seats. Love how the back seats fold all the way down. There plenty of room in the back to put sruff.
Briff54 on March 11, 2018
Not badIt's a good vehicle for what i bought it for had to make some repairs after I bought it trans is a little rough but it is 14yrs old also overall not bad car.
Yaschic on October 21, 2017
best car i ever ownedthis car was one of my first luxury car , and for be a luxury car it has the best price range ever, i loved it and im looking forward to buy another one
45 mile commuter on July 16, 2017
Expensive to repairThis is a heavy, well balanced SUV. It runs smoothly and accelerates easily. The problem is that everything that needs to be replaced or repaired is very expensive. Wipers are $100, battery is $150 (which don't need to be replaced often thankfully). The interior buttons are lined with rubber that peels off and plastic chrome that peels off and they break off and cannot be replaced easily. The airbag in the dash is designed to breakaway and so it cracks all the way around the airbag container, causing the entire dash to be replaced for a few thousand $$. It has been good in the snow, and pretty dependable overall, with 140,000 miles on it now, bought at 20,000 miles.
Katesieb13 on March 24, 2017
Constant repairsI loved this car so much, great performance, beautiful, very fast. However, I practically doubled my money in it on repairs. Owned the car for 1.5 years and spent over $6,000 on it. I've heard this from other 2004 VW touareg owners as well. It's a true shame, because when everything was working this was the best car I've ever owned.
Wanna buy a broken toureg? on May 29, 2014
Lots of problemsTransmission kicks, sunroof opens on its own, faulty tire pressure sensor which bings like crazy, intermittent electrical problems, expensive experiment for me, money-maker for the dealership which cannot fix the problems.
Thomas W Jr. on January 8, 2014
Great for TravelThe car has the amenities of a luxury car, handles like a sports car, has the power of a muscle car, all with great off road capabilities. 100K+ miles and has never left us stranded. The body style doesn't show its age and still turns heads on the road. We live in the country and it has survived the gravel roads as an everyday driver for my wife. Its great for travel (other than the mileage) and gives a sense of safety and security no matter the driving conditions.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.