Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg
With an overall Carivo score of 6.8/10, the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg earns a Good rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 7.5/10, while Reliability at 6.4/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.4/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. On safety it earns 7.5/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.0/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology scores 6.7/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $38,756–$45,076, 14 MPG, seating 5, the Volkswagen Touareg sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. The value score of 6.5/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg, but it needs the right buyer. Its technology and value and reliability scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2016 Volkswagen Touareg ranks #2205 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 10% of the segment. Its 6.8/10 overall score is 0.6 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $38,756 starting price is about 7% above the segment's median of $36,079.
Across the Touareg model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Below-average reliability data — factor in potential repair and maintenance costs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 14 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
NHTSA Recalls — 2016 Volkswagen Touareg (2 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Tires / Pressure monitoring and regulating systems 26/04/2016 · 16V243000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2016 Toureg vehicles manufactured July 7, 2015 to March 3, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) may be improperly calibrated and, as a…
Service brakes, hydraulic / Pedals and linkages 24/03/2016 · 16V170000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Touareg vehicles. The brake pedal pivot pin may be missing a securing clip, allowing the pivot pin to move and the brake pedal to dislodge.
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Common Questions — 2016 Volkswagen Touareg
Is the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg reliable?
We rate the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg's reliability 6.4/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance. It has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg have?
2 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg worth buying?
It scores 6.8/10 overall, ranking #2205 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 10% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg cost?
The 2016 Volkswagen Touareg starts at $38,756 and ranges up to $45,076 across trims (MSRP when new). At 14 MPG, expect roughly $3,750/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Volkswagen Touareg
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More Volkswagen Reviews
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