Volkswagen Touareg V8 TDI R-Line 2013 review

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the big questions, including the one that most needs answering -- would you buy one?

What is it?

This is Volkswagen's top of the range Touareg featuring most of the options and option packs you get on lesser models for more money. It's a similar vehicle to the Porsche Cayenne diesel V8 and also the Audi Q7 withy the same powertrain. But the Touareg costs tens of thousands less... and goes just as well. It's a large SUV with five seats and all the fruit inside with a sporty flavour to outside styling and additional chrome. Wheels are 21-inch monsters.

How much?

Goes for $112,990. Similar under the skin Porsche Cayenne is 142 grand, Q7 is 129.

What are competitors?

The above mentioned plus smaller engined Benz ML and BMW X5.

What's under the bonnet?

Mountainous torque output (800Nm) from a 4.2-litre turbo diesel V8 that churns out some 250kW. Drives all four wheels (or not depending on traction) through an eight speed auto, arguably one of the best in the business, like the engine. Has fuel and emissions-saving Bluemotion technology.

How does it go?

Like a shot. 5.8 seconds for the 0-100kmh sprint from a 2264kg tare SUV ain't half bad. There is never a point where the V8 Touareg is lacking in the go department no matter what the speed. Super smooth too.

Is it economical?

Claim is 9.2-litres/100km but you can best this with careful highway cruising.

Is it green?

Yes, passes EU 5 emissions regulations and has a swag of Bluemotion technology including brake energy regeneration and internal engine measures to optimise efficiency along with better gearing from the 8-speed box.

Is it safe?

Five stars with all that brings plus the "Driver Assistance" package is standard in this model complete with side assist, lane keeping assist, city emergency braking, front assist, adaptive cruise control and other stuff.

Is it comfortable?

Supremely thanks to the silken smooth engine and transmission as well as the air suspension. Minimal noise intrusion, gorgeous Nappa leather and generous luxury kit make the Touareg V8 a crackin' good long distance machine. Body is bigger than the (2003-11) first-generation Touareg, providing extra space inside.

What's it like to drive?

Impressive. Will go a fair way off road if you want. Eats long distance for brekky, has sports sedan level of performance and medium size passenger car fuel economy. Excellent combination.

Is it value for money?

Against the main rivals yes. Cheaper alternatives are tempting though but not quite as accomplished and classy as the Touareg V8.

Would we buy one?

In a blink, though the base mode at 64 grand is difficult to overlook.

VW Touareg V8 TDI R-Line
Price: from $112,990
Warranty: 3 years / unlimited km
Engine: 4.2-litre V8 turbo-diesel 250kW/800Nm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic, AWD
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h: 5.8 sec
Maximum: speed: 242 km/h
Thirst:  9.2 L/100km, CO2 242 g/km