Skip advert
Advertisement

New 2018 Volkswagen Touareg review – a Bentayga without the badge? - MPG and running costs

The all-new Touareg is full of engineering excellence, but it’s not in the pursuit of driver entertainment

Evo rating
  • Imperious example of German engineering, exceptional refinement, next-generation tech
  • Not much fun to drive, feels its weight on the road, knobbly ride on larger wheels

The Touareg will manage 42.8mpg on the combined cycle, which is admirable considering its size and performance. We saw an average closer to 36mpg in a combination of driving in central London and on motorways.

The Touareg is unlikely to be as cheap to run as a Golf, though, as with all of this new tech, and specifically its mechanical innovations, keeping it all running will be more akin to a luxury SUV than not. The outright size of it will also play a part, as the massive 285-section 21-inch tyres fitted to our test car will cost a bundle to replace.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford’s Hypercar will use a roaring V8 to take on Ferrari once again
Ford Hypercar V8
News

Ford’s Hypercar will use a roaring V8 to take on Ferrari once again

A 5.4-litre V8 derived from the heart of the Mustang will power Ford’s hopes of taking to the top step
16 Jan 2026
Best used cars – the pre-owned fast car favourites to buy in 2026
Best used performance cars
Best cars

Best used cars – the pre-owned fast car favourites to buy in 2026

Want a used performance car that’s fun to drive and affordable? Whatever your budget, we’ve got some suggestions for you
12 Jan 2026
Audi RS3 review – Audi's final five-pot hot hatch is one of the best
Audi RS3
In-depth reviews

Audi RS3 review – Audi's final five-pot hot hatch is one of the best

The RS3 has one of the most spectacular engines you'll find in a hot hatch, and the rest is just as good. Is that enough to warrant a £60k+ asking pri…
15 Jan 2026