Positioning:
Premium SUV, positioned as a versatile and capable vehicle for both on-road comfort and off-road prowess
Competitors:
BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Land Rover Discovery, Lexus RX
Platform:
Shared platform with Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7 (first generation VW Group D platform)
Powertrain:
Available with a range of potent V6 and V8 engines, often coupled with advanced 4Motion all-wheel drive and air suspension
Capabilities:
Strong off-road capabilities for its class, robust build quality, luxurious interior appointments
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Overhaul, Repair Procedures
Estimated Page Count:
Likely extensive, typical workshop manuals are 1500+ pages
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, tuning, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system
Transmission Systems:
Transmission overhaul, removal/installation, repair procedures
Drivetrain Systems:
Driveshafts, differentials, axles, four-wheel drive system components
Suspension Steering:
Suspension components, steering system, alignment specifications
Braking Systems:
Brake system components, hydraulic system, ABS, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, interior electronics, ECUs
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, doors, glass, chassis components
HVAC System:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components and repair
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, service intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements
Repair Procedures:
Component removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, diagnostics
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic routines
Overhaul Procedures:
In-depth engine and transmission overhaul instructions
Special Tool Identification:
Identification and usage of specialized Volkswagen tools
Depth Level:
Comprehensive workshop level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Engine Options 2002 2004:
3.2L VR6 (10v/24v), 4.2L V8 (32v)
3.2L Vr6 Power:
Approx. 220-240 hp (depending on specific market and year)
3.2L Vr6 Torque:
Approx. 221-229 lb-ft
4.2L V8 Power:
Approx. 310 hp
4.2L V8 Torque:
Approx. 302 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) depending on engine variant and market
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Transmission Options:
6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission standard on most models
Manual Transmission Availability:
Manual transmissions were very rare or not offered in most major markets for this generation
Drivetrain:
4Motion permanent all-wheel drive system
Transfer Case Features:
Locking center differential and optional rear differential lock for enhanced off-road capability
Length:
Approx. 188.9 inches (4798 mm)
Width:
Approx. 75.2 inches (1910 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.0 inches (1702 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 112.4 inches (2855 mm)
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and options, typically 4,700 - 5,100 lbs (2130 - 2315 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Typically rated up to 7,700 lbs (3,500 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 stars (driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4 stars (front and rear passengers)
IIHS Ratings:
Good in front, acceptable/marginal in side impact depending on specific test year and equipment
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esc:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or ESP (Electronic Stabilization Program)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Navigation System:
Optional GPS navigation system available
Audio System:
Premium sound systems (e.g., Dynaudio) available on higher trims
Parking Assist:
Optional front and rear parking sensors
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) on some models
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 miles (8,000-16,000 km) or 1 year, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Timing Belt Chain:
VR6 and V8 engines typically use timing chains, requiring inspection but generally not periodic replacement like belts.
Engine Oil Specification:
Varies by engine; consult manual. Commonly VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 for gasoline engines.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific ATF required for the 6-speed Tiptronic, e.g., G 055 005 or equivalent.
Coolant Type:
G12/G12+ (Pink/Red) coolant (Ethylene Glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Issues 2002 2004:
Air suspension compressor failure, coolant leaks (especially from the thermostat housing and coolant pipes), ignition coil failures, window regulator issues, electronic parking brake problems.
Transmission Issues:
Potential for torque converter issues or valve body problems in the Tiptronic transmission, especially with higher mileage.
Volkswagen Heritage:
Long history of reliable and accessible vehicles, expanding into premium segments with models like the Touareg
Touareg Introduction:
Introduced in 2002 as Volkswagen's first large luxury SUV, designed to compete with established European and Japanese rivals.
Manufacturing Location:
Bratislava, Slovakia (Volkswagen Slovakia plant)
Production Period 1St Gen:
2002 - 2010