Here’s Why a VW Touareg With Off-road Mods May Be Better Than A Tacoma
With market prices continuing to lower on 10-year old VW Touaregs and Porsche Cayennes, we see more and more of these mid-size crossovers getting an offroad use. And the growing number of aftermarket companies and manufacturers offering suspension lift solutions and model-specific upgrades for these vehicles proves this trend.
Premium-level crossovers are cool for many reasons, as they combine the best qualities of performance sedans with the versatility and capabilities of 4×4 trucks and SUV, which makes them more convenient and enjoyable for daily usage.
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Even though they’re often called soft-roaders, some Touareg models are equipped with center and rear locking differentials in addition to the low range, which makes them just as capable on the rough terrain as the big 4x4s.
In terms of interior comfort, performance, handling, and gas mileage, they outperform all body-on-frame trucks of the same price range. So, if you think about it, there are quite a lot of benefits in choosing one of such crossovers for your next offroad project.
“In terms of interior comfort, performance, handling, and gas mileage, they outperform all body-on-frame trucks of the same price range.”
The same decision was made by the hero of our today’s story, who gladly changed his lifted Toyota Tacoma in favor of a mint 2010 Volkswagen Touareg equipped with a 3.6L engine and lots of premium features. Read on to find out more about the mods and upgrades he did to his Touareg to make it just as good off-road as his old truck.
“find out more about the mods and upgrades he did to his Touareg to make it just as good off-road as his old truck.”
The interview
Why did you choose a VW Touareg for your project?
– Prior to my Touareg, I had a 2019 Tacoma on 35s, and for what I use it for, it is just an overall more enjoyable vehicle!
It’s just as capable as my Tacoma off road…better MPG on road…more power….more room…more comfortable, and can tow much better too. All for a WAY cheaper price.
“Prior to my Touareg, I had a 2019 Tacoma on 35s, and for what I use it for, it is just an overall more enjoyable vehicle!”
Plus, what other vehicle can you find for $5k that is as capable Off-road while still having a heated steering wheel, heated seats, navigation, and great on-road manners while driving?
What do you like about your Touareg the most?
– The fact that it is just something different. You don’t see one at every light let alone one done up for some more aggressive off-roading compared to stock. Along with that though comes the struggles of a less used platform for overlanding. They are starting to get more aftermarket support and parts being developed at least.
SPECS – 2010 Volkswagen Touareg 3.6L
Wheels
- 18×9 ALPHAequipt Echos rims with +25 offset
- 275/70R18 Cooper Evolution M/T tires
Suspension
- Forgemotorsport Overland 2″ lift
Gear
- FrontRunnerOutfitters roof rack
- Overland Vehicle Systems 180 Batwing
A few tips about modifying a Touareg for off-roading
– Just make it enjoyable. Don’t be afraid to do something different or push the limits on what you feel is capable. You may surprise yourself.
If you’re interested in a Touareg or Cayenne build but unsure what direction to go….just keep it simple. Spring suspension and gas VR6 3.2L or 3.6L are just fine and easiest to get away with. A little more wild are the TDI or V8 options, and you can always choose that V10 TDI option if you really wanna be different!
“If you’re interested in a Touareg or Cayenne build but unsure what direction to go….just keep it simple”
Watch the progress and find out more about this Volkswagen Touareg project by visiting the Instagram profile of the owner: @jbo237!
Related Parts & Mods
– Inspired by this Touareg build and looking to prepare your own VW for off-road adventures? Our team has put together a list of products and accessories available online that may help you to achieve similar results:
Lift Kit
- Tema4x4 Complete Lift Kit 40mm – for Volkswagen Touareg 2003-2010
Roof Rack
- YAKIMA, LockNLoad Platform Roof Rack – 2-bar System, B (60×54)
Roof Top Tent
- Front Runner Roof Top Tent – Lightweight & Low-Profile
Awning
- OVS Nomadic 180 Awning – Opened: 240″ x 78.5″ Closed: 88” x 7” x 6”
LED Lights
- Baja Designs XL R80 – White or Yellow Pod Lights
- Rigid Industries E-Series PRO LED Lightbar – Spot/Flood Optic Combo 20 Inch
*Before ordering any part or accessory, it is recommended that you verify its fitment with a qualified professional and/or seller. We are not responsible for fitment or other issues that may arise from using the products featured on our website.
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