by Michelle M. Czarka

The Touareg is surely a name that is mispronounced over and over, but there is no mistaking the visual aspects of this vehicle as anything other than a Volkswagen. It has an athletic stance, accentuated by large front fender flares and brawny haunches and though visually appealing you had best hold off on pinching its cheeks until you witness this vehicle devour off-road conditions.

The exceptionally short front and rear overhangs make the Touareg look like it could anywhere. And it pretty much can. Sealed electrical connections and lights as well as watertight doors, allow the Touareg to brave water depths up to 22 inches. The Hill Rollback and Hill Descent Control features prove to be very helpful when taking on those retched back roads and steep hills.

Though tough and rugged when getting down to business on wilderness terrain, the interior of the Touareg is nothing short of refined and luxurious. Like many other in its class, this cute ute sports real wood trim, lots of chrome accents and plush 12-way power heated leather seats. The center console contains the display for the audio, entertainment and optional navigation systems, including off-road navigation capabilities. There is adequate seating for 5 adults but legroom could prove to be tight for those pushing, meeting and surpassing the 6-foot mark.

By seamlessly blending luxury features, accurate handling, and a smooth ride with traditional SUV qualities such as large cargo space, immense ground clearance, four- or all-wheel drive off-road ability, and towing capacity, the Touareg is a true standout in the SUV marketplace.

Volkswagen's competition for Touareg includes the BMW X5, Mercedes M Class, Lexus RX 330 and LX 470, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Volvo XC90 and the Acura MDX. While these vehicles may be the leaders in the upscale SUV market most are crossover vehicles that focus on having strong on-road performance. Few can stand up to the Touareg when taken off-road and Volkswagen has proven themselves as a serious competitor in the off-road vehicle market.