Potential purchaser considering a previously-owned Volkswagen Touran (2015-present) as a vehicle for towing purposes

Potential purchaser considering a previously-owned Volkswagen Touran (2015-present) as a vehicle for towing purposes

Goin' for a used second-hand tow vehicle? Then you shouldn't discount the mighty Volkswagen Touran.

If there's a Motor Vehicle Underrated Hall of Fame, this baby's a shoo-in. It's an excellent tow option for those seeking a family-sized MPV that can haul some weight.

The Touran Interior

When picking a used tow vehicle, you'll want a comfy, versatile cabin. The Touran comes up aces. While it's smaller on the outside compared to its rivals, it mainlines interior space that's roomy and adjustable.

Up front, both passengers will enjoy ample leg and headroom. The middle row features separate seats, letting each occupant recline, slide, or adjust whenever they see fit. The headroom and legroom here are also respectable.

Things get a bit cozier in the third row, designed more for kids, though the adults in the middle may need to accommodate a bit for those seats to recline. But with a spirit of compromise, you'll soon be singing "Summer Holiday" in perfect harmony, no angst or conflicts in sight.

Keep in mind that if the whole crew's on board, the cargo space takes a hit, so packing for extended trips might require a bit of grappling.

The cabin's quality, as you'd expect from Volkswagen, is top-notch, but these vehicles are family workhorses, so inspect the interior thoroughly for any signs of rough treatment by the younger set.

Touran on the Road

There's a veritable cornucopia of petrol and diesel powertrains available for the Touran, but for towers, the star of the show is the 148bhp 2.0-litre TDI. It's both powerful enough to tow with minimal effort and reasonably economical.

Just know that its towing capabilities are suitable for moderately-sized trailers, thanks to its relatively light curb weight (1,571 kg). During testing, there were no issues reported with acceleration or braking. However, it felt a bit unsteady when changing lanes[4].

The manual gearbox is light and easy to handle, but the Ricochet Auto (six-speed DSG) can be problematic, so ensure it'soperating properly.

Final Verdict

The Volkswagen Touran makes a capable tow car for a small to medium-sized trailer, offering a mix of economy, roominess, and quality. Just make sure the previous owner didn't drop it off at the kiddie havoc center.

Bored with the Touran? Here's a look at the Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake and a used Volkswagen Amarok[5].

Towing Specs

• Curb weight: 1,571 kg
• Towing Limit: 1,800 kg
• Nose Limit: 80 kg
• 85% Match: 1,335 kg (estimated, based on curb weight)

Running Costs

• 2.0 TDI SE
• Insurance Group: 17
• Yearly Vehicle Excise Duty (VED): £155
• Average Economy: 60.1 mpg
• Service Interval Costs: £83/£122 (interim/full service)[6]

Common Issues

Avoid models plagued with problems related to side airbags, seatbelt tensioners, LED sunroof short-circuits, faulty headrests, and potentially thin fuel tank walls[7].

Volkswagen Touran Market Prices

• High Price: £39,000 (2021 2.0 TDI 150 R-Line, 7,500 miles)
• Sweet Spot: £23,000 (2018 2.0 TDI SE, 41,000 miles)
• Low Price: £6,000 (2015 1.6 TDI S DSG, 200,000 miles)

Alternatives

• Ford Grand C-Max (2010-2019) - If you're looking for a sedan that's enjoyable to drive solo, too, this is a solid choice. The 2.0-litre TDCi engine's strong and smooth, and the gearshift's a pleasure. It also excels in practicality with seven seats and sliding rear doors.
• Mercedes B-Class (2012-2019) - The VW boasts a prestigious badge, but the Mercedes B-Class offers an even more luxurious interior. It's roomy, though limited to five seats in comparison to the Touran's seven, and the second row adjusts legroom or cargo space as needed. The B220d engine is powerful and thrifty, though a bit loud.
• Mercedes GLC - The GLC's focus is on comfort, offering a supple ride that's a delight when unhitched. Its cabin quality's off the charts, but its cargo and passenger space can't quite keep up with the Touran and rivals[5].

In terms of financing your next lifestyle and tow vehicle, the Touran's practicality and power make it an excellent choice alongside its economic benefits. With its spacious interior, efficient powertrain, and reasonable running costs, it could be an ideal blend of sports performance for towing and family-oriented features.

When it comes to unwinding after a busy day of work or play, consider other options like the Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake or a used Volkswagen Amarok for additional sports and lifestyle choices.

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