Vehicle: 2011 VW Touran 1.4TSI Highline with 7-speed DSG
Price as tested: CDN$27350 (Estimated)
Performance: While there are many powertrains available for Touran, the subject of our tester is powered by VW’s sweet twincharged engines, which combined both supercharge for low-rpm while turbocharge for middle and upper ranges. In Touran’s case, it has been rated 10 more hp and 5 lb/ft of torque than its Golf counterparts. That means it has 170hp and 180 lb/ft of torque through this twincharged engine. The throttle response is peppy, even if Touran has to carry 7 passengers. Just don’t judge the book by its cover, especially when it comes to engine displacement. This twincharger delivers 6-cylinder performance with the fuel consumption of a 4-cylinder. While Touran is weighting in at 1580kg, the whole Touran is a willing performer. What makes the Touran so responsive and such a willing performer is VW’s superb 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, which provide world’s fastest speed when it comes to up and downshifting. The uncanny abilities of providing crisp down and upshifting have done greatly to fuel economy and efficiency. The paddle shifters on the steering wheel just add to the fun anyone can have with the Touran.
Handling: No one would ever doubt VW’s chassis engineering prowess. When you consider Touran is riding on world-renowed Golf chassis, there would be no doubt on its chassis rigidty and stiffness. That makes Touran what an exceptional handler when it comes to corners. Touran exhibits controlled body rolls and safe understeer when pushed hard into twisties. ESP doesn’t step in unnecessarily, although it acts as a guardian angel due to its people mover status. The electric steering provides excellent feel and feedback, with enough precision and response to driver input. Ride comfort rates at the top of its class. When it comes to overall dynamic abilities, Touran is able to give its class-leader Mazda5 a-run-for-its-dollars. It is a people mover that provides plenty of driving pleasure without losing any occupant comfort.
Brakes: When it comes to braking prowess, Touran definitely lives up to VW’s billing. The stopping distance is short, while pedal feel is solid and reassuring. The pedal always feels alive and confidence-inspiring, while ABS doesn’t step in unnecessarily is an added bonus.
Interior: The biggest drawback to Touran’s interior packaging is the short of luggage space when the 3rd row is up, which is almost none. The 3rd row, however, doesn’t fare much better. Its the complete lack of head and legroom. The 3rd row is better leave for small children, not even considering for adults on a short trip.
2nd row is more than acceptable given Touran’s physical dimensions. All things considered.
In front, Touran continues VW’s class-leading use of plastic and leather materials. There are plenty of soft-touch plastic materials on the dashboard and door panels. The instrumentation gauges are clear and analog, while auto climate control and touch-screen stereo are initutive. Leather seats are well-foamed yet comfortable.
Conclusion: Despite of my criticisms of Touran’s interior space, it would work decently if you consider it as a Golf wagon with 2 extra seats for occassional use. The rest of the car is very well-executed, as does with every VW products. It has plenty of power, handles extremely well with class-leading use of materials. In short, a very nice package.
Competitions:
Mazda5
Honda Stream
Toyota Wish
OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2011 VW Touran 1.4TSI
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Performance: 4/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4.5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 5/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 5/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 2/5
Value-for-money: 4/5
Overall rating: 4/5