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Buying a 3.2 v6

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30K views 11 replies 6 participants last post by  dlwaddle  
#1 ·
Hi, My first thread on this site. I am thinking about purchasing a 2003/4 3.2 V6 Touareg. I was wondering if anyone could tell me what they are like? I am interested in expected fuel economy and maintanence costs.

When is the timing belt scheduled for changing for instance, and are there any particular issues/problems I should be looking for?

We had a VW Sharon in Uk recently, a diesel which was a really fantastic car. I have done the figures and can't really justify the extra money being asked for the diesel Touaregs, although they are very appealing.

Appreciate your thoughts.

Cheers

Gaff
 
#2 ·
Someone a while back asked something similar about a V8 FSI. I note that T1, V6 FSI models are in the high $20K - low $30K range. Very decent value for money when you look at what's on offer. As for the PULP V6, I guess you gotta look at your annual estimated mileage and work out the fuel. There is always the argument that there is a payback time to recoup the cost of the TDI. I personally feel the V6 FSI at the right-price is a clear winner on value over any other vehicle option. You'll have to look close at the service history. Most modern engines are designed to do at least 400K-500K with regular servicing before any major pull down. I think you'll find the average Treg is always well cared for and maintained. Others here owning the V6 FSI will add their experience.
 
#4 ·
As far as I know all FSI's are PULP. Having said that, IMO all unleaded engines are better off long-term by burning PULP over E10 and regular unleaded. It's denser fuel and burns thoroughly, so you get more bang out of it. I noticed a 2003 model for $23K on carsales NSW location, seemed to be looked after....that's cheap as. I can't tell you about timing belts, but I think its either 80K' or around 100Ks as with most vehicles. There is a fair bit of VW parts stuff you can get off overseas eBay sellers . Do your homework on parts as you can save a motza. The TDI's all use gear drives, so no belt to worry about. If you do find a V6 FSI that looks decent, probably best to arrange to get it taken to a VW dealer and spend the $$'s to get it checked by someone who knows the Touareg. Any problems, get the dealer/owner to pay some or all of the cost, or get the price reduced. Any factory mod programs should have been completed. Get the VIN and get onto VGA to check if you have to. Have no doubts about using this forum as there is some seriously good info from the people who own them.
 
#5 ·
Thanks for the good advice. We have a local VW dealer in town so that will help.

I am currently in a V6 NM Pajero (01). The ride is very average, and I was wondering what the ride is like in a T Reg.

I have had a Range Rover in the past and to date it has been my most comfortable 4b to date.

How do VW part prices compare to Jappanese stuff in Oz?
 
#6 ·
The Touareg is a class above the Paj with ride and handling and everything else to do with comfort, features and safety. The Paj is more your 4x4 as with the other Japs. Nothing wrong with these makes, but they're not in the same class. Treg parts can be costly - this where the forum works. Brakes for eg are dear as, but can be sourced from o/s way cheaper. You are getting into a different class act with the Touareg. Don't be put off with parts as you're getting a renown and well regarded set of wheels. Just do your homework about what you want and how you want to use it. Spend the time on this forum, look at a few Treg's on offer and always do your homework-always! 2 years ago, I went looking for a Prado VX D4-D and ended up with a Touareg. No regrets whatsoever with my choice. Touaregs are well built, very off-road capable (with the correct A/T tyres) and have heaps of standard features.
 
#8 ·
For what it's worth. My Treg is 'pre-owned'. I got a 2007 compliance with 11,000k's and only 11 months old. I believe it was the1st, '2nd hand ' 3.0TDI on the market and about the same price as a new Prado VX D4-D. Once I drove the Treg it was game over! Homework does pay off. You should get a few comments from V6 FSI owners.
 
#9 ·
For what it's worth. My Treg is 'pre-owned'.
So is mine, IMHO, there's lots of benefit to a pre-owned but still under factory warranty euro, all the problems are sorted out for you :), and no hit on that out of showroom depreciation, though I've noticed that demos on Q5s are still more expensive than new ordered ones, and looking at carsales, runout T'reg are similarly priced by dealers, (short of stock may be?).
 
#10 ·
Re fuel consumption - it's fairly high in the city with around 17-18 ltrs. Long distance I usually get it down 11-12 ltrs.

Ride comfort is very good, and can be improved with the right tires.
Service at VW is always pricey - even though I find they do not always offer the value for money at the service.

I think the engine power of the V6 is ok for Australia, but if I had the choice and prices wouldn't differ too much, I would probably try and go for a V8 version. It is a heavy car, and you can never have enough power :) When driving on the beach/off-road, it's always nice to have some extra grunt. On the road it doesn't matter at all.

Good luck with your purchase.
 
#11 ·
I am driving the new V6 3.6ltr whilst VW service the v10 and make sure its all set for the big trip.
Compared to the 3.2 its got more power off the tap and it 'growls' so much, almost like the V8. Ride, comfort, seats, etc, etc have been improved significantly over the previous model. Dont know why the new headlights are weak, the T1 lights were so much brighter....
I suggest you drive the T2, the differences might make you go for the later model...