19 MPG combined isn’t going to win the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg 3.6L any fuel economy awards, but for a mid-size SUV built to straddle the line between on-road comfort and legitimate off-road capability, it’s a compromise many owners are willing to accept. The Touareg buyer appreciates German engineering, needs the utility of an SUV, and occasionally ventures beyond the paved path. For this buyer, the trade-off between fuel efficiency and reliable performance is a conscious one.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Touareg V6 are 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the Touareg’s weight and naturally aspirated engine work against optimal fuel consumption.

On the open road, however, the eight-speed automatic transmission helps the Touareg settle into a more efficient cruising speed, making the 23 MPG highway rating achievable, even with the standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive engaged.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg 3.6L 6-cyl at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is important when budgeting for vehicle ownership and helps put the Touareg’s fuel consumption into perspective.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing data, real-world fuel economy can vary considerably based on driving habits, terrain, and environmental conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling will all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Owners who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and maintain consistent speeds are more likely to achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates.

Tire pressure also plays a role. Improperly inflated tires increase rolling resistance and decrease fuel economy. Keeping your tires properly inflated not only improves efficiency but also extends tire life and improves safety.

How it compares

In the realm of mid-size SUVs, the 2016 Touareg’s fuel economy is about what you’d expect. A similarly equipped Jeep Grand Cherokee with its 3.6L V6 achieves similar numbers. Comparatively, a Lexus RX 350, with its streamlined focus on luxury and efficiency, manages around 22 MPG combined. However, neither the Lexus nor the Jeep boast the understated luxury or off-road capability of the Touareg. Exploring all Volkswagen fuel economy data reveals that opting for a smaller VW SUV like the Tiguan can improve MPG significantly if utility is not a priority. If you’re considering the Touareg, researching TOUAREG MPG across all years will provide additional context for your purchase.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Touareg’s V6 provides ample power, but using it judiciously will significantly improve fuel economy. Gentle acceleration and anticipation of traffic conditions allow the engine and transmission to operate more efficiently.

Maintain a steady speed on the highway. Using cruise control, when appropriate, can help prevent unintentional speed fluctuations that waste gas. Consistency is key to maximizing MPG during long drives.

Regular maintenance is essential. Ensuring the engine is properly tuned, the air filter is clean, and the tires are properly inflated will all contribute to improved fuel efficiency. Adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual is critical.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess cargo in the vehicle increases the load on the engine, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Removing items that are not needed can make a noticeable difference, especially on city driving.