Engine: 4.2-liter dohc 40-valve V8

Engine Options: 240-hp 3.2-liter dohc 24-valve V6; 280-hp 3.6-liter dohc 24v V6; 310-hp 4.2-liter dohc 40-valve V8; V10 TDI turbocharged direct injection diesel

Transmission: 6-speed automatic with Tiptronic

Transmission Options: 6-speed automatic with Tiptronic

Standard Safety Equipment: ABS, Brake Assist, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), electronic stability Program (ESP), all-wheel drive, adaptive torque distribution, front, side, and curtain airbags, three-point belts for all passengers including the rear-center position; force-limiters on front belts; tensioners on rear belts

Optional Safety Equipment: rearview camera; park assist; tire pressure monitor

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

Assembled In: Germany

Model Tested: Volkswagen Touareg V8 ($44,660)

Standard Equipment: dual-zone climate control with rear seat controls, full leather upholstery, 12-way power adjustable seating, 18-inch alloy wheels, wood trim, power glass sunroof, multi-function leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic rain-sensor window wipers

Options as Tested: Equipment package #4 ($11,410) includes air suspension, four-zone climate control, Nappa leather trim, wood interior upgrade, trunk-mounted 6-CD changer, DVD navigation system with rearview camera, silver roof rack, tire pressure monitor, rear differential lock, electronic parking assistance, navigation system, bi-xenon headlamps with washers, keyless access and memory function, power-adjustable steering column and front seat belts, sound system upgrade, and Winter Package (heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, ski bag)

Destination Charge: 655

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: four-wheel drive

Horsepower: 310 @ 6200

Torque: 302 @ 3000-4000

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 14/18

Wheelbase: 112.4 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 187.2/75/9/68.0 inches

Track Front/Rear: 65.2/65.7 inches

Turning Cycle: 38.1 feet

Seating Capacity: 5 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 38.7/NA/41.3 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 38.3/NA/35.6 inches

Trunk Volume: 71.0 cubic feet

Payload: 1250

Suspension, f: independent, double-wishbon, air springs, adjustable dampers

Ground Clearance: 6.3-11.8 inches

Curb Weight: 5300 pounds

Towing Capacity: 7716 pounds

Tires: P255/55VR18

Brakes: disc/disc with ABS and Brake Assist

Fuel Capacity: 26.4 Gallons