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paisley · 11-23-2018, 08:59 AM

Hi folks,
I've been towing my 22' 1960 Safari for six years now with my Touareg TDI, and it's been a great combo. However, my TV is part of VW's diesel scandal/buyback program, and I'm closing in on the deadline for selling it back to Volkswagen for about $9,000 more than it's worth...so I obviously want to take advantage of that.

I'm struggling with what to get as a replacement TV that will also make a great daily driver. I'm not a truck girl; for me, smaller is better. If didn't have the trailer, I'd happily go back to a Subaru Outback. I like AWD and need something rugged enough for the near-daily drives down rough dirt roads to mountain bike trailheads.

Hoping not to spend too much more than the ~$30,000 VW will give me for the Touareg.

Dry weight of my trailer is around 3,300 pounds. I typically travel with one other human, and one (large, handsome) dog.

Would the Subaru Ascent with its 5,000-pound capacity be cutting it too close, once loaded? Other suggestions??

Thanks in advance!

-Kim

VernDiesel · 11-23-2018, 10:24 AM

Consider a Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel. Same nice towing attributes plus great towing economy and 30 HWY when not towing and naturally 4WD.

PKI · 11-23-2018, 11:11 AM

It is hard to beat the VW. The other strong player is the Durango and there are used available. Have heard the turning radius is challenging. Not sure if that is valid, but a test drive would quickly identify any real issues.

The newer JGC are nice, but there were some moose test failures with older models. The design was tuned and the issue is resolved, but understanding that issue (tire pressure, brand, weight distribution, rollover protection brake application) would be critical in the consideration of an older model.

A lot of vehicles will effectively tow a 22, so no reason not to look around a bit. When you find a vehicle you like, do the research. Looking for a lower vehicle with front and rear disk brakes, 115-120in wheelbase, short overhangs and a six or eight speed transmission would be a good start.

No one talks about them, but I wonder if a gas version of the VW might be an alternative. Folks have reported that they are satisfied with their Touareg after it was programed to meet the emissions regs so you might consider turning yours in and buying another.

Good luck with your decision. Travel safe. Pat

pteck · 11-24-2018, 02:53 PM

As the Touareg TDI was a 60k vehicle new, it's going to be hard to find a replacement that fully measures up to that vehicle for $30k. Is that budget only applicable to new vehicles? There's some gems in the used car market for $30k.

What are your style and brand leanings? As your're considering an Ascent, sounds like you're agreeably to a large span of styles.

Subaru's as a brand generally use engines that are more tepid compared to it's competitive set. I think the biggest change between the Ascent and a torquey TDI is going to be responsiveness. If that's okay, then there's tons of practical options for you as PKI points out.

paisley · 11-24-2018, 06:58 PM

Thanks, VernDiesel. I'd be happy with that kind of fuel economy; I'll give the Grand Cherokee a look.

paisley · 11-24-2018, 07:01 PM

PKI: I know, it's going to be awfully hard to beat my current setup. Will check out the regular Touareg. I've gotten pretty spoiled with the styling and handling of my TDI!

paisley · 11-24-2018, 07:08 PM

I got the Touareg with ~10,000 miles on it, but you're right, pteck...it was still a pricey vehicle. One divorce later and my financial position is much different. For that reason, I'll probably be looking for something a few years old.

I drove my old Subaru Forester into the ground, and have given the Touareg quite a beating, as well. My "style," if you will, is anything that looks good (but not pretentious) with some bikes on top and a thick coating of dog fur on the inside.

HHPJ · 11-25-2018, 01:12 AM

Can you keep the VW, or do you have to sell? Why go into debt to get nine grand?

Countryboy59 · 11-25-2018, 08:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by paisley

I got the Touareg with ~10,000 miles on it, but you're right, pteck...it was still a pricey vehicle. One divorce later and my financial position is much different. For that reason, I'll probably be looking for something a few years old.

I drove my old Subaru Forester into the ground, and have given the Touareg quite a beating, as well. My "style," if you will, is anything that looks good (but not pretentious) with some bikes on top and a thick coating of dog fur on the inside.

I’d keep the VW. $30k May be more than you think it’s worth but will be half of what a good new vehicle is worth. With proper care ( and a timing belt when needed) they will go forever.