VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG (2008)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 3,337 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,907
£242/month
MOT Pass Rate
78%
Average
Road Tax
£760
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 35-50
3597cc Petrol
Check Carefully
78% pass rate, £2907/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~30 mpg
Based on 3597cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLKSWAGEN brand average of 85%.
At 18 years old, 78% of VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREGs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 3,337 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 137,817 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
137,817
Average miles
133,200
Expected for age
The average 2008 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG has 137,817 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 76%. The 2008 sits between the two at 78%.
VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 93% | 745 | 35,077 mi | |
| 2020 | 93% | 1,542 | 43,671 mi | |
| 2019 | 91% | 6,746 | 49,179 mi | |
| 2018 | 90% | 3,613 | 56,095 mi | |
| 2017 | 85% | 7,454 | 65,245 mi | |
| 2016 | 86% | 8,176 | 75,288 mi | |
| 2015 | 85% | 9,905 | 84,367 mi | |
| 2014 | 88% | 7,329 | 94,102 mi | |
| 2013 | 86% | 5,596 | 104,529 mi | |
| 2012 | 86% | 4,035 | 113,342 mi | |
| 2011 | 84% | 3,701 | 122,498 mi | |
| 2010 | 81% | 1,668 | 128,292 mi | |
| 2009 | 80% | 2,577 | 126,791 mi | |
| 2008 | 78% | 3,337 | 137,817 mi | |
| 2007 | 79% | 4,677 | 142,943 mi | |
| 2006 | 78% | 3,571 | 146,020 mi | |
| 2005 | 76% | 2,324 | 147,345 mi | |
| 2004 | 79% | 1,176 | 138,196 mi | |
| 2003 | 79% | 317 | 130,286 mi |
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2008 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG
The 2008 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG is a performance with a 3597cc petrol engine. 3,337 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 137,817 miles at 18 years old, VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG Fuel Costs
The 3597cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2008 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,907 (£242/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £760 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 78% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG Reliability Trend
Newer VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREGs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG
At 18 years old, the VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 93%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2008 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 18 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Oil Consumption
Medium riskLarger petrol engines can develop higher oil consumption as they age. Check the oil level and look for blue smoke from the exhaust.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 138k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Engine Mounts
Medium riskWorn engine mounts cause excessive vibration and movement. Replacement costs £150-£400 per mount. Check for vibration at idle with the bonnet open.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2008 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG(2008) | 78% | £1592 | £760 | Grp 35-50 | £2907 |
| LAND ROVER FREELANDER(2007) | 75% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 35-50 | £2397-£510 |
| MERCEDES E(2010) | 80% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 35-50 | £2247-£660 |
| MERCEDES CLC(2009) | 73% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 35-50 | £2397-£510 |
| PORSCHE 911(2006) | 90% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 35-50 | £2097-£810 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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