Recently we had the opportunity to test drive and learn about the 2009 VW Touareg 2 TDI (Turbo Direct Injection). The Touareg model has been on the market for a couple of years so we were initially wondering, exactly what’s new here?

First of all, Volkswagen is moving their euro based Diesel lines out to the (only recently mileage conscious) US markets. Currently Diesel fuel powers more than half of the cars in Europe, and VW is getting the jump on the big three by introducing new Clean Diesel Touareg and Jetta TDI models to the states this year.

In addition to the launching of their Diesel models, is the introduction of VW’s Clean Diesel technology. The Germans are trying to erase the image of the loud, black smoke coughing Turbo Diesels of the past with their reduced CO2emitting, DeNOx system. As an added bonus the Touareg gets 25 mpg (good for its size) and a fuel capacity of 26.4 gallons which gives you a road trip worthy, 600 miles to the tank. Speaking of road trips, the car has a permanent all wheel drive should you decide to veer off the highway, I didn’t. The Touareg 2 TDI also meets California’s strict emission regulations and unlike many current Hybrid models, it will be available in all 50 states.

I hopped in to a metallic Cranberry model and quickly noticed that the seats were pretty comfortable and that the interior looked more expensive than the sticker price implied. Next I familiarized myself with the instrument panel, aka the MFI (Multi-Function Indicator); a collection of the standard gauges, trip info as well as some navigation info. The cockpit offers a wide unobstructed view of the road which is great, and it is filled with enough styling, controls and tech features to keep most buyers happy.

The route for the test drive of the Touareg started in Hollywood and ended in Malibu, but I modified the provided route slightly and mixed in some street and freeway driving to the route, which gave me a more day to day driving feel. First off, the standard V6 engine produces an impressive 221 hp and you can really feel it. This mid size SUV is nimble enough for moving in and out of street traffic while offering a smooth ride at the same time. The handling was impressive and it took the dips and curves of the Pacific Coast Highway as if it was a much smaller vehicle. I am always surprised when an SUV can deliver a comfortable ride, and I was pleasantly surprised with the Touareg’s smooth ride.

After doing some city, freeway and highway driving I arrived at the destination impressed with this clean diesel, 25mpg, under $50,000 (it's in the 39-48k range), midsized SUV. Look for the Touareg TDI to hit U.S. dealerships in Spring 2009.