Hi James,
If you want a people carrier, the Touran is definitely worth considering. Not sure if you're looking at getting a new one or used but many people seem to think that it's overpriced. It's worth remembering that there are some really good ex-demo/low mileage used bargains to be had. I got our one for £12,500 and it was 10months old with 4,500 miles on it. For a few other deals, have a look at the used car list for the Touran at:
http://www.windrush.co.uk/slough/ also the Volkswagen website has some on it.
I went for the SE model which is well specc'd and the only real missing is front fogs and climate control. But if you can live without them (you do get manual aircon in the SE), then the SE is the best value.
As for engines, I went for the 1.6 FSI. I would have preferred to have got the 2.0 TDI, but it was a little too expensive for me. However if your budget will allow it, I'd definitely go for the 2.0 TDi. The 1.6 FSI engine I got is powerful enough, it's just the economy is not the greatest and probably averages about 28-32mpg - and that's when the wife drives it! All the engines have variable servicing intervals which is great and can mean long intervals just as with the A2.
In terms of space and flexibility, the Touran is amazing and I have already had all the seats out and carried a double sofabed in the back of it. It's also been superb for people/luggage carrying.
My model is the 5 seat model and if you do go for the 7 seat model, the only problem is that there is no spare wheel. Also, you cannot upgrade to the 7 seat model if you change your mind at a later date. If you can live without a spare wheel, then I'd definitely go for the 7 seater version as you could leave the 2 extra seats folded flat and have a huge boot until you need them.
Another thing - VW will not fit parking sensors on the Touran unless they are specified on a new purchase. If you want these fitted on a used version (as I did), then Edworthy's will do a good job and can be done at your home or office. I also had my handfree phone kit fitted professionally and one good bit of news is that the mute wire is clearly labelled on the back of the Touran CD player and so can be fitted with your car kit if you have one.
Build quality has been very good, my only complaint is that there is a small plastic knocking sound coming from the boot area which I have never found the source of so it bothers me very occassionally. But other than that, it is feels like a strong solid car all the time and has suprisingly good handling.
Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions.
Stuart.
[img=left]http://www.a2forum.net/stuart1.jpg[/img=left]
Stuart Diamond: A2OC Founder | Forum Administrator |
Ex-A2 Owner (Now a VW Touran Owner!)
2001 TDi SE: Cobalt Blue Metallic | Open Sky Roof | Kenwood Mask CD | Front Centre Armrest | Front Centre Tray.
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