The TRUTH About Used, Cheap, German Off-Roaders!

[@nevv8581]

Great vid, thank you for taking the time to do it. Reading the comments there is a lot of negativity already, but everyone is entitled to their opinion, that’s what makes the world go round. I enjoy the Touareg vids, and there is no doubt you and the TFL crew did put it through its paces. If it breaks it breaks. I recall your new Rebel Rouser busted a front driveshaft while doing some off roading which realistically could have left you stranded. I wont brand bash and I agree with your philosophy about learning more, doing research and looking at alternatives to the mainstream off roaders, also keeping an open mind to the potential cost of repairs of an older used vehicle which you are taking off-road. Keep up the great work.

[@chaosseat]

Is there a TL;DR version?

[@Zionfarm]

Nev V great response I couldn’t agree with you anymore. Folks are negative towards these guys for going outside the box. Plus I think folks in the comments won’t be doing anything mechanically on their own.

[@YoDooDSup]

Damn your swallowing the load and cupping their balls

[@Zionfarm]

YoDood215 😂😂😂

[@nunya9555]

Dude, the Touareg is a money pit. They had serious issues when new. There is a reason they are cheap now. Look it up. There are other videos on KZbin that tell the true story of that vehicle. And being truthful is not negative. You are just being sensitive.

[@ScoobyDoobyRex]

Would love to see the ML vs Touareg vs LR3 on an off-road adventure.

[@RichardVac]

Yes I also want to see it, great! Idea

[@EarthRover]

I had a Touareg and I loved it with no issues.

[@nunya9555]

So, you bought new and sold it with 20k miles?

[@ow-my-achilles1106]

@@nunya9555 HA! I own a Touareg and agree with that statement LOL, But seriously I still own my Touareg, almost touching 100K miles, and have spent 0$ for repairs (10y/100K warranty).

[@moroit1]

@@nunya9555 My touareg is at 440 000km. Front diff needs bearing rebuild and i had to replace suspension compressor. Other than that the fancy AFS light systems RH controller need new SMD transistor. Considering km's that not that bad. Diff is going to be pain in the arse, but as DIY it's costing only few hundred to repair.

[@aidenp5768]

What you said about the Toreg also goes for a BMW X5/6/7, people say they can’t go off-road, you just need an off-road package. A regular X5 for example has steel springs, 8.4 inches of ground clearance no dif lock, while an off road pack will increase it to air suspension, extra cameras, rear dif lock, 10.4 inches of ground clearance and under body protection.

[@kaiyiguan9146]

Touareg, First-gen ML and GL (now known as GLE and GLS, Cayenne (trim GTS and above) , audi Q7/8 can do some medium level off-road, while the X5/6/7 can get stuck at some steep hills or obstacles even with off-road pack and rear locker, but at least compared to last gen BMW SUVs, they are better, while Maserati Levante cannot go off-road even its chassis structure is from Jeep WK2 GCs

[@megarafjogos]

If it doesn't have a body on frame it is not an off-roader. For rallying, the first gen are very good, as is the tfl ML, but the new ones are just taller 5 series wagons... Also, no low range, propper transfer case, IRS and IFS, soo no articulation at all, making the awd useless, because you will always have one of your front wheels on the air. There is only one german off-roader, the G wagon, up until the 2018 version, the new ones are not as good.

[@aidenp5768]

Mega I mean I’m not a true off-roader but what the hell does body on frame improve that another kind can’t ? X5 and X7 have no issues off-roading. At least videos and forums BMWs new X5/X7 with the off-road package they are good off-road SUVs. 10+ inch ground clearance, diff lock, hill descent which I’ve heard was the best hill descent in the car industry from tons of consumers. Also how could one of the best AWD system get stuck? Stop watching bias videos of Audi fan boys putting Xdrive to shame because there’s a real test that shows BMW is better than Quattro and is indeed faster reaction on Xdrive than Audi. Audi shines on the torque they usually have more torque than BMW and that’s why they are good at getting out of stuck situations. Xdrive is just as good as Quattro. Also just because Quattro seems to do better doesn’t make it a better AWD system. BMW definitely makes a better AWD system than any American car brand, any British, Italian and most Japanese’s. Only brand that can stand up against bmw is suburu or Quattro. So stop bringing bmw down for riding the wave of the wrong people like Audi fans which probably the reason why most idiots bring bmw down for the off-roading part. I have a e53 which never been stuck in snow and I live in northern U.S where it dumps snow all the time. I’ve had the car since 2007 so that means something

[@squidproquo2241]

Well their off roading ability is limited with their on road reliability and it sucks LOL!

[@aidenp5768]

Langolier My X5 can’t relate to your claim

[@RichardVac]

I have an 01 ML320 and put over 20k milles, getting the truck in too intermidiate off road situation on mud, snow and steep hills, with no mechanucal issues, great traction, two speeds low range with the break traction controll that can alocate power to any wheel that needs it, I love it, so far reliable ML320. If you are interested in getting one go with a 2001 to 2004 w163 gen, this have being revised and upgraded what was wrong on the 1997-2000

[@jtr990]

When it comes to servicing any German off-roader (i.e.: Mercedes-Benz, VW, etc.), there's a good selection of special tools available on Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress. As long as you know what to buy, it'll save you headaches in the long run.

[@nunya9555]

Because you WILL need all of the tools if you buy any of these vehicles

[@Iconic_Scarab]

Reliability aside that generation Touareg should be regarded on paper as the ultimate SUV especially for its time imo. I mean what else covers as broad of a range of consumer interests with as minimal amount of compromise across the spectrum whilst hitting as high marks in relative terms in any category.

[@zakibbini1]

I had a v6 petrol with no air suspension. The thing was awesome for big sand dune driving, even with 255/55r18 tyres. But i did find that things started to fail after 10 years and repairs were costly.

[@squidproquo2241]

@@zakibbini1 - You mean thing started to fall apart after 3 years or 60,000 kms when the warranty is over.

[@wslater56]

My V10 Has 200,000 miles, i make sure i get it regularly serviced and have avoided turbo and propshaft etc issues to date. I am a fluid change fanatic and so those changes myself more frequently than specified. Happy to pay for maintenance and its torque is very addictive - offroad and onroad - highway overtaking is pure pleasure as the turbo kicks in

[@ogalief]

Even the absolute base model Touareg is actually still designed to be pretty capable. The steel suspension is really durable, handles great, and is much cheaper to fix. Ground clearance isn’t terrible either (though you can add an aftermarket lift kit). The limited slip rear differential is designed for off road use as well, and is a lot more capable than what you would find on pretty much any other crossover. The best off road feature that you can get for it is good tires. Adding underbody protection doesn’t hurt either

[@EnriqueReyesJrREALTOR]

I recently acquired a 2005 Touareg, with the 4.2 V8, and air suspension. The car is awesome, I don't mean because it's perfect without issues. It definitely has had issues since i picked it up, but I have to say, besides my 1974 Porsche Carrera, this car is a blast to drive. I don't mind it having it's issues, and fixing them, the car is really fun to drive. It's just so different, and timeless, people think it's some special limited addition high performance SUV. It is!

[@abymathew295]

WE CAN'T FORGET THE ORIGINAL SUV REVOLUTION STARTED WITH THE MERCEDES M CLASS IN THE MOVIE '' JURASSIC PARK LOST WORLD '' ...THAT WAS AN EPIC BADASS SCENE.

[@squidproquo2241]

LOL! Original SUV revolution started with Mercedes M class? Were you born in the 90's LOL!

[@abymathew295]

@@squidproquo2241 , I know its not true for the US market...but for the international market that scene from the movie jurassic park kick started the SUV craze around the world..

[@squidproquo2241]

@@abymathew295 _ Nope, Mouth watering American market started the craze hence the movies that were made as commercials

[@adurpandya2742]

Aby Mathew I very highly doubt this, and I say this as someone who became interested in such vehicles cause of that movie. Ever seen the movie Hatari?

[@Brandon-ll3ff]

Problem with the Touareg is the maintenance costs. Alternator replacement calls for engine removal to access. This will cost $3,200 at a dealer. There are ways to get to it by removing the entire front passenger suspension but it is not worth the cost.

[@yoyoyyo1982]

I definitely liked the "Arange " orange accents .lol

[@mbrunocondello]

You know what ? Reliability on all of them is not as bad as the internet says - I can speak from experience- I own ML w163 - cayenne - touareg plus have an X5 as well:) - love them all :)

[@infidel24]

As a 2005 vw touareg v8 owner, I'll tell you all the truth! Unless you are skilled enough to work on it yourself and are willing to buy a vag com scanning device, don't buy one. Don't buy anything German built unless you can fix it or have the money to fix it. My touareg has cost about 11 grand to keep it going over the past couple year's. And that's not counting the things I took care of myself. The vw kessy system went bad and was causing major battery drain, I disabled it all. Then I had to track down some corroded factory wire connections and take care of that. They are a lot of work and that goes for all of these German rigs! Choose wisely, would I trade my touareg for a Toyota or a jeep, hell no. I love the thing and will run it until the ending or transmission die!

[@nunya9555]

Spread the word brother! They can be a money pit from hell. I drove the twin turbo V10 diesel Touareg once, and it blew my mind! 125mph by the end of the highway ramp! They are great when they work. But, NOT CHEAP at all once maintenance is figured in. Many known issues with that vehicle, and dedication and wisdom is required. Dedication to repair the issues, and wisdom to know when to walk away.

[@matteofabro2896]

I don't know in america/canada but here in europe the second gen m class, w164, had an optional package called off-road pro and it included dual-range transfer case air- matic suspension (required to get the package) capable of raising the veicle up to 29 cm and center + rear locking diff and also improved 4wd system plus i think skid plates which was available also for the Gl class. Here in euroe the are quiet common, i mean i can finde more of them with that package than vw touareg with air suspension and rear diff lock which are extremly rare, and the advantage is that if someone bought that package, that was like 2700 euros so not too expensive compared to other german off-roader it was all in one package and not like the touaeg wich had 2 separate option for air ride and rear diff lock. So the m class here is a great option and not too expensive, i found one for 4799 euros in great condition which is not too much

[@schmindler]

Tommy, please do/share some Unimog reviews. Best offroader ever!! Greetings from Mexico!

[@randomname5585]

"cheep off-roaders". #1 porsche cayenne, im dead.

[@nunya9555]

He is a child, give him a break, lol. They even had kids music in the intro.

[@maniccrow5695]

They're used. They spent around $27k for both the Porsche and the Mercedes. That's cheap compared to a new Jeep, 4Runner, or any pickup truck.

[@mmodtomic7119]

After seeing your videos about the Touareg I started searching for one to be our adventure vehicle. I was initially comparing it to V8 4runners, Xterra Offroads, Suzuki Grand Vitaras and WK2 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overlands. We finally settled (spending a fair bit less, $4,200) on a WK1 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland. It has AWD, low range and three electronic limited slip / lockers standard. I would love to see a shootout of affordable ($5k to $8k) off road SUVs and see how the WK Overland stacks up!

[@JDHDBS]

So I have both a Lexus GX and a VW Touareg, does that make me the ultimate quirk? ;)

[@LafemmebearMusic]

Yes, please continue your current life path. 🙌🏾

[@malifestro7596]

That is awesome. I am considering a 2014-17 GX, but a low dollar VW also is interesting. I think the GX is probably the smarter choice though, since you can toss any FJ or 4Runner parts at it for the most part. Love to hear your thoughts about those vehicles.

[@JDHDBS]

Malifestro glad you’re considering them! I I have an ‘07 GX470 and ‘11 Touareg. I chose the GX because it is very similar to the LX470 and 100 Series LC but couldn’t find one I was satisfied with in the time frame I needed to get a car in and the GX was the perfect alternative to those. What I like about the GX is that it has solid build quality, very comfortable, it has a 130k miles and despite that the exterior/interior has worn very well. I will have it a while and do not think that I’ll have to worry much about the engine/transmission but the only thing that could be an issue on it is the air suspension. I chose the Touareg because I have been a fan of that car and I think that you get a lot of value for your money with a VW. It drives great, is comfortable on long road trips, and the quality of materials is very good. The car is going to be more maintenance intensive t han the GX, which is a given with German cars. One thing I think is good to know about with the T1 or 2nd gen Touareg is that the battery is under the driver seat, and the battery has to be programmed to the car when you put a new one in. Kind of a pain but just know that. Brakes do wear quicker because it is a heavy vehicle, and if you get a Touareg that is prior to 2016, you do have to put premium in it. Hope that helps! Definitely feel free to ask any other questions.

[@PersianPrinceeee]

Jonathan Harrott hey😂 I have 2 Touaregs and a gx470 toooo

[@squidproquo2241]

That makes you an idiot with a short term memory loss ... You still keep on buying crooked European car makers' junks and they will continue screwing you because they will know that you are an idiot.

[@epsnell]

Take this advice but also buy a Ross tech VAG-COM scanner before you go shopping for a Cayenne or Touareg. I love my Touareg, but wish you had purchased one before i did so i could have seen these videos. I was too impulsive and bought a V8 without air suspension or a rear locker and wish i had gotten all of the bells and whistles. I would very strongly recommend that anyone planning to buy a used Touareg or Cayenne purchase a ROSS-TECH VCDS VAGCOM scanner prior. You'll be able to hook up a laptop and scan for faults that don't trigger an engine or workshop light which will make it more likely you avoid a car with issues. Once you own a VW group vehicle having a VAGCOM will save you a fortune. With a fault you get a recommended course of action to address the issue and in many cases the repair is easy and on youtube and you can find an OEM part online for a 25% of what the dealer is charging. I've had 2 repairs where this has really paid off. The first time, the scan told me i needed new intake manifold actuators after a check engine light went on and I was able to get the actuators for $150 and install them in a half hour when the dealer would have charged me $450 for parts and $150 per hour for 2 hours of labor. The second time, by center diff stopped locking and I was able to use the scan to confirm that i needed a new stepper motor which i bought for $200 online instead of $750 from the dealer and got installed in about 45 minutes.

[@innovator777]

Great info! Thanks!

[@tedhibbard7110]

Not sure about us market but there was an off-road pro-engineering package on the second gen ml, low range, air suspension, centre and rear diff locks

[@toronadogofast7868]

Liked the cayenne wrap. I had a 1977 sabb ems. It was a cool little race car. Exterior was black with orange accents. The interior was black and burnt orange. Never have seen another one.

[@ryanmartinage]

TFL's next project should be an old G Wagon. Do a mild build and show them in action.

[@VinDieselS70]

I'd say the Volvo Laplander 😅

[@morilot]

@@VinDieselS70 Sugga! 😍

[@VinDieselS70]

That's it. A "Sugga", couldn't remember the name other than I knew Red Bull use one for promotion purposes. 😎

[@IdeaCalledFreedom]

I have the first gen cayenne turbo with air suspension and diff locks, it’s awesome! I just need to get smaller wheels and bigger tires and I’m going to start taking it on Colorado trails.

[@libran58]

I have a 2001 ML 270. It has been as reliable as anything else I've owned, so pretty good, and easy to fix myself. Electrics are modules and easy to replace. You need a Torx ratchet set. It is great offroad, I have to use in winter offroad in mountains and with Michelin latitude tyres it has been no problem at all, especially in snow. In snow you don't use the low range. It is permanent 4x4. Seems to me the most practical vehicle ever made, seriously. Tyres make a big difference offroad, low profiles are no good. Not too much electrical stuff to go wrong but still luxurious.

[@RichardVac]

Yes I share the same it has being great, a great experience owning this capable vehicle

[@pklh1214]

As a person that daily a ML320 (w163), and takes it off the pavement on weekend. I'm proud! No-one will make fun of me anymore lol.....

[@IanSR1970]

I love my daily driver '02 ML320, & my ML320 loves playing on the beach. It's a good, fun, reliable car 🇦🇺😎✌️

[@profmiller3524]

When it comes to First Gen Cayennes, don't all the Turbos and Turbo S's have the locking diffs, low range transfer case, and air suspension? In other words aren't they well on their way to a good offload package?

[@CosminDogaru997]

Your Cayenne needs a light bar on top some skid plates and maybe some underbody protection kit or sth to be closer to the original

[@sickjohnson]

Tommy doesn't know about the Porsche launch control...? I am shocked...just a little. No buttons, just press the brake and hold, then floor the gas and release the brake and launch, with not damage as many times as you want.

[@Ryno-fp7pm]

A wise man on another KZbin channel would say "endless money pits."

[@RAAUUULLLL4268]

You mean a Toyota fan boy? 😉

[@Welcometofacsistube]

Biggest hack on KZbin

[@leonvoltaire]

Hades no, give me Chrysler reliability and day of the week, esp after 150k.

[@andraslibal]

Well but he says that about anything that is not a 94 Celica :))))

[@squidproquo2241]

Shh! Truth hurts tell them white lies about European and Kourean cars and how they are the best deal in the market. They have short term memory loss on how VW screwed them. When idiots keep on buying junks Europeans would love to provide them with more junks.

[@Mauser1965]

As usual, TFL having fun as displayed by their smiles and laughter. Loving the comment at 14:00 minute mark, as I was looking for the "angry|hate|bashing" in this content. "Subies" are getting a bit of a following, and are being built. Couple years ago I had my girlfriend get used to the new tires in the snow in the highlands in my region as we didn't get snow in the lowlands. This was done so she could get used to the new tires, but also to become more comfortable with the traction control system which she didn't know how to really use. I should also state that we're everyday people who cannot afford expensive vehicles, but look for certain things in our rigs as we do go at least one a month all year round to go camping regardless of the weather. Couple years ago we spent five days in the highlands in the snow exploring forestry roads. Not knocking bought, but I prefer to build should something go wrong I will have an idea what needs to be done. I'm also one of those that actually owns a torque wrench and my own ODB II|CAN scanner which I refer to as my "R2 unit" to find out whats wrong with "the Falcon". ;) lol Thanks for the coverage and content.

[@dalesakawsky7309]

Love my 300.00 Touareg , had to put a driveshaft in it and 4 tires . Love playing with Mustangs and Camaro's on the highway in it . 3 feet of snow in the winter and V rated tires not ideal but it's a great performer .

[@hedydd2]

UK GL Mercedes all had a two speed transfer box and rear diff lock and air suspension. My friend had a first generation and now has the second generation, or maybe it is a facelifted version. The version before the current one anyhow. Both with the V6 diesel engine. I think the earlier one had 7 G-Tronic while his current one has 9-G-Tronic. A rear side window became unglued on the early vehicle and it had a couple of suspension airbags burst, but no other problems to speak of in 70,000 miles. He doesn't travel quite as much these days but the 'new' one has passed 50,000 miles and has had no problems so far. Should say that he doesn't off-road these vehicles, mainly because he has a choice of other less grand vehicles for work around his rather large farm and other businesses.

[@glyakk]

This is a very well done and honest overview of what to expect if you are more inclined to take on the challenge of one of these vehicles. However, I have very little tolerance for vehicles that are unreliable or prone to failure even if the barrier for entry is low.

[@Ducati279]

The Button at 6.06 min is to disable the Electric Stability Control, the Touareg does not have any disconnectable Swaybar. Aber sonst guter Kanal. Viele Grüße aus Deutschland.

[@hereigoagain5050]

Interesting video. It would be nice to know the full costs including modifications and repairs. Maybe a yearly update.

[@mlhm5]

Sure, just for day trips, or to test the limits of what they can do on rocks or mud, no problem but these cars are not intended for overlanding. Finding an older ML 350 bluetec or 4matic with the on off road package is like looking for a needle in a haystack, so they are inferior to a Rubicon.

[@AlbertArrabal]

I really love all your European off-road vehicle videos, here (in Europe) nobody makes those kind of reviews, you are the best out there! Any BMW or Audi SUV's were any good off-road in Europe either. Only the Q7 had air suspension but it was miles long so didn't go far.

[@RichardVac]

When can we see the ML320 on the rollers test and on other off road videos? Please! Hope soon

[@meanyheadmoto]

just picked up an 06 v10 treg with 200,000 miles nothing wrong with it cant be happier not to mention at 3600 usd i think it was the cheapest tdi touareg in all of history!

[@DrAppleCrispies]

I have a fully loaded vr6 toureg 2004 only option I don't have is the rear diff lock... how do I install rear diff lock?

[@Ethan7s]

No better character building experience than being stranded off road.

[@RADAdv346]

When you are done with the Touareg please send it my way downunder ill adopt it with all my love.

[@janozkk]

How about a Volkswagen Syncro, problem is the Syncro will not be a bargain, $20K for a tin top.

I'd vote for it in no time! Guys, c'mon!

[@roocrew86]

100% agree your comment and logic @ 14:30 about price diff has been my argument for years

[@brian1nmbsc525]

All these years I have had a 2003 Mercedes ML-350. All Wheel Drive all the time. Luxury model, very good condition garage kept, 147,000 miles now. Great off road, knock around car. Its a tank love it. KBB says its worth about $4,000. Property tax and insurance are dirt cheap. Its only needed basic service and repair. Try to find an honest independent old school Mercedes mechanic to work on it. Parts and labor can get pricey with certain shops and dealers.

[@surbahns]

Do not adjust your screens. It’s yellow not orange. :)

[@benpinter1988]

I really like some of these SUVs, but I'm still afraid to buy one. Mainly because I don't feel confident working on these, they require a lot of special tools and knowledge. Even a simple alternator job on the ML here on the channel needed some special hex bits. I'm usually not afraid to wrench on a Jeep or Toyota or any other domestic 4x4 because I can just go to a nearby auto parts store or a junk yard and there will be tons of parts available. I don't remember ever seeing a Touareg at a yard, also very few MLs. If I needed parts, I'd have to buy them on ebay and deal with shipping delays and all that hassle. The other reason is the mechanics in my area. Any European car for them immediately means everything costs double.

[@robertschenkjr69]

Loved my 03' G-Wagon AMG 55 and it def handled the trails

[@diydad6705]

Yep, 15-year-old Gs are sub-$30K now, 99% of them never taken offroad. Yet.

[@morilot]

G-wagon (at least in europe) are avalible as military surplus whith diesel engine and no luxuries.

[@Leonoto]

When it comes to offroading in Germany, the #1 vehicle that comes to my mind is the Unimog.

[@squidproquo2241]

When it comes to your mind RV'ing Unimog comes to your mind again, come to think of it when invading other countries Unimog would come to your mind again. It is called MONOPOLY Your aristocrat leaders are messing up your brain.

[@Leonoto]

@@squidproquo2241 thank you. We got a good laugh from that one.

[@squidproquo2241]

@@Leonoto _ Do you always laugh at things you don't understand? This come back is Tragicomical really.

[@Leonoto]

@@squidproquo2241 ok troll, you're done here.

[@squidproquo2241]

@@Leonoto _ OK! Asshole continue laughing at yourself. Unimog is also used by the armed forces of racist nations. You forgot to count that aspect of this vehicle which is produced by the racist people, as well.

[@littlehedchog123]

I’ve got the trusty ML350 special edition - kiwi $6k, great to tow on the sand to get to my jetski to the fishing spots. Also surprisingly good everyday and all around driver. Has a thirst, but that’s the price to pay. While I haven’t hacked through any back forest tracks, I’m sure I’ll make it within reason 👍

[@RichardVac]

I like your video, it would be great if you would give the ML a second chance, but you need to buy a 2001 to 2005 gen because the ML was revised, many of the bad things that could go wrong on the first MLs ware corrected, including the transfer case they changed the power distribution to the wheels, made it better, more responsive off road than the 1997- 2000 models, interior came with lether electrical adjustment seats more comfortable and many other improvements, adjustments, I can testify positive to what I said because I have a 2001 and it has being incredibly good on/off road.

[@h1hummerh3t]

the w163 (second gen ml) did have a offroad package available (locking diff/higher air suspention)

[@IanSR1970]

W163 is 1st generation ML. W164 is 2nd generation ML, & you're correct re off-road package availability for the W164 chassis.✌️

[@hedydd2]

I found the framed ML to be very unsettled on the road. The problem was that it pitched side to side so that one's head was constantly being pushed from side to side. It is quite unique in this respect and I had to get rid of mine due to every passenger commenting on being bounced from side to side on anything but the very best roads.

[@libran58]

No, mine doesn't do that. Its very smooth on normal roads, and quiet. You must have had something wrong with the tracking.

[@hedydd2]

@@libran58 Tracking and tyre wear and steering were all fine. The suspension geometry just caused year 2000 vehicles to accentuate any dips in the road at right angles to the direction of travel. Otherwise it was fine, although a very cheaply built vehicle, from the time that Mercedes went way overboard on cost-cutting.

[@colinberry2991]

Yes. Please keep spreading the word on cheap German SUVs. So that other people will buy them and the price of 100 series will come down some. 😛

[@damilolaakanni]

😃😄😀

[@damilolaakanni]

You can't go wrong with the 100 series land cruisers.

[@RocHopn]

I am not a German car fan. I dont like the styling or how they over engineer everything, but I really enjoy these videos. TFL always pushing the limits even through the negativity of its viewers and it seems they are having fun doing it. Thanks TFL keep the adventures coming!!

[@kenxiong6830]

You’re not gona be too happy when your German suv breaks down in the middle of nowhere while Toyota’s are driving by you

[@theluckyman74]

Audi invetnted the quattro system used the Vw. They were one of the first Awd racing cars. Yes you can find a Q7 that has all these featres Was thinking of buying my own But it has a 4.2 littre monster, but also, gas guzer, might look for a A4 thats get much better fuel efficiancy

[@Mr_Smith456]

Great content Tomy

[@250boy8]

Is the v6 gas as good as the v8

[@tashricksharaf8720]

The Porsche looks so good . Hi guys what do you think of the Mercedes Benz gl for an offroader I'm thinking of getting a Mercedes Benz gl500 2008 as an offroader .Thoughts ?

[@alimirza7907]

The X164 pre-facelift GL500 is an awesome car, which is a beast, makes tons of power, 382hp & 600Nm+ of torque, the pre-facelift models (2007-2010) might have some 7G Tronic issues, for some users. AIRMATIC suspension, after some 40,000-80,000 miles it might be bagged out, otherwise great SUV. A facelift X164 (2010-2013) might have better reliability due to improved 7G TRONIC, I'm not sure. I'd choose MERCEDES-BENZ over any rivals any day.

[@tashricksharaf8720]

@@alimirza7907 Thank you for your advice .I have looked at The jeep grand Cherokee and commander also the Land rover discovery 3 . Personally I find the build quality a little better on the Mercedes . But I will say that the Jeep grand Cherokee is super reliable There V8 engines just keep on going but avoid the 2.7CRD .Thanks again and I hope you have a wonderful day 😁

[@keithnewton8981]

A fantastic alternative to the Mercedes is the ssanyong Rexton mercedes engine and gearbox with lockable diffs ladder chassis they are go anywhere cars

[@YoDooDSup]

That's actually pretty effin awesome the transrockie....

[@09blackcobaltss]

Great video and very informative and the point about knowing what you are buy is the most important part in buying a older used vehicle whether it be German or otherwise. Touregs are still a decent deal cause of how cheap they are compared to others in the same class but also are harder to find with the options that make it off road worthy. Personally i love to see a Older 90/2000s Blazer or S10 Cheap off road project in the future Cause there are plenty out there and they are even cheaper than anything mentioned here.

[@ethan928]

Help I bought a 2008 Volkswagen Touareg in Australia with airbag suspension. After 1 month I'm having problems with the suspension with the airbags not inflating. The compressor has been replaced. What is wrong?

[@jeffmeyer3600]

The Lamborghini Urus has an off-road package option to it. I know it's Italian but it's German owned so you could technically count this one.

[@neil1482]

Good video. It’s actually reliable and in Europe used parts are cheaper if you know how to fix yourself. I am also looking for the offroad package and it’s difficult to find in the UK as well.

[@aronbennett4760]

Great video as usual...

[@scottgray3945]

I think you should buy and build a 2001-2009 KIA Sorento

[@finerbiner]

Never. That is when someone should buy a used German vehicle. Buying cheap only to be guaranteed massive repair bills is bad advice. Stop spreading these bad ideas.

[@TFLcar]

It sounds like there’s a $150K G Wagon in your future that will never see dirt. If we could only all be so rich!

[@finerbiner]

@@TFLcar No, Just a reliable Toyota. Everyone knows( especially you guys) that rich people lease new German cars and poor people buy used German cars.

[@tomasmica325]

I don’t know buddy, they can be reliable and relatively cheap to maintain if you do the work yourself. First gen ML’s are great examples. Dead simple, and very easy to fix. Built for americans by americans.

[@v12mercedes-benz72]

But one try one

[@Queensizemusic]

This is a great and informative video. Great job, Tommy. I have to say, I would love to have the G-Wagon. It’s the only one I’d be comfortable with, as, yes, the reliability issues concern me. As if being off in some remote location doesn’t already have its whole set of issues to contend with, my vehicle cannot be contributing to the stress level. If I was just taking them out for weekend trail rides, it would be different.

[@a36538]

you should guys should do one on "Used, Cheap, British Off-Roaders!" tons of a cheap land rovers out there...

[@jasonmishler9922]

Where is Tough T now?

[@Miso.P77]

What you think about BMW X5 e53 ? I watched some videos and they look pretty capable with 2 inch lift and off road tyres...

[@johnmunch4738]

What listing services do you use to find your TFL cars/off-roaders? Seems almost like an impossible to task to find these vehicles on AutoTrader or something akin.

[@JogBird]

if you cant afford them new, you def cant afford them used, given the long term maintenance costs

[@buzzpedrotti5401]

A couple of $5k repairs and you still have a unreliable, expensive worn vehicle. Stick to simple.

[@g00fysmiley]

Depends on if you can work on the vehicle yourself or not. If not then yes stay away. If you can ... Just make sure you have a 2nd vehicle :) fun though

[@Meeliskt77]

Well, I have touareg for driving in woods. Scrapyards are full of these here in Europe and if you can work with your car yourself there is nothing very expensive.

[@KriegerDelfin24]

Get the Touareg 2 Euro Spec and ML 350 Diesel 2010

[@RockmanDash]

Are you guys sure that color is right?

[@nunya9555]

It should be brown, because it is a turd.

[@jimbeam5560]

You ain't showing up at a mud bog with one of those strudels!

[@nunya9555]

Don't worry, these vehicles have to be stored in the maintenance department of a dealership 6 months out of the year, lol. Chances are that they would miss the mud festival

[@dzelpwr]

Mud bogs are for flatlanders that have no real off roading to do.

[@joeycooper93]

I wish I had my cayenne lifted like i wanted, I would love to explore the Rockies! It would be different than the Chugach in Alaska!

[@squidproquo2241]

So you can afford a Porsche Cayenne but you can't afford a reliable Toyota 4Runner to explores the Rockies. are you idiots coming out of factory to say such idiotic things to promote European brands?

[@joeycooper93]

@@squidproquo2241 5500 for my cayenne. A beat up POS 4 runner costs twice that.

[@squidproquo2241]

@@joeycooper93 _ Well, the market knows what true quality is. Still, you will get what you pay for.

[@joeycooper93]

@@squidproquo2241 since I can actually work on my vehicles instead of paying someone to fix it I can buy the cheaper more damaged vehicles and make em work way better. By the way, your beloved Toyotas are more expensive to buy, more expensive parts, more of a pain to work on, and overall a pain in the ass.

[@squidproquo2241]

@@joeycooper93 "since I can actually work on my vehicles instead of paying someone to fix it I can buy the cheaper more damaged vehicles and make em work way better. " Since you do that you think that you are the only one in the world who can do that as it seems. "By the way, your beloved Toyotas are more expensive to buy," No they are not. Your distorted perception needs to be corrected. They lose less value than the piece of crap European brands, simply because they are higher quality products. If you don;t believe me go compare the brand new prices of a Toyota 4Runner and a Porsche any model you like LOL! "more expensive parts" Again you lie. It is a well known fact the most expensive vehicle to maintain are European brands. Even if we assume that individual parts are more expensive, and absolutely they are not, due to highest level of quality and engineering you don;t need to replace a part on a Toyota or Honda as often as you need to on a European junk. "more of a pain to work on" LOL! You keep lying. I can work on a any Toyota with generic tools that i bought from any hardware store. However, to work on a European brand I need brand specific tools. LOL! Not only that due to not enough room to work in the engine bay, a European brand is like trying to squeeze your hands into two size smaller gloves. "and overall a pain in the ass." Well, yes, if you are the ass and your ego is bruised with the high quality Japanese products, then they will be a pain in your conscience. LOL! What a deluded bigoted Fidiot.

[@dexterp.2370]

What about the last touaregs the 2015+ years? How good are they for general ownership?

[@MrGarrbo]

Unimog

[@morilot]

Exactly my thought. Or if u wanna go even bigger there is Zetros. Also MAN has some crazy beasts like Kat 1 or TGS. 😁

[@squidproquo2241]

M35 2½-ton cargo truck

[@typxxilps]

try to get the Mercedes G military edition with a Diesel engine that every mechanic can maintain ... the Bundeswehr sold a lot ... and some where exported to the US by a german american used car/truck dealer Michael Manousakis. ... who has an american sales girl named Julie somewhere in Florida I guess

[@michaelgbuck]

Tommy, what tires did you put on the Cayenne? Wildpeak?

[@TFLcar]

yes!

[@roberthoovan4130]

Did I miss something when did I am older German SUVs become a thing for offering

[@BiggMo]

Limited aftermarket parts/upgrade support

[@onememories8523]

Is a 2012-2015 Q7 TDI any good for some light/easy off-road/overland ?

[@LarryRichelli]

If I am looking for a Touareg how do I tell if it has the dif lock and air suspension, thanks

[@dzelpwr]

The rear diff lock is a rarely taken option. The dial in the center console closest to the driver (just in front of cup holders) will have a setting visible at the 6 o'clock position if it has the rear locker. If it doesnt have the rear locker, the furthest setting you'll see on the dial is just a hair below the 3 o'clock position when you're looking at photos. That position is low gear with transfer case locked 50/50. FWIW, when you're in low gear on those early Touaregs, the stability programming automatically changes to an off road mode where it aggressively applies the brakes to wheels detected as slipping to behave somewhat like a locking differential in off road situations. It's not quite as good as a proper mechanical locker, but it's surprisingly effective. Also of note, this only applies to 2003-2010 Touaregs in the U.S.. Starting in 2011 with the all new bodystyle, they got 8 speed transmissions with integrated center differential like Audi's traditional torsen AWD system. No more low gear transfer case with locking differentials. They also stopped offering the air suspension on Touaregs with the 2011 and up models. So, if you want a Touareg with all the off road goodies, you have to buy an old one.

[@dzelpwr]

I've probably worked on 8 Early Touaregs in the last couple years where I've actually bothered to take note of which ones have the rear locker... only 2 had the rear locker. And 5 of those 8 were very well loaded V10 diesels with air suspension. I bought a V10 with all the goodies and now owners are starting to bring them to me for service since I'm one of the few who outwardly has shown competence in diagnosing and repairing them.

[@ixkid23]

What packages on the cayenne turbo would you not skip out on? I've been looking for a 958 either gts or turbo to do an overlander type of build.

[@nh_2923]

Andere Zuschauer aus Deutschland hier? 😅

[@lukasrovina]

nh_292 fast, aus der Schweiz 😉😂

[@micheljansen85]

Ja genau, fast, Niederlande hier 😜

[@thomaswuttke6984]

Ja, hier!

[@cjvx7208]

@TheFastLaneCar .. what happened to the Isuzu logo that was on the front of the table

[@goingofftherails9877]

Great job Tomas. Very good analysis and comparisons . But one thing you didn't mention is Image. People are what they drive, or at least we like to think we express ourselves with our 4x4 . Carhartts and ball caps don't quite fit in a Porsche even though I might actually enjoy driving one.

[@luketiehen2774]

I would love to see some stats/data on “going to be expensive to fix” people often say that about European vehicles but I haven’t experienced that being the case having owned Land Rover, Volvo, Honda, Nissan, ford, what does it mean “expensive” relative to what? I would love to see a video explore if the Myth/Fact on the real world second hand do it your self Maintenance /fix.

[@zakibbini1]

In my experience with owning German & Japanese cars, there is a comparable difference. In my case 2010 Touareg 2 and 2002 LX470. Parts and labour the Touareg was typically 20% more expensive to repair. AND the Touareg had more things fail on it than the LX despite the LX being and older car and doing much much more offroad driving. Overall ownership cost (not including fuel) the Japanese car will win out, BUT the german cars are so much more comfortable on street.

[@rogerj412]

TFL should get a VehiCross.

[@andraslibal]

If you are in Europe ... they are NOT expensive to fix. Parts are cheaper and mechanics are familiar with the cars.

[@jorredehaan9399]

i have an 2006 w164 ml with low range skidplates and locking diff's from the factory?

[@TFLcar]

Is this a question?

[@jorredehaan9399]

No just a comment.

[@neilmurphy845]

How does the auto locking diff and auto leveling suspension work

[@Welcometofacsistube]

The only truth is that they're overpriced endlessly money pits that still wouldn't out do an old xj.

[@V8AmericanMuscleCar]

And that is true. I had the opportunity to see it with my own eyes.

[@bobthebuilder4400]

Can you guys do a 2016 Audi A8 sport