WE DON’T LIKE

Uncomfortably large Overcomplicated interior Less of an SUV than before

Wheel-arch protectors are plain black in SEL trim but body coloured for R-line cars, further playing down the Touareg’s utilitarian roots. R-line trim also brings more sporting side skirts and sills.

Chromed exhaust tips sit at the extremities of a gloss black diffuser. Given the power and torque on tap, they are appropriately assertive although the genuine article can still be seen within. Optional ‘Iq.light’ headlights use 128 LEDS and can, by way of an alert, briefly flash pedestrians in potential danger. This ‘spotlight’ feature is only available in conjunction with Night Vision.

Third-gen car has far stronger rear haunches than its predecessor, a more dramatically tapering window opening and far more steeply raked D-pillars.

Superbly sharp tail-light clusters extend across the back and wrap around the corner of the rear bodywork. Like the headlights, they use LEDS and exhibit an ‘L’ motif.

Base models come with 19in wheels, and R-line increases that by an inch. These diamond-turned 20in Nevada alloys come as standard, although we tested a car on optional 21in rims.

Broad, spaced-out styling of the ‘Touareg’ badge has an unusually premium feel by the standards of Volkswagen and seems to take inspiration from sibling-brand Porsche.

 Vast front grille is integrated with the headlights. Chrome finish caters to Chinese tastes and European buyers will have the option of a black finish.