Size and style

Matt Kimberley

You’ll probably have already noticed the updated front end styling, which takes the flagship Golf’s look and up-scales it for the Touareg’s epic dimensions. This mid-life refresh has a lot going on under the skin, too.

The V6 TDI diesel engine, which comes in two power levels, is now cleaner, with more power from the higher-output version. They’ve been modified to comply with Euro 6 emissions legislation, but there’s a crucial AdBlue additive that owners will need to keep topped up. Looks and image For a large SUV the Touareg manages to look impressively inoffensive. It dodges the brash, Chelsea Tractor look of plenty of its often more expensive confederates, and that can only be a good thing for Volkswagen’s target buyers. There’s also an offroad biased model with a higher ride height, smaller alloy wheels and differential locks, which looks the business and tackles serious mud-plugging amazingly well when fitted with knobbly tyres. Space and practicality If you’re close pals with the BFG then he might not fit in the back, but for everyone else there’s limo-like space and a broad cabin that makes it possible to slot three wriggling kids in across the rear bench seat without having them bash shoulders.

The boot lip is quite high as you’d expect, but handy touches like (optional) adjustable air suspension can lower it. Towing capacity is up to 3.5 tonnes, and a special reversing camera can help solo occupants hitch a caravan or trailer without help.

Plenty of space in the engine bay means extra room for sound insulation, and the Touareg is as quiet as two church mice having a staring contest. The engine is barely audible at a steady cruise, and wind noise is very well subdued.

Value for money There’s enough reading in the standard equipment list to keep you busy for an afternoon, and while prices have increased you do get a little more for your money.

The options list is very expensive, though, with four-figure sums next to many of the most desirable tick-boxes. Adding a few choice extras can heavily knock the car’s perceived value for money.

The Touareg isn’t just a ‘cheap’ alternative to something like an Audi Q7 or a Porsche Cayenne.

It’s more sensible, less in-yourface and would be better for families or business users who want this size of vehicle without the arrogance factor.

It’s also as practical as a pair of sturdy old boots, only it looks a lot nicer.