VW Touareg 3.0 TDI SE

LOOK beyond the understated styling, and the Touareg is very talented. Its 3.0-litre turbodiesel powerplant is superb, blending strong pace and economy, while the ride is supple and relaxing. The handling is pleasingly car-like, too, and as with all VWs, the cabin is simple, easy on the eye and solidly built. So while the newcomer doesn’t feel as special as some of its more expensive rivals, it all adds up to a great all-rounder.

THE Touareg has hit the UK! Volkswagen’s all-new SUV has finally arrived on our shores – and Auto Express got behind the wheel to see what buyers can expect.

Not only is the car bigger and more luxurious than before, it’s also lighter, more efficient and better to drive. Is it the best yet?  

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the VW Touareg

[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"content_narrow","fid":"69261","attributes":{"alt":"","class":"media-image"}}]]

At first glance, you could be forgiven for being underwhelmed, as the latest family face makes the newcomer appear similar to the rest of the VW range.

Look more closely, though, and the shape has been enhanced by some classy detailing, including LED headlights, chunky exhausts, taut body panels and chrome
roof rails and window trim.

It’s not a big departure from the original Touareg, but is understated and muscular. And you’re left in no doubt that it’s a premium product.

Inside, many of the switches and components will be familiar to owners of other VW models, including the instruments and the massive eight-inch colour touchscreen. The latter looks imposing, but the scaled-up graphics make it appear a little basic rather than hi-tech.

Still, the display provides plenty of useful information, such as audio settings, sat-nav mapping and even an off-road monitor, which gives steering angle, compass and altitude. Even in its basic form, the VW is well equipped, with leather seats, climate control and parking sensors all included as standard. The cabin is generally well finished, although there are some lower-quality plastics evident if you look hard.

One of the biggest surprises is the driving position, which can be set really low to make the Touareg feel more like a car than an SUV. There’s plenty of room in the rear, the large windows let in lots of light and the 580-litre boot is bigger than before.

What impresses most is the engine. The 3.0-litre V6 TDI diesel delivers its 237bhp of power to all four wheels in a smooth and refined manner. It’s hooked up to an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, and propels the Touraeg from 0-62mph in less than eight seconds.

Body control is decent for such a large 4x4, and the 18-inch wheels and supple suspension combine to provide a relaxed and comfortable ride. Increase your speed and the car begins to shrink around you, with our only criticism being the slightly vague steering.

Stop/start technology helps the newcomer to return claimed combined fuel economy of 38.1mpg, while it puts out 195g/km of CO2. For an SUV, that’s not bad – in fact, the new VW is one of the most eco-friendly cars in its class.

Head off-road, and it should prove capable, as hill hold, hill descent and start assist systems are all included as standard. In addition, a rotary dial on the transmission tunnel allows you to toggle between on and off-road functions to get the most from the car.

The Touareg doesn’t have the visual glamour of some of its SUV rivals, but it shouldn’t be underestimated. Under that subtle body is a great engine and quality interior, while strong eco credentials and sound dynamics complete an attractive package.