Where once you’d expect a big saloon to top a brand’s range, it’s more frequently an SUV these days. It’s a sign of the times, perhaps, that these taller and supposedly utilitatarian vehicles are now being normalised, even in the car price stratosphere. The Volkswagen Touareg is the perfect example, packing the fanciest tech and plushest feel of any car in the lineup.

The third-generation Touareg was launched in 2018 and received a facelift in 2023. It spans the gap between luxury and usable very well, helped by its plush interior and high levels of refinement. The most recent facelift allowed it to go tyre-to-tyre with the best large SUVs in the business, often at a much lower price.

These include competition that’s very close to home, notably the similarly five-seat Porsche Cayenne. There’s also the seven-seat Audi Q7 for those that need even more room. Other seven seaters include the Mercedes-Benz GLE, not to mention the BMW X5. We’ve put in serious miles in a number of versions both in the UK and overseas – and to understand on our process of putting it into context by checking out our how we test cars page.

The Touareg is an imposing-looking beast, incorporating elements of various other Volkswagens, although it also has a whiff of the Bentley Bentayga in profile – no surprise as they are distant relatives within the VW Group. The facelift brought new front and rear bring light bars, and a more aggressive, in-your-face look. Wheel sizes were increased by an inch across the board, too.

Inside, all models get a 15.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system and 12.0-inch digital driver’s display that’s housed in a large panel directly ahead of the driver. There’s HD mapping for the satnav and the USB ports have switched from A to C (just like your smartphone). The charge rate has tripled to 45w, so fast charging of compatible devices is possible.

The model range comprises of Elegance, Black Edition and the performance-focused R, and all are well equipped. The entry-level model features 20-inch alloy wheels, gesture control for the infotainment set-up, front and rear parking sensors with a rear-view camera and adaptive cruise control. Black Edition adds 21-inch wheels, air suspension and Park Assist Pro. 

The engine range is based around the firm’s impressive 3.0-litre V6. There are two diesels, one with 231hp and the other with 286hp, a 340hp petrol and two plug-in hybrids. The regular eHybrid gets 381hp and the high-performance R 462hp.

To find out if the Volkswagen Touareg can see off plusher, more luxurious rivals, read on for our comprehensive review. We’ll tell you how practical it is, how plush it feels and how good it is to drive. You’ll also find out if we’d recommend one of its rivals instead.