IN the world of larger-than-life SUVs the Volkswagen Touareg has always been out front vying for top spot amongst the pace-setters, but now the latest model has really upped the ante.

With stylish new design features, a whole host of on-board technical wizardry and all the comfort and versatility options you could possibly wish for, the Touareg has cemented its position as a leader in the large SUV segment.

Powered by a 3.0 V6 262ps diesel-driven engine, the vehicle really looks the business with its muscular stance, distinctive large grille, body-coloured front and rear bumpers, privacy glass, black roof rails, 18-inch alloys, sweeping light clusters and twin tailpipes.

The interior has certainly been spruced up too and boasts an eight-inch colour touchscreen with 60GB hard drive, sat nav, DVD player, DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control, leather seats and a whole lot more besides.

The car also featured a number of optional extras such as a ‘Dynaudio' soundpack costing £1,165 which introduces a 10-channel digital amplifier, 600 watt output and 12 speakers.

There was also an electrically-heated, leather trimmed multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifts (£325), an advanced air suspension system (£2,180), front rear and side cameras (£925), a swivelling towbar that locks way underneath the bumper when not in use (£765) and a whole range of extra safety features in a Driver's Assistance Pack costing £2,395.

These options along with metallic paintwork did bump up the asking price from £45,420 to £53,925, which although high, is still relatively competitive in the sector.

But the Touareg, complete with its 4MOTION permanent four-wheel-drive, is not just about looks and creature comforts. It's a vehicle that knows how to perform when put to the test and stats such as the 0-62mph sprint time of 7.6 seconds and top speed of 137mph are testament to the Touareg's capabilities.

Despite its size, the car is deceptively agile and the manoeuvrability also impresses although those cameras and parking sensors are an added bonus when parking.

In busy city centres, the driver's high seated position is invaluable with cars darting out from all angles and then out on the faster country lanes and motorways the vehicle really comes into its own.

The acceleration is beautifully smooth as it moves effortlessly through the eight-speed automatic transmission and the cabin remains wonderfully quiet thanks to the car's highly efficient insulation which stifles any road, engine or wind noise.

The road-holding is very sure-footed and the precise and light steering is another plus factor especially when travelling along long, winding lanes. Once again the added height for the driver is worth noting when looking ahead across hedgerows for emerging tractors etc.

All passengers have high levels of comfort and there is ample room in the rear for two or three adults.

Storage options are good too with a boot capacity of 580 litres, which can be increased to 1,642 litres with the 60:40 split-folding rear seats dropped down. In addition, there is a good-sized glovebox with the CD/DVD stashed away inside, cup holders, a deep central bin, large door pockets, a covered tray on top of the dashboard plus a fold-down arm in the middle of the rear seats that houses a storage tray and cup holders.

Another feature of note is economy as according to official figures, the Touareg can deliver a creditable 40.9mpg on a combined run with carbon emissions of 180g/km.