THE compact SUV market is the toughest to crack at the moment with every major manufacturer competing for sales.

Volkswagen were quick off the mark when they launched the popular Tiguan back in 2007 and the second generation model arrived back in June to make sure that the model continues to rack-up sales.

Longer, lower and wider than its predecessor, the new Tiguan sits on the same MQB platform as the Golf and a host of other VW group offerings - that's not a bad thing as it is one of the best in the business.

The old Tiguan was starting to look its age against more modern opposition and the new model will have more appeal in a very style driven market.

The design is much sharper than before and takes a lot of features from the Golf.

There is a distinctive grille, sleeker front bumper, a neat headlight design with daytime running lights and LED taillights.

At the top end off-road models get more underbody protection and bigger approach and departure angles, while R-Line cars get bi-xenon headlights, larger alloys, sportier bumpers and sports seats.

I sampled the SEL Off-Road 2.0-litre TDI version which features the 150ps diesel engine matched to a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox.

It is good for 62mph in 9.3 seconds and can go on to 124mph without any fuss. With emissions of 149g/km the claimed combined fuel economy is 49.6mpg and I got very close to that figure.

In town the Tiguan an ideal view of the road and other traffic and the light steering makes it easy to park. Out on the open road it is even better with the suspension dealing with all kinds of surfaces and even when you push it hard there is very little body roll.

You can select between four different modes - Eco, Comfort, Normal and Sport - with the latter setting leading to quicker throttle and steering responses.

As you would expect, the interior offers premium quality and a raft of equipment along with all the latest technology. The controls and instruments are logically laid out and the cabin is a nice place to be.

This model cost £32,810 and featured all the equipment you would need and with a few added options the eventual asking price was £38,460.

For that money you get an upgraded satnav system, an electric tailgate, Vienna leather upholstery, a winter pack which heats even the rear seats, a heated steering wheel and a driver's seat that can give you a decent massage.

The Tiguan features all the latest safety equipment and is also very practical with a 615 litre boot and you can drop the rear seats easily if you want to increase that to 1,655 litres.

Most Tiguans will probably be sold as front-wheel-drive models but this car featured VW's clever 4MOTION system which gives it more off-road potential and extra security in poor weather conditions.

The Tiguan is certainly a more expensive option in this crowded market but it does offer bags of class and will continue to be a big seller in the UK for VW behind the Polo and Golf.