VOLKSWAGEN is releasing a new version of the Touareg large SUV in Britain and it comes with lights that don't dazzle, upgraded running gear and extra comfort.

Priced from £67,640, it features VW's newly-developed IQ.Light HD LED matrix headlights which use 38,432 LEDs to turn night into day.

Three light modules in each headlight create an unmistakable design and project a lane of light ahead of the driver to provide maximum visibility without dazzling oncoming traffic.

There's also lighting for cornering and poor weather and with the optional Night Vision assist system which detects people and animals using a thermal imaging camera and shows them on the cockpit and optional head-up display.

VW claims the Touareg has one of the best lighting and night vision systems in the world.

With a redesigned front end it includes an illuminated horizontal strip in the radiator grille, a similar line across the rear also offers an illuminated red brand logo - a first for any Volkswagen model in the UK.

The new Touareg is available in five powertrains, each with a 3.0-litre V6 power unit - one turbocharged petrol engine (340ps), two turbodiesel engines (231 and 286ps) and two plug-in hybrid drives using a V6 petrol engine plus electric drive motor.

The plug-in hybrid drive of the Touareg eHybrid delivers 381ps and the Touareg R eHybrid has 462ps tp call on.

All engines are paired as standard with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and permanent all-wheel drive.

Among the car's features is a roof load sensor works with the vehicle electronics and running gear for increased agility when carrying a roof box, and the all-wheel-drive Touareg has high-tech options such as active roll compensation and all-wheel steering.

Volkswagen has also upgraded the Touareg's interior for added comfort on long journeys, including soft armrests and even padding on the centre console to cushion people's knees from bumps. New door panels made of a foamed material come with attractive double decorative seams.

Recommended retail prices range up to £80,370.