Road test: Volkswagen Touareg Escape

You would be forgiven for not having noticed the latest upgrades to VW’s big, beefy Touareg; it’s a case of “blink and you’ll miss them”. But they’re enough to mark it out from its predecessors.

I’ve always liked VW’s big, bluff SUV for its combination of relaxed, long-distance on-road manners, high build quality, spacious accommodation — and the fact that if you want to, you can venture some way off-road, too, especially in the Escape model.

So what are the latest changes? Sleeker bumpers, Xenon lights across the range, a revised four-bar grille and eye-catching LED running lights front and rear.

On the road, the big, smooth, solid V6 TDi — choose 201 or 258bhp — is very much at the heart of the car, the more powerful unit in particular providing impressive waves of power for long journeys, safe overtaking or towing duties. Inside, the fit and finish are evident; there’s every reason to feel cosseted driving this one.

Handling is nicely composed for a tall, heavy vehicle with well-controlled body-roll and tons of grip. The eight-speed auto gearbox is slick; you’re always in the “right” gear. A superb all-round package — if pricey.

Volkswagen Touareg Escape
Top speed: 137 mph; 0-62 mph: 7.6 secs;
Combined MPG: 40.9: 
CO2: 180g/km;
Price: £45,605