Testing times continues for Volkswagen Touareg

Fact: Giving your two-tonne SUV the face of the hot hatch in your line-up isn't going to make it go like one.

So, when VW claimed that the dolled up new Touareg was much better to drive, we were admittedly a tad sceptical. After all, it's considerably larger than the model it replaces.

But here's the crucial bit: despite the boosted dimensions, the new Touareg is 200kg lighter.

And since reduced lard usually equals better handling, performance and fuel economy, the newcomer is a huge improvement when it comes to driving dynamics.

It's not a GTI botherer, not by a long shot, but it is remarkably well sorted for a high-riding 4x4. Even our V6 version feels suitably nimble and well controlled in corners.

There are some issues though. Starting with the reversing camera, which doesn't like being rushed into action. You slip the gearbox into R and wait for signs of life on the LCD. Then you wait some more. Eventually, your patience wears thin and you pull out anyway, crashing into a car that you didn't notice was behind you. Because you were too busy staring at the blank screen.

You reach for the door handle to get out, and inadvertently press one of the seat memory buttons, which are neatly placed close to it. Sure enough, the seat gracefully slides into a preset driving position, which in the case of our Touareg must have been for someone who is 5m tall.

However, if you look past these minor quirks, this Vee Dub is a magnificent car. The brand new eight-speed transmission and the 3.6-litre six-pot work in perfect harmony to deliver soothing performance. It is possibly one of the most serene cars this side of a Lexus.

As a family hauler, the Touareg ticks all the right boxes. It rides well and has plenty of space. Sure, it has its share of problems but that doesn't detract from its abilities as a device for moving people safely and in great comfort.

Gizmos don't always a good car make, you know. And that's a fact, too.

Facts

• Driven by: Amit
• Start mileage: 2,810km
• Recent cost: Fuel
• Average fuel economy: 21-22mpg
• Highs: Smooth ride
• Lows: Some of the technology is a bit lazy