This third generation of the Touareg, VW’s flagship SUV, is wider and longer, with a more aggressive look. All versions come with VW’s 4Motion four-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic gearbox. This model is packed with driver aids and gadgetry. We tested the range-topping 3.0 V6 TDI 286PS R-Line Tech.

So what are we looking for? Is the Touareg good enough to rival the likes of the Audi Q7, Land Rover Discovery, and Mercedes-Benz GLE? Does it have the on-road presence and interior quality to go toe-to-toe with rivals from more upmarket brands? And is the car’s technology a help or a hindrance? Finally, and most importantly, how well does it tow?