Sector: SUV Price: £47,070 Fuel: 39.2mpg CO2: 189g/km

Volkswagen plays a good trick with its R-Line trim level, usually introducing it to pep up the appeal of a model which has been around for a while.

And that’s just the case with the Touareg R-Line – a big and impressive SUV which has sat under the radar for some time now. But a dose of the R-Line treatment has injected fresh appeal into the model ahead of an all-new version arriving later this year.

Based on the well-equipped Altitude model, R-Line specification brings 20-inch alloy wheels, deeper front, rear and side trims and LED lights. There are also bi-xenon headlights which swivel as the car goes round a corner.

Inside, extra features include a full length panoramic sunroof, keyless entry and start and an electric tailgate. This builds on an already generous level of equipment which includes DAB radio and integration with iPods and SD cards, satellite navigation via a large touch screen, dual-zone climate control and leather seats (heated in the front).

Under the bonnet is a beefy 3.0-litre V6 diesel twinned with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. With 245bhp on tap and a massive dollop of torque from way down in the rev range this Touareg makes easy progress for such a big vehicle.

Handling is also impressive, despite the sheer size and weight. While you’re always aware of the momentum you are carrying in the car, it feels so much more controllable and willing to corner than a Land Rover Discovery. 

It all adds up to a very tempting package. While the Volkswagen badge lacks the snob factor of a Discovery, Range Rover Sport or a Porsche Cayenne, the Touareg provides a less obvious alternative – and with some great leasing deals being offered at the moment it gets even more tempting.