IT'S Volkswagen's first venture into the luxury 4x4 market and the Touareg is one of the most sophisticated vehicles in its field.
With class-leading comfort, top-of-the-range specifications and a whole host of gadgets and safety features, it's clear to see why the second generation turbodiesel Touareg is going from strength to strength.
But for me, it's all about the drive, and believe me, the Touareg delivers on all counts.
In and around town, the high-seated driving position means all-round visibility is relatively good, although the seemingly dustbin lid-sized wing mirrors proved a bit of an obstruction and hazard at times, resulting in me craning my neck to double check for pedestrians and cyclists at crossings and roundabouts.
But it's out on the open road where the Touareg and its permanent four-wheel drive really excels. The six-speed automatic transmission smoothly shifts through the gears and the 3.0-litre engine delivers plenty of power.
Inside, there is ample room for five adults complete with luggage and there is an abundance of handy storage compartments throughout.
And there are plenty of user-friendly features to make the drive more enjoyable, including a leather multi-functional steering wheel with controls for cruise control, the on-board computer and sound system options.
In addition, there is an incredible £6,000-plus worth of extras, such as an automatic dimming rearview mirror, a rain sensor for the wipers, outstanding self-levelling headlights and an audible and visual parking sensor, so the list of features just goes on and on.
As one might expect from VW, the safety specification is most impressive too with an advanced anti-lock brake system, hydraulic brake assist, electronic stabilisation programme, anti-slip regulation, numerous airbags and even a crash sensor which results in the doors automatically unlocking in the event of an accident.
All in all, it's clear to see why the Touareg has scooped so many accolades - it has fabulous looks, great handling and an abundance of classy features.
For me, the only flaw was those huge mirrors, but that's it.
FAST FACTS
Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 V6 TDi SE
Price: £36,890
Mechanical: 240ps, V6, 2,967cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 127mph
0-62mph: 8.3 secs
Combined mpg: 28.5
Insurance group: 17
CO2 emissions: 262g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust