The name sounds odd, but the Touareg offers a comfortable ride and spirited performance—something we all can understand. Its 3.6-liter V-6 makes 280 hp and is mated to an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. The Touareg is large, comfortable, and solid—plus it’s equally at home both on and off the pavement. A standard touchscreen infotainment display is functional but dated; the optional adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking, however, are well engineered and effective.
PROS Comfortable, tech-laden interior Active safety functions 3.5 tonne towing, real off-road ability Ride on standard air suspension
CONS No seven-seat option Lacks a full-size spare tyre Expensive for a Volkswagen
Genuinely capable 4x4 can seat seven and tow big loads.
PROS Tough, rugged and reliable workhorse Far better than previous model Huge boot in five-seat mode Seven-seat version available CONS Ride can be choppy Not much engine/gearbox choice Relatively unknown brand Low fuel economy and high tax
The Rexton is a well-priced SUV that has a lot of boot space for the money and can carry seven people. Reviews are fairly poor though since it’s not good to drive, noisy and has a dull image. It is one of the cheapest ways to move large loads and more people than usual however, so if you’re in that market then it’s worth a look.
Pros Good off-road Practical Long warranty
Cons Poor ride Noisy Outdated
The Rexton’s four-wheel drive system spends most of its life driving the rear wheels only, diverting power to the front when conditions get more slippery. In most of the cars sold in the UK it will be controlled through a Mercedes-sourced seven-speed automatic transmission - but a six-speed manual is likely to be offered on entry-level editions. The dashboard has a clean look - again, with some cues from the Tivoli - but cross-stitched material panels and Nappa leather add a touch of luxury. The equipment on offer will include dual-zone climate control, a powered rear tailgate that opens automatically when the keyholder has been standing behind it for three seconds, and a new level of safety kit for SsangYong, including nine airbags and rear cross-traffic alert.
