Volkswagen sporty R-Line Second-Generation

By the time the first examples of the new Touran arrive in UK showrooms in November, it will be a little over 12 years since the Touran name plate first burst onto the scene. This time around, the multi-purpose vehicle makes use of the modular transverse matrix, more commonly referred to as the MQB platform that means that this car shares common architecture and engines with a wide range of other Volkswagen Group products, including the Golf and Passat.

The new Touran will be offered in the UK with a choice of five- or seven-seats this time around, and grows by 130 millimetres in length. Much of this extra length has been added to the wheelbase, which increases by 113 millimetres, delivering extra space for passengers, as well as a bigger boot. It’s wider than before, too, with a roofline that is marginally lower than before. Volkswagen designers have taken a fresh look at all aspects of the car’s versatility, and a new lighter weight, fold-flat seating system has been created, where the third and second row of seats fold down easily to create a level platform. The second row of seats, with three individual chairs, can be slid forward and aft to balance between extra legroom or carrying capacity and the rake of the seat back adjusted for greater comfort. In the third row of seating, there’s an extra 54 millimetres of space for legs, and 13 millimetres more
headroom, and access has been optimised compared to the outgoing car, with an easy-entry function that slides the seat forward in front, for easier access. Storage has been enhanced, too, with up to 47 different compartments dotted around the cabin.

Under the bonnet are the latest generation TDI engines, with a choice of an entry-level 108bhp 1.6-litre TDI unit, or a pair of 2.0-litre TDI units developing 148 and 188bhp. The latter unit is paired exclusively to a six-speed twin-clutch DSG automatic transmission, with the other two units offered with a choice of manual or automatic gearboxes. In the Touran’s most frugal form, in 1.6-litre TDI DSG Automatic guise, 68.9mpg is quoted as the official combined fuel economy figure, with is 7.5mpg more fuel efficient than the outgoing model. Thanks to new weight saving techniques, the new Touran is up to 62 kilograms lighter than its predecessor.

A range of new technology has been incorporated into the Touran for the first time, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a pre-crash occupant protection system, traffic jam assist and trailer assist, as well as a range of other safety devices. LED headlights replace the bi-Xenon units that the previous generation Touran had, and there’s the option of an electric rear tailgate for the first time. The conventional hand brake lever is abandoned in favour of an electric item, and there’s the option of selectable driving modes for the first time. Connectivity of smartphones is given a high priority, with the availability of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink for the first time, all operated via the infotainment system with either five- or eight-inch touchscreen displays.

The all-new Touran makes its debut at the Geneva motor show, before arriving in UK showrooms in November. As well as offering the choice of five- or seven-seats, sporty R-Line editions are being offered for the first time, a sign that this MPV is a whole lot more dynamic in both appearance and driving experience compared to its predecessor.