This is the new version of Volkswagen’s Touran mini-MPV, redesigned from the ground up, according to the German brand, and offering more space, kit and efficiency.
While at first glance it’s not easy to spot that this is a new generation of vehicle, the Touran sits on VW’s latest platform, dubbed MQB, and is 130mm longer than its predecessor, 113mm of which is in the wheelbase to create more interior space.
Still a seven-seater as standard on all models, the Touran has a new fold-flat arrangement that sees the five rearmost seats easily drop into the floor, while on SE trim upwards the back of the front passenger seat folds flat for carrying of lengthy loads. There’s plenty of space in the middle row, where all three seats independently slide to create more space where required.
Emissions drop in part thanks to weight reductions of up to 62kg, and the range starts at 111g/km for the 1.6-litre diesel engine with the DSG automatic gearbox. The same engine with the manual, driven here, is at 116g/km, which isn’t a great entry point for a new model, when rivals from Ford, Peugeot, Renault and Vauxhall are in the 105-115g/km range, and Toyota’s Prius+ hybrid is down at 96g/km.
With the exception of the Toyota, all those mainstream rivals are at least £1500 cheaper, and most are nearer £3000 less to buy, than the Touran, which is admittedly well-equipped in this SE Family trim. Drop down to SE level – the second of four trims – and the Touran makes a lot more sense, with the residual value advantage the VW enjoys being just about enough to recover the P11D deficit.
But that means missing out on the panoramic sunroof, rear window blinds and satellite navigation that are among the extras the SE Family trim brings. Fundamentally, you’re paying a premium for the VW badge versus more volume-bracket rivals that do, at least, an equally good job.
To drive, the Touran is incredibly unremarkable, managing to cause no offence nor offer anything in the way of a memorable experience. Which is probably a good thing for a car whose primary function is family transport. With the third row of seats down the boot is a good, large, square mass of carrying potential, while interior quality and design are both good.
In many ways the Touran sums up how Volkswagen designs and develops its mainstream cars. It’s practical, sensible and understated, but lacking in character, design flair and wow factor. The trouble in this case is the new model isn’t as efficient as what is already in the market, and its higher P11D means a cost per mile that all the volume brands can better.
