Volkswagen Tiguan £35,900

The new and improved version of this popular SUV is well equipped to make the step up from family car to off-road giant, says Ed Coles

- Ed Coles

Since its introduction in 2007, the Tiguan has proven a popular vehicle for the modern 2.4-children family. Normally associated with the school run or a weekend trip to a National Trust property, the latest version could tick a few Shooting Times boxes.

With the addition of all-wheeldrive, the new 4Motion Tiguan could be ideal for the modern family to handle town, country and a little more. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the all-new Tiguan 4Motion all-wheel-drive Elegance.

The Tiguan is available in six trim levels. This version is the Elegance, which is a higher-spec model before you go offto the realms of sportiness with the R-Line and R versions.

It looks relatively pleasing on the eye for an SUV. The overall DAN silhouette is a bit more refined than its predecessor. Most of the upgraded body styling is at the front, where new LED IQ lights and redesigned bonnet and grille have made it look like a baby Touareg. The contrasting chrome trims and 19in graphite and diamond-cut wheels give it a high-end feel with a hint of bling.

When I pulled out a feed bag and crouched down, things looked relatively promising. With 201mm ground clearance, in theory the Tiguan should be able to handle an offpiste excursion. It all looks reasonably robust underneath, but the road tyres could be the Achilles heel.