VW's upmarket off-roader is one of the best-looking 4x4s around.

The Touareg is one of the best-looking vehicles we've tested. Many manufacturers claim their models boast presence coupled with a sense of dynamism - the Touareg actually delivers.

Make no mistake this is a big, luxury SUV. It won't give much change out of a parking space and reversing into one requires concentration. But it handles well, feeling very stable through corners while living up to its luxury tag by leaving the driver feeling fresh after a long journey. Of course many of the driver aids supplied among the off-road features also benefit the on-road performance.

It's practical, fun to drive and shifts along at a fair rate. But we reckon the real reason for buying this car is it is drop-dead gorgeous, and looks even better driven than stationary.