VW brand products often pride themselves in offering good value for money, and despite this being VW’s most expensive model by far, the new Touareg is still on average a little bit cheaper to purchase than its direct rivals.

The question is then just how well it measures up to the competition, and while things might look really good on paper, an in-depth analysis of the Touareg’s shortcomings might just prove sufficient so as to have you look elsewhere for a premium people hauler.

At least that’s what Carwow presenter Mat Watson seems to think, after finding himself less than impressed with the SUV’s interior built quality. He also noticed the Touareg’s slow to react automatic transmission, which doesn’t really help its case against something like a BMW X5.

Still, the biggest issue has to be that of hard and scratchy plastics on various surfaces inside the cockpit. We don’t get the sense that the interior is poorly built overall, but it’s just not on the same level as that of its rivals, according to Watson.

Then there’s the seating position, which is quite low – some drivers might like that, while others not so much, especially if they’re looking for a more commanding view.

As for things he did like about the Touareg, they include the rear-wheel steering system, the spacious interior, cornering ability (it feels very car-like to drive) and sufficiently punchy engine, once the transmission figures out what it is you want.

In the end, the reviewer said that potential buyers should just consider buying a Touareg without actually shortlisting it, seen as how there are more luxurious alternatives out there.