Volkswagen has expanded the line-up for its Touareg SUV, adding entry-level, mid-range and high-end specifications with a focus on technology to double the number of available variants on offer. The models arrive shortly after the brand announced its 48-hour test drive programme would be expanded to include the Touareg.

The Touareg is now additionally available in SEL Tech and Black Edition trims – both new to the third-generation model – with a focus on technology, and the Black Edition also focusing on design. An entry-level SE trim is also now open for order, taking the starting price for the luxury SUV down to £45,445.

Entry-level SE trim sits beneath SEL trim in the Touareg range. The new start point for Touareg ownership gets 19-inch Osorno alloys, a Discover Pro 9.2-inch touch-screen infotainment system with Gesture Control and integrated voice control, front and rear parking sensors and adaptive cruise control amongst its standard equipment. For the SE, most of the SEL’s standard-fit equipment has been kept, with luxury fittings like leather upholstery being reserved for the higher-end models to enhance the value of the entry-level car. The 228 bhp and 282 bhp 3.0-litre V6 TDI engines are available on this trim.

Mid-range SEL Tech trim builds upon the popular SEL, boosting the technology on offer by adding Volkswagen’s acclaimed Innovision Cockpit system, with 15-inch integrated control panel and 12.3-inch digital cockpit, an electric tailgate with electric opening and power latching. Identifiable by 19-inch Tirano alloy wheels, the SEL Tech also benefits from heat insulating, 80 per cent tinted glass from the B-pillar backwards. This trim starts at £50,995 and is available with both diesel engines, as well as the 3.0-litre V6 TFSI petrol unit. The R-Line, R-Line Tech and Black Edition also share this engine range.

Topping out the Touareg range is the Black Edition, priced at £58,745 in 228 bhp 3.0-litre V6 TDI guise. This car builds upon the R-Line Tech trim, adding a black finish to the 21-inch Suzuka alloy wheels, as well as an assortment of black trim pieces to the car’s exterior, including the radiator grille, roof rails, mirror housings, side window trims, and air intake fins.

The Black Edition benefits from a panoramic sunroof and IQ. Light matrix beam headlights as standard, providing additional luxury and safety to this Touareg’s overall package. As individual options, these would cost £1,260 and £1,420 respectively. The Touareg’s air suspension with automatic self-levelling function is also standard on the Black Edition, while an Easy Open function for the tailgate, and Park Assist package with Area View, further add to its technology arsenal for the Black Edition.

The largest Volkswagen SUV is the latest car to benefit from Volkswagen’s 48-hour test drives, joining the e-Golf in the programme which allows customers to test the mettle of Volkswagen’s most innovative and technology-focused models even more thoroughly than the traditional, single-day test drive.

Brian Luckie, Touareg Product Manager at Volkswagen UK, said: “The Touareg is already a versatile all-rounder, combining the luxury of an executive car, the capability of a tough, off-roading SUV, the practicality of a family estate and dependability that comes built-in with the Volkswagen roundel.”

“By offering three new trims, we’re further expanding the audience for the Touareg, injecting more variety and all-important choice into its line-up, to suit even more of our customers.”