The completely redeveloped Touran is VW’s first MPV to be based on the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform shared with the Golf and SEAT Leon, bringing increased space but with up to 62kg in weight reduction due to lightweight construction technologies.

Design changes for the new model are subtle and include revised headlights, a more dynamic profile and optional LED headlights while, inside, the Touran's dash panel has been redesigned with a more driver-orientated layout.

Klaus Bischoff, head designer for the Volkswagen brand, said: ‘The Touran's new powerful and precise design picks up the reductive clarity of the previous model. We refined the design concept, reinventing it in places to give it a sharper look while retaining a strong underlying continuity. What emerges is an original with a much enhanced light and sporty look thanks to the long side windows and precise lines.’

Thanks to the use of the new platform, the model gains 130mm in length with an extra 113mm in wheelbase and 42mm wider, giving it increased space. Both five and seven-seater models are also said to bring the biggest luggage compartment in their class. The latest model also brings the automatic Easy Open boot lid function, which is activated by a movement of the foot.

In addition, the latest Touran brings a newly developed fold-flat seat system said to be highly versatile and extremely easy to configure. This includes lighter second-row seats that can be folded down to merge flat with the luggage compartment floor, enabling the Touran to provide a maximum amount of space on the smallest footprint. In total the Touran offers 1,040 litres of luggage space with five people on board, rising to 1,980 litres. The equivalent figures for the seven-seater Touran are 917 and 1,857 litres.

Other clever features include up to 47 storage compartments distributed throughout the interior; these include a large removable container in the Jumbo Box under the front centre armrest and the luggage compartment light which can easily be snapped out for use as a torch.

Engine range comprises three petrol and three diesel units, which are up to 19% more economical. The most fuel-efficient diesel model, the 108bhp Touran 1.6 TDI with 7-speed DSG, offers 4.1l/100 km (69mpg) on the combined cycle. The most economical petrol model is the Touran 1.4 TSI, which delivers 148bhp while achieving an average fuel consumption of 5.4l/100 km (52.3mpg) when combined with the optional seven-speed dual clutch gearbox. All models feature Stop/Start and battery regeneration (brake energy recuperation) systems as standard.

The latest Touran also brings new safety technology including the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System as standard, the Adaptive Cruise Control system ACC, Front Assist with City Emergency Braking, Traffic Jam Assist, Pre-Crash proactive occupant protection, Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert and, for the first time in any MPV, Trailer Assist.

Volkswagen is also offering a completely new range of on-board infotainment systems. The five radio and radio navigation systems offered in this model, all with touchscreens (5-inch to 8-inch), are part of the second generation of the modular infotainment matrix (MIB), with some versions offering AppConnect with CarPlay (Apple) and Android Auto (Google) for the first time.

The new Touran also gains the MirrorLink system whilst VW is also expanding the range of compatible smartphone platforms on board the Touran to include CarPlay and Android Auto at launch.

In Europe, the Touran comes in three equipment lines: Trendline, Comfortline and Highline. Standard kit includes ISOFIX child seat fixtures on all rear seats, seatbelt detection on all rows, easy-open and roll-up luggage compartment cover, the new Composition Touch radio system and an electric parking brake that is also a new feature.

The new Touran will be launched in the first European countries from September. At the same time, production will be ramped up at the Wolfsburg plant so that the Touran can be delivered to the first customers in all the other markets before the end of 2015. The objective is to expand the car's share of the international market, modelled on its performance in Germany, where VW says it has been the leader in its class ever since the launch of the first generation.