VOLKSWAGEN is bringing more than a dash of sports style to the MPV class with the announcement of the new Touran R-Line people mover.

For businesses wanting to raise the profile of their company people transport, the brand’s latest award-winning seven-seater is now available to order in stylish R-Line guise for the first time.

The idea of a 1.4 powering a stylish seven-seater mover would have been laughed at not so long ago, but now it’s a low tax practicality with sub 130g/km CO2 available for the petrol and under 120g/km available from the diesel 2.0.

The R-Line trim level is Volkswagen’s most overtly sporty mainstream equipment grade and provides a raft of exterior and interior styling enhancements, all carefully calculated to dial up kerb appeal, cabin style and on-road attitude.

The range-topping new Touran R-Line is available with a selection of potent yet frugal turbocharged petrol or diesel engines ranging in capacity from 1.4-litre TSI to 2.0-litre TDI, and with outputs of between 150 PS and 190 PS.  These are mated to a similarly broad selection of transmissions which, depending on engine choice, comprise either six-speed manual or six- or seven-speed DSG.

Of course all the new Touran R-Line models also feature a selection of Volkswagen’s BlueMotion technologies such as Start/Stop, brake energy recuperation and low rolling resistance tyres, meaning economy is maximised.  Combined fuel consumption ranges from 49.6 mpg for the 1.4-litre TSI 150 PS six-speed manual, to 62.8 mpg for the 2.0-litre TDI 150 PS six-speed manual.

Instantly recognisable outside, the new Touran R-Line benefits from a selection of exterior design enhancements including special front and rear bumpers, radiator grille, and side skirts; plus chrome mouldings for the rear bumper, and 18-inch Marseille alloy wheels.  R-Line badging completes the external additions.

Inside, the sporty new Touran adds Black Lead Grey decorative inserts in the dash, centre console and front doors; a black roof lining and grey stitching on the leather-trimmed three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, which also includes aluminium inserts and R-Line logo.

The seating, meanwhile, includes contrasting microfibre side bolsters and front seats with R-Line logo on the rear backrests.  Completing the stylish upgrades are stainless steel pedals, and unique R-Line sill protectors.

Now, with the addition of this stylish new range-topping trim level, the Touran offers this renowned practicality in its most eye-catching form.

The new Touran R-Line is available to order from Volkswagen retailers now, with prices from £27,740 for the Touran R-Line 1.4-litre TSI six-speed manual, up to £31,505 for the 2.0 TDI with six-speed DSG auto.