Volkswagen has put the new Touareg on a serious diet and the all-new large SUV is now up to 200kg lighter than its predecessor.

To further save owner's money on fuel bills, all three of the engines at launch will return more than 30mpg. A 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel is the entry-point to the new Touareg range, delivering 236bhp and 38.8mpg along with 195g/km of carbon dioxide emissions.

At the other end of the scale, the Touareg range is topped by a 4.2-litre V8 turbodiesel that replaces the mighty V10 TDI of the outgoing model. The V8 packs 335bhp and 590lb.ft of torque yet still gives 31mpg combined economy. Both this engine and the 3.0 V6 TDI will come with Stop/Start technology to save fuel.

For the first time in the UK Volkswagen will offer a hybrid car in the shape of the new 3.3-litre Touareg. This uses a 3.3 V6 petrol engine and 46bhp electric motor. Combined, the petrol and electric motors offer 375bhp and 34.4mpg, while 193g/km of carbon dioxide emissions is good for this class.

Most Touaregs will be sold in SE or luxury Altitude trims, while the Hybrid is a stand-alone version. However, muddy boot types can revel in the Escape version that only comes with the 3.0 V6 turbodiesel.

Unlike the previous Touareg, the new car does not have a low-range transfer gearbox for off-roading, so the Escape has an extra-low first gear called 4XMOTION in its eight-speed automatic transmission. Other Touaregs also come with an eight speeder, but the Escape has steel springs in its suspension and locking differentials. It also has a lockable centre differential for ultimate off-road ability.

The SE, Hybrid and Altitude versions of the Touareg use air suspension for greater on-road refinement and handling ability. Longer and lower than its predecessor, VW says the new Touareg will offer excellent handling and performance, apparently in a bid to keep pace with hot hatches...

Inside, the Touareg offers similar space to the outgoing SUV, but the rear seat can now slide back and forth to vary load space and passenger legroom. Most models will come with leather upholstery and touch screen satellite navigation included.

The new Touareg makes it debut at the Geneva motor show next month before going in sale in the UK in August, with prices expected to start at £36,000.