The small SUV sector of the market is getting pretty crowded, which means to cut it you have to offer something pretty special. The Tiguan is actually VW’s third best-selling vehicle in the UK, so there’s a lot riding on Volkswagen with this second-generation model.

And some of that pressure comes from within. This Tiguan shares the same MQB architecture as Seat’s first SUV, the Ateca. The Ateca is expected to be cheaper than the Tiguan and may well have a sportier edge. Then there’s the forthcoming Skoda Kodiaq. And then there’s every other small SUV out there, clamouring for space and attention. No pressure then.

VW have responded by trying to steer a steady course between simply refining what’s there and producing something new. They’ve erred on the side of caution but that’s not necessarily a bad thing at all. Sizing has predictably gone up a little, yet weight has come down a little, so there’s more space inside without a weight penalty.

That should help the engine range, which is fairly limited at launch. The range is basically a set of 2.0-litre four-pots, including the turbodiesel and, in this test, the TSI petrol engine putting out 178bhp. This engine comes automatically with the automatic gearbox, the very effective seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. That works with the 4Motion four-wheel drive to offer seamless drive on the road and some real ability off-road as well.

On the road the engine is smooth, refined and quiet, yet shifts along pretty well. The handling is definitely firmer than it used to be, so there’s not much roll in the corners, which is helped in its turn by some noticeably well-weighted steering.

Off road there should be some definite practicality, so the electronics can keep you moving even if a wheel is reaching for the sky. Ability should exceed requirement here.

The cabin is well equipped with lots of kit including a large 12.3in display, plus there is a head-up display and LED lights. The cabin feels comfortable and spacious and we like the ability to move the rear bench seat to and fro so you can either give rear passengers more leg room or you have an even bigger cargo area.

So the revised Tiguan ticks a lot of boxes, it really does. Standing on its own, it stands proud. But in this market sector it doesn’t get a chance to stand alone. Whether it can stand above the competition now and soon arriving is another matter. At £32,115, it’s going to have to work hard to earn its place in the small SUV category.

Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TSI 4Motion

Location: Berlin;

On sale: Now;

Price: £32,115;

Engine: 4 cyls, 1984cc, turbocharged, petrol;

Power: 178bhp at 3940-6000rpm;

Torque: 236lb ft at 1500-3950rpm;

Gearbox: 7-spd dual-clutch automatic;

Kerb weight: 1645kg;

0-62mph: 7.7sec;

Top speed: 129mph;

Economy: 38.7mpg (combined);

CO2/tax band: 168g/km, 28%