Ep 41. 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan & 2018 Ford Ecosport
- June 15, 2018
In this episode of Motorweek, the team takes a closer look at two compact SUVs: the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan and the 2018 Ford Ecosport.
First up is the Tiguan, which has been completely redesigned for 2018. The team notes that the new model is bigger, featuring a longer wheelbase and greater overall length than its predecessor. This extra space translates to more room for passengers and cargo, making it a solid choice for families on the go.
Under the hood, the Tiguan boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The team is impressed by its punchy acceleration and responsive handling, as well as its smooth ride quality. They note that the Tiguan's eight-speed automatic transmission is a standout feature, providing seamless shifts and quick throttle response.
On the inside, the Tiguan is well-appointed with a comfortable and modern cabin. The team highlights its plush seats, intuitive infotainment system, and overall attention to detail. They also appreciate the Tiguan's advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.
Next, the team turns their attention to the Ford Ecosport, a new entry in the subcompact SUV market. They note that the Ecosport boasts a unique design, featuring a rear-mounted spare tire and a sporty profile. They also point out that it's smaller than the Tiguan, making it a good choice for city driving and parking.
Under the hood, the Ecosport features a 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine with 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. The team notes that the engine is surprisingly capable, providing enough power to get around town with ease. However, they do mention that the acceleration can feel sluggish at times, especially on the highway.
Inside, the Ecosport offers a high-tech cabin with plenty of features. The team praises its user-friendly infotainment system and its abundance of storage space. However, they do note that the interior materials don't feel as premium as those in the Tiguan.
Overall, the team concludes that both the Tiguan and the Ecosport have a lot to offer compact SUV buyers. The Tiguan's spacious interior, powerful engine, and advanced safety features make it a top contender in its class. Meanwhile, the Ecosport's unique styling, fuel-efficient engine, and high-tech cabin make it a solid choice for those who prioritize city driving and connectivity.
