Crossover SUV, MPV or Estate Car?

When you're considering buying a car it's worth looking at other types of vehicle just for the sake of comparison.

For example, if you're thinking about a SUV you may compare it with other SUVs. It would be interesting to compare it with other versatile vehicles, like an estate car or MPV.

I've recently added a Peugeot 308 SW Review to it's comparison page on carbuyersinfo as well as the VW Tiguan and Renault Scenic.

Although the Tiguan is a crossover SUV, the VW Tiguan dimensions are similar to the Renault Scenic and Peugeot 308 SW - estate. The Tiguan is 4.43m in length, the 308 is 4.5m, the Scenic is 4.34m or 4.56m for the Grand Scenic.

However despite the Tiguans perceived bulk it only offers a maximum load space of 1,500 litres. The 308 and Scenic are both over 2,000 litres.

It's not the same when you look a price. The Renault Scenic price has the lowest entry at £16,970. The 308 is close at £17,045, the Tiguan is £19,765.

It gets more interesting when you compare fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and performance.

All three have the option of a 1.9/2.0 diesel:

• The VW Tiguan 2.0 TDi 140PS FWD does a combined 53.3 mpg, 139 for CO2s, has a maximum speed of 118 mph and does 0-62 mph in 10.2 seconds.
• The Renault Scenic 1.9 dci 130 bhp does a combined 51.4 mpg, 145 for CO2s, has a maximum speed of 121mph and does 0-62 mph in 9.4 seconds. There's also a 2.0 litre option.
• The Peugeot 308 SW HDi 136 FAP does a combined 47.8 mpg, 122 for CO2s, has a maximum speed of 125 mph and does 0-62 mph in 11.1 seconds.

The Peugeot's lower emissions for this type of engine are significant. But the small differences in fuel consumption, speed and acceleration may not be present in real on the road motoring and wouldn't make any real difference if they were. All three cars have a wide range of engine options. Both Renault and VW offer high-tec 1.4 petrol options.

You can see there's not necessarily an advantage in one type of vehicle over another given a similar length. Generally SUVs are not as spacious or versatile as MPVs or estates. Low line estates will have better emissions. You won't find much difference in mpg or mph for similar engines.

It all comes down to style and comfort which are matters of personal taste.

Regards
Ralph