VW Tiguan vs Vauxhall Astra

I've added a VW Tiguan Review to my car comparison page. Basically the Tiguan's a SUV style car on a Golf platform so the question is how does it compare with the Vauxhall Astra - the latest family hatch on the block.

Size wise there's not much in it. Obviously the Astra is styled as a family hatchback and the Tiguan is a soft SUV.

There's no difference in their standing in the market. Surveys prove VWs are overrated. The Astra has been a #1 seller for decades - 3.

The surprise is despite the Tiguan being tall it doesn't give more load space - less even - with the seats up. You need all the seats down and load the VW to the roof to gain an advantage. But is it enough of an advantage. When you need that kind of load space, why not hire a van for the day? You can afford it many times over given the price and running cost differences.

A SUV or MPV will feel more comfortable than a hatch because sensations are isolated but a hatch is far more stable and therefore more comfortable.

One attraction of a SUV is the tough-guy looks but VW have avoided this and the public enemy #1 image that goes with it.

The Tiguan is a good attempt at making the SUV appear to an environmentally friendly car. But you've only got to compare the mpg, CO2 and performance figures with the Astra.

Safety equipment is excellent in both cars with 5-star Euro NCAP protection and ESP prevention. Perception - visibility is questionable in the Astra and slightly better in the Tiguan.

I suppose it boils down to style and image. Both are family cars. The Astra is a medium small hatchback - supposedly the car for everyone - if that's true, the Astra does the job. The Tiguan gives you ground clearance and an off-road capability but who does that in the UK? And can the Tiguan really go where a good FWD hatch can't and go all the way to the destination - ?

I think both the Tiguan and Astra are capable of navigating school fields come sports day or a fete. Both could make it to Merivel this ski season. Both have road tyres so need chains or a change of tyres for anything more challenging.

Regards
Ralph