Cologne SUVs are in demand. The compact crossovers, which offer plenty of space for family and luggage at a reasonable cost, have been particularly popular for a long time. Five models below the premium league are leading the bestseller list in Germany this year. An overview of their strengths and weaknesses.
Because the second generation of the VW Tiguan has grown significantly in size, there was suddenly space underneath it in the Wolfsburg model structure. It was quickly filled with the shorter and flatter T-Roc, which is not quite as practical but much handier than its big brother.
The space is impressive despite the dimensions suitable for inner-city use, even if the interior is rather plainly lined by VW standards in terms of the choice of materials. In general, the five-door is not necessarily lavishly equipped, many extras are missing in the basic model and expensive ones have to be bought.
However, the T-Roc compensates for the self-confident price level with a high level of driving comfort, a wide range of engines (up to 221 kW/300 hp) and an all-wheel drive option. Prices start at 23,345 euros fFor the model with the 81 kW/110 hp 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine.
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The successful SUV is about to be replaced.
(Photo: VW)
VW Tiguan
Almost seven years after its debut, the Tiguan II is about to be replaced. Good for customers because they have an extra argument in the price negotiations with the retailer who may be inclined to give a run-out discount. Bad, because VW has already started to cut back the once lavish drive program.
The plug-in hybrids can no longer be ordered, but there is still a wide selection of diesel and petrol engines with all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. Other advantages of the model: lots of space, good variability and agile, but safe and sufficiently comfortable handling. In terms of clarity, many competitors can learn a lesson.
In this case, VW is paying a particularly high price for the well-engineered overall package, 31,545 euros are due for a sparingly equipped model. Above all, those who do not buy off the shelf, but make their own ticks in the option list, have to dig deep into their pockets.
The city SUV is primarily in demand as a plug-in hybrid.
Ford Kuga
Traditionally, Ford often provides the most active model in the respective vehicle classes. The Cologne-based company is also at the forefront when it comes to dynamics when it comes to compact SUVs, which is also due to the rather wide than high cut of the Kuga, which almost looks like a somewhat bulkier station wagon. The crossover presented in 2020 took over the technology from the Focus, which in this respect is perhaps one of the most underestimated compact cars.
In terms of general sophistication, assistance systems and drives, both siblings do not have to hide in their class. The 165 kW/225 hp plug-in hybrid, which is regularly a German and European bestseller in this drive segment, is particularly popular with the Kuga.
As a weakness, in addition to the restricted view, the firm chassis is noticeable for comfort-oriented drivers. The prices start at 35,000 euros, the equipment is then quite decent.
The Korean is far ahead when it comes to value for money.
Kia Sportage
In the ranks of compact SUV bestsellers, the Korean is the freshest model – and you can see that. The front, with its daytime running light angles and large radiator grille, looks modern without polarizing too much. But the Kia can really shine in the interior with its digital instruments and the large curved panorama display.
In terms of equipment and assistants, everything that you could currently wish for is on board or can be ordered – from the traffic jam assistant to the WLAN hotspot. This is garnished with extras that are still not available everywhere, such as a panoramic glass roof, air-conditioned seats and adaptive chassis.
The drive range offers a wide range of choices, in addition to diesel and petrol engines, hybrids and a plug-in hybrid are also available, the latter with up to 195 kW/265 hp. However, the Sportage is certainly not dynamic, it likes it to be more comfortable during longitudinal and lateral acceleration. The poor all-round visibility could also be cited as a weakness.
The prices start at comparatively cheap 29,000 euros. Unlike some other Kia series, the basic model is not a bait offer, but is already attractively equipped.
The SUV occupies a middle position in the Skoda range.
Skoda Karoq
The third VW Group model in the SUV bestseller list is located between the first two in terms of dimensions and price. It also stands out from its two siblings thanks to its particular variability: there are three individually sliding and removable seats available as an option for the rear, which make it particularly easy to balance the luggage compartment and passenger space requirements.
The Czech can also score with exemplary simple and ergonomic operation. At the beginning of 2022 there was a facelift, in which the external appearance in particular was modernized. The infotainment is now up to date, but Skoda continues to do without the less popular touch operation of newer group models.
The drive program is suitable for the masses and reason-oriented, offers classic diesel and petrol engines. Prices start at 26,300 euros for the rather soberly equipped base.
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