2021 VW Tiguan vs. 2021 Ford Escape
Overview
The 2021 VW Tiguan and Ford Escape are both attractive, popular compact SUVs. They have a lot in common, such as good handling, impressive technology, and a choice of all-wheel drive for challenging road conditions. So, which one should you choose? This article should give you all the information you need to select the Tiguan confidently.
Power and Performance
The Ford Escape offers many different trim levels, and buyers have a choice of either a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine or the base-level 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo. The three-cylinder puts out 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque, while the four-cylinder produces 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. By comparison, there's only one engine choice in the Tiguan: a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Both vehicles are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and your choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
Interior Space
The Escape and the Tiguan offer nearly the same amount of cargo space when the second row is folded, about 65.5 square feet. However, one advantage of the Tiguan that families will appreciate is that it's available in both five- and seven-passenger versions with an optional third row. The Escape offers no such option.
Technology
Standard equipment in the base-level Tiguan includes a 6.5-inch color touch screen display with app-connect, Bluetooth connectivity, and VW's Car-Net remote access system. There's an 8-inch touch screen display with navigation, Sirius XM Satellite Radio capability, a wireless smartphone charger, Fender Premium audio system, and VW's Digital Cockpit in the top-tier SEL Premium. Many of these perks are available on lower trims, too.
The Ford Escape has many of the same amenities, but very few are standard in the base trim. You'll need to upgrade to the second-tier SE to get Ford's SYNC 3 connectivity and choose the Titanium level to get navigation.
Safety Features
When you purchase a 2021 vehicle, you expect to find a good package of safety features. The base-level Escape includes a rearview camera and automatic high-beam lights, with Ford's Co-Pilot 360 suite available as an option. The Tiguan, by comparison, includes some of the best safety features standard: rearview camera, blind-spot monitor, forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian monitoring.
Although both the Escape and Tiguan are quality vehicles, the Tiguan has an edge in many categories. Even the base-level has many amenities you'll only find in upgraded Escape tiers. Plus, you can have the flexibility of a seventh seat and lots of power to navigate traffic safely. Visit DARCARS Volkswagen Fairfax and schedule your Tiguan test drive today.