2023 Volkswagen Tiguan vs. 2023 Kia Sportage: no substitute for experience

2023 Volkswagen Tiguan vs. 2023 Kia Sportage: no substitute for experience

Kia is making incredible efforts to make its mark across different segments of the industry, but despite all its efforts, the company can't dominate in every chapter. One of the reasons has to do with the competition they face and the experience they have. In the case of Volkswagen, decades of expertise are behind the design of each vehicle, so when comparisons are made, the brand's models tend to come out on top.


That's the case with the Tiguan SUV, which remains a more relevant product than Kia's new Sportage. Let's see why.


The design


Kia is daring when it comes to design, but it doesn't always work out well, in the sense that the style of the company's models doesn't always stand the test of time. The opposite is true of Volkswagen, which makes its models very attractive on the pre-owned market. The new Sportage's front end has crooked lines, while the rear end is more successful. With the Tiguan, harmony reigns from the front to the rear bumper.


The power


The entry-level versions of the Sportage are offered with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine. This engine offers 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. That's hardly enough, especially since the model has grown in size since the switch to the new generation. With the Tiguan, you're never short, as the 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder under the hood offers 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Better yet, the parameters have been revised so that it works better than ever with the gearbox to deliver optimal performance at all times.


The ride


The new Kia Sportage offers a very impressive level of comfort, but when the road deteriorates, you discover a suspension that is far too permissive. With the Tiguan, the comfort level is also impeccable, but the suspension settings and greater body rigidity make you feel more secure behind the wheel.


The third row


Finally, despite its larger size, the 2023 Kia Sportage does not offer a third row of seats. However, the Tiguan offers it as an option to those who want it, and at a very affordable price. Having two extra seats in your vehicle is a blessing when you need them. It's possible with a Tiguan, but not with a Sportage.


Come test drive a Volkswagen Tiguan. You'll realize that it's not only competent but also very pleasant to drive.