The Tiguan won’t be updated for at least 3 years as it’s only just had a face lift. The Elegance version looks very, well, elegant! The thing that bugs me with the Tiguan Elegance is the horrible looking grey plastic skirts along the sides. You have to have the R-Line to lose them (or get a grey one, then they become invisible), but the new R-Line loses a lot of kit compared to the Elegance and is no longer the best version. Keep in mind that VW is a slightly more premium brand than Ford and the build quality will undoubtedly be better. Also, much as I like Fords, their tech always feels slightly ‘last generation’ compared to the German brands. Take the digital dashboards as an example. The look and functionality in the Tiguan’s version is much better and more modern looking than the Ford equivalent, IMO. The Audi version is better still and the best is the BMW one, but that’s a very expensive option on the X1.
The X1 is definitely due a replacement and now looks dated on the inside compared to the newer BMW models. Personally, I still think that, on the outside, it’s the best looking of all the cars on my shortlist, but I believe an all new model is due out within the next year or so, which would be mid lease. That might bug me.
In terms of ‘kit count’, the budget brands will always come out best, but they aren’t for everyone. Although those who like them will say differently, there is a noticeable difference in quality and refinement, but for people who aren’t particularly into cars or have never experienced the premium brands, they are very difficult to argue against. One that might be worth looking out for is the brand new Hyundai Tucson which is now on the road and due to enter the Motability scheme very soon. Very well equipped, very modern inside and out. A bit smaller than the Kuga and Motability usually only offer the weaker engine versions, but might be worth a look.
I suppose that all of the above does reinforce the view that the Kuga is very good value. Ford isn’t a premium brand, but neither is it a budget brand. It’s bang in the middle. It’s bigger than most of the small SUV’s that we are allowed and you can still get a reasonably powerful engine, coupled with 4WD. The X1 engine and transmission (20i) would be better, and it’s petrol (if you don’t need a diesel) and 4WD, and those who have them report mpg that is better than many diesel SUV’s, but to spec it to the same level as the Kuga ST Line X will cost a good few grand more, although it does have full leather as standard. Decisions, decisions ?