We’ve also bitten the X1 lure. It came down to back to back drives of the Tiguan and the X1. Initially my wife was taken with the Tiguan. It ticked all the boxes to replace our 4yr leased Smax (which is a great car for driving and carrying anything including the kitchen sink). Enough space for our 21yr son (who has the grant) and 2 early teen daughters, something smaller for my wife to drive and a good boot to throw the weekly shop into.
We had a brief drive of the 1.5ltr Life model which was pleasant enough. I did worry that the engine might not have enough grunt once fully loaded. Steering felt a touch light and the appalling roads we tested on, we did feel there was less dampening. Engine felt ok, thou nothing special. We’d made the decision to move away from diesel given we don’t do the millage to justify, and the concerns over DPF clogging/future Government policy means its either petrol or electric (Our Smax which has a TDI180 lump has been a good performer though)
The Elegance model ticked all the boxes for extra kit so we left the showroom convinced it was our next car….
Popped over to Chandlers BMW and experienced a brilliant demonstration of customer service…offered coffee/drinks before going on to talk about our needs. Although they didn’t have any new 2020 face lifted models to test, we were offered a go in a 67 plate 2ltr diesel. Told to go and have a good run, we came back after an hour with me ready to buy the test car!
Although it does feel a little smaller inside, the trim seemed like the next step up. the sport seats worked well for us and helped to support my wife’s back better. The handling and engine were massive leaps ahead of the Tiguan. The car handled bumps/imperfections far more confidently. Boot space is better as there is no load lip and has the cubby space as well. The final difficult choice was then deciding on colour.
I’m looking forward despite the wait, the next batch or build slots starts from June so we have been given collection dates of September. The Smax lease is up in December so hopefully the X1 will have arrived by them!
As a side note, this forum has been great helping us to narrow our potential test list. Whilst there are areas that the Tiguan excels over the X1 (standard spec for one), for sheer driving enjoyment and comfort, the X1 for us edges it.
We’ve opted for the xline S model as I’m not bothered over all wheel drive. Options so far are the sports seats, but currently contemplating the Adaptive lights…..