New Volkswagen Taigo vs Ford Puma: verdict
In a world of boxy small SUVs, the voluptuous new Volkswagen Taigo certainly stands out. But it will take a lot more than good looks to beat the class-leading Ford Puma...
Our verdict
It’s an extremely close call between these two excellent small SUVs, each of which has its own specific talents. The Puma, as ever, majors on driving fun and boot flexibility, while the Taigo focuses more on rear seat space and ride comfort. Your personal priorities could (and should) sway you in either direction, safe in the knowledge that you won’t be disappointed either way.
However, the Puma shines that bit brighter than the Taigo. It offers enough space and practicality for most families (especially those with younger children), and the way it drives will genuinely have you grinning, without causing your passengers to grimace. Overall, it (just) does enough to hold onto its crown.
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1st – Ford Puma
For Fantastic to drive; slightly more economical; clever boot storage
Against Ride is a little firm
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
2nd – Volkswagen Taigo
For Comfortable ride; spacious rear seats; cheaper to buy or finance
Against Not as much fun through corners; grumbly engine at low speeds
Recommended options Keyless entry and start (£350)
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Specifications: Volkswagen Taigo 1.0 TSI 95 Life
Engine 3cyl, 999cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 94bhp at 5000-5500rpm
Peak torque 129lb ft at 1600-3500rpm
Gearbox 5-spd manual
0-60mph 11.1sec
30-70mph 10.6sec
Top speed 114mph
30-0mph 8.9m
70-0mph 47.5m
Noise at 30mph 63.0dB
Noise at 70mph 68.4dB
Kerb weight 1220kg
Tyre size (std) 205/60 R16
Fuel tank 40 litres
Test economy 46.8mpg
Official economy 51.5mpg
CO2 emissions 124g/km
Ford Puma 1.0 Ecoboost mHEV 125 ST-Line
Engine 3cyl, 999cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 122bhp at 6000rpm
Peak torque 125lb ft at 1400-1750rpm
Gearbox 6-spd manual
0-60mph 9.7sec
30-70mph 9.5sec
Top speed 118mph
30-0mph 9.4m
70-0mph 49.8m
Noise at 30mph 63.6dB
Noise at 70mph 68.4dB
Kerb weight 1280kg
Tyre size (std) 215/55 R17
Fuel tank 42 litres
Test economy 46.8mpg
Official economy 51.5mpg
CO2 emissions 122g/km
Test weather conditions Dry
Cars pictured
Volkswagen Taigo 1.0 TSI 95 Life with Pure White paint (£370)
Ford Puma 1.0 Ecoboost mHEV 125 ST-Line X Vignale with Agate Black paint (£275) and electric tailgate (£350)
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