Ford Kuga vs. Volkswagen Tiguan: Complete comparison 2026

Ford Kuga, also sold as the Ford Escape in some global markets, is a popular compact SUV that has earned drivers' attention primarily through its confident handling and wide range of engines. Its rival today is the Volkswagen Tiguan, a long-term European bestseller in its class, which traditionally relies on precise ergonomics, a spacious cabin, and high-quality craftsmanship. Let's take a detailed look at which of these two sought-after family vehicles represents a smarter choice on the market for approximately four-year-old used cars.

When choosing a used SUV around four years old, we encounter quite fundamental differences in external dimensions between these two popular competitors. The third generation of the Ford Kuga makes a more massive and athletic impression on the road. With a length starting at 4614 mm and a width of 1883 mm, the Kuga is a substantial 105 mm longer and 44 mm wider than the comparable second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan after its facelift. This difference means that the Kuga offers a more dominant stance on the road and a more generous interior width. The Tiguan, on the other hand, scores valuable points with its more compact proportions during daily parking and maneuvering in tight city streets, where you will appreciate the car's smaller footprint.

If we focus on the body height, the tables turn in favor of the German representative. With a height reaching up to 1675 mm, the Tiguan profiles itself as a more traditional, boxier SUV. It is roughly 12 to 25 mm taller than the Kuga, which gives the car a better sense of upright seating and often slightly more headroom. However, the Kuga has a strong ace up its sleeve in the form of its wheelbase. With a value of 2710 mm, it surpasses the Tiguan by 30 to 32 mm. This difference in longitudinal space plays into Ford's hands, benefiting primarily rear-seat passengers thanks to more legroom.

As a result, the external proportions of both models clearly define their different characters. While the Ford Kuga bets on a longer and wider silhouette with a longer wheelbase, which favors a dynamic look, travel spaciousness, and driving stability, the Volkswagen Tiguan is an excellent pragmatic compromise. It provides a classic taller SUV build and does not unnecessarily extend the overall length, making it a more agile and practical choice for heavy city traffic.

Luggage capacity is one of the main decision-making criteria for many people interested in a used family car. In this regard, both the Ford Kuga and the Volkswagen Tiguan focus on maximum usability and flexibility, highlighted by sliding rear seats in both vehicles. The trunk volume of both models thus largely depends on whether you currently prefer more legroom for rear passengers or need space for a few extra suitcases. Overall, however, the Volkswagen Tiguan offers a more regular trunk shape and, as a result, slightly better real-world use of the interior space.

Looking at specific figures for roughly four-year-old conventional versions (3rd generation Ford Kuga and 2nd generation Volkswagen Tiguan after the 2020 facelift), the German representative offers a standard trunk volume starting from 520 liters, which can be increased to an excellent 615 liters by sliding the rear bench all the way forward. When the rear backrests are folded down, you get a maximum space of 1,655 liters. The Ford Kuga, on the other hand, has a basic volume of 475 liters with maximum space for rear passengers. However, by sliding the seats forward, its capacity can be increased to an impressive 645 liters. After folding down the rear backrests, the volume increases to 1,534 liters. The trunks of both SUVs are thus perfectly sufficient in their parameters for weekend shopping as well as longer holidays.

When choosing a used car, it is important to point out the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants of both models, which lose valuable liters due to the placement of the traction battery under the floor. In the Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid, the maximum basic trunk volume has decreased from the original 615 to 476 liters. The Ford Kuga PHEV is similar, offering a reduced volume ranging from 411 to 581 liters depending on the position of the rear seats. Despite this noticeable reduction, both cars still maintain acceptable space and a smaller compartment under the floor for neatly storing charging cables.

The Volkswagen Tiguan emerges from this comparison as the absolute winner for moving larger loads, primarily thanks to its overall maximum capacity with the seats folded and its boxier body shape. While the Kuga scores points for clever variability and can compete well with the Tiguan in its basic configuration, due to its more sportily sloping roof, it ultimately carries slightly less cargo overall after folding the rear bench.

Towing capacity is a key parameter for many mid-size SUV buyers, whether it's for towing a heavy caravan on a summer holiday or just transporting materials to a cottage. When comparing approximately four-year-old used Ford Kuga (3rd generation) and Volkswagen Tiguan (2nd generation) models, we encounter significant differences. The Volkswagen Tiguan has long excelled in this class – its standard braked towing capacity starts at 1600 to 1800 kg for the basic 1.5 TSI petrol versions, while the more powerful 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TSI two-litre engines can easily handle a maximum of 2500 kg. In contrast, the Ford Kuga offers slightly lower figures for most internal combustion engine options. The 1.5 EcoBoost petrol version can handle 1600 to 1800 kg, and the top-of-the-range 2.0 EcoBlue diesel can tow a solid, but compared to the Tiguan, slightly lower 2100 kg.

Significant deviations in towing power can be found in the popular hybrid versions, where the impact of heavier batteries is negatively felt. While the plug-in hybrid Tiguan 1.4 eHybrid maintains a still respectable 1800 kg, for Ford Kuga 2.5 Plug-in Hybrid models (especially from 2020–2024), expect a significantly reduced capacity of only 1200 to 1500 kg. In practice, this means the weaker hybrid Kuga is more suitable for a light utility trailer providing space for a few extra suitcases, which is fully sufficient for weekend shopping of bulkier household equipment. The diesel Tiguan, on the other hand, represents a workhorse that will be a reliable partner even for longer holidays with a truly large caravan. The choice thus depends on your actual needs – for demanding and regular towing of heavy loads, the Volkswagen Tiguan is the clear favorite, while for more common use with occasional use of the tow bar, the Ford Kuga will also fully suffice. For all mentioned specifications, the value for an unbraked trailer is the standard legislative maximum of 750 kg.

The engine range for the Ford Kuga and Volkswagen Tiguan reflects the different approaches of both manufacturers to the modern compact SUV market, which is one of the most important criteria for buyers of roughly four-year-old used cars. While both vehicles provide a solid foundation with efficient engines, they differ significantly in their emphasis on electrification and the availability of high-performance versions. The entry-level and mid-range spectrum consists of reliable turbocharged petrol engines – the Kuga relies on the 1.5 EcoBoost three-cylinder, while the Tiguan offers the proven 1.5 TSI four-cylinder. For drivers with high annual mileage, diesels were previously the clear winners, with Volkswagen offering an extensive range of 2.0 TDI units with front-wheel and 4MOTION all-wheel drive, against which Ford traditionally pitted the 1.5 EcoBlue and 2.0 EcoBlue models. However, the fundamental difference lies in the approach to hybrids: the third-generation Ford Kuga stands out with highly advanced full-hybrid (FHEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) systems based on a larger 2.5-litre engine, which have become a huge sales hit. In contrast, the Tiguan responds with the 1.4 eHybrid model and, for speed enthusiasts, offers the powerful petrol Tiguan R with a massive 235 kW (320 hp), to which the family-oriented Ford has no direct answer. For budget-conscious drivers looking for a modern hybrid, the Kuga is the clear choice, whereas the Tiguan better serves motorway travellers or fans of spirited driving.

Engines: Ford Kuga (3rd generation)

The third generation of the Ford Kuga (available since 2020) has significantly shifted its focus towards alternative powertrains. The entry point in the used car market is the 1.5 EcoBoost petrol three-cylinder, which is perfectly adequate for daily suburban driving. However, the big draw is the hybrid models based on the efficient 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder. You will find both the self-charging full-hybrid (FHEV) and the very popular Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with 165 kW, which can cover up to 50 kilometres on pure electricity with a charged battery. The hybrid vehicles use a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which ensures a very smooth ride, although the engine can be slightly noisier during sharp acceleration. From a used car perspective, pay attention to the diesel engine offerings – a four-year-old Kuga still commonly features the 1.5 EcoBlue and the dynamic 2.0 EcoBlue (also available with mild-hybrid technology). It is interesting to note, however, that with the arrival of refreshed models in later years (especially from the 2024 facelift), the manufacturer completely removed diesel engines from the range, so diesel fans must look exclusively among older used Ford models.

Engines: Volkswagen Tiguan (2nd generation)

For those interested in a vehicle approximately four years old, the ideal choice is the updated version of the second-generation Tiguan (facelift from late 2020 to 2023). Volkswagen takes a much more conservative approach to engines with the Tiguan, relying on a wide selection of pure internal combustion versions, usually paired with the fast DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. The average user will appreciate the standard 1.5 TSI OPF, but for full utilization of a family SUV, the 2.0 TSI petrol engines (from 140 kW to 180 kW) are popular. Unlike the Kuga, the Tiguan steadfastly maintains its range of excellent 2.0 TDI SCR diesel units with the Twin Dosing system, which are available in 90, 110, and 147 kW outputs and excel with very low motorway fuel consumption and perfect synergy with 4MOTION all-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid Tiguan can be found under the 1.4 eHybrid (180 kW) designation. Its main advantage is brisk dynamics, but it loses out slightly to the Kuga's larger displacement and the smoothness of its combustion unit. If you crave a sporty derivative, the limited and extremely fast Tiguan R version is a gem among mainstream used SUVs.

Choosing the right engine is absolutely crucial for long-term satisfaction, reliability, and reasonable operating costs. While Volkswagen continues to convincingly dominate the market for approximately four-year-old used cars (Tiguan II generation) with its crystal-refined diesel classic ideal for long highway hauls, Ford has masterfully jumped on the electrification wave with its third-generation Kuga (available since 2020). It surprised the market with one of the most reliable hybrid powertrains in Europe, which, with its naturally aspirated concept and planetary gearbox, closely resembles the indestructible technology from Toyota. The following recommendations are based on real-world experience, service reliability, and user-friendliness of both vehicles.

For the Ford Kuga, we recommend: 2.5 Hybrid / PHEV (140 - 165 kW)

This large-displacement, naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine (available as both a full hybrid FHEV and a plug-in hybrid PHEV) is by far the most sensible and mechanically durable choice on the used car market within the third-generation Kuga.

• Why it's the best choice in the range: Structurally, it is a bulletproof reliable unit. The engine uses indirect fuel injection, which completely eliminates the notorious risk of carbon buildup in the intake tract during city driving. Combined with the electronically controlled continuously variable eCVT transmission, which lacks traditional friction clutches, you get a powertrain with a minimal risk of expensive failures.
• Technical advantages: Thanks to the instant torque of the electric motor (which masks the absence of a turbocharger), acceleration is perfectly smooth. With a heavier SUV, you can achieve real-world fuel consumption between 5 and 6 liters per 100 km. With the PHEV variant, you can drive exclusively on electricity in the city with zero gasoline consumption if you charge regularly at home.
• Risks and what to watch out for: On a used Kuga, focus on the condition of the standard 12V battery. If the car is used for very short trips, the 12V battery doesn't have time to recharge, and the onboard system may report "entering power-saving mode" – in which case the battery is due for replacement. For the PHEV version, always have the "State of Health" (SOH) of the high-voltage battery read via diagnostics at a service center before buying. A test drive must reveal a perfectly smooth and imperceptible transition between electric and gasoline modes.
• Who it's ideal for: A great choice for families, typical suburban driving, daily commuting in traffic jams, and drivers who prefer maximum peace, smoothness, and want to avoid expensive diesel system repairs (DPF, injectors).

For the Volkswagen Tiguan, we recommend: 2.0 TDI SCR (110 kW)

In the second generation of the Volkswagen Tiguan, which is currently a pillar of the four-year-old used SUV market, the proven two-liter diesel from the improved EA288 Evo family remains the absolute king.

• Why it's the best choice in the range: The 110 kW (150 hp) output represents a perfect compromise between the purchase price of a used car, adequate dynamics, and favorable operating costs. It is a robust, years-refined unit that has long since overcome its teething problems and works perfectly with 4MOTION all-wheel drive and the dual-clutch automatic.
• Technical advantages: Massive torque of 360 Nm ensures worry-free overtaking even with a fully loaded vehicle, with exemplary fuel consumption. On the highway and during calm driving on country roads, the Tiguan easily stays within the range of 5.5 to 6.5 l/100 km despite its aerodynamics.
• Risks and what to watch out for: The biggest bogeyman of a used TDI is the clogging of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) due to long-term city driving. During inspection, watch the idle speed – if the car often "hangs" around 1000 rpm, has a rougher idle, or there is a pungent chemical smell from the exhaust, the DPF may be near the end of its life or the vehicle is unsuccessfully trying to force a regeneration. Absolutely critical is checking the service history of the DSG automatic transmission (version with DQ381 wet clutches). The transmission oil must be changed strictly every 60,000 km. If this task is missing from the history, you risk a fatal and expensive failure of the mechatronics.
• Who it's ideal for: An unbeatable choice for highway mile-munchers, drivers spending hours on long routes, cottage owners towing caravans or heavy trailers, and everyone who can make use of the strong low-end pull and long range on a single tank.

When it comes to fuel consumption, manufacturers' paper figures often differ from the reality of daily operation. For an objective comparison of approximately four-year-old used cars, we used not only official technical data but also the real-world experiences of thousands of drivers from independent crowdsourcing platforms, such as the popular portal Spritmonitor.de. Thanks to these long-term records, we get a much more accurate picture of what owners of the third-generation Ford Kuga and the popular second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan can actually expect on the road.

Note to the table: Data for plug-in hybrids (PHEV) correspond to averaged data assuming regular charging. When driving with a discharged battery, their consumption behaves like that of conventional petrol engines and rises above the 5 liters per 100 km mark.

A detailed look at the hard data reveals that both carmakers are remarkably in tune when it comes to efficiency. The entry-level petrol engines show a practically identical average consumption of 6.6 liters in both cars, but like most smaller turbo engines, these units do not like highway speeds, where their appetite rises to eight liters. Diesel variants, on the other hand, confirm their reputation as reliable long-distance workhorses. The two-liter diesels of both brands stay at an excellent 5.8 l/100 km, while Ford's smaller 1.5-liter diesel can push the average down to a great 5.1 liters. Hybrid vehicles are a chapter of their own. The classic full-hybrid in the Kuga works very consistently, but the plug-in hybrid models in both cars are extremely dependent on driver discipline. The table values between one and two liters are only achievable with a charged battery.

For the average user of a used SUV, these data provide clear recommendations on which technology to choose:

• For the city and shorter commutes: If you have the option to regularly charge the vehicle from a home wallbox or at work, plug-in hybrid versions will bring you huge savings. In addition, the Kuga scores with its traditional full-hybrid (HEV), which does not need charging and is exceptionally economical in city traffic.
• For highways and long distances: For high-mileage drivers, it still pays to bet on reliable diesel. Whether you choose the iconic 2.0 TDI from Volkswagen or the 2.0 EcoBlue from Ford, you can benefit from stable highway consumption that a turbocharged petrol engine cannot offer.
• For universal use: For drivers with an annual mileage of up to 15,000 kilometers, the 1.5-liter petrol engines (1.5 TSI or 1.5 EcoBoost) will be more than sufficient, promising a very reasonable compromise between dynamics, reliability, and a real-world consumption of six and a half liters.

In the end, it turns out that fuel consumption is unlikely to be the main factor deciding the winner among these approximately four-year-old vehicles. Both Ford and Volkswagen have deployed extremely comparable and efficient technology in these generations. Instead of a battle of badges on the hood, it will be much more important for your wallet to honestly evaluate your daily routes and choose the appropriate type of powertrain.

Used Car Price Comparison: Ford Kuga (MK3) vs. Volkswagen Tiguan (MK2 Facelift)

When looking for a used family SUV approximately four years old (model year around 2022), the third-generation Ford Kuga meets the facelifted second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan on the market. The different strategies of the carmakers and brand perceptions are fully reflected in the residual values of both vehicles.

Depreciation and Market Situation
The Volkswagen Tiguan has traditionally held its value exceptionally well across generations. Its higher original purchase price is also reflected in the used car market, where it is among the most expensive and sought-after compact SUVs. For four-year-old models, prices for basic petrol versions start significantly higher than those of the competition. Models with the popular 2.0 TDI engine, 4Motion all-wheel drive, and in the sporty R-Line trim protect their price with surprising tenacity.

The Ford Kuga, on the other hand, represents a much more attractive price proposition from a used car buyer's perspective. Depreciation for Ford is somewhat steeper in the first few years, making it a very affordable used SUV. For the price of a basic petrol Volkswagen, you can get a top-tier Ford trim (such as the attractive ST-Line) or a very efficient plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, which has long been a sales hit in Europe.

Estimated Used Car Prices (approx. 4 years old / MY 2022)

Note: The prices listed are indicative and depend on mileage, engine, and documented service history of specific used cars on the market.

What do you get for your money?

• Ford Kuga: The clear winner in terms of value for money. If you have a tighter budget or simply want maximum equipment and newer technology (including electrified powertrains) for your money, the Kuga excels on the secondary market.
• Volkswagen Tiguan: A more expensive entry into the world of SUVs, but with the promise of slower future depreciation. For the higher price, you get a more premium interior, advanced all-wheel drive, and the assurance of excellent liquidity when it comes time to sell.

Both models, Ford Kuga and Volkswagen Tiguan, achieved the maximum five-star rating in crash tests by the independent organization Euro NCAP. When choosing a used car, however, it is necessary to consider the context and the specific year these tests took place. Euro NCAP's methodology and protocols are constantly evolving and becoming stricter, meaning that percentage results from different years cannot be simply compared directly. Newer tests place much greater emphasis on active safety, pre-collision systems with automatic braking, and comprehensive protection for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.

The third generation of the Ford Kuga underwent Euro NCAP tests in 2019 under stricter and more modern rules. The Kuga performed excellently, scoring 92% for adult protection and 86% for child protection. Particularly impressive is the 82% result in the category of protection for vulnerable road users, reflecting the standard presence of modern assistance systems with advanced pedestrian and cyclist detection. In the safety assist category, the car received a solid 73%. This package of assistance features remains very relevant on the used car market and provides a high level of safety that fully meets current demands for a family SUV.

The second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan, which is the most typical representative on the four-year-old used car market today, was tested by Euro NCAP back in 2016. It earned an excellent 96% for adult protection and 84% for child protection. Given the year of testing and the less strict methodology at the time, it achieved 72% for pedestrian protection and 68% for safety assists. Although the Tiguan still offers robust passive safety and an exceptionally strong body structure, its official 2016 certification has already expired due to age, as is common practice with Euro NCAP after several years. While used Tiguan models after the 2020 facelift feature additionally improved systems, their baseline safety structure was evaluated through the lens of older standards.

In terms of passive safety during an actual impact, both cars represent above-average safe choices that reliably protect the occupants. However, thanks to its newer engineering foundation and testing under significantly stricter methodologies, the Ford Kuga offers a demonstrably more sophisticated package of active safety features. In a direct comparison, the Kuga thus better meets today's strict safety standards, while the Tiguan's great results must be viewed in the context of older regulations.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features and technological solutions that can be decisive for the customer. While one bets on sophisticated electrification and practical variability, the other counters with premium equipment and advanced assistance systems.

Ford Kuga: Emphasis on electrification and maximum flexibility

• Smart interior variability: The third-generation Kuga features a sliding rear bench as standard. The seats can be moved by up to 150 mm, allowing owners to seamlessly choose between generous legroom for rear passengers or increasing the luggage compartment volume by valuable tens of liters.
• Advanced powertrains: The Kuga stands out with a wide range of electrified powertrains. Particularly popular is the reliable Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, which realistically allows for approximately 50 km of pure electric driving. This system is ideal for daily emission-free commuting.
• Sporty and luxury derivatives: The range of trim levels significantly changes the character of the car. While the popular ST-Line version brings a more aggressive design and, above all, a sportier-tuned, stiffer chassis for better road holding, the top-of-the-line Vignale version offers luxury materials and an Active Noise Control system in the interior for maximum acoustic comfort.
• Connectivity and remote access: The SYNC 3 infotainment system is complemented by an onboard modem and the FordPass Connect app. Users can thus remotely unlock their car, check battery or fuel status, and in versions with automatic transmission, even start the car remotely to cool down or warm up the interior before driving.

Volkswagen Tiguan: Technological maturity and premium features

• Revolutionary IQ.LIGHT lighting: After the facelift (from 2020), the Tiguan can be equipped with top-of-the-line Matrix LED headlights. Using a system of diodes, these can precisely and dynamically mask oncoming vehicles and pedestrians, so you can keep your high beams on at all times without dazzling others. This significantly increases safety during night journeys.
• Assistance and electronics: The Tiguan scores with the Travel Assist system, which combines adaptive cruise control with predictive sign recognition and active lane keeping. The car can thus handle partially automated driving up to highway speeds. The interior's centerpiece is the fully digital instrument cluster (Digital Cockpit Pro) with wide personalization options for the display.
• Ergonomics and comfort first: Like the Ford, the Tiguan also offers sliding rear seats for easy adjustment of the ratio between the trunk and passenger space. In addition, it adds the option of optional ergoActive front seats, which carry a medical certificate for back health, feature a massage function, and are an ideal choice for long highway journeys.
• All-wheel drive and sporty spirit: The Tiguan relies on the proven and very capable 4Motion all-wheel drive system, complemented by specific off-road driving modes. For fans of dynamics, there is an attractive R-Line visual package, and for true enthusiasts, there is also the uncompromising, full-blooded Tiguan R version with 320 horsepower, which shows how wide a range this model has.

Ford Kuga is ideal for those looking for a driver-focused and affordable SUV with a very well-tuned chassis. It will be appreciated especially by active drivers and families who don't mind a slightly more ordinary interior finish, but instead prefer a great ratio of price, equipment, and reliable hybrid technologies.

Volkswagen Tiguan represents a safe bet for buyers looking for a more premium-finished family SUV with high comfort and excellent ergonomics. Higher purchase costs on the used car market are balanced by excellent craftsmanship, a representative appearance, and the fact that this model holds its value exceptionally well.

Based on long-term owner experience, service bulletins, and thousands of inspections included in our comprehensive car audit, we have compiled a detailed overview of the most common problems you should watch out for with these approximately four-year-old used cars.

Ford Kuga (3rd generation)

The third generation of the Ford Kuga struggled with several "teething problems" in the early stages of production; however, after these were addressed, it is considered a mechanically robust vehicle that requires attention mainly in the areas of software and hybrid propulsion.

• Powertrains (PHEV and batteries): For plug-in hybrid versions from 2020 and 2021, a widespread recall took place due to the risk of overheating and fire in the high-voltage battery. For used cars, it is absolutely essential to check whether the vehicle was properly repaired at an authorized dealer as part of this recall. For cars that sit for long periods, issues with rapid 12V battery discharge also occasionally occur.
• Electronics and infotainment: The SYNC 3 system (and later SYNC 4) occasionally suffers from system freezes, slow responses, or a black screen after starting. Most of these issues can be resolved via over-the-air (OTA) updates or by installing the latest software at a service center.
• Diesel engines (EcoBlue): Customers often report problems with engine oil dilution with diesel in 1.5 and 2.0 EcoBlue engines. This occurs during frequent incomplete diesel particulate filter (DPF) regenerations during short city trips. The manufacturer partially addressed the problem with new software, but owners are strongly advised to shorten the oil change interval to a maximum of 15,000 km.
• Chassis and build quality: On models from the first years of production, unusual noises from the front axle may appear, often caused by worn stabilizer bushings or shock absorber bump stops. There are also occasional complaints about creaking interior plastics when driving over bumps.

Volkswagen Tiguan (2nd generation facelift)

The updated version of the second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan brought significant digitalization of the interior and advanced assistance systems, which are unfortunately the areas where most service interventions originate today.

• Infotainment and onboard systems (MIB3): By far the most common problem with modernized Tiguans is a freezing, slow, and randomly restarting infotainment system. The system often loses wireless connection with phones, and disruptive eCall emergency call error messages also appear, which usually originate from a faulty communication module.
• Electronics and assistance systems: A very common and well-known fault is the Travel Assist system. It manifests as annoying beeping and error messages on the digital instrument cluster. It is caused by a faulty capacitive sensor in the steering wheel rim, and the only effective repair is usually a complete steering wheel replacement.
• DSG transmissions (DQ381): Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions may jerk slightly when crawling at low speeds. The key to their reliability and the long life of the mechatronics is a strict transmission oil change at least every 60,000 km.
• Diesel engines (2.0 TDI Evo): TDI engines are famous for their durability, but around 100,000 km, premature coolant leaks from the water pump may occur. Occasional failures of AdBlue system injectors or faults in sensitive NOx sensors due to poor quality fuel or short trips have also been recorded.
• Petrol engines (1.5 TSI): With the otherwise very successful and economical petrol engines, a slight jerking (the so-called "kangaroo effect") may occur during cold starts. Additional software updates to the control unit have significantly mitigated this behavior but never completely eliminated it.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key, and a comprehensive car audit is the best way to avoid unexpected expenses. Here are some specific points to focus on for these two models.

When choosing a Ford Kuga:

• Clutch condition and automatic smoothness: For versions with a manual transmission, test the clutch bite point; shift into a higher gear, apply full throttle at lower RPMs, and watch if the RPMs rise faster than the car's actual speed (this would be a clear sign of slipping). For the eight-speed automatic, focus on stop-and-go traffic – the transmission must not jerk or hesitate unpleasantly when downshifting at low speeds.
• Battery health in the PHEV version: For the popular plug-in hybrid powertrain (2.5 PHEV), check the recall history, especially the one concerning the high-voltage battery in early 2020 models. During the test drive, check the estimated electric range at full charge on the trip computer and focus on how smoothly the car switches between the electric motor and the internal combustion engine.
• Suspension and chassis noise: Heavier versions of the car can sometimes suffer from faster wear of suspension components. Try driving slowly over speed bumps and potholes with the window down and the radio off. Dull thuds or knocking from the front axle often indicate play in the bushings or worn stabilizer links.
• SYNC infotainment behavior: Check the SYNC touchscreen system (version 3 or 4 depending on equipment) by quickly scrolling through menus and trying to set a destination in the navigation. Screen freezing, very slow responses, or Bluetooth connection drops often point to outdated software that will require an update.

When choosing a Volkswagen Tiguan:

• 1.5 TSI engine behavior when cold: If you are looking at the base petrol engine, insist on a test drive with a completely cold engine. Closely monitor the smoothness of power delivery when pulling away and accelerating at low RPMs. The well-known "kangarooing" (jerking when cold) was resolved for most cars through ECU updates, but it is essential to verify that the specific unit has actually undergone them.
• Proper DSG gearbox function: The dual-clutch automatic requires careful maintenance and regular oil changes (usually every 60,000 or 120,000 km depending on the specific gearbox type). Test pulling away on a steep hill, very slow maneuvering during parking, and switching the selector between "D" and "R" modes. Noticeable jerking, mechanical noise, or excessive hesitation by the gearbox indicates worn clutches or an emerging problem with the mechatronics.
• DCC adaptive damper condition: If the car has the optional adaptive suspension, check for any oil leaks from the expensive dampers (a detailed physical inspection of the used car on a lift is ideal here). While driving, also switch between Comfort and Sport modes – the difference in damping stiffness should be felt immediately, and the chassis should not bounce unnaturally or clunk over bumps.
• MIB3 infotainment stability: On facelifted models (from 2020 onwards), the MIB3 onboard system was initially quite prone to software bugs. During the drive, check for spontaneous restarts, drops in wireless phone mirroring (Apple CarPlay / Android Auto), or the parking camera image freezing when shifting into reverse.

Sources: ADAC, svetmotoru.cz, garaz.cz, autozive.cz, autoweb.cz, dopravacek.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.