Head to Head

What we have in this week's Head-to-Head are two nameplates that have become popular to the mass when talking about great compact SUVs. Over the years, both of them have innovated and improved in ways that the public have always anticipated them to. We're talking about the Subaru XV and the Volkswagen Tiguan. Watch it here as they battle it out.

Let's check what's under the hood of our two featured compact SUVs.

The XV is powered by a 2.0-liter gasoline engine that produces 156 horsepower and 196 Nm of torque. This engine is coupled with a Continuously Variable Transmission that actively sends power to all four wheels. Meanwhile, the Tiguan runs on a 1.4-liter engine with BlueMotion Technology that gives out 150 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed DSG Transmission.

The suspension setup of the XV is made of a MacPherson Strut at the front and a Double Wishbone at the rear. This setup allows the XV to provide ride comfort despite being a little bouncy. For the Tiguan, it comes with a MacPherson Independent Suspension at the front and a Multi-link Independent Suspension at the rear.

That's enough of the oily bits. Let's proceed to the exterior and interior of the cars.

The looks of the XV is defined by its simple yet detailed exterior features. There's the LED headlamps with auto-levelizer and the LED daytime running lights that highlight the exterior of the XV. In addition, the signature curved lines of the model is present in the XV. The 17-inch alloy wheels also further adds character to the model. Over all, the combination of these features makes the XV a sight to see on the road.

On the other hand, the Tiguan's body has these character lines hugging it all around. Meanwhile, the Xenon headlights easily catch anyone's attention. The chrome-plated radiator grille also completes the look and design of the Tiguan. The model sports a set of 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, making it a sight to behold on the road.

Inside the XV, the seats are wrapped in orange-stitched leather, giving that elegant vibes. The 60/40 split rear seats are equipped with ISOFIX child seat tethers and foldable center armrest with cup holders. Moreover, the XV offers ample space for the passengers. Top that off with a likewise spacious trunk as well-perfect for loading extra cargo.

Another feature that highlights the XV's interior is its infotainment system. It comes with a 6.5-inches touchscreen audio that goes with 6 speakers that are available in AUX, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity to give you entertainment whether you're taking on a quick or long road trip.

On the other hand, the interior of the Tiguan looks luxurious; thanks to the Vienna leather seats material. And although the Tiguan is a standard 5-seater, it doesn't lack in space and leg room. Passengers at the back can enjoy the rear seats folding in a 60/40 split and can move comfortably through road trips in and out of the metro.

For its infotainment system, the Tiguan comes with a multi-function display that is available through AM, FM, AUX, MP3, and Bluetooth connectivity, among others. Sound is enjoyable through 8 speakers.

When it comes to safety and security features, added comfort and convenience, and advanced technological features, both the XV and the Tiguan come with a number of important features.

Aside from the standard features, the top-of-the-line XV is equipped with the EyeSight technology. It allows the car to keep a safe distance from the car in front of it. It also offers autonomous emergency braking systems. Basically, it keeps the passengers safe from accidents.

Meanwhile, the Tiguan is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System which checks the tires constantly and maintains the correct tire pressure. It also comes with an Electronic Stabilization Program takes charge of the detecting of critical driving conditions-among other features.

Those are the Subaru XV and the Volkswagen Tiguan-two compact SUVs that come close when it comes to greatness. That's it for our Head-to-Head this week.