Fiat 500c Gucci Edition

Posted on August 10, 2012 by drivermom

Motoring the narrow, hilly streets of Hull, MA in a Fiat 500c Gucci Edition, I couldn’t help but feel Italian.  Ok, it’s not Europe, but I am Italian, and with people smiling and waving as I’m adorned in Gucci enhancements, I guess one could call it my J. Lo moment.

To celebrate Gucci’s 90th anniversary, Fiat teamed up with the luxurious Italian leather maker to create this little gem exuding style with just the right touch of sexy.

It stands out as Gucci right away by the signature green/red/green stripe running  across the length of the power-retractable cloth top.  Then I opened the door and the oohs and aahs started.  What grabbed me was the two toned Frau leather seats embossed with the Guuccissima logo.  It was like being presented with that longed for handbag.  Except that I got to sit in it.  And then buckling up in those delicious seats with Gucci signature green/red/green stripe seat belts.  The spree continues with premium leather accents on the interior door panels and on the hand-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel, finished in a two-tone ivory and white combination.   The interior materials are quality and well-crafted creating a cozy, artistic feel much like the MINI, it’s main competitor, with a round speedometer (except it’s on the dashboard)and power window switches located in the center stack.

Adding to the vehicle’s exterior charm are uniquely designed, retro-inspired 15-inch aluminum wheels with interlocking “GG” hubcaps and brake calipers, which have been lacquered in signature Gucci green.  Chrome cursive “Gucci” signatures accent the door frames and hatchback.  And what’s distinctive about the retractable cloth top is that is folds back like a window shade, while maintaining the body structure and vehicle design lines.

Just like a favorite handbag that you can stuff everything into, the Fiat 500 by Gucci comes loaded with premium amenities; Blue&Me hands-free communication technology with USB port, eco:Drive Application and iPod control capability, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, excellent sounding Bose Energy Efficient Series audio system with six premium speakers and subwoofer, automatic climate control and heated front seats….should I continue?

The driving is pure fun.  The 1.4 L I-4 multiair engine puts out 101 horsepower.  Sure it could use more, but driving this car isn’t about horsepower.   Its jubilance gives it all the energy it needs.  On top of that, it’s responsive, efficient and handles easily.  Parking anywhere is a breeze.

To my surprise, I did get my daughter in the backseat in her rear facing carseat.  Space was tight, but it worked.  The seat cushions however were very stiff, and hooking onto the latches took some strength and fishing around.    The trunk space reminded me of a carry on duffel bag.  Small, elongated and roundish.  I fit four Whole Foods bags across.  And that was it.  To utilize the cargo area, the seats need to be folded down.  So it’s baby or luggage.

Which brings me to my last thought.  This car is so cute, it made me feel like a proud mama….times two.

Some Basics
MSRP:  $28,400
engine: 1.4L,  I-4
hp/torque: 101 hp/98 ft-lb.
drivetrain: FWD
fuel economy:  27 city/32 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating: Good. Top Safety Pick

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
cute, chic, Italian

What’s the best thing about it?
it has personality galore

What’s the biggest drawback?
it’s oh so small

Mom-friendliness score: B+

Driver-friendliness score: A-

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“La vita viva all’il più pieno.”

(live life to the fullest)

 
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2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Posted on August 2, 2012 by drivermom

When life takes unexpected turns, it’s important to drive a vehicle that goes the distance.  Efficient, affordable and stylish, the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a smart choice on the road of endurance.

With a redesigned front and rear, the 2012 Sonata’s look becomes even more sleek and elegant, lending it a sophistication over some of its dowdy competitors.  And for the money, the interior on this car is beautiful.  Attractive curves and soft-touch materials on the dash, doors and center console give it an upscale feel without the cost.  It’s also up to speed in the technology department.  Standard features include a six-speaker sound system with USB and auxiliary inputs, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, automatic climate control, headlights with LED accents and a 4.2-inch LCD trip computer/hybrid technology display with bright, easy-to-read graphics.

As for driving, the Sonata surprised me.  I took it out with my Dad, to run multiple errands in stop and go traffic.  Far from a ‘ho-hum’ experience, it was a pleasure.  And comfortable.  The transmission was smooth and more powerful than expected.  I barely noticed the engine switching modes on acceleration.  It also performs nicely on highway driving.  Not much different from the gas-only Sonata.   And for going the distance, the 1.4-kW-hr lithium-polymer battery pack can last more than ten years backed by a Hyundai lifetime warranty.

With my daughter securely fit in her Graco Snugride 35, the back seat afforded plenty of room.  Cabin space is ample.  A strong concern however was the latches.  In April 2012 the IIHS published a report on child seat latches and the 2011 Sonata was one vehicle that failed to meet any of the appropriate installation criteria.  (Depth, accessibility and force required to install)  It appears the problems have been fixed although I did find the latches a bit too close to the seat belt buckles making installation more tricky.  Also important to note is that this model also has a current recall on the rear middle seat belt buckles.

Comfortable, stylish and composed handling, the Sonata hybrid offers a great value for the fuel saving, technology oriented driver.

Some Basics
MSRP:  $25,850
engine: 2.4L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A
hp/torque: 166 hp/154 ft-lb
drivetrain: FWD
fuel economy:  35 city/40 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating:  Good. Top Safety Pick.

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
upscale, affordable sedan

What’s the best thing about it?
great value for the money

What’s the biggest drawback?
other hybrids have better fuel economy

Mom-friendliness score: B+

Driver-friendliness score: B+

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“I’m reaching for a higher note….”

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Jaguar XKR-S

Posted on July 18, 2012 by drivermom

You know life has changed when you take a $132,000 car out to buy Pop-tarts.  But for love, it doesn’t matter.  Driving the 2012 Jaguar XKR-S reminded me of what’s like to fall in love.  Feeling my heartrate quicken….racing thoughts….and that tingling longing to spend every waking moment with it.   The most powerful Jaguar built to date with 550 hp and 502 ft-lb. of torque, the XKR-S is Jaguar’s most evolved expression of passion for building fast, beautiful cars.

As Sir William Lyons, Jaguar’s founder, once said, “The car is the closest thing we will ever create to something that is alive.”  From the moment one enters the cabin, everything is designed to accommodate the human experience.  Even starting the XKR-S, a pulsing red light, like a heartbeat, glows from the engine start button.  But if this car resembles anything human, it is one angry dude.  A departure from traditional Jaguar styling, the XKR-S takes on a menacing look with carbon fiber front end spoiler and rear wing, air intakes on the hood and 20 inch wheels.   Showcased in a bold French Racing blue, the car reflects Jaguar’s racing heritage.  And while the Ian Callum designed XK has acheived awards for styling elegance, this car is primarily designed for performance, with aerodynamic modifications to achieve a top speed of 186mph.

Now the obvious question – why in the world would you consider this car for a baby? Well, you wouldn’t.  Going out for Pop-Tarts was the extent of my Mom experience.  It does come equipped with latches.  But the sport style pseudo-back seat did not accommodate a rear facing carseat.  A front facing booster might fit, but with such little room, it’s hardly worth it.  The trunk space was small and flat, not much room for gear.

To fully appreciate what this car can do, it really should be taken to its rightful playground – the racing track.  Even so, like any well-trained athlete who moves with grace and composure while simply out for a stroll, the Jaguar hugs curves beautifully on country backroads, yet always ready to perform on a moment’s notice, responding with olympic reflex.  Over 75 mph the car comes alive.  And the best part?  The active exhaust system puts out a note that qualifies as a second sound system.  I barely touched the radio.  Gunning the gas, the melodic rumble exuded a symphony par excellence.

Some Basics
MSRP:  $132,875
engine: 5.0L V8
hp/torque: 550 hp/502 ft-lb
drivetrain: RWD
fuel economy:  15 city/22 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating:  not rated

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
performance driven luxury

What’s the best thing about it?
the driving experience

What’s the biggest drawback?
no room for baby

Mom-friendliness score: C

Driver-friendliness score:  A+

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“Wake me up when we hit 90 mph”

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2012 Ford Edge Ecoboost

Posted on July 7, 2012 by drivermom

Preparing for our daughter’s birth, I remember picking out a stroller.  The overwhelming feeling when presented with the rainbow of designs and options – made me realize more than ever how the world has exploded into a dizzying array of choices. Who would have ever thought buying a simple baby item would require research, talking to people and learning ‘stroller lingo’?  Multiply this by a thousand when it’s time to buy a car.  Driving the Ford Edge this week, it occurred to me, with the growing number of crossover sport utility vehicles on the market, what about it would make me choose this one?

Well, to start, it’s big.  Inside and out.  At first the exterior design made me step back, as when confronted with a bull dog showing a toothy grin.  But opening the driver door instantly calmed any worries to discover that this dog is fully domesticated.  Nice digs inside.  Comfortable leather seats.  And one of the best interior features is space.  Cargo area is 32.2 cu. ft. with seats up, 68.9 cu. ft. with seats folded down.  The debated my touch SYNC system which encompasses everything, climate, radio, nav, and phone, here too looked intimidating at first, but was surprisingly easy to use.  And fun.  My only glitch was that the buttons are so sensitive, I inadvertently kept turning the hazards on while changing the radio station.  Just my hand gliding over the red triangle set them on.

Driving the Edge is enjoyable. Best suited for backroads cruising, it taking turns smoothly and is powerful enough to feel some play.   For a 2.0-liter turbo four cylinder engine, it puts out an impressive 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, and is mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission with front wheel drive, using regular gas.  It’s only when putting my foot on the pedal to accelerate, that the weighty 4,000 lbs. kept the Ecoboost from delivering a real boost.  The Ecoboost engine also found in the Explorer, is Ford’s excellent answer to the big-car gas guzzler problem.  But while much improved, it still has a way to go.  And for $995 extra, it only saves two to three miles per gallon.

Overall, for a Mom who likes the big car feeling with priorities of safety, comfort and cargo space, the Edge is a stand-out choice over the rest.

Some Basics
MSRP:  $27,770 – $38,960
engine: 2.0L I-4 Ecoboost
hp/torque: 240 hp/270 ft-lb
drivetrain: FWD
fuel economy:  21 city/30 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating:  Good.

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
big, roomy, comfortable

What’s the best thing about it?
quality, spacioius interior

What’s the biggest drawback?
acceleration is sluggish

Mom-friendliness score: A-

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“Just need to drop a few pounds”

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2012 Nissan Rogue

Posted on June 27, 2012 by drivermom

Driving around with my daughter in the 2012 Rogue, a question sprang to mind….Why did Nissan name this car after a word that means ‘scoundrel’?  Come to find out (thanks to a great post on Jalopnik) the name ‘Rogue’ was initially intended for a V12, 850-hp supercar to be built by the motorcycle company, Brammo, Inc.  The car never made it to production, and Brammo sold the name to Nissan.  To distinguish it from others in its class, Nissan chose the name ‘Rogue,’ to personify a CUV with sporty styling and athletic dynamics.  And the Rogue lives up to it.

One of the best features no doubt is its looks.  Resembling its big brother Murano, the Rogue shares the same exterior styling, a marriage of sporty with chic.  Bold, smooth lines, and a redesigned nose that competes with the best of Beverly Hills.  What struck me on the one I drove was the lustrous color.  Graphite blue, available for 2012.  Stepping out in 93-degree, pea-soup humidity, just looking at this color made me feel cooler.  It sparkles like the sea.

The 2012 Rogue is offered in two trims, S and SV – both equipped with a 170-hp, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and CVT Transmission.  All 2012 Rogue models are available in all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive configurations.

On the interior, we were fortunate to have the SL package, available on the SV model, which brings perks like six-way power adjustable leather seats,  power glass moonroof, and Bose premium stereo system with subwoofer.  It also includes Nissan’s new Around View® Monitor feature, which utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras to provide a virtual 360° view of objects around the vehicle.  Interior materials are not the best, but they are simple, friendly to use and easy on the eyes.  Ironically, one of the chief complaints about the Rogue’s interior is that light enters never to return, due to smaller windows.  And I agree rearview visibility is compromised.  But in a one man’s ceiling is another man’s floor spirit,  the darker, cooler cabin spelled oasis on a sticky hot day.  The leather seating in my test car was pale grey, adding a soft touch.  And in those comfortable seats with a top notch stereo, I’m content to spend the afternoon.

Another bonus is space.  Cabin room is ample with no compromise on the front seat passenger with a rear facing car seat installed. Latches were fairly accessible.  Seat cushions were a bit stiff which made getting the base in easier than getting it out.  Cargo area offers 29 cubic ft. with rear seats up, 58 cubic ft. folded down.   A day at the beach with stroller, chairs, cooler and bags left room to spare.

Behind the wheel,  the 2.5L 170-hp engine drives smooth and steady.   Road bumps absorbed with aplomb.  It’s when you step on the gas to really get where you’re going that the car says, ‘whoa’ give me a few minutes.  The CVT transmission is slow to respond.   A trade-off for better fuel economy.

For a driver whose motto is normally ‘the more power the better,’ I found the comfortable interior and smooth ride so welcoming that I hardly noticed what it lacked.

Some Basics
MSRP:  $22,070 – $29,710
engine: 2.5L I-4
hp/torque: 170 hp/175 ft-lb
drivetrain: AWD or FWD
fuel economy:  23 city/28 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating:  Good.

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
stylish, athletic, affordable

What’s the best thing about it?
comfortable, spacious interior

What’s the biggest drawback?
could use more power

Mom-friendliness score: A-

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“I’m a charming rogue with good looks.”

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2013 Acura ILX

Posted on June 19, 2012 by drivermom

Under clear blue sky through the summer scent of freshly mown grass, driving any car is a pleasure.  Add in a delightful outing with my daughter, and I’ll be hard pressed to write anything negative about this week’s ride…..the Acura ILX.

Built on the same platform as the Honda Civic, the ILX is an entry level luxury car to the Acura lineup.   With quality standard features such as a push button start, an elegant looking waterfall centerstack, power moonroof, and an optional ELS sound system,…..it promotes this four door small sedan to a higher league.   And here I’ll admit, I’d drive a mail truck if it had an ELS sound system.  So when I glanced in and saw the ELS logo on the dash, it had me at “hello.”  The DVD Audio six channel 5.1 surround sound quality on this stereo is as Elliot Scheiner describes, “simply stunning.”

The ILX is offered in three trim levels.  Base level comes with a 2.oL,  150-hp engine with a five speed automatic transmission.  Next up is the 2.4L, 201-hp six speed manual, and for fuel saving, it’s third option is a 39/38 mpg city/hwy CVT transmission hybrid.  My wheels for the week were equipped with the 2.0L automatic.  For the mom-experience, the driving dynamics were fine.  Handling felt smooth and solid.  The driver in me wished for the 2.4L 201-hp manual.   That extra horsepower might have converted my driving score from good to great.

Interior is quality comfortable.  Equipped with standard technology features such as USB audio input and a touchscreen audio system that when paired with a smartphone over Bluetooth, offers Pandora radio and SMS Text messaging.  A draw for younger car shoppers it aims to attract.  With baby on board, backseat space was surprisingly roomy. Carseat installation was a breeze.  Trunk space is adequate, what one would expect for a vehicle this size.

Cruising around with my daughter this week in the ILX was easy, in a way that I didn’t have to think about it too much or struggle with anything.  We were simply free to turn up the music and enjoy.

Some Basics
MSRP:  $24,900 – $34,400
engine: 2.0L I-4
hp/torque: 150 hp/140 ft-lb
drivetrain: FWD
fuel economy:  24 city/35 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating:  not yet rated

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
upscale small sedan

What’s the best thing about it?
ELS sound system (I know I’m biased)

What’s the biggest drawback?
2.0 model could use more power

Mom-friendliness score: A

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“iPhone 5 or Galaxy S3?”

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2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Posted on June 10, 2012 by drivermom

My visit with the Hyundai Genesis Coupe was brief, so my comments will be the same.  The car arrived on the day my iMac hard drive crashed and left the day after.  But what a wonderful 24 hour window it gave me to blow off some steam.  Of everything I’ve read about this vehicle, agreement rests on one thing: the greatest improvement for 2013 lies under the hood.  The 348-hp 3.8L V-6 engine spelled stress relief, the equivalent of “Calgon, take me away!”  Also, being petite, it’s always satisfying when the small kid can play with the big boys.   And that’s what the Genesis coupe does, competing with muscle giants like the Ford Mustang and Chevorlet Camaro.  Driving it was pure fun.  Exhilirating acceleration off the line, and playful on the curves.

Exterior styling boasts a sporty look with a nicely restyled front end.  Some may not like the flavor of air intakes on the hood and rear spoiler, but I’ll take them.  And I’d be remiss not to mention the red caliper brembo brakes.   I don’t know why, but they always make my heart beat a little faster.

The interior is quality.  Just this past week, the ALG released a study that Hyundai is one of two brands whose perception in quality has shown the biggest increase.  Its cars like the Genesis Coupe fueling those results.   For Mom-ness however, it’s a good thing I took the car out mostly without my daughter.  Cabin space is cozy small.  The latches were buried in the seat cushions and stiff when trying to access.  It had more trunk room than I’d expect, but this wouldn’t be a car for toting baby + gear on a daily basis.

So in short summary, a great value, fun driver’s car.  Not the best for family, but perfect on those days Mom needs to steal a little me-time.

Some Basics
MSRP: $24,250 – $34,250
engine: 3.8L  V6
hp/torque: 348 hp / 344 ft.lbs.
drivetrain:   RWD
fuel economy: 18 city / 28 hwy
IIHS Rating: not yet rated

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
sporty, nimble, fast

What’s the best thing about it?
fun to drive

What’s the biggest drawback?
not much room for baby

Mom-friendliness score: B-

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“Are you up for a pony ride?”

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2012 Land Rover LR4

Posted on June 3, 2012 by drivermom

Initially I struggled to write a Mom review of the LR4.  What do I say about a luxury SUV designed for off-roading?  Then it hit me, if there were ever a road requiring ability to navigate all terrains……rocky, sandy, muddy, snowy, and steep…..it’s motherhood.  In this respect, the LR4 is perfect.  It handles all.  And while a large part of Mom driving consists of quick runs to Babies R Us and day care pick-ups….let’s face it..the road of motherhood is paved with long stretches of flat and boring….the LR4 delivers here too.  On plain highway or just getting around town, the LR4’s 375-hp, V-8 engine makes driving smooth and effortless.   And if you’re like me, taking an occasional curb in the shopping mall garage, the LR4’s got you covered.  On curves and bends, I did feel cautious due to its high center of gravity, but getting in and out of parking spaces was easy with its quick responsiveness.  The biggest driving drawback is that it drinks gas like I can put back chardonnay at a family summer picnic.

On the height aspect, driving the LR4 brought back childhood memories of trips to Great Adventure, faced with those signs, ‘you must be at least this tall to go on this ride’. While my Italian heritage blessed me with many savory qualities, long legs and height advantage weren’t included.   At 5’2″ it was a stretch for me getting in and out.  Forget wearing a pencil skirt.  And hoisting my daughter in and out of the car seat took care of this week’s upper body workout.   On the plus side, the car seat installation was one of the easiest ever.  A+ on latches.  They’re accessible and in prominent view.  The base rested flat and secure on the back seat.

Now let’s get to the best part. The interior.  Land Rovers are known to be tough and rugged for outside, with luxurious comfort on the inside.  The model I drove was graced with the HSE LUX package.  Some highlights: comfortable premium leather seats (the kind that smell good), a 17 speaker, 825-watt Harmon Kardon sound system and a mini refrigerator in the center console.  Yes.  A refrigerator.  Large windows give the cabin an extra roomy feel.  And with 90 cubic feet of cargo space, the LR4 is ready to go anywhere and stay there a while with all your supplies.  Optional third row seating makes this people-mover a superb family choice.  For a better picture, check out these possibilities:

Land Rover LR4 SUV Photos, Videos and Media | Land Rover USA.

My overall impression is that this is a first-rate luxury SUV.  If you don’t mind frequent fill-ups on your motherhood journey, the LR4 will take you wherever you want to go.

Some Basics
MSRP: $48,900 – $59,725
engine: 5.0L V8
hp/torque: 375 hp / 375 ft.lbs.
drivetrain: AWD
fuel economy: 12 city / 17 hwy
IIHS Rating:  not yet rated 

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
tall, rugged, luxurious

What’s the best thing about it?
beautiful interior, 90 cubic feet of cargo space

What’s the biggest drawback?
it guzzles gas

Mom-friendliness score: A-

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“I’m your Clint Eastwood of cars”

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2012 Dodge Charger SXT

Posted on May 25, 2012 by drivermom

Ok. I’ll admit it.  I like the Dodge Charger.  But then again, I’m an Italian girl from New Jersey who grew up in the 70’s and 80’s.  When musicians still wrote their own music, and families drove American cars.  I was almost born in a Ford Mustang…as my parents made it to the hospital with only minutes to spare.  During my grade school years, my Mom toted me around in our family’s Thunderbird and then later a Cadillac Eldorado.  So there’s a strong thread of American muscle in my fabric.

That being said, let’s talk about why the 2012 Charger makes this 40 something Mom to say, ‘I approve!’  For starters, there’s nothing like a solid, powerful car.  The model I drove was the SXT 3.6L V-6 with all wheel drive. Even more powerful is the 470-hp SRT8 version making a resurgence for 2012, but for a Mom-mobile, this one was perfectly fine.  The most notable new feature is an eight speed automatic transmission.  Something offered in very few high end cars, such as the BMW 7 series. How does this translate? Driving the Charger just got a whole lot better and is loads more fun.

The interior is surprisingly comfortable and spacious.  Every model comes with 8-way power seat and 4-way power lumbar support adjustments. The model I drove also had premium Nappa leather seats….well worth the added expense to cushion and comfort those overtired Mom muscles.  And electronically, this car is up to speed.   With a colorful eight inch touch screen display, dual zone automatic temperature controls, heated front and rear seats, and the most surprising feature…..cup holders with heating and cooling.  That’s right….I bought a shelf temperature vitamin water, turned the cup holder on cool and by the time I got home, it was cold.  Hmm….perhaps a way to warm milk or formula while driving?

Backseat space is also more than adequate. With three latch spaces for carseats.  The only minor drawback was the sport style seats in the back.  In order to install and tighten the rear facing car seat, the base sticks up and doesn’t rest fully on the seat cushion.  After several attempts I just couldn’t get as secure a fit as in other cars.  Trunk space is large.  Think American car big.

So I’ll be honest.  As a petite older mom carrying my little sweet pea around town, I wouldn’t run out to a Dodge dealership and start shopping for such a fierce looking muscle machine.  That’s just not reality.  But for the right customer, this is a well engineered, impressive family sedan that to me, offers the most important qualities of all…..heart and soul.

Some Basics
MSRP: $25,495 – $45,795
engine: 3.6L V6
hp/torque: 292hp / 260 ft.lbs.
drivetrain: RWD/AWD
fuel economy: 18 city / 27 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating:   Good. Top Safety Pick
 

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
bold, solid, comfortable

What’s the best thing about it?
it’s a powerful, safe family sedan

What’s the biggest drawback?
could be considered too big and heavy for just scooting around town

Mom-friendliness score: A-

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“I’ve come a long way baby”

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2012 VW Tiguan

Posted on May 18, 2012 by drivermom


As a former VW Beetle owner and lover, I was excited to drive the 2012 Tiguan.  Accustomed to well-made German engineering and peppy motoring, as soon as I arrived behind the wheel, I was let down.  Not that the Tiguan suffers any in good looks, it still carries the VW exterior styling, however the overall driving and interior design has moved in a different direction.

Let’s start with the interior.  Some have claimed it to be upscale and modern.  To me it was about as exciting as a manilla folder. Ok, should we just say bland?  Everything was there, but hardly noticeable.  I will say though, that the front seats have good lumbar support and the back seat is nice and roomy.  Generous space for baby seat and plenty of elbow room for an impromptu backseat diaper change.   Latches on VW’s tend to work easily, and the Tiguan is no exception.  My last interior gripe is the trunk.  Kind of a shoebox look that fits stroller or groceries.  Not both.

Ok, now let’s talk driving.  The 2.0L Turbo charged engine has received good reviews.  I think it would be great were it not in such a heavy vehicle.  Weighing in at 3,489 lbs., the Tiguan either needs to drop a few pounds to reach its fighting weight or drink a protein shake for a powerboost.   Going up a steep hill at 40mph, the automatic transmission struggled to shift gears.

Driving the 2012 Beetle a few months back, I was in heaven.  Fun, agile, playful…..same engine, totally different animal.   So, perhaps my loyalty is to the Beetle and any other suitors pale by comparison.   The Tiguan had a tough act to follow.

Some Basics
MSRP: $22,840 – $35,930
engine: 2.0L, I-4 Turbo
hp/torque: 200hp / 207 ft.lbs.
drivetrain: FWD/AWD
fuel economy: 18 city / 29 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating:   Good. Top Safety Pick
 

drivermom summary

Three words to describe this car
practical, functional, affordable

What’s the best thing about it?
roomy backseat

What’s the biggest drawback?
small cargo area

Mom-friendliness score: B

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“What’s a Tiguan?”

 

 


 

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