British and American “armoured units” face off against a German “panzer” and a Japanese “tank” in this heated battle for suburbanites’ hearts and minds.
COMPETITION for scarce resources has resulted in numerous conflicts throughout history.
In a similar vein, the increasingly crowded SUV segment has left motorists spoilt for choice and made the rivalry between car manufacturers that much harder. In this case, the scarce resources are the buyers and their dollars.
The British contender in this orbat is the MINI Cooper Countryman. It is bigger and roomier than its predecessor, yet promises to be more agile. Will this maxi-MINI have enough firepower to outgun its three rivals here?
Lining up beside the Countryman is a “Yank Tank” with military roots – the Jeep Compass. Can the muscular design and off-roading potential (it’s the only contender with all-wheel-drive) of the Compass direct SUV buyers towards the Jeep showroom?
Arguably the most formidable player in this contest is a “panzer” in the form of a Volkswagen Tiguan, for it is the only SUV here with an ST-Torque Best in Class award under its belt. Will the Tiguan’s keen drivetrain and well-built cabin be enough to fend off the competition?
The dark horse in this shootout might just be the Honda CR-V. It has the most ponies under its bonnet, and its seven-seater layout (the others are five-seaters) means it could also function as an “armoured personnel carrier” on the SUV battlefield.
Which of these “suburban tanks” will emerge victorious over both rivals and allies alike? We’re locked and loaded, so man your stations as this battle begins!
ENGINE & GEARBOX
MINI’s turbocharged 1.5-litre 3-cylinder with 136hp and 220Nm has the least firepower, but goes the furthest in a forced march because it has the highest fuel efficiency.
Cooper Countryman’s 6-speed automatic may have the fewest ratios, but makes up for this by being the keenest gearbox here.
COCKPIT
この記事は Torque Singapore の August 2018 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は Torque Singapore の August 2018 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
The Power Of Toys
When it comes to challenging gender stereotypes, there is more to toys than meets the eye.
Porsche 911- Eighth Wonder
Now in its eighth generation, the iconic Porsche 911 boasts even greater performance and driveability. It’s surprisingly more civilised, too.
Cool Camry - Toyota's New Large Saloon Is Surprisingly Snazzy
Forget about describing it as an “uncle’s” car – the striking new Toyota Camry is no longer a fuddy-duddy.
Mercedes Cabriolet - A Topless Star
The new C-Class Cabriolet impresses drivers with its sporty yet cosseting character.
Pushy Pussycat
Jaguar’s fiercest feline is even more assertive in SVR specification.
Diesel Cars In Singapore
PROBIN DASS I enjoy reading your magazine whenever I get my hands on a copy.
Ralf Lenninger
HEAD OF INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT SYSTEMS BUSINESS UNIT CONTINENTAL
Carbon Conundrum
Could the Vehicular Emissions Scheme (VES) lead to a paradox of cleaner cars which are less efficient?
Tarmac Memories
Edric recalls his good times on a road that will soon disappear.
The Rewards Of Progress
THE VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT IS AN EXECUTIVE SALOON THAT RIVALS LUXURY MODELS.