Honda CR-V or VW Tiguan

Test drove the 1.6 CRV about 18 months ago. I had previously owned a 2.2 CRV, which I really liked, and was very, very keen on another CRV but wary of the much smaller engine when towing. The CRV is very good value, with superb specs, BUT having test driven it I walked away without a backward glance. I know that the salesman bangs on about hp and output, but driving it solo it felt slightly underpowered. One of those cars where you put your foot down for some extra power, the engine note rises and makes all the right noises, but you don’t actually get much oomph. Considering this was without a caravan on the back, I felt it would have been a terrible tow car. I ended up buying a Tiguan which tows my Valencia 1500kg without an issue. My advice, forget the CRV, because you’ll regret buying it.

have you considered what the 2 vehicles will tow. check the kerb weights of both and their towing limits before you decide.

Definitely the 2.0 Tiguan.  1.6  CRV isn't even in the same league.

Thanks for all your good advice.  I'm pleased to say the CRV is no longer on our list.

Simon 100's suggestions led us to visit the local dealers and we are test driving a Mazda CX-5 SEL Nav. A more expensive deal than the Tiguan but we are now quite honestly wondering whether the VW dealer is procrastinating on our order because he regrets offering us such a good deal in the first place and hopes that we will drop out!

Dout it Tinah.  It's because the Tig is an excellent car in high demand.  I've got one and am very pleased with it.

I suggested the CX5 as I had one, a Sports nav, and it towed my Clubman (1440kg mptlm) with ease. It is a great solo drive and Mazda have a good reputation.

The CRV is about to be replaced hence the desperation to sell an unloved 2wd diesel. Buy the VW or look at Skoda Kodiaq

I have recently swapped to VW Tig 2.0 TDI 4 motion manual myself and already its proven its self to be a great towcar on all roads and motorways, I tow a 1490 mtplm bailey and the car has no trouble with this,

I did look at a CX-5 but the finish and build quality of the VW is far better.

And go for automatic, you will never look back. An alternative with same running gear as Tiguan is a Passat Alltrack (NOT Golf Alltrack, too light). 

Is one of them available with a slush box auto?