Mazda CX-5 vs Volkswagen Tiguan: Which to Buy

Mazda CX-5 starts at $29,000; the Volkswagen Tiguan starts at $30,805. Before taxes and fees, the Mazda CX-5 is $1,860 less. Volkswagen Tiguan makes more power, 201 hp against 187 hp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mazda CX-5 or the Volkswagen Tiguan cheaper?
The Mazda CX-5 costs less to start. Mazda CX-5: $29,000 plus $1,420 destination. Volkswagen Tiguan: $30,805 plus $1,475 destination. Taxes, title and registration are on top of both.
Which gets better fuel economy, the Mazda CX-5 or the Volkswagen Tiguan?
The Mazda CX-5 is rated 26/31 city/hwy, and the Volkswagen Tiguan is rated 26/34 city/hwy. Real-world results depend on how and where you drive.
How many people does each seat?
The Mazda CX-5 seats 5. The Volkswagen Tiguan seats 5.
What are the trade-offs between the two?
Mazda CX-5: High-end interior materials that rival luxury brands, though cargo capacity trails behind more boxy competitors. Volkswagen Tiguan: Upmarket interior design and material quality, though infotainment interface has a steep learning curve.
Mazda CX-5 is best for
Mazda CX-5 is the better fit for compact suv buyers who drive in snow and rain. Its standout: high-end interior materials that rival luxury brands.
Volkswagen Tiguan is best for
Volkswagen Tiguan is the better fit for compact suv buyers who want to carry a family. Its standout: upmarket interior design and material quality.
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Attribute | Mazda CX-5 | Volkswagen Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $29,000 | $30,805 |
| MSRP + destination | $30,420 | $32,280 |
| Fuel economy / range | 26/31 city/hwy | 26/34 city/hwy |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 201 hp |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Body type | Compact SUV | Compact SUV |
| Powertrains | 2.5L 4-Cylinder, 2.5L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 2.0L TSI Turbo, 4Motion AWD, 2.0L Turbo High-Output |