Volkswagen Tiguan vs. Mazda CX-5
iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Volkswagen Tiguan and Mazda CX-5 contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Volkswagen Tiguan and the Mazda CX-5.
In comparing the Volkswagen Tiguan's and the Mazda CX-5's specifications and ratings, the Volkswagen Tiguan has the advantage in the areas of new vehicle base pricing and base engine power. The Mazda CX-5 has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, reliability, resale value, interior volume and overall quality score. Based on this comparison of the Volkswagen Tiguan's and the Mazda CX-5's specifications and ratings, the Mazda CX-5 is a better car than the Volkswagen Tiguan.
Pricing: A used 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan ranges from $28,038 to $42,186 while a used 2025 Mazda CX-5 is priced between $25,750 to $37,887. For a new model, the Volkswagen Tiguan's price is between $30,884 and $42,730, with the Mazda CX-5 priced between $31,061 and $41,347.
Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Volkswagen Tiguan loses 47.8 percent of its value and the Mazda CX-5 loses 42.4 percent of its value. This means the Mazda CX-5 retains 5.4 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Volkswagen Tiguan.
Quality Rating: The iSeeCars Overall Quality rating for the Volkswagen Tiguan is 7.6 out of 10 while the Mazda CX-5's quality rating is 8.5 out of 10. This results in the Volkswagen Tiguan being ranked 12 out of 19 Best Small SUVs and the Mazda CX-5 being ranked 6 out of 19. Out of 66 Best Crossover SUVs, the Volkswagen Tiguan is ranked 31 and the Mazda CX-5 is ranked 13.
Reliability Rating: iSeeCars’ Reliability Rating for the Volkswagen Tiguan is 7.5 out of 10. For the Mazda CX-5 the reliability rating is 8.1 out of 10. This gives the Mazda CX-5 a slight advantage in reliability compared to the Volkswagen Tiguan.
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Volkswagen Tiguan’s base engine makes 201 horsepower, and the Mazda CX-5 base engine makes 187 horsepower.
Passenger Space Comparison: While both models are crossover/compact SUVs, the Mazda CX-5 has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room, front shoulder room, front leg room, and cargo space. The Volkswagen Tiguan has the advantage in the areas of rear head room, rear shoulder room and rear leg room.
Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, the Mazda CX-5 has higher safety ratings than the Volkswagen Tiguan, with an average rating of 5 out of 5 Stars compared to 4.45 out of 5 Stars.
Overview
The Tiguan and CX-5 have similar MPG ratings, similar price points, and similar powertrains. Both have front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive as an option. The Volkswagen Tiguan has a third-row option that the Mazda CX-5 lacks, and more cargo space with the second row up or down. The CX-5 has slightly more towing capacity and more legroom and headroom in both the first and second rows. In terms of drive quality, the VW aims primarily for mainstream drivers looking for comfort and confident handling while the Mazda embraces the corporate “Zoom Zoom” mantra with a noticeably sportier feel for driving enthusiasts. Neither of these small crossovers pretends to be an off-road player, preferring to stay on pavement and provide the confident, car-like ride and handling that most compact SUV shoppers are seeking.
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
30884 - 42730
Starting MSRP:
30245
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Compact SUVs)
28836
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Compact SUVs)
24135 - 30995
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
31061 - 41347
Starting MSRP:
29050
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Compact SUVs)
28836
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Compact SUVs)
24135 - 30995
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
35325
Price Range:
28038 - 42186
Category Avg Price:
(Compact SUVs)
32106
Category Avg Price Range:
(Compact SUVs)
28107 - 36583
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
# Good or Great Deals:
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
30175
Price Range:
25750 - 37887
Category Avg Price:
(Compact SUVs)
32106
Category Avg Price Range:
(Compact SUVs)
28107 - 36583
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
# Good or Great Deals:
5-year Depreciation
Depreciation $:
14582
Depreciation %:
0.48211785
Resale Value $:
15663
Residual Value %:
0.5178821499999999
Typical Category Depreciation %:
(Compact SUVs)
0.43208374
Category Depreciation Range:
(Compact SUVs)
0.30791758 - 0.51647538
5-year Depreciation
Depreciation $:
12425
Depreciation %:
0.42771385
Resale Value $:
16625
Residual Value %:
0.57228615
Typical Category Depreciation %:
(Compact SUVs)
0.43208374
Category Depreciation Range:
(Compact SUVs)
0.30791758 - 0.51647538
Volkswagen Tiguan Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
7.6 / 10
Reliability:
7.5 / 10
Retained Value:
8.0 / 10
Safety:
7.4 / 10
Mazda CX-5 Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
8.5 / 10
Reliability:
8.1 / 10
Retained Value:
8.3 / 10
Safety:
9.0 / 10
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for Volkswagen Tiguan
Avg Life Expectancy (years):
10.4
Typical Category Life Expectancy:
(Compact SUVs)
11.3
Category Life Expectancy Range:
(Compact SUVs)
9.6 - 15.7
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
0.02
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for Mazda CX-5
Avg Life Expectancy (years):
15.7
Typical Category Life Expectancy:
(Compact SUVs)
11.3
Category Life Expectancy Range:
(Compact SUVs)
9.6 - 15.7
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
0.263
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
2.0725529922117
Typical Category Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
2.6
Category Range for Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
1.6 - 16.1
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
2.5563369845389827
Typical Category Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
2.6
Category Range for Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
1.6 - 16.1
Volkswagen Tiguan Rankings
Ranking
1 out of / 33Ranking
1 out of / 3Ranking
2 out of / 29Ranking
2 out of / 29Ranking
2 out of / 19Ranking
2 out of / 3Ranking
5 out of / 10Ranking
5 out of / 6Ranking
5 out of / 6Ranking
6 out of / 19Ranking
6 out of / 10Ranking
7 out of / 33Ranking
8 out of / 19Ranking
10 out of / 19Ranking
10 out of / 19Ranking
11 out of / 19Ranking
12 out of / 19Ranking
12 out of / 18Ranking
13 out of / 19Ranking
14 out of / 19Ranking
15 out of / 33Ranking
15 out of / 18Ranking
16 out of / 66Ranking
17 out of / 66Ranking
17 out of / 33Ranking
17 out of / 19Ranking
18 out of / 19Ranking
19 out of / 54Ranking
19 out of / 33Ranking
20 out of / 33Ranking
25 out of / 66Ranking
28 out of / 54Ranking
28 out of / 33Ranking
30 out of / 33Ranking
31 out of / 66Ranking
31 out of / 66Ranking
31 out of / 66Ranking
31 out of / 33Ranking
32 out of / 33Ranking
32 out of / 33Ranking
33 out of / 33Ranking
36 out of / 66Ranking
42 out of / 66Ranking
47 out of / 66Ranking
50 out of / 66Ranking
56 out of / 66Ranking
64 out of / 66Mazda CX-5 Rankings
Ranking
1 out of / 20Ranking
1 out of / 12Ranking
2 out of / 54Ranking
2 out of / 18Ranking
3 out of / 66Ranking
3 out of / 19Ranking
4 out of / 12Ranking
5 out of / 20Ranking
5 out of / 19Ranking
6 out of / 19Ranking
6 out of / 19Ranking
7 out of / 19Ranking
9 out of / 19Ranking
10 out of / 19Ranking
10 out of / 18Ranking
11 out of / 19Ranking
12 out of / 19Ranking
13 out of / 66Ranking
13 out of / 66Ranking
13 out of / 19Ranking
13 out of / 19Ranking
14 out of / 66Ranking
17 out of / 66Ranking
18 out of / 19Ranking
22 out of / 54Ranking
30 out of / 66Ranking
33 out of / 66Ranking
37 out of / 66Ranking
38 out of / 66Ranking
39 out of / 66Ranking
40 out of / 66Ranking
44 out of / 66Ranking
46 out of / 66Summary Review
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact sport utility vehicle with a reputation for engaging driving dynamics and upscale interior materials. The Tiguan has become VW’s best-selling vehicle in the U.S. and is currently in its second generation, with new models averaging $30,442 and 3-year-old models averaging $22,319.
Summary Review
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover with seating for five and a reputation as a favorite for drivers. The current Mazda CX-5 was redesigned for the 2017 model year, with new models costing an average of $32,211 and recent models averaging $23,771.
Pros and Cons
- New generation is roomier and more fuel efficient
- Optional three-row seating is occasionally useful
- Driving dynamics are engaging
- Acceleration not as strong as some competitors
- Fuel efficiency could be better
- First-generation’s cargo space was limited
Pros and Cons
- Dynamic driving experience
- Near-luxury interior design and materials
- Available 250-hp turbo engine on newer models
- No hybrid available
- Fuel economy lags class leaders
- Non-turbo models could use more power
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
Volkswagen Tiguan Trim Levels
S, S 4Motion, SE, SE 4Motion, SE R-Line Black, SE R-Line Black 4Motion, SEL R-Line 4Motion
Mazda CX-5 Trim Levels
2.5 Carbon Turbo, 2.5 S, 2.5 S Carbon Edition, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Premium Plus, 2.5 S Select, 2.5 Turbo Premium, 2.5 Turbo Signature
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
4 years / 50000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
4 years / 50000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
3 years / 36000 miles
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
4.45 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Overall Rating:
Not yet available
2026 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
Not yet available
2026 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
Not yet available
2026 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
Not yet available
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
5 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2026 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
201 hp @ 5250 rpm
Torque:
207 foot-lbs @ 1500 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.056 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
187 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
186 foot-lbs @ 4000 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.051 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
2 liters
Engine Configuration:
Inline
Number of Cylinders:
4
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
FWD / AWD
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
26 / 34 / 29
Range (city/hwy):
377 / 493 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Regular Unleaded
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
2.5 liters
Engine Configuration:
Inline
Number of Cylinders:
4
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
AWD
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
Not yet available
Range (city/hwy):
Not yet available
Recommended Fuel Type:
Not yet available
Standard/Optional Features
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Standard
Alloy wheels:
Standard
Android Auto:
Standard
Apple CarPlay:
Standard
Bench Seats:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Heated Seats
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Keyless Ignition:
Standard
Parking Sensors:
Standard
Power outlet:
Standard
Roadside assistance:
Standard
Satellite radio:
Standard
Trailer Hitch:
Standard
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Wifi:
Standard
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
Standard
Automatic Parking:
Available
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Massage Seats:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Power Lift Gate:
Available
Roof Rack:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Air Suspension:
N/A
Captain's seat:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Internet Radio:
N/A
Paddle Shifters:
N/A
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Standard/Optional Features
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Standard
Alloy wheels:
Standard
Android Auto:
Standard
Apple CarPlay:
Standard
Bench Seats:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Heated Seats
Available
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Keyless Ignition:
Standard
Parking Sensors:
Available
Power outlet:
Standard
Roadside assistance:
Standard
Satellite radio:
Available
Trailer Hitch:
Available
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Wifi:
Standard
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
Available
Automatic Parking:
N/A
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Massage Seats:
N/A
Navigation System:
Available
Power Lift Gate:
Available
Roof Rack:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Air Suspension:
N/A
Captain's seat:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Internet Radio:
Standard
Paddle Shifters:
Available
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Standard
Driver Attention Monitoring:
Standard
Forward Collision Warning:
Standard
Lane Departure Warning:
Standard
Lane Keeping Assist:
Standard
Pedestrian Detection:
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
Standard
Rear Seat Reminder:
Standard
360-Degree Camera:
Available
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Standard
Driver Attention Monitoring:
Available
Forward Collision Warning:
Standard
Lane Departure Warning:
Standard
Lane Keeping Assist:
Standard
Pedestrian Detection:
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
Standard
Rear Seat Reminder:
Standard
360-Degree Camera:
Available
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
39.5 inches
Front Leg Room:
40.2 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
57 inches
Rear Head Room:
39.7 inches
Rear Leg Room:
40.2 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
55.7 inches
Cargo Space:
26.5 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
58.9 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
130.3 cubic feet
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
39.7 inches
Front Leg Room:
41 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
57.1 inches
Rear Head Room:
39 inches
Rear Leg Room:
39.6 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
54.8 inches
Cargo Space:
30.8 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
59.3 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
134.4 cubic feet
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
3563 lbs
Width:
84.7 inches
Height:
66.1 inches
Length:
184.4 inches
Wheelbase:
109.9 inches
Ground Clearance:
6.6 inches
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
3679 lbs
Width:
83.3 inches
Height:
66.1 inches
Length:
180.1 inches
Wheelbase:
106.2 inches
Ground Clearance:
7.6 inches
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
17.0 x 7.0 inches
Wheel Type:
polished aluminum alloy
Tire Size:
215/65R17
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
17.0 x 7.0 inches
Wheel Type:
painted aluminum alloy
Tire Size:
P225/65R17
Exterior Colors
Black
Deep Black Pearl
Gray
Platinum Gray Metallic
Silver
Pyrite Silver Metallic
White
Pure White
Blue
Not available
Exterior Colors
Black
Jet Black Mica
Gray
Platinum Quartz Metallic
Silver
Not available
White
Rhodium White Metallic
Blue
Deep Crystal Blue Mica
Interior Colors
Gray
Grigio Gray/Titan Black
Black
Not available
Interior Colors
Gray
Not available
Black
Black
