2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan stood out among its competitors with a design that was both conservative and timeless. Its refreshed exterior featured new front styling that aligned it with Volkswagen's larger models, such as the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. The restyled grille, adorned with the new VW logo and an optional illuminated grille bar, added a touch of modernity. Standard LED headlights, new nameplate lettering on the rear liftgate, and redesigned aluminum wheels further enhanced its appeal. The Tiguan's lineup was simplified, offering trims like S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and SEL R-Line, with prices ranging from $25,995 to $36,995. The SEL R-Line, with its sporty appearance and Atlantic Blue Metallic paint, exuded a sophisticated charm. Inside, the Tiguan SEL R-Line boasted a luxurious cabin with perforated leather upholstery, advanced technology, and ambient lighting, though the lower half's hard plastic hinted at its mass-market roots. Standard features included keyless entry, push-button start, and heated front seats, with additional options like remote engine start and a panoramic sunroof available.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its impending name change to CX-50, remained a strong contender in the compact crossover segment. Its stylish design and high-quality materials gave it a luxury feel, complemented by a turbocharged engine that delivered impressive power. The CX-5's reputation for safety was bolstered by its Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. The model offered a choice between a standard 187-horsepower engine and a more powerful 256-hp turbocharged variant. The lineup included eight versions, with prices ranging from $26,700 to $39,650. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim, with its Rhodium White metallic paint and premium Nappa leather upholstery, exemplified luxury. However, the CX-5's small back seat, limited cargo space, and challenging infotainment system were potential drawbacks. Despite these issues, the CX-5's quality, refinement, and driving dynamics made it a compelling choice for those seeking a compact crossover with a touch of luxury.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the option of VW's 4Motion AWD system. The AWD system could direct up to half of the power to the rear wheels, enhancing fuel efficiency when not needed. Drivers could choose from Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with additional Offroad settings available with 4Motion. Despite its 7.6 inches of ground clearance, the Tiguan was best suited for well-traveled paths. The suspension system, featuring MacPherson struts and a multi-link independent rear, provided a balanced ride. However, the engine's torque arrived later than some competitors, resulting in slight turbo lag. The Tiguan's fuel economy was rated at 24 mpg combined, with our test achieving 24.7 mpg. While nimble and responsive in normal driving, the Tiguan's performance was less thrilling when pushed to its limits.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version delivering up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The turbocharged engine's power increase, along with structural and suspension improvements, enhanced the CX-5's driving dynamics. The turbo engine's torque arrived at 2,000 rpm with regular gas and 2,500 rpm with premium, providing a smooth acceleration experience. The CX-5's fuel economy was rated at 24 mpg combined, though our test returned 21.4 mpg. The CX-5 excelled on winding roads, offering a firm and connected ride. The turbocharged engine, responsive transmission, and precise steering made it a joy to drive, though its fuel efficiency suffered when pushed hard.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was a standout in terms of interior space, rivaling smaller midsize SUVs. It offered a standard third-row seat in FWD models, though this feature was absent in 4Motion versions. The SEL R-Line trim provided exceptional comfort with leather-wrapped, power-adjustable front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The second row was spacious, accommodating adults and children alike. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use. Cargo space was generous, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 73.4 cubic feet with them folded, making it competitive with midsize SUVs.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, while luxurious, fell short in terms of interior space. The front seats were improved for comfort, with power adjustments and heated options available in higher trims. The Signature trim featured Nappa leather upholstery, adding a touch of luxury. However, the CX-5's technology, storage, and rear-seat space were limited. The infotainment system lacked a voice recognition feature, and the control knob was cumbersome to use. Cargo space was also limited, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded, less than many competitors.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line offering a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro. The MIB3 infotainment system, available in most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. However, the natural voice recognition feature required a subscription, limiting its functionality. The Tiguan also offered a Park Assist system for autonomous parking.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system, with its 10.25-inch display, was visually appealing but frustrating to use. The lack of a voice recognition system and the cumbersome control knob detracted from the user experience. Despite these issues, the system offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system in higher trims. The test vehicle also included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard Front Assist and Side Assist, with additional features like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist available. These systems provided adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and emergency braking. The Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS in 2021, with improvements expected for 2022.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with most i-Activsense features standard. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim included additional features like a surround-view camera system and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, the lack of a warning for driving without headlights was a concern.