2023 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan maintained its design from the previous year, offering a range of trims from S to SEL R-Line, with prices starting at $26,950. Despite its variety of exterior and interior options, the choices were limited by trim level, making it challenging to find the perfect combination. The SEL R-Line trim, with its Atlantic Blue paint and Storm Gray leather interior, stood out for its sporty appearance and upscale cabin, featuring quality materials and advanced lighting. However, the touch-sensing controls were a drawback, detracting from the overall user experience.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its appealing design from 2017, with the new Carbon Turbo trim adding fresh color options like Zircon Sand. The interior featured Terracotta leather seats and a black headliner, enhancing its premium feel. Mazda improved fuel economy for the base engine and added wireless charging and connectivity options. The CX-5 lineup offered a range of trims, with prices starting at $29,300. Despite its compact size, the CX-5 provided a luxurious interior and a smooth ride, making it a strong contender in its class.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with the option for VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. The SEL R-Line trim included AWD and various driving modes, enhancing its versatility. However, the Tiguan's powertrain lacked smoothness, with noticeable turbo lag and delayed downshifts. Despite these quirks, the Tiguan delivered a stable and predictable driving experience, with excellent tire grip and nimble handling.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, on the other hand, boasted a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas. While not instantly powerful, the engine provided a rewarding drive when revs were allowed to build. The CX-5’s fuel economy was unimpressive, with a combined rating of 24 mpg. However, its driving dynamics were enhanced by a re-tuned suspension, standard AWD, and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology. The CX-5 offered a quiet and connected ride, with excellent handling on various terrains.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan offered a spacious interior, with the option of a third-row seat in FWD models. The SEL R-Line trim featured comfortable front seats with power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. However, the dashboard's touch-sensing controls were a usability issue, detracting from the overall experience. The Tiguan excelled in cargo space, with up to 73.4 cubic feet available in AWD models, making it one of the roomiest in its class.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5, while smaller in interior space, provided a comfortable and supportive cabin. The redesigned front seats offered power adjustments, and higher trims included premium features like Nappa leather and heated rear seats. The CX-5’s cargo space was limited, with 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded. Despite its compact size, the CX-5’s interior quality and design elevated it above many competitors.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan featured digital instrumentation, with a larger 10.25-inch display in the SEL R-Line trim. The infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity options and a premium sound system. However, the interface was complex, with multi-step processes and sub-menus that could be distracting. The voice-recognition system was also lacking, making it less user-friendly.

Mazda’s approach with the 2024 CX-5 focused on traditional controls, with a 10.25-inch display that minimized driver distraction. The system allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity available in several trims. The infotainment system was intuitive, with a central knob and buttons for easy navigation. Mazda Connected Services offered remote features and safety functions, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Front Assist, Side Assist, and an Automatic Post Collision Braking System. The IQ.Drive package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. However, the Tiguan’s crash-test ratings were incomplete, with concerns about the driver’s door unlatching during side-impact tests.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a robust set of ADAS, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, though it did not earn a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS for 2024.