2024 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design from its 2017 debut, maintaining a modern and appealing look that resonated with traditional Mazda styling cues. The test vehicle, a new Carbon Turbo trim, showcased Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, complemented by black artificial suede inserts and a black headliner. Mazda's choice of colors and gloss-black exterior detailing enhanced the vehicle's aesthetic appeal. The 2024 model also introduced improvements such as better fuel economy for the base engine, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims. The CX-5 lineup offered a range of trims and prices, with the Carbon Turbo test vehicle priced at $39,355, including destination charges. Despite being a compact crossover, the CX-5 exuded an upscale feel, thanks to its upgraded interior materials, technology, and overall design.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a premium appearance, often perceived as more designed than its non-European rivals. The SEL R-Line trim, which was tested, featured LED headlights and taillights, an illuminated grille light line, and silver roof rails. The model name was prominently displayed on the rear, accompanied by the classic Volkswagen badge. The Tiguan's color options varied by trim, with the base S trim limited to grayscale colors. The SE trim introduced more color choices, but combinations were restricted by interior color schemes. The Tiguan's interior offered a range of features, from heated front seats in the base trim to real leather and ventilated front seats in the SEL R-Line. The panoramic sunroof and other amenities added to the vehicle's appeal, though the configurator's limitations on color and material combinations were noted.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, with slightly reduced figures on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, allowing the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to shine. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined and an observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5's driving experience was enhanced by its tall and narrow feel, excellent visibility, and responsive handling. Mazda's improvements to the suspension and frame contributed to a smoother ride and better cornering, while the G-Vectoring Control Plus technology minimized body motions. The CX-5 was quiet on highways, lively in city driving, and stable on twisty roads. It offered a decent 7.9 inches of ground clearance and a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with 4Motion all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. The AWD option slightly reduced fuel economy, with the base Tiguan S rated at 25 mpg combined. The SEL R-Line trim offered a mixed driving experience, with inconsistent power delivery and a touchy gas pedal. The steering was light but provided good visibility and handling, making the vehicle feel maneuverable. Road noise was minimal, and the ride was comfortable, though the seating surfaces drew some complaints. Overall, the Tiguan's performance was adequate, with some room for improvement in throttle and brake response.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured comfortable and supportive heated front seats, with six-way power adjustment for the driver and manual height adjustment for passengers. Leather upholstery was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather exclusive to the 2.5 Turbo Signature. The interior, though smaller than some competitors, was comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and thoughtful amenities like rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest with cupholders. The cabin's design and quality elevated the CX-5 above many mass-market rivals, offering a luxury-like feel. Cargo space was 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, which was less than some other compact crossovers.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan offered firm seating in both rows of the top-trim test car. While FWD models seated seven, AWD models, including the SEL R-Line, seated five, providing more cargo space. The two-row Tiguan offered 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space with seats in place, expanding to 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The three-row configuration reduced cargo space but maintained passenger space, with the third row offering limited headroom and legroom. Despite the tight third-row dimensions, the Tiguan was one of the few compact crossovers to offer a third row, providing a unique option in its class.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreen infotainment systems in favor of traditional controls, which some drivers appreciated for reducing distraction. However, Mazda allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were available wirelessly in several trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons, a system reminiscent of older luxury brands. Mazda Connected Services offered features like remote engine starting and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Carbon Turbo trim included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, enhancing the vehicle's premium feel.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan featured haptic touch slider buttons for climate control, which were responsive and easy to use. The infotainment system, accessed through an 8-inch touchscreen, had monochromatic graphics that felt out of place in the stylish vehicle. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with the base Tiguan S having a smaller 6.5-inch screen. The Digital Cockpit System was standard, with the SEL R-Line offering a fully configurable 10.25-inch display. The nine-speaker Fender Premium Audio System was a highlight, providing excellent sound quality.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 had previously earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan had earned a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, and its safety features had only improved for 2024. The standard IQ.DRIVE suite included adaptive cruise control, active blind-spot monitoring, and semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities. Additional features like Park Distance Control were available on higher trims. The Tiguan's safety package was robust, offering a comprehensive range of driver-assistance technologies.