Compared: 2026 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan
With significant upgrades for 2026, these two compact SUVs each have distinct strengths.
Mazda | Volkswagen
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 and 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan have a lot to offer if you're looking for a compact SUV, and while in some ways they're easily comparable, they also have strengths in different areas, from horsepower to safety. Additionally, both models receive meaningful upgrades for 2026, so this is a good time to see how they stack up.
We've compared the two models throughout this article. If you want to scroll to a specific section, click the corresponding link below:
Mazda redesigned the CX-5 for the 2026 model year. The new version is longer than its predecessor, providing more cargo space and better second-row legroom. The revamped CX-5 also gains additional standard safety features and a new touchscreen interface.
Redesigned last year, the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan adds a new trim level with an engine that delivers 67 more horsepower than the base setup. That change expands the SUV's powertrain lineup from one to two.
Mazda
CX-5 vs. Tiguan: Price and Feature Comparison
Thanks to standard features that the CX-5 doesn't have, the Tiguan provides solid bang for the buck.
The 2026 CX-5 comes in five trim levels priced from about $30,000 to about $39,000. Most buyers will likely be happiest with the midpack trim, the 2.5 S Preferred (about $34,000). It introduces features such as a power liftgate, a heated steering wheel, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats.
Tiguan buyers can choose from four trims, with pricing starting at around $31,000 and topping out at about $43,000. The SE follows the base S in the lineup and is likely to hit the sweet spot for many people. Starting at around $34,000, it builds on the S with desirable amenities like a power-adjustable driver's seat, Volkswagen's V-Tex synthetic-leather upholstery, and remote engine start.
In this showdown, the Tiguan has the advantage in terms of value. It comes standard with cushy amenities that are optional in the CX-5, such as heated front seats and heated side mirrors. Yes, it has a higher base price than the CX-5, but not by much: less than $1,000.
Though this year's CX-5 is longer than its predecessor, the Tiguan still maintains a slight advantage in second-row legroom. Additionally, VW's SUV has more cargo room with the second row folded down than Mazda's SUV. Regarding comfort, the Tiguan offers massaging front seats, a feature that's unavailable in the CX-5.
Mazda | Volkswagen
CX-5 vs. Tiguan: Infotainment and Safety Comparison
The Tiguan provides standard infotainment and safety features that are optional in the CX-5.
A rotary controller governed the CX-5's previous infotainment interface. That's gone for 2026, replaced by a 12.9-inch touchscreen with a one-year free trial of Google built-in. The upgrade makes this SUV more competitive on the infotainment front. Smartphone integration is standard, and a 15.6-inch touchscreen is available.
Like the CX-5, the Tiguan comes with a standard 12.9-inch touchscreen, and its larger available touchscreen at 15.0 inches is just a little smaller than the Mazda's. The Tiguan's base model gets some standard infotainment features that are optional in the CX-5, including wireless device charging and wireless smartphone integration. The base CX-5 requires a wired connection to run Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Mazda equips the CX-5 with a robust array of driver-assistance tech. All models have features that many drivers depend on, such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and parking sensors.
The Tiguan and CX-5 are similarly equipped regarding driver aids. However, VW's SUV comes standard with Travel Assist, a hands-on, semi-autonomous driver-assistance feature for highway cruising. The CX-5's similar technology, Cruising and Traffic Support with Lane-Change Assist, is optional.
Volkswagen
CX-5 vs. Tiguan: Power and Efficiency Comparison
The Tiguan surpasses the CX-5 in horsepower and fuel efficiency, and it has a higher tow rating.
You won't have any trouble choosing an engine for your CX-5, since there's only one available. All models have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower. Every CX-5 also has a six-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive (AWD), and a 1,500-pound tow rating.
Volkswagen doubles the Tiguan's 2026 engine lineup by adding a second powertrain. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 201 horsepower; the optional engine is an upgraded version of the standard powertrain, tuned to produce 268 horsepower. All models have an eight-speed automatic transmission, with standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional AWD. The Tiguan tows up to 1,800 pounds with AWD.
Every CX-5 achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in combined city and highway driving. However, our automotive expert Tim Stevens didn't quite match that figure in mixed testing, achieving 23.3 mpg combined during his test drive.
With the Tiguan, the EPA-estimated mileage in combined driving ranges from 25 mpg to 29 mpg. This SUV sees its best mileage with the base trim and FWD; the optional powertrain gets the worst mileage in the lineup. As with the Mazda, our automotive expert James Riswick did not match the EPA estimate when testing a 2025 Tiguan with its standard engine. His result during his test drive was 23.4 mpg.
Regardless of which of its two powertrains you choose, the Tiguan offers more power than the CX-5. It's also theoretically capable of better gas mileage and has a slightly higher tow rating. Keep in mind, though, that the CX-5 comes standard with AWD, while the Tiguan offers it as an option.
Mazda
CX-5 vs. Tiguan: Reliability and Warranty Comparison
The CX-5 has longer powertrain warranty coverage than the Tiguan and superior predicted reliability.
Every Mazda comes with a three-year or 36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The automaker provides 24/7 emergency roadside assistance that covers towing for three years or 36,000 miles if a part covered by the limited warranty fails, and for five years or 60,000 miles if a part covered by the powertrain warranty fails. In a recent Consumer Reports study covering 26 car brands, Â Mazda ranked 14th for predicted reliability.
Volkswagen protects the Tiguan with a four-year or 50,000-mile limited and powertrain warranty. This SUV also has roadside-assistance coverage lasting three years or 36,000 miles, and the first two scheduled maintenance visits are free. Volkswagen ranked 16th for predicted reliability, according to Consumer Reports.
The CX-5 has longer powertrain coverage than the Tiguan, and it also ranks higher for predicted reliability. Still, the Tiguan provides two free maintenance visits, a perk that's not offered with the CX-5.
Volkswagen
CX-5 vs Tiguan: Key Takeaways
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has a slightly lower base price than the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan, offers a longer powertrain warranty, and also ranks higher for predicted reliability. The Tiguan outdoes the Mazda in other areas, though, and the difference is notable. It provides desirable standard features that are optional in the Mazda, such as heated front seats and wireless device charging. It also has more potent engines than the CX-5, more maximum cargo room, and a higher tow rating.
In the end, both SUVs have their strengths, and your preferences and priorities will determine which model is the right choice for you.
All vehicle pricing includes MSRP plus destination charges (set at the time of publication) and will be rounded to the nearest thousand.
Warren ClarkeWarren Clarke is an automotive journalist who specializes in vehicle reviews and consumer advice, and he loves helping car buyers make informed decisions. In addition to Capital One Auto Navigator, he's written for outlets such as Credit Karma, J.D Power, U.S. News and World Report, and Car and Driver.
Related articles
View more related articles