2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE
$4,165 less vs 35 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,165 price gap, 187 vs 201 hp, 25 vs 25 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S Select leads on $4,165 less. The Tiguan SE leads on 35 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select | 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,380 | $34,545 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,679 lbs | 3,801 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 109.9" |
| Length | 180.1" | 184.4" |
| Width | 72.6" | 73.0" |
| Height | 66.1" | 66.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select starts at $30,380, $4,165 less than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE at $34,545. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $73/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,165 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is the stronger pick when the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
Both achieve 25 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select or 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE produces 201 hp, 14 more than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select at 187 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is 4.3″ longer at 184.4″ vs 180.1″. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has a 3.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Mazda CX-5 comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Tiguan offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Tiguan trims
CX-5 vs Tiguan: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $4,165 gap adds up to $73/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 14 hp difference (201 vs 187) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE adds 35 more lb-ft of torque (221 vs 186), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: CX-5 vs Tiguan
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select when you want to keep $4,165 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE when the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $73/month more, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Mazda or Volkswagen or any dealership.