2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL vs 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium
$3,085 less and 4 mpg better vs 53 more hp and 126 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $3,085 price gap, 174 vs 227 hp, 28 vs 24 MPG.
The Taos SEL leads on $3,085 less, 4 MPG better. The CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium leads on 53 more hp, 126 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 Volkswagen Taos SEL | 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,195 | $38,280 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 174 hp | 227 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,441 lbs | 3,871 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.5" | 106.2" |
| Length | 175.9" | 180.1" |
| Width | 72.5" | 72.6" |
| Height | 65.1" | 66.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL and 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL starts at $35,195, $3,085 less than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium at $38,280. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $54/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,085 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium is the stronger pick when the extra 53 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL rates 28 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium produces 227 hp, 53 more than the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL at 174 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium is 4.2″ longer at 180.1″ vs 175.9″. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium has a 0.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Volkswagen Taos comes with 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. The Mazda CX-5 offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Taos trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims
Taos vs CX-5: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL and 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $3,085 gap adds up to $54/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 Volkswagen Taos SEL runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium has 53 more hp (227 vs 174). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium adds 126 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 184), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Taos vs CX-5
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL saves roughly $250/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,250. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium weighs 430 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL when you want to keep $3,085 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium when the extra 53 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $54/month more, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium 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 Volkswagen or Mazda or any dealership.