2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE vs 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport
35 more lb-ft torque and 11.4″ longer vs $7,695 less and 4 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 201 vs 191 hp, 25 vs 29 MPG.
The Tiguan SE leads on 35 more lb-ft torque, 11.4″ longer. The CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport leads on $7,695 less, 4 MPG better. 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 Tiguan SE | 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,545 | $26,850 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 221 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 22 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 12.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,750/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,801 lbs | 3,419 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 109.9" | 104.4" |
| Length | 184.4" | 173.0" |
| Width | 73.0" | 70.7" |
| Height | 66.5" | 61.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| 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 Tiguan SE and 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport starts at $26,850, $7,695 less than the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE at $34,545. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $135/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is the stronger pick when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport is the stronger pick when you want to keep $7,695 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE or 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport rates 29 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE or 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE produces 201 hp, 10 more than the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport at 191 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE also leads in torque at 221 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is 11.4″ longer at 184.4″ vs 173.0″. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has a 5.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Volkswagen Tiguan comes with 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. The Mazda CX-30 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 Tiguan trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-30 trims
Tiguan vs CX-30: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE and 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-7,695 gap adds up to $135/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 Tiguan SE runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4. The 10 hp difference (201 vs 191) 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: Tiguan vs CX-30
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport saves roughly $232/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,160.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is 11.4″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has a 5.5″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE weighs 382 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 Tiguan SE when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport when you want to keep $7,695 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs.
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.