2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo vs 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
CX-5 2.5 Turbo starts at $39,650, $625 less. Tiguan SEL leads with 26 MPG. CX-5 2.5 Turbo makes 256 hp (+72).
| Spec | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo | 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,650 Save $625 | $40,275 +$625 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Turbo | 2.0L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 256 hp +72 hp | 184 hp 72 hp less |
| Torque | 320 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Spd AT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 22 1 less | 23 +1 |
| Hwy MPG | 27 3 less | 30 +3 |
| Combined MPG | 24 2 less | 26 +2 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 2 less | 7 +2 |
| Cargo | 30.8 cu ft | 37.6 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 10.25" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Panoramic |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,890 lbs | 3,990 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 109.8" |
| Length | 179.1" | 187.0" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 19" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | i-Activsense | IQ.DRIVE |
CX-5 2.5 Turbo or Tiguan SEL?
Both are competitive. CX-5 2.5 Turbo has a lower entry price, Tiguan SEL leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo and 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL?
Which gets better gas mileage, the CX-5 2.5 Turbo or Tiguan SEL?
Should I buy a 2026 Mazda CX-5 or Volkswagen Tiguan?
Which is more reliable, the Mazda CX-5 or Volkswagen Tiguan?
Is the Mazda CX-5 bigger than the Volkswagen Tiguan?
What is the cost of insurance for the CX-5 2.5 Turbo vs Tiguan SEL?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo?
Who Should Choose the CX-5 2.5 Turbo
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $39,650, it undercuts the Tiguan SEL by $625.
Mazda ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 S Select, CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 S Premium, CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 Turbo.
Who Should Choose the Tiguan SEL
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL is the better fit for buyers who value what the Volkswagen Tiguan brings to the table. Superior fuel economy at 26 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Volkswagen's approach to this suv emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Tiguan SEL deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $625 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Tiguan SEL carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the CX-5 2.5 Turbo makes 72 more hp. Feature differences like a panoramic moonroof also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. A 72 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Mazda and Volkswagen often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.