2026 Volkswagen Taos S vs 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S
On paper, the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S wins on $850 less, 3 MPG better. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $850 price gap, 174 vs 187 hp, 28 vs 25 MPG.
The Taos S leads on $850 less, 3 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 | 2026 Volkswagen Taos S | 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $28,200 | $29,050 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 174 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,441 lbs | 3,679 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.5" | 106.2" |
| Length | 175.9" | 180.1" |
| Width | 72.5" | 72.6" |
| Height | 65.1" | 66.1" |
| 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 2026 Volkswagen Taos S and 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S starts at $28,200, $850 less than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at $29,050. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $15/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $850 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $180/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you prefer the Mazda approach to the compact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S rates 28 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S produces 187 hp, 13 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S at 174 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is 4.2″ longer at 180.1″ vs 175.9″. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S 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
- 2026 Volkswagen Taos S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Taos vs CX-5: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S and 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $850 gap is about $15/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 13 hp difference (187 vs 174) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Taos vs CX-5
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S saves roughly $180/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $900. The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S when you want to keep $850 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when you prefer the Mazda approach to the compact SUV segment. At $15/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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.