2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was positioned as a compact SUV with a spacious interior, fitting comfortably within Volkswagen's lineup between the subcompact and compact segments. It offered a choice of Trendline, Comfortline, or Highline trims, with the base model available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and the option for 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD). The Taos was noted for its handsome styling, especially in the Highline 4Motion trim with its 19-inch machined-finish aluminum alloy wheels and vibrant Cornflower Blue paint. However, the interior was criticized for its hard plastic surfaces, which detracted from the overall feel, despite the presence of soft-touch materials in key areas.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 maintained its elegant design with subtle updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The interior of the CX-5, particularly in the Signature trim, exuded luxury with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The seats were redesigned for 2022, offering improved comfort and support, and the driving position was sportier. The CX-5's interior was praised for its upscale feel, aligning with Mazda's ambition to position itself as a premium brand.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the engine provided adequate power, the turbocharger's delayed response and the dual-clutch transmission's erratic shifting were noted drawbacks. The Taos offered a smooth and compliant ride, with responsive steering and effective brakes, but its off-road capabilities were limited by a ground clearance of just 16.2 centimetres. Fuel efficiency was rated at 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with real-world testing showing an average of 8.7 L/100 km.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. For those seeking more power, a turbocharged version was available, delivering up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced by increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, resulting in a quieter, smoother ride with reduced body roll. Fuel consumption for the turbocharged engine was higher, with a tested average of 11.1 L/100 km.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos boasted a spacious interior, with ample front and rear legroom and comfortable seating. The Highline trim offered heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Cargo space varied depending on the drive system, with the FWD model providing up to 1,866 litres with the rear seats folded, while the 4Motion version offered 1,705 litres. The Taos also featured a centre pass-through for longer items like skis.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its seating with new, more supportive seats and a sportier driving position. The interior included dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. While the rear seat remained snug, it offered heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents. Cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with them folded, which was competitive with entry-level luxury SUVs but less so against mainstream compact crossovers.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came equipped with a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the Trendline trim, with an 8-inch display on higher trims. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity and a premium BeatsAudio sound system on the Highline trim. However, the infotainment system's user experience was criticized for its complexity and slow response.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, operated via centre console controls. While the system lacked a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 10-speaker Bose sound system on higher trims. The system required acclimation, but once familiar, it was manageable.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered a range of safety features, but many were only available on higher trims or as part of optional packages. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Highline trim offered additional features like lane-keeping assistance and Travel Assist, a Level 2 advanced driving assistance system. However, the Taos had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations at the time of review.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came standard with the i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.