2022 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet timeless design, characterized by its creased and symmetrical exterior. The refreshed front styling aligned it with Volkswagen’s larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The Tiguan offered four trim levels in Canada, all with standard 4Motion AWD, and prices ranged from $33,395 to $43,395. The interior of the Highline R-Line trim was upscale, with perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and new technology, although the hard plastic in the lower cabin hinted at its mass-market status.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 maintained its sleek appearance with new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim. The seats were new for 2022, offering improved comfort. The CX-5 was available in various trims, with prices ranging from $30,500 to $43,650, and the turbocharged engine option provided a boost in performance for those willing to pay extra.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan continued with its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The power was managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion AWD system, which could decouple the rear axle to save fuel. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, along with Offroad settings. Despite its enjoyable drive, the Tiguan experienced some turbo lag, and its fuel efficiency was rated at 9.8 L/100 km in combined driving.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a base Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The turbocharged engine option delivered up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. The CX-5’s fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 L/100 km for the base engine and 9.8 L/100 km for the turbo. The CX-5’s driving dynamics were improved with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension, providing a sporty and composed ride.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was notable for its spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It offered an optional third row, although this compromised cargo space. The Highline R-Line trim featured comfortable leather seats with power adjustments, excellent visibility, and a panoramic sunroof. The second row was roomy, with ample headroom and legroom. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,078 litres available in the two-row configuration.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, supportive seats and a sportier driving position. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug, but heated cushions and air vents improved comfort. The control layout was less intuitive due to the non-touchscreen infotainment system. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line featuring a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro. The MIB3 infotainment system, available on most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone mirroring, and SiriusXM. The Highline R-Line added a navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender audio system. The Tiguan also offered Park Assist for autonomous parking.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, operated via centre console controls. While lacking a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, it offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. The GT and higher trims included a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The system required acclimation but provided standard connectivity features.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard Front Assist and Side Assist, with available Travel Assist and Emergency Assist for enhanced safety. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centring, while Emergency Assist could bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver was unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 included the i-Activsense package with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS, highlighting its superior safety features.