Published June 11 2021

2022 Volkswagen Taos vs. 2021 Mazda CX-5: New, Efficient and Turbocharged

The all-new Taos is ready to take on Canada in 2021. With a compact size and big features, owners will be in for a unique treat. Family and friends will find comfortable seating for five and adaptable cargo volume on long trips.

We receive plenty of questions about the new Taos. To help illustrate, we compare it to the 2021 Mazda CX-5.

The 2021 Volkswagen Taos overtakes the CX-5 in efficiency

The Taos features a new 1.5-litre turbocharged engine that generates 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The design features advanced geometry and high injection pressure, which makes it more capable and efficient than existing light turbo engines. This high-efficiency engine results in outstanding fuel consumption ratings.

Front-wheel drive Taos models achieve 8.4 L/100 km in the city and 6.5 L/100 km on the highway, which is far below the CX-5's best FWD rating of 9.4/7.4 L/100 km.

The Taos also earns a 9.4 L/100 km city and 7.4 L/100 km highway consumption rating for all-wheel drive models. Comparatively, AWD, non-turbo CX-5 models increase to 10.2/8.2 L/100 km, and turbo AWD increases even more.

Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available on the Taos, providing buyers with more drivetrain options. FWD models feature an 8-speed transmission, and AWD models receive a quick-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The CX-5 only has a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 2021 Volkswagen Taos creates its own space

The Taos is what we call a 'small compact,' designed to fall somewhere between a compact and subcompact in size. Inside, drivers will be able to take advantage of the ample cargo volume. The CX-5 looks like a larger crossover, but the Taos deploys more volume, with 1,877 litres behind the front seats compared to the CX-5’s 1,687 litres.

The Taos also offers a full suite of safety features, including Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Braking (Front Assist), Active Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Keeping System (Lane Assist), Adaptive Cruise Control, High Beam Control, an Adaptive Front-Lighting System, and Park Distance Control.

The all new, 2021 Volkswagen Taos offers a new alternative to the typical crossover. You can shop for your car online with us. Our representatives are waiting for your call and can answer all your questions.