2022 VW Taos vs Mazda CX-5 Review - BEST AFFORDABLE LUXURY SUVs

[@TheStraightPipes]

Shopping for a new car? There's a discount when using The Straight Pipes link tsp.truecar.com

[@shitaocheng1527]

Found a vehicles closest to my name yet. If you are pronouncing the chinese way it's "t-ao-s". So glad to see actually one of you got the pronunciation right.

[@julieverelekapikini779]

iamtaos

[@GordonBaird]

It's comical that these are being promoted as "compact" and "sub-compact" - and I think that has everything to do with the fact that the largest three-row SUVs on the market like the Tahoe are now approaching the size of an Amazon fulfilment warehouse...

[@TheStraightPipes]

Yup

[@aadi8568]

Those are compact? In the UK I would call those midsize

[@normt430]

Most RAV4 and CR-V style crossovers are considered compact. Even the best in segment cargo holding Equinox at 81 cu ft with front seat folded. It is the only reason Mazda's feel nimble as they are the smallest in their respective segments.

[@aadi8568]

@@normt430 those are midsize are they not

[@normt430]

@@aadi8568 Considered Compact by EPA. The Traverse, Pilot, Enclave, Highlander is midsized with Tahoe/Suburban in the large SUV segment.

[@marc-andreluce3800]

I've own 3 Mazda. One CX-3 GS, one CX-5 GS and now a CX-5 Signature in that beautiful Soul Red. People who owns Mazda (specially the CX-5) have such a strong love for their vehicle. So am I. Till you drive one everyday, see the quality's and reliability long term and the fun to drive you have in town, highway, or little roads, you cant understand why owners are so die hard Mazda's fans. There's a reason why owners are re-buying them over and over again. Not saying it's perfect but definitely a strong contender that's worth to try when you are shopping for a new vehicle.

[@NiceBowser]

I agree!~ I've owned a 2016 Mazda3, 2019 Mazda3 hatchback, 2020 CX-5, and 2021 Mazda3 AWD Hatch... all phenomenal vehicles.

[@TheJiggs666]

Love Mazdas but, went with a Taos SE. It just suited my needs better. But I hear good things about Mazda, my brother rants and raves about his new CX9.

[@mostcallmerob]

@footballcoreano literally everything you said about the Taos is false

[@deep-fry]

@footballcoreano I've owned a Mazda 5 for 10 years before moving on to the 2nd gen CX5 in 2018. My sister now drives the Mazda 5. I'm also a long-time VW owner with a 2003 GTI and now a proud Golf R owner. I love the VW and I perform most of the simple maintenance and interior / exterior modifications myself. However, I can honestly say that I can handle most VW (design or production) issues comfortably only because I know so much about their cars and performance Golfs specifically. If you are counting on reliability from VW (or any European cars in general) I think you will be in for a surprise.

[@arshaq4471]

@footballcoreano idk man but Ive never experienced big breakdowns on mazda cars. I owned a 2008 mazda cx 9 and it was overall a good car with decent enough reliability. The mazda 6 I own has reallly good reliability. Which car did you own ?

[@spxvfx]

The CX5 looks good, sounds better, lives longer, and is nice and built nicely

[@gobear83]

CX5 has always been a great choice and continues to be very reliable ….

[@drock2349]

I agree. Two words that don't do together: Volkswagen and reliability. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, has a proven track record of reliability.

[@donrichter3523]

Why? He’s correct. VW reliability is very suspect. They work fine for about 30-40k miles, then all sorts of problems creep in.

[@drock2349]

@Yule Bernard Calma Weird response to a comment on a car brand's reliability. Here's a free tip for you - try using spell-check.

[@maxsvidgal]

got a Taos about 5 months ago and its holding up pretty well. It has pretty much everything I want in a car except more power, which is really my personal opinion. Its fast enough for day to day driving and to have a bit of fun with but every other aspect of the car is really good: the space, the comfort, the tech features (but the infotaintment does have a few quirks), and the styling of everything. Overall a pretty solid car.

[@Ahkila_Reacts]

I'm considering a Taos, do you think the car/engine is too weak for you? Too slow? Does it struggle driving uphill?

[@maxsvidgal]

@_Ahkila lot happened since I left this comment. Had check engine lights popping up about every 2 weeks after I passed ~4000 miles. Had it happen about 5 times on separate occasions and I had lost confidence in the long term reliability of the car and worked out a deal with vw to buy the car back since it was still under warranty. This could be exclusive to just the car that I had but I found several others who had the same issue on online forums. That aside, the power of the car itself was sufficient for day to day driving and felt nice on twisty backroad. Never had any issues on any hills either. Moved to a Mazda CX-50 afterwards and I can happily report that I've had no problems whatsoever along with it having a much nicer interior despite being a base model. The Taos was a good car but long term reliability was definitely thrown into question in my case.

[@gheffty93]

In the Taos (or really any VW/Audi product), you can get heavier steering by doing a custom drive mode. Put the steering in sport and keep the drive in normal for better efficiency. I think that improves the drive experience.

[@DanilErofeev]

Doing it the opposite way in GTI)

[@Brandon_501]

Yep thats what i do in my tiguan.

[@DR17dede]

Yes it’s not an issue you just use sport and it’s great

[@techtv04]

Being from New Mexico Yuri has the more correct pronunciation of Taos.

[@forgottenautos8461]

Well, he also says "MAHZ-da." :)

[@hero2zero2000]

Had friends from Canada that said they were going to a youth hockey tournament in "Tay-ahs". Had no idea what they were talking about. Also from NM so I got a chuckle.

[@orangeVSappel]

He also says "Tiyoota"

[@digitalgulby]

Being from SkyActiveG, I have a better pronunciation than all.

[@TheStraightPipes]

Sorry to all of New Mexico - Jakub

[@pangiokuhli255]

The CX-5 just looks too good in that red. If only they still made the RX7...

[@MonicaHolly143]

Japanese manufacturers dont want to waste money making sportcars from ground up

[@FakeK_ai]

Idk about that

[@Leo-hwru]

They made the RX8? Wut do u mean

[@adamb3129]

@@MonicaHolly143 you say that yet the Miata is literally a ground up sports car?

[@MonicaHolly143]

@@adamb3129 yup a 8 year old platform that on its 4th generation now Since 1989.....

[@blautens]

As a 2018 Mazda CX5 owner, I approve this video. It's a little tight in space, but otherwise punches way above it's weight. I will say there is a great sweet spot ignored here - the Touring trim - for $25k (in 2018), you get most of what counts and the interior is still super high quality. That makes the value equation really tip in the Mazda's favor.

[@eleanormassaro5195]

Exactly! A much better comparison value-wise although we can’t get a panoroof in the CX5

[@siddharthsrinivas6271]

Cross shopped the Cx-5 and an Alltrack. Bought the Alltrack

[@TheJiggs666]

I went with the Taos SE. Drove the Mazda it was great, but hated the infotainment system. Didn't like the Kia Sportage or Seltos, but the VW is so quiet and smooth it's ridiculous.

[@sappyjohnson]

@@TheJiggs666 Mazda really needs to improve their infotainment system. It's their biggest flaw. I don't know why they can't do it.

[@JoseDiaz-pl5kk]

I just picked up a 2018 red cx-5 Grand Touring for $26k 2 weeks ago, loving it so far

[@doggedlydetermined7022]

I’d be going for the Mazda! I’d skip the Taos and go for the Tiguan if going vw though

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

Spot on my friend

[@jtkent28]

My wife and I were surprised to see the Taos was the same price as the Tiguan R-line we were looking at ($33.5K)

[@ezrapardede1921]

Agreed

[@robcapen8336]

I drive a Tiguan, better quality materials inside and the price difference isn’t enough to justify

[@hiiiofficial8306]

I like the taos for the moeny

[@brucelifechannel]

My girlfriend bought a black CX5 signature last month during the sale, what a great car. Good amount of power and space, very high-quality interior, also looks really good from the outside.

[@twola9027]

Yes, good car for ladies

[@cyberpope2137]

It also weighs only 1.4 tonnes, which is hatchback weight these days

[@Sifistus]

Bought a cx-5 carbon turbo for my wife. She loves it. We traded in her 2017 cx-3. Which she also loved.

[@AshishShah1512]

Could you share how much did it cost?

[@alb0zfinest]

Dude she probably paid $40k for that. At that price you can definitely have better options.

[@islandboy7271]

Of these two, im going with mazda!

[@FakeK_ai]

Me to!

[@bigd02118]

Yah, the way the Mazda CX-5 drives it drives like a sports car no matter the trim. I always find that VW SUV drive very clunky. VW cars drive better then their SUV

[@sixoh_diesel5662]

@@bigd02118 The taos is basically the re-styled, slightly lifted Golf Alltrack. Not one of their SUV's.

[@hiiiofficial8306]

@@sixoh_diesel5662 its not a golf its smaller

[@hiiiofficial8306]

Id have the vw for the tech 🤷‍♂️

[@RT-up6gx]

The CX-5 is 4 years old now and still knocking it out of the park. Crazy.

[@VPoje]

When you drive a CX-5 and a CX-30 back to back, the age of the CX-5 is obvious. CX-5 is still great tho.

[@rumahsihijau]

@@VPoje from the back yeah, but from the front I don't think so.

[@MrOktsx]

I'm still amazed my 2017 CX-5 still looks amazing after nearly 4.5 years of ownership. The fact that my CX-5 is virtually indistinguishable from a 2021 model doesn't hurt, either.

[@ojasmittal8381]

Doesnt that just mean that mazda didnt bother to update their designs for 5 years though

[@Norquay.Mikado]

That's been the Mercedes, BMW, Porsche approach. Don't waste resources on style, spend resources on what counts.

[@lenacheney]

​@Norquay.Mikado do you like the infotainment system? I don't know how I feel about it?

[@thetechlibrarian]

@@lenacheneyabout the dial ?

[@DsgSleazy]

@@Norquay.MikadoMercedes literally wasted money on a spaceship car. Sure it was a prototype but..

[@robervin9107]

Yuri’s haircut is phenomenal

[@LordStaind]

Dude is slowly balding at the front but yeah he does look fresh af.

[@TheStraightPipes]

Ya dude. Gonna get that widows peak with grace 😎

[@hanro7430]

Perfect time for a Keeps sponsorship

[@dha588]

Now he's going to wear a hat. His hair is fine. Don't worry yuri !

[@robervin9107]

@@iHaveTheDocuments I love his hair as well.

[@fidzzz8264]

Taos is pretty nice comparing these side by side it’s a no brainer for me to choose the vw

[@heliumhunterr]

that red looks incredible in person when the light is hitting it. i really like it.

[@eleanormassaro5195]

It sure does! Always catches my eye when I see it on the road!

[@strengthdignitylaughter]

Just bought a new Taos yesterday I really love driving it. This is my first subcompact SUV I was in a Jetta before. Really looking forward to my 1 hour drive tomorrow!

[@Bondovw]

How are the seats compared to the jetta? My jetta hurts my butt after about a hour.

[@strengthdignitylaughter]

I thought it was pretty comfortable but I also thought the Jetta was too but I probably broke the seats in in my old Jetta

[@naomid1819]

How are you like the Taos as of now? I went to Mazda a few days ago, didn't like the look so much but I've been thinking about the Taos for some time now

[@laimaz6340]

Also just got Taos, after having 2 Jettas which I loved ! Am now loving my .Taos too☺️

[@erikbautista7084]

Are y having any problems with you're taos

[@MikeyDAngelo]

I've been driving a CX-5 for years and still love mine (2013 Touring). It's getting a little older but it still has relatively low miles and has been very reliable over the past 5.5 years that I've owned it. I'll probably trade in for a new CX-5 Turbo next year or something. It's a fair bit smaller than my Dad's CR-V for being in the same segment, but it's been totally adequate for my needs, I fold down the seats and haul all kinds of stuff without issue. In the past I've owned VWs and Subarus, cars with cults of their own... and I've got to say that my experience with Mazda has been a lot more enjoyable. The Taos is an intriguing model to me, but as someone who tries to keep cars for a long time and does not want to have to be in the shop all the time.... I don't think I can in good conscience buy another VW.

[@jimwatchyyc]

The reason VW it translates the “People’s Wagon” is because they break down so often you’ll need to get it pulled, like a farm wagon, but by a tow truck, lol!

[@issavibez394]

That's old far different from newer ones

[@Mrtellitlikeitis]

And how is the non turbo

[@MissingLinkGTRS]

I think I’d take the Mazda just for pure longevity that and I’ve never had a good experience with German cars :/

[@nicholassmith7048]

The CX-5 has way nicer wheels; upscale and elegant yet still sporty. The Taos' wheels look heavy and a bit cheap.

[@noxxie1496]

those wheels look ghetto😂

[@annferguson3113]

@@noxxie1496 All cars are going for that look for rims and have been for years.

[@qnzman578]

I was surprised they preferred the taos wheels, the CX-5's wheels are some of the nicest I've seen, stylish without trying too hard or being over the top

[@huie1983]

I test drove a Taos while car shopping a few weeks ago. I wanted to like it so bad, they're really nice looking inside and out. Two things made it a no-go for me. 1) I'm 5'9" tall and the seating position was so odd! With the seat adjusted to reach the pedals and the steering wheel adjusted all the way out and down, I couldn't rest my arms on either the center or door armrest. That'd be ok for short trips but not a road trip. 2) I drove 2 and the DSG in both was laggy and jerky when cold. You'd step on the gas and nothing for a second then it would jerk into motion. I've owned a DSG equipped Golf in the past and know how to drive them. I was bummed it was a flop and actually ended up in a Mazda. I actually like how they are a little old school. Buttons for all the controls, buttery smooth 6 speed trans mounted to a real torquey 2.5 turbo, just a blast to drive and not unnecessarily complicated.

[@MrRyuken555]

Heard they fixed the DSG issues on theTaos.

[@tylerxaysana]

The way Jakub says “Tay-ohs” cracks me up 😂

[@MandusahRamirez]

Right! It’s “TAWS”!😂😂

[@Dulc3B00kbyBrant0n]

@@MandusahRamirez nope, Ta-O's

[@hassankhan-xq8et]

Yuri gets the cx-5 as a long term while jackob gets the E63 wagon 😅😂

[@CARacterReviews]

The mazda looks fantastic!

[@twola9027]

Yes, especially for ladies

[@victordavalos246]

@@twola9027 shut up that Mazda would last 10 years more than the taos

[@twola9027]

@@victordavalos246 get a Toyota or Honda they pass the test of time..not mazda

[@Yoomaro]

@@twola9027 why are you under a Mazda video? Seems like a fan, do something else with your time

[@twola9027]

@@Yoomaro I'm a fan of straight pipes

[@dereksellers5464]

Me yelling at my monitor that the Taos DOES HAVE launch control lol. We picked up an August build date Taos Highline and they must have updated the software or something. Zero lag off the line, it's actually too peppy for my wife so she drives in Eco mode.

[@sweiboi]

The rear of the Taos reminds me of the old Audi Q7

[@snakeeyes9246]

It kinda does. Except the 1st Q7 has/had real exhaust tips.

[@issavibez394]

@@snakeeyes9246 all new cars n they fake stuff lol

[@user-yk382p53jh]

I value my money. Id go for mazda

[@user-yk382p53jh]

@footballcoreano not every mazdas are perfect. But most of them are with proofs. Hope you are rich enough to pay for its maintenance. Mechanics cry out loud No German cars if you value your money. Good luck with your new VW

[@user-yk382p53jh]

It is true like you nicely said i never owned one but my friends did. No one ever liked it and saw breaks down. Just look at the street and see whats on the street.

[@UnleashthePhury]

When you understand VW called the Tiguan the Tiguan because it was a combination of tiger and iguana, you know that they named this the Taos because it’s Tacos without the C.

[@Libra8410]

Okay, im sold. Will be buying the Taos next year

[@camalexander8843]

Jakub, have a hard time believing you would pick a car that Yuri can outrun for the first 20 yards over the turbo mazda.

[@TheStraightPipes]

I typically drive more than 20 yards when I drive a car so it's still good

[@728GT]

I do hope VW addresses the engine calibration on the 1.5t I have recently purchased a Taos and that throttle lag is one of my small gripes

[@ryanshannon7703]

@@728GT curious as to why they put a turbo on that little 1.5 rather than a blower. I guess if the concern was speed on the highway they could've at least thrown in a twin-scroll or a geared the transmission for greater acceleration on the top-end (or given it more gears). However, I will give the looks to the Taos. I saw one parked from the passenger side and my friends and I were trying to guess between an Atlas and Tiguan based on the size and the fact that it was clearly a VW. When it drove off we saw it was a Taos and were like, "How is that a sub-compact?" I remember designing one on their website a month or so ago and was a little worried about the size. Now I'm worried about the acceleration due to size.

[@728GT]

@@ryanshannon7703 turbo vs blower comes down to efficiency and emissions. Takes more energy to spin the blower.

[@rmelotto]

I think you cannot compare a 1.5 baby engine (fake pipes), baby blue, front wheels with the 2.5 turbo red blood 4x4 Mazda. Mazda is more sport/luxury oriented and way more reliable.

[@ritterengine1289]

Exactly. These guys know nothing about cars.

[@darengayle]

My wife went back and forth between the CX-5 and the Tiguan different car I know but she chose the CX-5 carbon edition after trying several different cars

[@kirilmihaylov1934]

This one is very good

[@kirilmihaylov1934]

How much did u pay for it

[@IanForsythWestCoast]

I’ve been driving my Cornflower Blue Taos (rhymes with house) for about a month now, and like it more every day. Driving in Sport greatly reduces the hesitation, but what really changes the 4Motion dual clutch model is using the manual mode. Although even in manual mode the computer will upshift just above 5000rpm in 1st and 2nd, which sucks, but the car is in its torque sweetspot, and it just rips, with lighting fast shifts that make it super fun at stoplights. I’ve shocked several twice as expensive sporty cars getting away from the light. Sure once we’re approaching 80kmh they’d be kicking sand in my face, but traffic lights are closer than that! My two previous cars were a 2018 Golf and a 1st gen 2010 Tiguan, both with the Tiptronic 6 speed with manual function, and neither would hold a candle to the way shifting manually works on this Taos. I have the mid level trim, Comfortline in Canada, SE in the States, and guess what? The thing does have launch control! Sometimes my obsessive compulsive need to read owner’s manuals cover to cover pays off.

[@thescavwithnothingtolose1224]

The mazda's piano black sections get swirls SO easily. it's a nightmare.

[@truhunk1]

True. You can buy pretty nice overlays on eBay and Amazon.

[@kaizen5180]

The CX-5 over the Taos anyday.

[@hiiiofficial8306]

I would the Volkswagen

[@ed4253]

@footballcoreano any car over 10 years is going to have repairs. Mazda over VW any day, any model has better reliability.

[@issavibez394]

@footballcoreano false

[@kristivaughan3839]

Guys!!!!!!!! I am thrilled you did a review on these 2 SUVs. I had just recently narrowed my search down to the CX-5 and Taos. Watched all the KZbin videos on them and test drove both 3 times! For 33K, I could get the CX-5 Grand Touring premium FWD or the Taos SEL. Both are peppy, steer well, feel substantial, comfortable seating, and are fun to drive. I like the exterior of the Taos better and the interior of the CX-5 better. But you get more features in the CX-5 than the Taos (for the trims I chose). The only thing the CX-5 did not have is a panoramic sunroof (comes with a small sunroof), which I use a lot. The doors feel cheap and thin in the Taos and has more noise in cabin. The CX-5 doors are thicker and more substantial and has a quiet interior. I made my decision based on the interior. Taos felt cheap and simple with more plastic than leather. The CX-5 felt premium and upscale and only plastic is at the bottom of the doors where the storage is. Dash is soft touch. It looks and feels better. So, I purchased the Mazda 2 weeks ago and have NO regrets. It's really nice to drive. I love it and the Bose sound system is 💣. My husband liked the Taos (but likes my choice as well), so maybe when he is ready for a new vehicle we can get the Taos.

[@kristivaughan3839]

@footballcoreano better reliability? It literally just came out for the first time a few months ago. Pick up the latest Consumer Reports car reviews. Guess you haven't read ALL the reviews on VW. Anyway, enjoy your new Taos, It's a looker, and get many years of fun driving. I was willing to take a chance on a VW knowing I might be paying for early repairs.

[@1vw4me]

Your Mazda will be still going strong, while Hubby's VW is ready for the crusher. I say this as a 25-yr VW/Audi owner. Wife just got a CX5 Signature, it's amazing, shits all over any VW product I had. Higher line AUDI? That's different animal. (built in Germany/Austria)

[@kristivaughan3839]

@@1vw4me yes, I am still loving mine. So nice to drive.

[@purrfectstormz8225]

@footballcoreano I've seen this comment copied and pasted at least 10 times on posts from this video. Hhhmmmmm?

[@shaunjones3036]

The CX-5 is a much smarter choice.

[@ozzierabbit587]

Mazda likely to be much more reliable also.

[@ptingz9307]

They're made in Japan so they better be reliable.

[@sundin2799]

Hahahahaaaaaa

[@cussmustard4748]

The sunroof on the Taos is what won me.

[@gophermaster]

The Mazda just looks so slick. It's the only non-luxury car in this segment that competes with the class above.

[@kkb8510]

@footballcoreano lies Mazdas are more reliable than literally any Volkswagen out there

[@joelpphillips]

I'm so glad that you guys made this video because these are basically my two strongest options for cars when I'm shopping for one this fall! I was already leaning Taos and after this video I think my feelings are confirmed! Cue me watching this video 30 more times trying to figure out which one to get

[@kristivaughan3839]

Me too, but I got the Mazda and am so happy. I think it will cost less in the long run. Unless you don't keep your vehicles long.

[@vgiannadakis]

These are both great SUVs, whichever you pick, I think you will be pleased. I got a Taos and am really loving it! It has very much those distinctive VW handling manners, it's very similar to my previous Golf Mk6.

[@lenacheney]

I want the taos but I read it has poor reliability

[@ideaynojodas]

Mazda is beautiful! Just plain gorgeous!

[@MishMoves]

Yeah! I'm shocked they gave them a tie for looks.

[@kirilmihaylov1934]

@@MishMoves Mazda is much better

[@MishMoves]

@footballcoreano Well, that proves looks are very much subjective!

[@kirilmihaylov1934]

@footballcoreano Mazda is much better nowadays mate

[@evflyguy]

The CX-5 is due for a styling refresh, but still looks better than that Taos. Wife had one in that red for the last 3 years and loved it. Jakub, her lease ended in July. She now has an ID.4 and adores it. Gets admirers everywhere we go. I don't understand the hate. It's not fast, but it's quite nice.

[@TheStraightPipes]

Too many things wrong with it for me

[@moose772]

Picking up a taos in cornflower blue tmrw! It really surprised us on the test drive, great family vehicle without getting a massive boat

[@domnikoli]

I feel like the Taos doesnt come anywhere near close to being luxury as its intended for the economy based purchasers. The CX5 is matched with the tiguan, not the Taos.

[@davidkendall1614]

I like VWs…but have never bought one. VW reliability issues and low initial quality ratings have always scared me away. Then there was dieselgate. I do own a CX-5 in mid trim GS. In two and a half years of ownership it has been rock solid, dealer is good, and I feel like I am driving a more upscale vehicle than what it is. Plus it fits ME perfectly.

[@yanick8633]

You're right guys, i'm from Quebec and we tow everything with anything. Tow it like you stole it :) Keep up the good work

[@Harry-hyl]

Same here in Finland. Not sure about the rest of Europe, just moved here

[@sappyjohnson]

That Mazda red color has yet to be matched by any other carmaker.

[@ryanbachman380]

Bought a 2022 Taos a month ago and love it! Very great car so far, smooth ride and plenty of features for my liking. I get a lot of complements, the white on black looks great. I came from Ford sooo the vw was going to be better lol

[@allnfun6315]

Can you provide an update?

[@ryanbachman380]

After about 4-5 months of owning my Taos, I’m still very impressed, I’m averaging 32-34mpg compared to 26-28 in my ford I had. No issues at all! We did get some snow a few weeks back, and it performed well when I drove to work, I do only have the fwd model. The tires are great and the traction systems works well. I highly recommend the Taos for sure! Not to be biased, but the cx-5 is really nice as well.

[@ryanbachman380]

Also, the amount of room you have on the inside of the Taos is phenomenal. It doesn’t look very big from the outside, but once you’re inside, the amount of head and leg room is awesome! The 1.5 will not win you any races, but it has enough power for what you need it to do. Transmission is smooth shifting up and down. It handles real well, the steering is butter smooth. Like I said, I came from a ford ecosport, this vw is way different in many different ways. And a lot better in my opinion

[@allnfun6315]

Ryan Bachman Thanks so much for that! I was raised on VWs and have a 2012 Passat VR6 and 2000 Golf 1.8t. Heard the last Tiguans we’re not good or reliable. Looking for something fun and practical. Seemed like the CX5 turbo would be good but Taos looks real nice. Guess I’ll have to test drive them!

[@ryanbachman380]

You’re welcome! I test drove a 2021 Tiguan and fell in love with it, but, it was a little more than I wanted to spend. My brother has a 2015 Tiguan R-Line 4 motion and loves it. I think reliability comes down to the owner in my opinion, some cars are lemons from the jump, it’s the way it goes! I say test drive a Tiguan, a Taos, and cx-5. All 3 are very great! I wanted a cx30 before I bought the Taos, but no where had brand news in stock.

[@Suction_]

I'm on my 2nd cx5, first was a touring and now I have a CE turbo. Fantastic cars. Got a cx30 for the wife too. I have never had any positive experiences with VW, so besides besides fact I've owned 7 mazdas now (there's my bias aside) that's the clear winner. Sure VW does some things well, but they never seem to last long without draining your wallet

[@Suction_]

@footballcoreano good luck with that. Based on how many VAG products I see in the shop vs mazda/toyota, you'll need it

[@Suction_]

@footballcoreano guess I'm a loser. Enjoy your VW Tacos

[@MistaFaro]

If you put a "C" in Taos you get the Volkswagen Tacos!

[@VictorDeveze]

So it wins

[@boobs2323]

hahaha that is funny, is this car made in México?

[@MistaFaro]

@@boobs2323idk, but it's built on a tortilla shell, it runs on Asada!

[@RandomVideos-re9ux]

just want to thank you guys for reviewing affordable cars for viewers, even that the vids don’t get as much views. Please keeping the awesome work cominggggg!

[@laylahassomethingtosay]

Really great idea doing the slow motion train track test!

[@robertmehnert1267]

We have 2 cx5's for our daughters. They have been bullet proof! Non turbo 2.5 with an actual 6 speed automatic has been so reliable.

[@reid6302]

The review we’ve all been waiting for!!!

[@davidchoy9560]

I like what you guys are doing with the comparisons and trying to keep the opinions balanced. Keep it up 👍

[@Retired-jr3qs]

You are definitely in the minority. Mazdas's are great

[@seafooddiablo5686]

I own a 2019 cx5 grand touring reserve with the turbo and i gotta say its an amazing car. I tested the taos and it too was the only other option i considered. The others are either too slow or to junky. Only reason taos lost is because its too new so for 30k i was getting a base model

[@eliotgurrin]

Thanks!

[@lisaw7633]

I adore the Cx5 just waiting on the new design. Hope to see larger sunroof in CX5

[@HCastelli]

I own a 2024 Taos and I love it. One minor dislike is the acceleration when changing lanes on highway and jerky downshifts which happens occasionally. Taos is a pleasure to drive.

[@idicratic101]

Heres tomore ordinary car reviews! Thoroughly enjoyed this review lads :)

[@josephferdinando1065]

I’ve been LOVING the comparison videos so far!!

[@ld9387]

I thought the CX-5 competed with the Tiguan. Perhaps it's because the Tiguan has 3 rows only in America

[@lukeheffernan]

It does. CX3 competes more with the Taos. Cx9 with the Atlas.

[@lukeheffernan]

@@jpch8814 The Cx5 is actually a few inches longer than the Taos if I'm not mistaken. Though, I did google it, and the Taos and Tiguan are sort of competitors to each other, just a different class of buyer. I'll be damned!

[@UhOhUmm]

@@lukeheffernan Taos is basically the same size as the European Tiguan.

[@lukeheffernan]

@Yule Bernard Calma Yes, I sais Cx9 not 5

[@rhorsley363]

I test drove the Taos and the turbo lag was annoying. I bought the cx5. More power and fun to drive.

[@grandpa203]

I've owned a 2019 Jetta and 2018 Mazda 6 reserve ..which has the same engines as the Taos and CX-5 and it all comes down to preference. Honestly with the 1.4 VW engine it's not too shabby but you notice it most on the highway or when accelerating to merge or switch lanes. But the great fuel efficiency almost makes up for it. As for Mazda 2.5 engine it's a beast. Fuel efficiency is pretty good on the Highway and city is average. Point blank if you want speed go CX-5, if you want comfort and smooth ride go VW!

[@minhdo453]

Once you own a Mazda Cx-5 it’s tough for you to look at other brand in same class. It’s just very classy and simplicity rather than putting 10,000 techs and buttons into one infotainment system.

[@kirilmihaylov1934]

I agree . Design also good .looks straight on the money

[@denisbaraniak9715]

From these two, CX-5 all day. On the other hand our family is buying euro Tiguan, so my overall pick is euro Tiguan :)

[@thescavwithnothingtolose1224]

The Taos is "touse" like mouse. lol great review

[@housepianist]

thanks for pointing that out. Yuri is pronouncing it correctly.

[@aboduryan1969]

The Mazda CX5 looks sexy. The VW Taos to me looks like an electric shaver on wheels , diggin' that blue color though ;)

[@ryanyong1427]

Hello from Malaysia! Gotten CX-5 2.5 turbo for a year now, first 3 months fed it lower grade fuel, and switched to premium fuel. Not gonna look back! The poweris much more addictive, and engine sounds smoother too! Great vids guys!

[@tanjiehjia]

Yuri: "This is alright though with the PDK." I can't. I think I fell out of my chair laughing.

[@TheStraightPipes]

Same same

[@_chan.burn.21_]

I work for a Volkswagen/Mazda dealership, so I've had the chance to drive both of these cars, and I actually prefer the Taos. Then again, I've mostly driven Volkswagens and I currently own and drive a Beetle, so I'm a tad biased.

[@Rock2Dworld]

Can you share more as to why?

[@sgneher]

You stated the non turbo of the Mazda has similar hp. Inaccurate. The cx5 has similar torque but not similar hp. VW Taos has 158 hp while the non turbo Mazda has 187hp.

[@seanjamesmacleod241]

Cx30 is technically what should compete with Taos not cx5 but every single one of these suvs have different sizes it’s complicated, comes down to what you want and need forget the sizes complication.

[@tonysaluta9142]

CX-5 all the way for me 👌

[@tonysaluta9142]

@footballcoreano Results may vary, I guess lol My 2010 Mazda 3 is still running well and my 2016 Mazda 6 hasn’t had any issues so far

[@TheStraightPipes]

Get up to a $100 VISA® prepaid card by mail with the purchase of four qualifying light truck, SUV, or Crossover Continental tires between July 1 - August 31, 2021. For more details visit: 👉👉 bit.ly/2P3Q0FW 👈👈

[@FakeK_ai]

Ok bro

[@icecursor]

I know it's a bit out of the range possibly, but what about the Subaru Outback? While I was test driving the cx5, the Rav4, the Sorento, the Tuscon, and the Outback. The Kia Sorento, in my opinion was the best (I tried the x-line), BUT it was the first Gen... NEVER trust a first Gen lol.... So I went with the Outback. They seems to be about the same size (outback being a touch longer due to the wagon design but its just about as tall. On the highway with their turbo... It makes up for the cvt... Like it's actually ridiculous... Anything from the 40km/h and up and stomp it, your smoking by cars

[@FakeK_ai]

@@icecursor bro you gonna get the Ford Escape or Honda c-rv it’s good one.

[@icecursor]

@@FakeK_ai crv had no heart (my parents have one), and the ford escape and Edge were really nice, but they're Ford. Meaning unless it's a short lease... Not really worth a look to be honest. The edge was my favorite looking of the north American cars (that blackout edition is MINT) but I've learned a few lessons in my life, and one of them is trust Japan LOL I've driven north American SUV and vans for the past 15 years... They are not to be trust unless it's a pickup... Even still, I'd go with the Tacoma 🤷‍♂️

[@Wonderpalm1979]

It's tōws like Taos, New Mexico

[@denniscvd]

Actually switching from a CX5 to a Taos. With a baby seat in the back the space in CX5 was horrendous with passenger seat almost having to go all the way forward to the point where a 6”0 man could not sit in passenger seat.

[@TheStraightPipes]

That’s why I got my e55 amg wagon over Yuri’s cx-5 👍

[@TheStraightPipes]

Just sit in the back next to the kid and keep em company

[@Mark-xg8ug]

Taos is the correct choice for baby seats. My Mazda is great for the driver but not as family friendly

[@StevensCarReviews]

Love the looks of the Taos! Can't wait for Mazda to redesign their styling for their SUVs, it's getting a bit stale. The interior of the CX-5 looks way more refined than the Taos though - VW needs to up their interior game. Thanks for the great review!

[@alb0zfinest]

The interior looks more refined on higher trims. On lower trims it looks worse. Also the Cx5 is more expensive than the Taos, less mpg, less back space, less leg room etc etc

[@JClark-34695]

Funny they don't mention brand reliability: Mazda being at the top of the list, VW being near the perennial bottom. That alone would make me choose the Mazda.

[@W0nTonSoup]

That’s the thing about car reviewers, they only have it for a day or a month at most and don’t see anything about the long term ownership

[@choboc2]

My dad's manual 2014 cx5 has 230k miles on the original clutch. Such a great car.

[@LM-jh3pg]

I have a 2018 Golf Alltrack which I love, but I want something a little higher off the ground. I've been a VW fan all my life but the CX-5 looks pretty good, and has great ratings. I just hate to lose the handling a VW has which it seems the Taos is lacking.. Guess a test drive in both is next. Also, the 2023 CX-50 comes out in the spring.

[@MsTytyl]

My Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition was the best purchase ever ✅

[@donovan4105]

I don’t even have to watch the video to know that the Mazda CX-5 is the better choice.💀

[@twola9027]

Mazda for ladies

[@knightshadow4474]

@@twola9027 nope

[@normt430]

Our(Edmund's)2018 Mazda CX-5 had a sticker price of $34,505 when it was new. After a year of driving, our odometer had about 17,600 miles on it. Assuming clean condition, the CX-5 had a private-party appraised value of $24,818. This is a 28% depreciation, which is worse than our long-term fleet average of 22%.

[@Dongzzzzzz]

@@normt430 depreciation is just other people's view on the value. It's all bias.

[@normt430]

@@Dongzzzzzz yes, Japanese are not as good of value as everyone thinks they are today. Our(Edmund's)2018 Honda Accord EX-L stickered for $30,865, including destination. Over the course of a year, we added 13,302 miles to our odometer. In this condition, the Edmunds TMV Calculator valued the Accord at $23,815 based on a private-party sale. That works out to 22.8% depreciation, which is slightly worse than the fleet average of 22% average. The depreciation level is even worse when you consider that the majority of our cars pass the 20,000-mile mark. Edmund's longterm Accord

[@mattwilson5383]

This was a back to basics Classic Yuri and Jakub video. I soooo enjoyed this video, super enjoyed it and sent it to some people looking at CUV’s

[@skymetallic]

Really appreciate the knee comfort Inn the review. I'm 6'3 and would like to see more of this

[@TheStraightPipes]

It's always mentioned when it's a problem. If it's not mentioned in a review, it's good

[@ryan_k2685]

I'd take the Mazda anyday. The Mazda is just more premium, especially with the paint, real exhaust tips, 360 camera and the more powerful engine. I just wish they made the rims larger and made the screen a touch screen (nothing wrong with the infotainment and the rotary wheel) on the mazda

[@casgian3272]

The Teos looks great. Especially for someone with the original Tiguan, a similarly sized VW is very tempting as the current tiguan has gotten way bigger, but it's such a shame they put the 1.5 in it instead of the 2.0 TSI. There is just no way it will please VW enthusiasts without a bit more power

[@viiperrtechnician]

Yeah, the very base model CX-5 has a 155hp engine, every other one has 187hp, 186 torque, then the top two trim levels have 227hp, 310 torque. So power is significantly better on the CX5

[@Tech-Kino2685]

Wouldn't really look at the Mazda compared to the VW. The Mazda just looks better inside and out. I've driven the teos so for me it didn't drive as great or as sporty as the cx-5. And so far I know so many people who have the cx-5 and love it and has never had any problems with them the cx-5 is just truly great .The teos isn't bad but the Mazda wins this.

[@andreblackaller3560]

I have a 2017 CX-5 GT with 125,000 miles, not a single issue. I’ve driven her all the way to Cancun and NYC. Mazda is the Toyota of cool cars. I’m never going to own anything that doesn’t have a Mazda badge on it.

[@angusmulcahy7946]

Volks has always been a leader in design, gorgeous cars

[@issavibez394]

@footballcoreano false volkswagen will never outlast mazda nor Japanese cars

[@issavibez394]

False

[@angusmulcahy7946]

@@issavibez394 who

[@alexandermitchell1102]

@footballcoreano How many times are you going to post the same message?

[@nissanlove]

Since you guys are both dad's now, can you guys include car seat/ front seat room in your reviews? rear facing car seats seem to take away a lot of front seat room making them almost uncomfortable to use.

[@KingTode]

I have a VW Alltrack so I'm not biased, but Mazda definitely is a more reliable brand and will cost less to maintain.

[@CJ-oq2ne]

Thanks for the great review guys. My CX5 in Australia is pretty much exactly like the one you've tested. I've had it from new for about 16 months, with no complaints. 2020 model, so the smaller infotainment screen on the dash. Great all round car with the 2.5 Turbo coupled to the 6 speed automatic. Plenty of power for overtaking on country roads, and for towing a trailer loaded with 750 kg of assorted gear on occasion. The seat bases are firm but I still find them to be very comfortable on both short and long runs. Handling is good for what it is, an SUV, and I agree the ride can be a little on the firm side on the rough stuff, but I usually drive on sealed roads so it's not an issue for me.

[@noecker97]

I Upgraded My Wheels and Tires On My 2018 CX-5 Touring w/Preferred Package from The Stock 18x7" P225 To 19x8.5" P245 And It Transformed The Looks and Handling. I Can't Stand Those Stock Toyo A36 Tires, My Bridgestone Dueler HP All-Seasons Are So Much Better All-Around!!!

[@humushumus2219]

If you looking for the car with the best day to day driving experience the VW is miles ahead. Tried both, there is no contest.

[@johnkohlmeyer1499]

I traded in my vw Tiguan which I loved at first. Handled great felt like a solid German luxury brand, however after 70000 miles it has electric malfunctions, oil leaks, etc. I traded it for a new 2021 carbon edition turbo. I hated the new multi gear vw transmission that shift 30 times before you get to 30mph, and the 2.0 turbo was not an option on the latest Tiguan . I think the cx5 is a way sharper design and much better quality, and well worth the extra $$

[@Ben-zs3sg]

I'm from Québec and I tow my 30 foot pontoon with my corolla! 😎

[@TheStraightPipes]

Lmao don’t doubt it

[@Ben-zs3sg]

And 12 jet skis too😬😎

[@issavibez394]

@@Ben-zs3sg that tiny junk lol

[@dnice362]

We have a Mazda in white and I think it looks best white, stunning looking car

[@MonicaHolly143]

If u dont want honda or toyata there's still other Japanese brand and the korean siblings to choose at Before u start to look at American and European brands