2022 Mazda CX-30 vs. 2022 Volkswagen Taos

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 is a compact sport utility vehicle with a smooth four cylinder, array of standardized features and slick handling. But can it beat the 2022 Volkswagen Taos, another compact SUV praised for its looks, spacious cabin and excellent safety options?

Design & Style

The Volkswagen Taos holds five people and comes in three trims, which are SEL; SE an S. All-wheel drive is optional while front wheel drive comes standard. The exterior is conservative and borrows a number of design cues from other VW vehicles. An X shaped style grille can be seen in front, with a minimalist look along the sides while the cabin uses dark plastic within its dashboard.

The Mazda CX-30 provides upscale handling which is partially the result of its refined powertrains. Unlike the Taos, all-wheel drive has been standardized across every variant and it too can seat 5. It has a sloping style roofline with sides that are sleek and curvy, and within the cabin passengers will be presented with comfortable seats and respectable cargo space. Its turbocharged engine is wedded to an automatic 6 speed transmission and it looks best with larger wheels.

Technology & Safety

Safety wise, the Mazda CX-30 is extremely impressive, winning every accolade offered by the auto industry. This includes both a Top Safety Pick+ via the IIHS and a 5 star review from the NHTSA. It comes with numerous countermeasures such as adapted cruise control, the ability to monitor blind spots, emergency automated brakes, airbags and more. Comforts within its cabin include a sunroof, seats that can be cooled or heated, a camera with surround view, keyless entry, eight inch touch displays and the choice of Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

The Volkswagen Taos has received a good rating from the IIHS, but as of this writing the NHTSA hasn't tested it yet so it has thus far failed to win the safety accolades earned by the Mazda. That being said, it is equipped with a lot of the same features. Comforts within its cabin include a mirror that auto dims, seats that can be heated or cooled, keyless start, dual USB-C ports and the option of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Performance

The Volkswagen Taos is powered by a turbo 4, 1.5 liter engine that can generate 158 horsepower with the ability to accelerate from zero to sixty in 9 seconds. Those that purchase the Mazda CX-30 will get a turbo 3 engine that can generate 250 horsepower with the ability to accelerate from zero to sixty in under eight seconds.

The Bottom Line

With a horsepower advantage and more established safety credentials, the Mazda CX-30 wins this contest, especially when you consider the failure of Volkswagen to add selectable driving modes for FWD.

Ready to Schedule a 2022 Mazda CX-30 Test Drive Today?

Do you want to discover more about this Mazda car model can do on the road? Come and visit us at Riley Mazda today! Our dedicated team of customer service representatives will assist you in meeting all your car purchasing, financing, and servicing needs. Call us today and book an appointment for your 2022 Mazda CX-30 test drive now!