2025 Volkswagen Taos vs. Mazda CX-30

The 2025 Volkswagen Taos and Mazda CX-30 fight for attention in the crowded subcompact SUV market. Fresh updates for the 2025 model year make this face-off particularly timely. Let’s compare their design, performance, safety features, and overall value to help you choose which is perfect for driving in San Juan Capistrano, California.

Exterior Design and Features

Making a Volkswagen Taos vs. Mazda CX-30 comparison shows clear differences in design philosophy. The Taos is 175.8 inches long, 72.5 inches wide, and 64.4 inches tall. That’s a bit bigger than the CX-30, which measures 173 inches long, 70.7 inches wide, and 61.7 inches tall. This size gap gives the Taos a beefier road presence, while the CX-30 rocks a sleeker, more compact silhouette you may find appealing.

Volkswagen gave the 2025 Taos a facelift with a fresh front end featuring an updated bumper and grille design. Eye-catching paint options include Bright Moss Green, Monterey Blue Pearl, and Monument Gray. Wheel choices range from 17 to 19 inches, depending on the trim. The CX-30 sticks with what works: smooth flowing lines and a distinctive coupe-like roofline that gives it a premium vibe without the luxury price tag.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Each SUV has its own take on comfort and technology. The Taos wins the space race with up to 99.5 cubic feet of passenger volume (96.7 if you opt for the sunroof). The CX-30 isn’t cramped by any means but offers a tighter 94.1 cubic feet. You’ll feel this difference mostly in the back seats; taller passengers will thank you for picking the Taos with its extra headroom and legroom.

The 2025 Taos sports a new dashboard layout with an 8-inch floating infotainment screen. It comes with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CX-30 counters with an 8.8-inch standard screen and offers a larger 10.3-inch display on fancier trims. If you’re a music lover, you may lean toward the Mazda, which offers audio system options ranging from a basic eight-speaker setup to an impressive 12-speaker premium arrangement that fills the cabin with rich sound.

Performance and Driving Experience

These SUVs reveal different personalities when it comes to performance. The Taos sports a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 174 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Volkswagen pairs this with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. The Taos goes from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 to 7.5 seconds, making it zippy enough for daily needs.

The CX-30’s standard 2.5-liter engine delivers 191 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, outmuscling the Taos. The optional turbo 2.5-liter packs 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, giving the CX-30 the edge for power lovers.

The front-wheel-drive (FWD) Taos gets 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. AWD drops this to 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The CX-30’s standard engine returns 26 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined, while the turbo drinks more at 22 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined. If fuel economy is a priority, you may prefer the Taos, particularly FWD models.

Safety Features and Ratings

Nobody wants to think about crashes, but safety ratings matter. The Mazda CX-30 takes the trophy with a perfect five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It’s also a Top Safety Pick+ according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Taos isn’t unsafe by any stretch, but its four-star NHTSA rating and absence from the IIHS Top Safety Pick list give Mazda bragging rights.

Both vehicles pack plenty of high-tech safety gadgets. The 2025 Taos comes standard with Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE package, which includes Travel Assist, Front Assist, active blind-spot monitoring, rear traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, Lane Assist, Emergency Assist, and Park Distance Control for both front and rear. Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE suite in the CX-30 offers similar capabilities, including adaptive cruise control, lane warnings, and automatic emergency braking.

Cargo Space and Storage Solutions

For hauling capability, the Taos dominates. FWD models provide 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, enough for multiple large suitcases. Fold the seats, and you’ll have 65.9 cubic feet of space. AWD versions offer slightly less (24.9/60.2 cubic feet) but still outclass the CX-30. Mazda’s entry manages only 20.2 cubic feet behind the seats and 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded, roughly 20 cubic feet less than the Taos at full capacity.

Both vehicles feature 60/40-split folding rear seats for flexible loading. The Taos works better for families and gear-heavy lifestyles, while the CX-30 handles basic errands but may challenge space-planning skills for bigger loads. Both include underfloor storage and interior compartments, though the Taos offers more overall volume.

Pricing and Value for Money

The 2025 Taos has a starting MSRP of $24,995 and tops out around $34,695 for a fully loaded model. The CX-30 starts slightly higher at $25,195 up to $37,150 for premium trims with all the bells and whistles. With such similar price tags, your decision comes down to which features matter most to you rather than the base cost.

Volkswagen backs the Taos with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty. Mazda offers slightly less coverage for the CX-30, with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty. Neither manufacturer is breaking new ground here. The real value question boils down to what you get for your money. The Taos delivers more space and slightly better fuel economy, while the CX-30 offers superior safety ratings and an optional turbo engine, making driving more fun. Your priorities will dictate which is the better option for you.

Consumer and Expert Reviews

Reviewers and owners have strong opinions on both SUVs. The Taos earned an 8.7 out of 10 from U.S. News. Drivers praise its spaciousness. Owners also love the comfortable ride and good fuel economy.

The CX-30 gets mixed scores. U.S. News gives it a 9 out of 10. Drivers love the CX-30’s upscale interior. Many adore the turbo engine. While the Taos wins in practicality, the CX-30 scores in terms of premium feel and fun handling.

Which SUV Is Right for You?

Your ideal match hinges on your priorities. If you need space, the Taos hauls more cargo and offers passengers extra room. Its balanced ride works great for road trips or commutes. If you want an exciting drive, the CX-30’s turbo option delivers impressive punch. To experience the 2025 Volkswagen Taos firsthand, visit Capistrano Volkswagen for a test-drive. Nothing compares to feeling which SUV truly fits your lifestyle.