Volkswagen T-ROC vs Mazda CX-5
What's the difference?

Volkswagen T-ROC

$25,990 - $58,888

2024 price

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Mazda CX-5

$37,240 - $56,150

2026 price

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BYD Atto 2

BYD Atto 3

BYD Sealion 5

Chery Tiggo 8 PRO MAX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Summary

2024 Volkswagen T-ROC

2026 Mazda CX-5

By Chris Thompson

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 1.4L

Inline 4, 2.5L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

6.3L/100km (combined)

7.4L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Easy and fun to drive
Sturdy, quality feel
Value without options

Comfortable, dynamic drive
Practical family interior
Strong safety package

Dislikes

Options become pricey
Minor ergonomic quirks
Might feel outdated to some

No hybrid option
Engine can feel sluggish
No rear charging ports

2024 Volkswagen T-ROC Summary

For a small SUV that technically starts under the $40,000 mark, the 2024 Volkswagen T-Roc has a fair bit going for it.

It’s still in its first generation, but updates have made some parts of the T-Roc feel properly up to speed. And the parts that haven’t? Well, maybe that’s not such a bad thing.

We’re driving the mid-spec Style 110TSI, which sits above the base CityLife, but below the R-Line. Then of course, there’s the wicked R variant.

But is this a Euro that could replace your trusted Japanese small SUV?

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2026 Mazda CX-5 Summary

The new-generation Mazda CX-5 is here, promising to be bigger, better and bolder, with fresh styling, sharper handling and more technology. But in a market where hybrid power is becoming increasingly hard to ignore, has Mazda left the CX-5 at a disadvantage? I’ve spent a week with the Evolve grade to find out for you.

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Interested in a Mazda CX-5?

Deep dive comparison

2024 Volkswagen T-ROC 2026 Mazda CX-5

Verdict

So that’s the T-Roc, a bit of Euro style that’s still priced to take the fight to some small SUVs from Japan or Korea.

Is it the cheapest style-forward small SUV you can get? No, but it’s far from the expensive end of things.

Plus, if you can resist ticking some option boxes, it beats some value-focused rivals and looks good doing it.

If the feeling of a sturdy fit-out and a confidence inspiring drive is important to you, I reckon the T-Roc should be an entry on your shopping list.

Verdict

The Mazda CX-5 Evolve kicks some goals and with its comfortable on-road handling, robust safety equipment and practical interior, it’s still a solid choice for families looking for a mid-sized SUV. The only thing it’s missing is a hybrid powertrain, which would make this already well-rounded package even more compelling.

Volkswagen T-ROC vs Mazda CX-5 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Volkswagen T-ROC vs Mazda CX-5
What's the difference?