Turbocharged four-cylinder engine added to the lineup.Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now standard.12-speaker Bose stereo available with Premium Package only.
PROS Upscale interior design and build quality Advanced safety features come standard Poised handling and refined ride quality
CONS Transmission can be slow to downshift Significant rear blind spots Below-average fuel economy
For the CX-30's sophomore year, Mazda's made virtually no changes to it other than making Apple CarPlay and Android Auto both standard features. Mazda also announced the addition of an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that makes 250-hp.
PROS Eager driving dynamics, near-luxury interior trimmings, plenty of standard tech goodies.
CONS Could stand a few more horsepower, offers little added practicality over the Mazda 3 hatchback, occasional transmission stumbles.
The 2021 Mazda CX-30 is great-looking, spacious, and more polished and fun-to-drive than other compact competitors, but it’s a step behind in value and features.
PROS Great proportions and styling Polished powertrain Standard active-safety suite Spacious interior layout.
CONS More expensive than alternatives Frustrating options packages Lacks a touchscreen
The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan's #8 ranking is based on its score within the Compact SUVs category. Currently the Volkswagen Tiguan has a score of 7.9 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Comfortable ride Generous cargo space
CONS Engine feels underpowered at times Less engaging handling compared to some rivals Below-average fuel economy ratings
In advance of a more thorough update for the 2022 model year, VW makes a few changes to the Tiguan for 2021. The base S and mid-range SE models receive new 17-inch wheel designs and the latter of the two receives standard adaptive cruise control. Likewise, the top-spec SEL Premium R-Line model gains a power-adjustable front passenger's seat.
PROS Agile driving behavior, optional third row of seats, fuel-efficient powertrain.
CONS Poky acceleration, firm ride, dowdy interior design.
The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan compact crossover is spacious and comfortable, and also the league-leader in modesty.
PROS Big interior Smooth ride Automatic emergency braking standard Big cargo area Straight shooter
CONS …and a little boring Not very fuel-efficient Small third row New one on the way
