Volkswagen and Mazda brands are known all over the world. The first is German and the second is Japanese. Each has its own fans and both have established themselves as excellent quality vehicles. It will be all the more interesting to compare two crossover models from these companies and find out which is better - Volkswagen Tiguan or Mazda CX-5.
Note that one of the applicants is a typical European, and the other is Japanese. Cultures are very different, so a comparison should reveal a lot of differences. Let's see if this is so.
Specifications
Both cars are 5-seater and 5-door crossovers. The Tiguan is all-wheel drive, and Mazda is front-wheel drive in the minimum configuration, but you can get all-wheel drive for a higher price. Let's consider the main characteristics of these cars.
Main dimensions:
- Length 4425 mm.
- Width 1808 mm.
- Height 1683 mm.
- 200 mm.
The Tiguan is available in 4 trim levels. The TSI engine can be petrol or diesel, 1.4 or 2 liters, of various capacities - from 111 hp. With. up to 171 liters. With. Fuel consumption ranges from 6.2 to 8.6 liters for various engines.
6-speed gearbox, mechanics or robot. For Europe, a 7-speed automatic is installed.
The steering wheel has an electric booster and disc brakes. Is there an ABS system? Tire pressure is monitored, there is a course stability system. The high beam is automatically turned on if twilight comes and the speed exceeds 60 km / h, it also automatically switches to the low beam when there is oncoming traffic.
Tiguan is one of the safest models. According to the results of crash tests, experts gave him the highest mark - 5 points. Both the driver's and passenger's seats are equipped with front and side airbags.
Main dimensions:
- Length 4551 mm.
- Width 1841 mm.
- Height 1671 mm.
- The ground clearance is 216 mm.
Mazda CX-5 is produced in three trim levels, but the choice of engines is small - only gasoline, 2 liters and 150 liters. s, or 2.5 liters and 193 liters. With. Fuel consumption - 6 l / 100 km. 6-speed gearbox, mechanics or automatic.
This crossover is also equipped with ABS and braking systems for the city, tire pressure monitoring.
Automation also controls external lighting, recognizes road signs, and controls blind spots.
In terms of safety, this crossover is not inferior to the Tiguan and is also equipped with airbags. In addition, here the seat belts in the front seats can be adjusted in height.
The volume and convenience of the cabin and trunk
The interior space of both crossovers is sufficient for a person of average height to feel quite comfortable. Three passengers can sit in the rear seats, moreover, without resting their head against the ceiling, and with their knees on the front seats. But there are also some differences.
In the Tiguan, the rear row is slightly more spacious. Parts of the seat are mounted on skids and can be moved back and forth. This allows you to slightly increase the space for passengers or, conversely, the volume of the trunk. The middle back tilts forward, transforming into a comfortable table with cup holders. The backrests can also be adjusted for added comfort.
In Mazda, the middle backrest does not turn into a table, but there is a little more room for passengers in the back seat. For 2019, this, of course, looks poor, since no special adjustments are provided there.
Both crossovers have one thing in common - their doors are made to completely cover the sills, so they don't get dirty when driving. This saves clothes from dirt, which passengers of other cars often get themselves into.
As for the luggage compartment, it can be increased by folding the rear seats. In the Tiguan, its volume in the normal state is 469 liters, and in the expanded state - 1509 liters. Mazda has 402 and 1560 liters respectively. Comparing the Tiguan and the CX-5 in this regard does not reveal any particular advantages for either of the contenders. Although the trunk of Mazda allows you to place suitcases more conveniently - the luggage compartment is slightly lower, but longer.
The possibility of folding the middle backrest allows you to carry long items, while maintaining two passenger seats in the back. So you can put, for example, skis, and they will not interfere with anyone.
Ride comfort
The Volkswagen Tiguan surpasses all expectations in terms of handling and behaves like. He perfectly obeys the steering wheel, instantly responds to the brake pedal, and enters the turns just fine. In a straight line, he walks steadily and evenly. Although this crossover has a high center of gravity, it doesn't feel at all. Excellent suspension perfectly smooths out minor bumps in the road, and it is difficult to punch it even on serious bumps.
Mazda CX-5 handling is not worse, but does not cause the same delight. This car perfectly keeps a straight line, responds to the brakes no worse, and in some ways even better than the Tiguan. But this is still a car for those who love a calm, measured ride, and do not twitch with every steering movement. Mazda's behavior is more restrained and balanced.
If we compare the CX-5 vs Tiguan, then the first car is more suitable for people who like to drive quietly, without unnecessary movements, from point A to point B. Tiguan is for those who like to drive, those who enjoy driving a powerful car that obediently reacts to any motion.
Dynamics
On the road, the Tiguan is great - it develops power that easily propels the car forward. At the same time, the box also does not cause any complaints - the machine switches easily and quickly. It can be seen that in this model Volkswagen applied all its experience, providing it with excellent parameters. At the same time, fuel consumption for any driving style is very moderate.
If you compare the Mazda CX-5 with the Tiguan, then this car is not as playful. It's not a weak engine - its power is quite enough, and it even has more horses in the base. But the automatic transmission holds back his impulses. Therefore, all the capabilities of the machine are manifested in manual mode, in which it is really good.
Passability
Both cars are well suited for driving on bad roads. Bad means uneven and broken, like most Russians. Their suspensions completely smooth out many irregularities and have a sufficient margin of safety so as not to crumble in the first pit.
But we must bear in mind that these are still not SUVs, and cross-country and other off-road trips are not for them. The ground clearance is not so great to overcome large holes, and there is a risk of getting stuck in some puddle. And while the Tiguan can still drive all-wheel drive, it is more difficult for the front-wheel drive Mazda.
In general, these cars are not fighters with harsh domestic off-road conditions and if there is no tractor nearby, it is not worth checking it. These are excellent cars for the city, for the highway, and for rare fishing trips or with a family for a barbecue, in good weather. But these are far from all-terrain vehicles.
Price and cost of ownership
If you compare the cost of both cars, then it is not very different, although the Mazda is slightly more expensive. It starts from one and a half million and further, depending on the selected configuration. They have little differences in the database, except in the little things - Mazda has a USB connector and a regular air conditioner, and the Tiguan has climate control and heated mirrors, but there are no other small things.
But the most important thing that worries before buying is the cost of further maintenance. In this regard, the Tiguan has some problems, although it costs a little less. Car owners noted problems with the driveshaft on a mileage of 60 thousand kilometers for an all-wheel drive modification, engine breakdowns occur, there are problems with turbines, collectors. All this costs a considerable amount of repairs. For Mazda, such problems are an exception, they practically do not occur, and its maintenance will cost less.
In general, if we compare which is better - Mazda CX-5 or Tiguan, then there is not much difference. Both cars are of sufficient quality, safe and have approximately the same characteristics. Therefore, when choosing, you can be guided by preferences in design, convenience of the cabin, equipment. Be that as it may, neither Tiguan owners nor CX-5 owners speak very well of their cars? This means that both models are good and easy to use.
In the market for compact crossovers, competition is becoming more intense. The assortment with an enviable frequency is replenished with new models from well-known manufacturers, each of which strives to draw the attention of buyers to their offer. Today we will compare the Mazda CX5 and Tiguan in order to find out which of these models is capable of providing more comfort in operation, reliability and other characteristics. CX 5 or Tiguan, which is better?
Let's take a closer look at the cars and figure out who is better: Mazda CX 5 or Volkswagen Tiguan? Tiguan's gorgeous and memorable appearance is the result of painstaking work of VW designers.
Largely thanks to him, this model is still very popular in the new car market, because it is quite difficult not to fall in love with it at first sight. Not so long ago, a serious restyling of the model was carried out, thanks to which the front part began to look even more brutal.
However, Mazda does not lag behind its competitor, and not only in terms of appearance. This novelty appeared on domestic roads not so long ago, but managed to earn steady popularity and a lot of positive reviews. By the way, comparing CX 5 or Tiguan, it is worth noting that the first is going to its historical homeland - in Japan, but the second - here in Kaluga.
Peering into the appearance of the Japanese, it is worth noting its overall elegance, which is complemented by a branded Mazda radiator grill and predatory narrowed head optics.
An attempt to figure out by eye who is heavier, Mazda CX 5 or Tiguan leads to the idea that the Japanese will be much heavier than the German. However, this is just an illusion, since the technical data for cars speaks of the exact opposite situation. Mazda turned out to be two kilograms of sleepyheads lighter than Volkswagen, despite the fact that it looks noticeably "plump". By the way, it is quite low.
However, this is not a reason to draw conclusions as to who is actually better, Mazda CX5 or VW Tiguan. The secret of the Japanese's low weight is the use of a large number of light alloys in the body structure, while the engineers from the land of the rising sun managed to maintain the required strength. In general, it is definitely impossible to say who is more beautiful, the Volkswagen Tiguan or the Mazda SH5, because both of them are good enough and have no obvious design problems.
Tiguan or Mazda CX5: Who is more comfortable inside?
Reviewing the Mazda CX 5 and Tiguan, the salons should also be compared without fail. The filling has a number of conceptual differences. Looking inside the Tiguan, an experienced connoisseur of German cars is unlikely to find something new for himself. Around the controls familiar to the cars of the VAG concern and, of course, the German quality of materials and workmanship. On the steering wheel, there is a chic velvety leather upholstery. The devices are as informative as possible, and their readings are easy to read.
At first glance, it might seem that with the number of buttons on the steering wheel, the Germans, nevertheless, went overboard, however, in practice everything is very convenient, because under the thumbs are all the main functions, arranged with true German scrupulousness. There were some difficulties with adjusting the seat. Not that there are not enough options, just lovers of a low landing will have to highly understand the hands to the steering wheel. However, this is the only, in our opinion, drawback in terms of the driver's workplace.
The interior design of Mazda can become a serious argument when choosing a Tiguan or CX 5. It looks noticeably more modest than that of a German, and the white illumination of the dashboard causes dissonance with the orange one in the climate controls. Everything is in order with the materials of the interior trim, however, they do not solve the problem too much with a number of not the most successful, in our opinion, design solutions.
On the other hand, the landing in the Japanese turned out to be more convenient, and the range of settings allows you to adjust the driver's seat to any parameters. Answering the question: "Tiguan or Mazda CX5 which is better?", We can say that from our point of view, due to a more thoughtful design, the German wins.
Dynamic characteristics and technical component
Be sure to compare the Volkswagen Tiguan and Mazda CX 5 in their behavior on the road and beyond. With a base engine of 122 horses, Tiguan feels quite confident in the city and on the highway, and if you choose a complete set with a more powerful engine, the car becomes a real monster. For connoisseurs of fuel economy, a diesel engine with 140 horses is also offered.
As for the Japanese, here the situation in terms of choice is, to put it mildly, none: just one gasoline engine, aggregated with an automatic transmission without an alternative. At the same time, Mazda accelerates somewhat uncertainly, although there are thoughts that the situation on a mechanical box would be noticeably better. All in all, a quarter-mile comparison between the Volkswagen Tiguan and the Mazda CX 5 would have been unconditionally won by the German.
With regard to handling, then on the asphalt Volkswagen behaves very at ease. The steering wheel is pleasant, with light but tangible feedback. Enters the turns confidently. In short, the best German driving traditions are fully embodied. Mazda behaves no less pleasantly, it is immediately clear that engineers from Japan worked in the same direction as their German colleagues. There is calmness and self-confidence behind the wheel of Mazda. Therefore, both cars receive the highest marks for handling.
So which is better Mazda SH5 or Volkswagen Tiguan?
Based on the results, it cannot be said with certainty that there is a clearly defined winner. Both cars are good and can please their owners with both driving performance and comfort. They are not devoid of minor flaws. Volkswagen has some advantage due to the fact that it has been presented on the domestic market for several years, while Mazda is still a newcomer here. As for our personal opinion, today it makes sense to choose a German, and with a Japanese one should wait until the manufacturer corrects some of the shortcomings and "childhood illnesses".
Each of them has at least 170 hp under the hood, automatic and four-wheel drive transmissions, and a "Made in Russia" sign on the body. Vladivostok Mazda CX-5, St. Petersburg Nissan X-Trail and Toyota RAV4 - all with aspirated 2.5. And the Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TSI of the Kaluga assembly is already a new, second generation. Who is better suited to our realities?
Z ima! A peasant, triumphant ... Well, in our case, let it be a city dweller who renews the path on a crossover. Is he freezing? First of all, we measured the efficiency of the heaters, and it is not bad for the whole four. But only Toyota and Volkswagen can boast of a warm steering wheel and rear seats, albeit for a surcharge. The ability to easily flutter into the salon without getting your hands dirty first, and then your clothes? The front part of the X-Trail thresholds, unlike others, does not cover with doors. And by the way, Nissan and Volkswagen will let you beat the brushes that freeze in the snow only in the service, vertical, position of the leashes when the engine is turned off. So, Toyota is among the leaders in terms of winter practicality.
The RAV4, with its well-adjusted seating geometry in tight seats, is also good in terms of ergonomics. But the Tiguan is still preferable. It doesn't even have the slightest flaws that the RAV4 has in abundance. In Volkswagen, the buttons are not scattered around the cabin like salt on the sidewalk, but are grouped by function. There is no need, as in Toyota, to look under the canopy of the front panel in search of the desired key, and the climate control display does not glare. You can only blame Volkswagen for the inability to operate an expensive multimedia system with gloves.
Adaptive cruise control is an option. But all Tiguanas have a radar by default: the Front Assist autobraking system is already "in the base"
Traction control system is disengaged in one motion
For the left foot in Tiguan, the most convenient parkplatz
Even two-liter bottles can be put in door pockets
The electrified seat can remember the settings of three drivers
If Toyota has succeeded in soft look plastics, Volkswagen is a pioneer in hard look materials that are hard in appearance but soft to the touch.
At the request of Apple, there should be only one USB port, and Volkswagen does not want to add connectors for recharging gadgets, so that people do not get confused in the abundance of USB ports.
The glove box is unlocked, and also the smallest, but inside it is trimmed with velvet and the multimedia module has two slots for SD cards
Self-parking is only offered by Nissan and Volkswagen
Neatness in everything: even the cup holders are closed with a curtain. It's a shame they are heavily relegated back
Despite the abundance of corners, the decoration of Tiguan can hardly be attributed to the creations of the Cubist artists. Rather, it is Saxon traditionalism in a modern reading.
In Mazda and Nissan, the chairs are more relaxed, which will appeal to people in the body, but slender ones are unlikely to appreciate it. But the CX-5 and X-Trail, unlike the RAV4, are at least as good as the Tiguan in the sense of quality: an abundance of pliable plastic, precise fit of panels, even stitches on the upholstery.
Buyers of the Highline version (this is the only equipment for two-liter Tiguanas so far) will not be able to refuse virtual devices similar to those used in the Passat
And why are all four saving on passengers? The upholstery of the rear doors, in contrast to the front ones, has no softness. Practicality is also less: door pockets are more modest, folding tables are only in Tiguan. Three-zone climate control can only be provided by Volkswagen, and Mazda and Toyota do not even have vents in the center!
Four modes (winter, road, off-road, individual) are more of a whim than a necessity. So, for example, in an off-road vehicle, for some reason, the traction control system is turned off, and with it the imitation of interwheel locks. As a result, it crawls better along the gullies when the switch is in the position for asphalt ">
The new Tiguan now has not a hydromechanical "automatic", but the most reliable of the preselections - a seven-speed "robot" DQ500 with wet clutches
Four modes (winter, road, off-road, individual) are more of a whim than a necessity. So, for example, in an off-road vehicle, for some reason, the traction control system is turned off, and with it the imitation of interwheel locks. As a result, the Tiguan crawls better on gullies when the switch is in the asphalt position.
But if the CX-5 turned out to be the closest in this quartet, then the RAV4 is the most spacious. In Nissan, when three of us land, the tall ones come into contact with the roof slope: the giant Rastegaev last year. And in Volkswagen, the massive central tunnel and the molding of the rear sofa interfere: the outermost riders move onto the one in the center. In Toyota, there are no problems. And only in it you can lean back in order to sleep: the largest range of adjustment of the backrest tilt.
Three-zone climate control in the two-liter Tiguan "in the base"! And here is the heated rear sofa option ">
To be a benchmark, a luxurious Tiguan chair would be good to acquire adjustable lateral support, so that overweight ones do not complain of being cramped, and thin ones - of excessive freedom.
Three-zone climate control and heated back sofa
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Of course, Volkswagen has a double floor, and Nissan has a partition, with which the trunk can be made two-story. And both have a longitudinal adjustment of the rear sofa, which allows you to increase the volume for luggage to the level of Toyota and Mazda. But the riders will surely remember how you infringed on their freedom while traveling in order to please luggage.
Volkswagen is traditionally attentive to luggage details: a hook for bags, a button for folding the back sofa, an outlet and even a flashlight.
In the meantime, there are no passengers, you can drive. It's not for nothing that we took the most powerful versions, right?
Trick # 1 for the traffic light champion is to put the powertrain in Sport mode and start on two pedals. But this allows you to win only 0.1-0.2 seconds in the time of dialing "hundreds". More important than life hack # 2 is disabling ESP. Slight slip allows the engine to rev up, and the electronics do not stifle its rush.
In the summer and fall, we tried all the fresh crossovers, and the most convincing victories over competitors were won by the Volkswagen Tiguan and Mazda CX-5. But they met each other only in absentia, so this battle could not be avoided - you need to find out which crossover is the best today. We wrote about both models more than once, so no lyrics - just facts about how successfully the CX-5 opposes Tiguan and vice versa. Go!
How much does it cost?
For greater relevance, we took "folk" versions with weaker motors. Which, moreover, have not yet tried it themselves - before, only top-end engines were on the tests. Probably, one could also take a mono drive, but there were no such machines in the press parks. So, the CX-5 with a 150-horsepower 2-liter aspirated engine, all-wheel drive and an automatic, mandatory in this combination, costs from 1,721,000 rubles. Tiguan, which has the same power provided by the forces of a turbocharged 1.4, also lacks a third pedal and has a propeller shaft, costs from 1 709 000.
Cars are close in absentia: equal opportunities at equal prices. Maybe even parity with equipment? Not really: a slightly more affordable Volkswagen is packed richer: it has a three-zone climate versus a two-zone one in Mazda, 8 versus 6 speakers, there are parking sensors, heated steering wheel and rear sofa, a rain sensor and auto-dimming of the salon mirror. Half of the above, as well as a light sensor, an electric tailgate and a pedestrian recognition and autobraking system in the city, Mazda gives in a package for 78.5 thousand. At the same time, both crossovers for this money have 17-inch wheels and LED headlights.
Volkswagen tiguan
Mazda CX-5
Mazda is longer than Volkswagen by 64 mm from bumper to bumper and 19 mm - along the wheelbase.The test cars are better equipped - if you go up to the top-end configuration with the same units, then the CX-5 without options will cost 1,893,000 rubles, and the Tiguan - 1,869,000. Volkswagen's minimum price advantage again, but is the gain in the configuration retained? Not really: for example, keyless access at the top Volkswagen is a penny (14.5 thousand), but an option. The load is given by the electric drive of the trunk. But for 15 thousand there is a massage that is not available on Mazda. The wheels on the Tiguan will be 18 inches versus 19 for the CX-5, and there is no head-up display at all.
True, Mazda will have to pay as much as 190 thousand for the projector - get a large package of options, including 9 Bose speakers, adaptive light and steering in the strip. There will also be a hatch, but the Tiguan has a "panorama", and as part of a package for only 62 thousand. However, for the CX-5, you can also choose cheaper packages, for 44, 74 or 94 thousand. If you choose a set of "full stuffing" in the configurators, then both crossovers will fall out for 2 million, and the Tiguan, due to the variety of options, will be even more expensive than 100 thousand. Depending on which set of options is important to you, either one or the other car may be preferable.
Volkswagen tiguan
Mazda CX-5
In the CX-5, the driver is less distracted by the multimedia system, because it is controlled by a knob, and not by touch. And if you order a projector, you will not have to be distracted by the tidy (also overloaded in Tiguan)Where is it more convenient and more comfortable?
Inside, the Tiguan is the same Golf with all its advantages and disadvantages. The interior is soft in the right places, perfectly assembled, the management of everything and everything is impeccably logical. However, the multimedia is not the most modern (on the restyled Octavia, for example, newer), and the tidy is not the most intuitive. Even though it is absolutely not subject to glare and is saturated with data. It's great that there are a lot of thought-out household details in the cabin: this is a spring-loaded retainer in the cup holder, and a bunch of drawers in the ceiling, and literate tables for second-row passengers. Very similar to Skoda's Simply clever solutions.
In Mazda, materials are abruptly more abrupt - the skin is softer and covers surfaces more extensively, there is more metal. The difference is in the little things, but subjectively, the interior is perceived as more expensive. At the same time, the multimedia system and the dashboard are almost archaic against the background of Volkswagen cars, but they are convenient to use. The interior is thought out a little less carefully: the central armrest is not adjustable, there are no trifles like the ones listed above in Tiguan, the locks are blocked by an inconvenient flag on the door (or automatically, but for a surcharge, except for the top version), and the onboard computer is completely primitive.
Volkswagen tiguan
Mazda CX-5
There is more headroom in Tiguan both in the front and in the back. And the second row of the German car is more spacious in terms of legroom and more hospitable in terms of comfort for passengers.The approaches are different, the result is the same
Volkswagen has long been committed to the "turbo plus robot" formula. This means that low-volume supercharged cars have replaced aspirated "normal" volumes, and a robotic DSG gearbox with two clutches has become the default solution. This design simultaneously drives faster and requires less fuel than the "classic". Such as the Mazda - atmospheric engine and torque converter automatic. True, all of them are "skyactive", which should make Tiguan's triumph not so deafening.
Volkswagen tiguan
Mazda CX-5
Volkswagen's ground clearance is 200 mm, and Mazda's is 192/200 mm, depending on the size of the wheels. The geometry of the test Tiguan was improved with the factory off-road package. But the roulette wheel shows that parking near high curbs is still calmer on MazdaAnd is it a triumph at all? Our measurements with professional equipment showed that a hundred crossovers are gaining with a difference of a tenth of a second! For the same weight and power, the Tiguan has 42 Nm more thrust, but that doesn't make it faster. But more traction at lower revs makes dynamic city driving more accessible in Volkswagen. And when it comes to a really fast pace, Mazda is already preferable: its engine loves high revs, and an efficient sport mode supports them with enthusiasm.
Occasionally, the brains of the transmission even try unnecessarily: the driver has long calmed down, and the tachometer needle hangs at 4000 under the annoying hum of the engine. But everything that happened before is pure delight! A furious kickdown to kick-start acceleration, revs the tachometer to the red zone, and highly efficient downshifts one after the other during braking are something a knowledgeable driver will enjoy working with. The Tiguan has a lot more ride settings, but even all that flexibility can't deliver the emotional dynamics and clarity of the car-to-driver connection. Volkswagen does a good job of driving briskly, but Mazda does it well.
Volkswagen tiguan
Mazda CX-5
Tiguan's brakes are perfect in everything, and the CX-5 is frustrating with insufficient pedal sensitivity - the effort on it does not quite match the decelerationThe CX-5 is also more convenient in everyday traffic: a classic automatic machine will always be smoother and more enduring than any robot. Mazda's gearbox is well tuned, but Volkswagen, after a long downtime in a traffic jam, begins to twitch. And in general, the general problem of DSG has not gone anywhere: in D it dulls, and in S it is simply not in a hurry to increase the gear and annoying with engine noise - there is not enough intermediate algorithm. Interestingly, Mazda manages to spend the same 10 liters per hundred as the Tiguan with its a priori more energy efficient design. In fact, the CX-5 is also not so simple with its Skyactiv-tricks and "cheats" like running lights that only work on the move.
Volkswagen tiguan
Mazda CX-5
It is unclear how Volkswagen has counted a trunk volume of 615 liters versus 442 for Mazda. But the site for placing luggage in the Japanese crossover is no less. But there are not enough mesh pockets.The final comparison criterion is acoustic comfort. Gone are the days when the words "Mazda" and "noise" were synonymous. The new CX has pulled up a lot in this regard, and the obvious dominant now is the engine, and even then if it is turned hard. The Tiguan is more balanced: the engine does not scream, whatever you do with it, but the wind, tires and road terrain are heard better than the CX-5. There are crossovers that are softer than these, there are quieter, there are softer and quieter at the same time. But the overall balance of comfort and other qualities is not bad either there, with a slight advantage of the Japanese car.
Is there a winner?
It seems, probably, probably, most likely, yes. The combination of basic consumer qualities and fine tuning are best in Mazda. It is brighter on the move and at the same time more comfortable, more emotional on the outside and subjectively more comfortable on the inside. The Tiguan is very close to the CX-5 in highlights, and in some places even replays it. For example, this crossover is better suited for the role of a family with its more spacious and thoughtful interior and more comfortable trunk.
The Tiguan has a number of options that Mazda does not, as well as vice versa, and the cost benefit of one or another option directly depends on what set of equipment you want to see in your car.
The new Volkswagen Tiguan assembly in Kaluga, which we all waited for in our open spaces only next year, was on the test ahead of schedule. We were not only the first to get a German crossover, but also arranged a comparative test for it with the participation of Mazda CX-5 and Kia Sportage localized in Russia.
In our time, there is no way without localization. It not only smoothes the ruble fluctuations, but also allows the cars to be adapted to Russian road and climatic conditions. So the Tiguan was produced in Russia for almost all of its conveyor life. And the new Tiguan, for which we started this test, comes out with a delay for the only reason - it took time to set up production in Kaluga. Actually, the adjustment is still in the process and before the start of sales we have to wait several months, but we were the first in Russia to get a Kaluga-assembled car!
Buyers will be offered a choice of nine combinations of engines, transmissions and drive types. We settled on an all-wheel drive Tiguan with a two-liter 180-horsepower turbo engine and a DSG robot. And let's face it with the regulars of the top sales: the Mazda CX-5 and Kia Sportage take the fight.
The rivals are also local spills. Mazda is located in Vladivostok. The test car is equipped with a 2.5-liter "four" SkyActiv with a capacity of 192 hp, a 6-speed automatic and four-wheel drive.
Sportage is an unrivaled leader in local assembly: all its generations were assembled in Kaliningrad! In theory, we should have taken the petrol version for comparison. But in terms of power, the 185-horsepower diesel is more suitable, which is slightly cheaper and extremely popular on the Russian market. In general, we take diesel! Of course, with a gun and four-wheel drive.
Volkswagen tiguan
The new generation car was presented in 2015 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Sales started in Europe this year. It will appear in Russia in early 2017. Assembly - in Kaluga.
Tiguan, built on the MQB platform, pleases with almost reference handling. He fell short of the mark "excellent" due to yaw on the asphalt ruts.
ENGINES:
gasoline: 1.4 T (125 HP); 1.4 T (150 HP); 2.0 T (180 HP); T (220 HP)
diesel: 2.0 (150 HP)
At the time of this writing, prices have not been announced.
Mazda CX ‑ 5
She made her debut in 2012. Last year, it underwent restyling. Cars for the Russian market are produced in Vladivostok.
In handling Mazda is not inferior to Tiguan, and on a straight line it is even more stable. She won and sprint from the spot.
ENGINES:
petrol: 2.0 (150 HP) - from 1,349,000 rubles; 2.5 (192 hp) - from 1,865,000 rubles.
diesel: 2.2 (175 HP) - from 2,012,000 rubles.
Kia sportage
The fourth-generation car debuted in 2015, and sales started in Russia earlier this year. Assembly - at the Kaliningrad plant "Avtotor".
On a straight line, Kia is stable. But with sharp maneuvers, yawing occurs, exciting the stabilization system.
ENGINES:
petrol: 2.0 (150 HP) —from 1,204,900 rubles; 1.6T (177 HP) - from 2,084,900 rubles.
diesel: 2.0 (185 HP) - from 1 834 900 rubles.
Do not find fault?
Strictly from the front or from behind, the new Tiguan is good! The faceted body and multi-storey front optics made it more interesting. But in profile, the Tiguan looks like a passenger car - you can feel the influence of the Golf: the same slope of the rear struts, a large front overhang.
However, design is a matter of taste. But won't the almost lightweight appearance affect the geometric cross-country ability? And how! Due to the low bumper, the approach angle is really small - less than twenty degrees.
"Drawn" devices look so natural that you can only recognize the catch from the image of the typewriter. There are no complaints about the ease of reading and the amount of information.
The multimedia system pleases with a clear image, a huge variety of functions and colorful animation (in the photo - adjusting the climate system).
The interior is made according to the geometric precepts of Volkswagen, but is focused on the driver - the center console is turned towards him. The steering wheel is all-Volkswagen. The DSG robot does not allow a single "horse" to be lazy.
Tiguan has the largest selection of transmission modes, which are indicated by pictograms on the central display. The front seat can be fully folded into a table. This function is also useful when transporting long items. For a surcharge, you can install a ceiling console with two compartments.
The interior is a geometrically verified space. It was as if the ergonomics specialists had redrawn the front panel hundreds of times, until the gaps between buttons, deflectors and chrome strips came to mathematical perfection. And for some reason, you don't doubt for a moment that the designers tried to please you. How else to explain that each of the participants in our test group quickly and easily found a comfortable fit, and rated the relative position of the controls and all the buttons as five-plus? It is cozy and intuitive here. The case when the manual remains collecting dust in the glove box as unnecessary.
But this perfection is also the weakness of Tiguan. Assertive acceleration and perfected driving properties are taken for granted - and it costs Volkswagen at least to give some slack, it immediately hurts the eyes. I'm not talking about the hard response of the suspension on small irregularities - such a character is traditional for many German cars. Fortunately, on medium and large calibers, the Tiguan holds the blow firmly. A small aerodynamic noise is another matter. Not a crime, but against the background of perfectly insulated wheel arches and a muffled engine compartment, a light breeze in the windshield area, waking up at a speed of over 100 km / h, is perceived as a tornado.
In Tiguan, the ergoComfort front seat, familiar from other models, captivates with a profile and a set of adjustments, including the ability to change the length of the cushion. For dessert - massage function.
The back row is almost as wide as Mazda. The backrest can be tilted and the cushion is adjustable longitudinally. For rear passengers, you can order your own climate control and seat heating.
The same story with handling. The Tiguan stands flawlessly on the arc, captivating with its speed and purity of responses. The electric booster honestly changes the steering effort and does not misinform the driver. Wonderful! But a slight nervousness on asphalt ruts, a barely noticeable sensitivity to a crosswind, which otherwise would not have paid attention to, here seem to be something out of the ordinary.
To which there is not a single comment is the connection between the engine and the gearbox. The wide torque ramp and the machine-gun rate of fire of the dual-clutch transmission instantly take the Tiguan away from the competition, and the efficient brakes with informative drive are no less confident to bring the car down. But the pedal is located too high in relation to the accelerator.
NO SPARK
One more modification of the new Tiguan remained behind the scenes of the comparative test - we decided to get acquainted with the diesel version with a capacity of 150 hp. (see video above). The transmission is the same, with a DSG preselective robot and a fifth generation Haldex clutch in the rear wheel drive, and the difference, apart from the motor, is in the equipment.
We got the diesel car with the Offroad package: other bumpers give it out. Thanks to the beveled beak, the angle of entry increased, and under the engine compartment we measured an "extra" centimeter - despite the fact that representatives of the Russian office of the Volks-Wagen promise the same ground clearance for all cars that have passed the adaptation! It looks like the greater clearance is due to a different form of plastic protection.
The vulnerability of a turbodiesel vehicle is the exhaust gas pressure control valve, which allows it to meet environmental requirements without the use of urea. It is located on the exhaust pipe, and if you are going to get out often off-road, it is better to cover it with an additional shield so as not to damage in the rut.
An unconditional plus of the diesel engine is the ability to order a pre-heater. You can start it both from the passenger compartment and from the key fob: this way you do not have to get into a cold car.
At idle, a diesel engine spreads noticeable vibrations throughout the body, and if you open the door at the same time, an unpleasant hum will fill the interior. In motion, however, the motor manifests itself much less. According to the manufacturer, the diesel version accelerates to a hundred in 9.3 seconds, while the gasoline Tiguan spends 7.7 seconds for the same. And this difference is quite tangible! A 150-horsepower crossover cannot be called a slow-moving one, but the best epithet for its dynamics is “sufficient”.
Optical illusion
Mazda CX ‑ 5 is tricky! She plays on the opposite effect to Tiguan's. At first, she pretends to be such a simpleton. But the first impression is deceiving. The silhouette is woven from smooth and unpretentious lines, but this did not prevent the formation of a predatory and harmonious image. And you can't say that the car is five years old!
The five-year-old interior is simple and unpretentious, which does not prevent it from being ergonomic. The quality of the materials is high. Of all the additional transmission options, only traction control deactivation is available.
Most of all, the age of the car is given by devices with not the brightest backlighting and a monochrome trip-computer display (however, it is well readable). Age is also noticeable in the multimedia system. The display is the smallest and does not shine with clarity. But there are no questions about the functionality, as well as about the sound of the audio system. The control is supplemented with hotkeys of the main functions. The box has a sport mode, but in a regular Mazda it does not sin with excessive regularity.
Inside, the same optical illusion. The salon is not just laconic - it is simple. And after the Volks-Wagen, you literally instinctively understand that Mazda has saved on many things. No 220-volt outlets, no massager in the driver's seat - they are absent as a class. But the main virtues are not forgotten.
The seat with the standard set of adjustments turns out to be very comfortable. It is immediately clear that thoughtful ergonomics were the top priority when creating the interior. If you forget about the options and focus on the main thing - ergonomics, spaciousness of the cabin and the volume of the trunk, Mazda is not much inferior to the Tiguan.
Mazda's driver's seat is very pleasant: non-Asian dense padding and reliable support for the back and hips. But the set of adjustments is more modest than that of Volkswagen.
Three of us can sit in the back, there is more than enough headroom and overhead space. It's bad that there are no ventilation deflectors and other amenities.
And when assessing driving properties, the difference - and completely disappears, and regardless of the type of road. On broken asphalt, the CX-5 is just as tough. The middle caliber is on par with the Tiguan. And only on a large-scale Mazda, no, no, and yes, it will "break through".
But how good she is at cornering! Crystal-clear feedback, lightning-fast reactions. The CX ‑ 5 encourages picking up the pace on a winding road, and this is its greatest trick. If Tiguan's polished demeanor is taken for granted, the luscious handling of the CX-5, against the backdrop of its deliberate simplicity, immediately comes to the fore, giving an extra degree of drive. And on a straight line Mazda is even more stable than a "German"! Sometimes you still have to steer, but she doesn't give a damn about the crosswind. It's funny that the level of aerodynamic noise in Mazda is not lower at all, but because of the engine, which is heard much more clearly, the wind does not go over the ears.
And the engine should be heard! After all, after handling, this is the second trump card with which Mazda fights off Tiguan's attacks. Subzero temperatures and winter tires did not allow us to carry out instrumental measurements, so we arranged paired races. And the 192 ‑ strong SkyActiv proved to be the best possible. In a face-to-face duel, the CX-5 won almost the body, leaving behind the Tiguan with its wide torque shelf and sophisticated DSG robot.
Our simpleton is not so simple. CX-5 is a very cunning player and will not let himself be beaten just like that. No wonder that in the Russian model range of Mazda, it is he who plays the role of a sales locomotive.
What is good for a Russian?
Localization is only half the battle. It is important that the vehicle is adapted to our conditions. This happened with the Tiguan produced in Kaluga, which, albeit slightly, but still differs from its European counterparts.
Representatives of the concern say that all Russian Tiguanas have increased ground clearance to 200 mm. Apparently, this is true only for cars without engine protection, because we measured only 175 mm under it.
Protection for the engine compartment is basic equipment, while in Europe it is not.
In addition, our Tiguanas are distinguished by the battery capacity and the increased power generator.
Additional seals are installed on the doors. Not without "warm" services - more powerful heating of the windshield, as well as heating the windshield washer nozzles and front seats (all of this is basic equipment).
There are also nice little things not related to Russian adaptation. For example, the rear view camera is supplemented with its own nozzle, which is very useful on our muddy roads.
Volkswagen Tiguan Volkswagen Tiguan
Expat
Kia is watching the showdown between the two rivals, quietly humming with a diesel engine. Why did the diesel Sportage turn out to be more popular on the Russian market than the powerful gasoline version? Because the "Koreans" have long been bribing us with proven solutions. A gasoline turbo engine combined with a robot with two clutches is an outlandish beast. Here is the audience and rushed to the turbodiesel!
Devices with a matte backing are familiar to other Kia, which does not prevent them from pleasing the eye with noble illumination and excellent readability.
The top multimedia system liked the clear display and thoughtful menu.
The Kia's interior is not just stylish - it looks expensive, and that feeling does not disappear even after detailed examination. And the steering wheel is the best in the test.
Kia's automatic transmission isn't very agile in any mode. Off-road, you can forcibly block the interaxle coupling. The selector lever is supplemented with paddle shifters.
Sportage has long settled in our land, becoming a citizen of Kaliningrad already in the fourth generation. You do not expect from him the perfectionism that the Tiguan has taught over the years. And Sportage is not at all the leader of the brand, like CX-5 at Mazda: the cash register is made by passenger cars Rio and cee’d. Nevertheless, the Sportage confidently surpasses its rivals in terms of sales. And it is also inexpensive, although at first glance you cannot tell: the look is impudent, recognizable, which we did not expect from Korean cars before.
The front seats of Kia are medium-density padded and have a good profile. The length of the pillow is sufficient, but there is a lack of support in the shoulders.
The rear row of Kia: legroom is sufficient, the backrest is adjustable in angle, but the drop ceiling presses on the top of the head. For rear passengers - additional vents, a 12V socket and a USB connector.
I flop on the seat. Light landing! And there is something of a sporty cockpit - if anything, the comfortable (and coolest in the trio) steering wheel, coupled with the tall, almost vertical dashboard, creates just that feeling. Light vibrations that the diesel engine transmits to the steering wheel and automatic transmission selector do not spoil the experience. And the main trump card is the level of equipment, in which the Sportage is almost not inferior to the Tiguan.
On the move, the Sportage isn't nearly as outspoken with the driver as the CX-5 and Tiguan. One can feel a slight artificiality, understatement. The Sportage is not bad in corners, the steering wheel is honestly filled with effort in the corners.
KIA SPORTAGE: the underbody is well protected. You can put metal protection for the engine and gearbox, which was done on the test car.
MAZDA CX-5: under the protection of the motor - an impressive clearance. The muffler hangs dangerously close to the propeller shaft.
VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN: engine and gearbox protected by heavy-duty, thick plastic. The bottom is absolutely flat, there are no openly vulnerable spots.
Hardness on the broken asphalt from Kia is not expected, but the transverse seams and joints respond unpleasantly with vibrations running through the body. And the Sportage is difficult to digest large irregularities. We put the main blame on tires of non-child size - 245/45 R19. A shoe like this is a must on the GT-Line version, but by golly it's overkill! And the wheels scraping against the arches with the steering wheel completely turned out confirm this.
Dirty rollers
Our charges are crossovers that spend almost their entire lives on asphalt. But they must have some off-road makings! That is why, first of all, we drove all three cars onto our roller platforms simulating a zero coefficient of adhesion - let's say we drive our wheels onto the ice (ZR, 2016, no. 2).
The principle of operation of the transmission for all machines is the same: constant drive to the front wheels and a rear axle connected through a clutch. But only Kia allows you to forcibly block the wheel clutch - so let it storm the platforms first!
First, the rollers were slipped under the front wheels. The Sportage did not have time to skid when the rear axle was connected and it crawled out onto the asphalt. But the "diagonal" did not submit. And the interaxle blocking is not an assistant in this matter. Moreover, after fifteen seconds of slipping, the transmission went into service mode, illuminating the driver with a garland of indications on the dashboard.
Mazda followed suit to the test. The result is like a carbon copy. Also with overheating of the coupling.
The Tiguan easily cleared the rollers under the front wheels, allowing only slight slippage. The moment of truth is the "diagonal". In normal transmission mode, it did not submit, but the Haldex clutch endured the long slip without showing signs of overheating. Then we started trying different modes. As soon as the transition to Snow ("snow"), the Tiguan easily jumped off the platforms. Then dessert - we leave only one rear wheel on the ground. Try as he might, the trap was too tough for the Tiguan. Nevertheless - a well-deserved victory. In addition, no matter how long we skidded, raising the engine speed to 4500, we found no signs of transmission overheating. Fine!
Having finished with the "laboratory" experiments, we went to the ground. To begin with, we evaluated the suspension travel, finding an excellent transverse trench. The Tiguan was the first to hang out on this obstacle. The Kia's rear wheel hung in the air later. But Mazda surprised: the rear wheel, though hung out, but almost touched the ground.
On a slurry, all the cars behaved predictably, they connected the rear axle in time, preventing the front wheels from getting buried. But here, too, the Tiguan, which performed brilliantly on the rollers, forced us to be careful due to the smallest ground clearance and large front overhang. To drive on "curved" dirt roads, you need to take a car with an off-road package - with a "trimmed" front bumper, which significantly improves the geometric cross-country ability.
KIA SPORTAGE MAZDA CX-5 VW TIGUAN 2.0 TSI
Kia's Sprint lost to both rivals, a few hulls behind. And this is with a breaking torque of 400 Nm! There are two reasons. The transmission is prone to delays in shifting and likes to linger in gear when it's time to shift to the next. And the turbo lag at the start only aggravates the loss.
But this is a diesel! Sprint races are not his thing. And in normal modes, thrust control is very pleasant. The slight drowsiness of the machine is more than compensated for by the excellent elasticity of the engine, and the noise from the diesel engine does not press on the ears at all. In contrast to road noise, of which "sandblasting" is especially annoying: the insulation of the wheel arches could be better.
VW TIGUAN 2.0 TSI. The luggage compartment is average in volume, but the number of pleasant little things is great: convenient hooks, loops, a flashlight ...
MAZDA CX-5 is the most practical one. The sides are finished with plastic, and after a while it will be scratched, having lost its presentation.
KIA SPOTRAGE 2.0 CRDi is the least roomy in the trio. And it does not shine with additional services in the form of loops or additional compartments on the sides.
There was no place for a full-fledged spare wheel in Tiguan, only a stowaway.
A stowaway and a travel tool are kept underground in the CX-5.
Only Kia has a full-fledged spare wheel, and even on an alloy wheel.
The consignment! The new Tiguan is taking off the box office in our highly gambling adaptation. Volkswagen conquered with its excellent chassis and well-thought-out ergonomics. The prices are still unknown, but the folks-Wagenovites promise a tasty price list. Well, let's wait.
Mazda, even though not young, lost quite a bit, and in the "secondary" disciplines. And the handling and dynamics simply delighted, although it cannot show off such an extensive list of additional equipment. This is why the CX-5 is regularly ranked in the top 5 in its class, and why the Tiguan has not been such a success for a long time. And the new Tiguan is unlikely to change anything in this scenario.
Sportage lost the battle today. But not a battle! Take a gasoline car, the result could be different. And so the gap from Volkswagen and Mazda is minimal. And if you take into account the prices, then Kia is on a horse at all. Or at stake?
The Tiguan kneads the dirt very vigorously until large bumps appear: the most modest ground clearance and the lip of the front bumper force you to reset the course.
In the autumn muddy roads, the CX-5 feels confident. Taking into account the class of the car, of course. The largest ground clearance (205 mm) added confidence on the track.
On soggy dirt, the Sportage does well even on 19-inch tires. The torque is supplied to the rear wheels in time.
Specifications:
KIA SPOTRAGE 2.0 CRDi MAZDA CX-5 VW TIGUAN 2.0 TSI
Curb / full weight
1784/2250 kg 1573/2030 kg 1645/2160 kg
Acceleration time 0-100 km / h
9.5 s 7.9 s 7.7 s
Maximum speed
201 km / h 192 km / h 208 km / h
Turning radius
5.3 m 5.6 m 5.7 m
Fuel / fuel reserve
DT / 62 l AI-95/58 l AI-95/60 l
Fuel consumption: city / countryside / mixed. cycle
7.9 / 5.3 / 6.3 l / 100 km 9.3 / 6.1 / 7.3 l / 100 km 9.1 / 6.4 / 7.4 l / 100 km
CO2 emissions
n.d. 165 g / km 183 g / km
ENGINE
Type: diesel gasoline gasoline
Location
in front, transversely in front, transversely in front, transversely
Configuration / number of valves
Р4 / 16 Р4 / 16 Р4 / 16
Working volume
1995 cm³ 2488 cm³ 1984 cm³
Compression ratio
n.d. 13.0 11.6
Power
136 kW / 185 HP 141 kW / 192 HP 132 kW / 180 HP
at 4000 rpm at 5700 rpm at 3940-6000 rpm
Torque
400 N ∙ m 256 N ∙ m 320 N ∙ m
at 1750-2750 rpm at 4000 rpm at 1500-3940 rpm
TRANSMISSION
type of drive
full full full
Transmission
Gear ratios:
I / II / III / IV / V / VI / VII / VIII / З.х.
n.d. 3.55 / 2.02 / 1.45 / 1.00 / 0.71 / 0.60 / - / 3.89 3.56 / 2.53 / 1.68 / 1.02 / 0.79 / 0 .76 / 0.63 / 3.94
main gear
n.d. 4.62 2.79
CHASSIS
Suspension, front / rear
McPherson / multi-link McPherson / multi-link McPherson / multi-link
Steering
rack and pinion, with EUR rack, with EUR rack, with EUR
Brakes: Front / Rear
disc, vented / disc disc, vented / disc disc, vented / disc
245/45 R19 225/55 R19 235/55 R18
EXPERT EVALUATION OF CARS
KIA SPORTAGE MAZDA CX-5 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN
Driver's workplace
The most comfortable driver's seat is in Tiguan: excellent profile and adjustable cushion in length. The competitors' chairs are not bad, but still inferior. But the controls are the best in Kia: cool steering wheel, great instruments. The controls of the Tiguan are also good, but the bright picture is spoiled by a large step between the brake and gas pedals. At Mazda, the impression of ergonomics is smeared by pale instruments and the absence of manual shift paddles. Tiguan has the best visibility: the hood is visible, and the rear window is not covered by head restraints. At Mazda and Kia, rearward visibility is complicated by the narrow glass of the fifth door and overlapping headrests.
Seat 8 8 9
Controls 9 8 8
Overview 8 8 9
In Tiguan, boarding and disembarking is convenient, there are many compartments for small things. Landing in the Mazda and Kia is also comfortable, but the space in the front is not so well thought out - there are fewer compartments for small items. Rear seats in Mazda and Tiguan are close in terms of space. But the Tiguan offers many options that the competition lacks (massage, three-zone climate control), and the rear seat is skid mounted and has a reclining backrest. In the Kia, the rear passengers are cramped, and the trunk of the Sportage is smaller. The cargo compartments of Tiguan and Mazda are close in volume.
Front part 8 8 9
Rear part 8 8 9
Trunk 8 9 9
Driving performance
The Tiguan delights in excellent steering feedback and clean reactions. But on asphalt ruts it lacks stability. Mazda is not inferior in agility on bends, and on the straight line feels more confident. Their dynamic capabilities are close, but the Mazda is slightly faster. The Kia's chassis is well tuned, but it still has some drawbacks compared to the competition. Diesel is very flexible, however, turbo lag and micro-delays in the operation of the machine lead to a lag. In terms of the efficiency of the braking system, all rivals are close.
Dynamics 8 9 9
Brakes 8 8 8
Controllability 8 9 9
The Tiguan is very well insulated from noise - you only notice a faint rustle of wind after 100 km / h. Kia has poorly insulated wheel arches, while Mazda has an engine compartment. As for the smoothness of the ride, there are no clear leaders. All feel good on medium and large irregularities, and on small things they are harsh. But if for Mazda and Tiguan this is due to the work of the suspension, then the Sportage was let down by low-profile tires. Tiguan has three-zone climate control, heated steering wheel and windshield, Kia has dual-zone climate control and heated steering wheel, and Mazda, in addition to climate control, has only seat heating.
Smooth running 8 8 8
Climate 8 8 9
Adaptation to Russia
The most modest ground clearance, like the angle of entry, is at the Tiguan. The list of options includes an off-road package that increases the approach angle by ten degrees. Mazda and Kia's geometrical cross-country ability is not bad for the class. Kia has the most extensive dealer network and the most profitable warranty, while Mazda has the least number of dealer service stations. At Tiguan and Mazda, the thresholds are covered with doors; sitting in a Kia, you can get your pants dirty on the sills. The Tiguan's hood has gas stops. Only Kia has a full-fledged spare wheel, the rest have stowaways.
Geometric passability
Service 9 7 8
Operation 8 8 8
Interim assessment
Off-road behavior
The Tiguan was the most confident on our skates. Only he coped with the "diagonal", moreover, did not show signs of overheating of the transmission. But Kia and Mazda are worse: they did not cope with the "diagonal", and their clutches are overheated. The greatest suspension travel was demonstrated by Mazda. Kia is hung out earlier, and the very first to break off a Volkswagen wheel. Mazda does not have any additional transmission modes. On Kia, you can forcibly lock the interaxle clutch. In the arsenal of Tiguan there is an off-road mode - slipping is possible in it, the accelerator is better responsive, the hill descent assistant is involved.
Power-to-weight ratio 9 9 9
Endurance 8 8 9
Suspension strokes 8 9 8
Overall rating 8.17 8.22 8.55
