2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

In terms of aesthetics, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 had a reputation for being one of the best-looking midsize crossovers available. Its striking design was complemented by impressive driving dynamics. Previously criticized for its lack of power and missing features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the 2019 model addressed these issues, albeit only in the higher trims. The base Sport trim, starting at $24,350, offered features that were unexpected at that price range: LED headlights, push-button ignition, a 7-inch touchscreen, and a comprehensive safety suite. Moving up to the Touring trim at $26,615, buyers got keyless entry, a power driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and more. The Grand Touring trim, priced at $30,045, added adaptive headlights, LED fog lights, leather upholstery, and navigation. Adding all-wheel drive (AWD) to any trim cost an additional $1,400. The higher Grand Touring Reserve trim, at $34,870, brought in a more powerful turbocharged engine and luxury features like a head-up display, power-folding mirrors, and heated and ventilated front seats. At the top of the line, the Signature trim, starting at $36,890, offered ambient cabin lighting, upgraded leather, real wood trim, a 360-degree camera, and parking sensors. The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trims, with a single engine and transmission option, came across as a simpler choice. Our test car, the SL trim with front-wheel drive (FWD), included the SL Premium Package, carpeted floor and cargo mats, and a first-aid kit, bringing the total cost to $34,870 including destination charges. Despite its age, the Rogue remained attractive with its bold V-Motion grille and prominent fender swells, which looked especially appealing with the SL’s 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior design seemed dated with older styling themes like the waterfall control panel and rounded surfaces. The plastic surfaces were unimpressive, but padded sides on the center console where drivers' legs might rest were a thoughtful touch.

The performance of the 2019 Mazda CX-5 was enhanced this model year. Its base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque but was deemed somewhat lackluster in today's market. The engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, achieved an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city, 31 highway, and 28 combined. For those craving more power, the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims housed a turbocharged variant of the same engine, capable of a stout 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on 93-octane fuel (227 horsepower on lower octane). This setup, with its quick and confident shifts, provided a fuel economy of 22 mpg city, 27 highway, and 24 combined. The addition of Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus improved handling, applying slight braking to the outside wheels when exiting a turn for a smoother driving line. The suspension was also retuned for better absorption of bumps and improved steering feel. In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Rogue offered a single engine option, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 170 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The engine’s performance felt merely adequate. The Rogue’s weight, up to 3,671 pounds, made the powertrain seem underpowered, especially noticeable during freeway acceleration, mountain climbing, or urgent maneuvering. Though the CVT made the most of the available power, the Rogue’s response often felt more like noise than action during acceleration. The EPA-rated fuel economy for the FWD Rogue was 29 mpg combined, but in real-world testing, it returned only 24.9 mpg. However, the Rogue’s ride and handling were improved with Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, brake-induced technologies enhancing cornering and ride smoothness. Yet, it still lagged in steering feel, suspension isolation, and suffered from occasional CVT drone.

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 excelled in its intended goals: good looks, spirited performance, and useful space. Though its cargo capacity of 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats lagged behind some rivals like the CR-V’s 39.2 cubic feet, it was still a practical amount. While passenger legroom was adequate in both rows, the front seats might feel narrow for larger adults. For those focused on value, the lower trims offered great features at a competitive price. For buyers seeking luxury, the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims provided high-end amenities such as ambient lighting, wood trim, and high-grade leather, akin to cars priced much higher. On the other side, the 2020 Nissan Rogue presented a different set of challenges for larger individuals. While its Zero Gravity cushion seats aimed to offer excellent support, my difficulty in finding a comfortable driving position was notable. This issue stemmed from the lack of adjustable seat height combined with adequate legroom, making the driver's experience less enjoyable. In contrast, rear-seat passengers in the Rogue enjoyed superior comfort. The higher cushion provided great thigh support and a good backrest angle, along with a clear view enhanced by the panoramic sunroof. Features like rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports delighted passengers, particularly children. The Rogue excelled in cargo space with 39 cubic feet behind the rear seat—significantly more than the CX-5. It also featured underfloor storage compartments and a standard Divide-n-Hide cargo management system, offering versatile and ample storage.

For tech enthusiasts, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous shortcomings by including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on all trims above the base Sport. The MazdaConnect infotainment system, despite its attractive and responsive design, used a scroll-wheel interface that might not suit everyone's taste. The 360-degree camera, though a helpful feature, had room for improvement in resolution. The GT Premium package, which included advanced features like a head-up display and heated seats, added significant value for those willing to spend more. In comparison, the 2020 Nissan Rogue’s list of standard infotainment features was extensive, including Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and hands-free text messaging. Higher trims added SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, a Bose sound system, and NissanConnect Services, which offered features like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant integration, remote access, and safety notifications. Despite the impressive feature set, the NissanConnect interface fell short with its dated 7-inch touchscreen, slow responsiveness, and subpar voice recognition technology.

Safety was a strong suit for the 2019 Mazda CX-5. Its i-ActiveSense safety suite became standard across all trims, including automatic headlights, wipers, high beams, lane-departure warning and assist, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning and mitigation. Only advanced features like the 360-degree camera and parking sensors were reserved for the Signature trim. The CX-5 earned nearly perfect safety ratings, with the NHTSA awarding it 5 stars in all categories except rollover (where it received 4 stars) and the IIHS giving it top marks except for the child safety anchors' ease of use, rated as Acceptable. Similarly, the 2020 Nissan Rogue came equipped with the Safety Shield 360 suite, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. The Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert systems were additional thoughtful features. ProPilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering, was an optional advanced feature. However, the Rogue's age showed in its safety ratings. The NHTSA gave it a 4-star overall rating due to a 3-star frontal-impact driver protection score. The IIHS’s evaluation also fell short, with criticisms on headlight performance and front-passenger collision protection affecting its overall safety designation.