2024 Nissan Rogue vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to be a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was praised for its stylish design and high-quality materials, giving it the appearance and feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, the CX-5 had its drawbacks, such as a small back seat, limited cargo space, and a frustrating infotainment system. Mazda's decision to eventually replace the CX-5 with the CX-50 was part of a broader marketing strategy, similar to Infiniti's renaming of its G37 models. The CX-5 was available in eight versions, with prices ranging from $26,700 to $41,655, depending on the trim and options.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue received its first major styling update since the launch of its current generation in 2021. The new design featured a larger grille, stack headlights, and redesigned taillight elements. The Rogue's interior was upgraded with a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, giving it a more premium feel. The Rogue Platinum model offered leather seats with quilted stitching and a new Chestnut brown color. While the Rogue's engine was impressive, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was less so, and the suspension felt firmer than expected. Despite these issues, the Rogue provided a quiet ride and a well-appointed cabin, making it a competitive option in its segment.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The base 2.5 S model came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). It achieved an EPA fuel economy rating of 26 mpg in combined driving. The more powerful 2.5 Turbo model featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet on regular fuel. This engine also came with AWD and a six-speed automatic transmission, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg in combined driving. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced by structural and suspension improvements, making it feel more like an entry-level luxury vehicle. The turbocharged engine provided a satisfying rush of acceleration, although fuel economy suffered during spirited driving.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue's powertrain was a standout feature, with a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. This engine outperformed many competitors' non-hybrid powertrains. However, the Rogue's CVT was slow to transfer power to the wheels, detracting from the engine's performance. The Rogue was available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional AWD. While not marketed as a driver's car, the Rogue's suspension felt firmer than expected, impacting ride quality without improving handling. Despite these issues, the Rogue's engine performance was impressive, although the exhaust note was less so.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's interior featured improved front seats for better comfort and support. Higher trim levels offered power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Signature trim included Nappa leather upholstery, adding a touch of luxury. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with small storage areas, a cramped back seat, and a cargo area offering 30.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded down. The infotainment system lacked a touchscreen and voice recognition, making it less user-friendly compared to competitors.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue offered competitive passenger space, with differences mainly in legroom compared to rivals. The Rogue's cargo space was 36.5 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 74.1 cubic feet with them folded, providing more space than some competitors. The optional Divide-N-Hide system allowed for flexible cargo configurations. The Rogue also featured a power liftgate and a motion-activated liftgate on higher trims. The center console offered additional storage, although accessing it could be awkward.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was frustrating to use. The lack of a voice recognition system and awkward physical controls made it less intuitive. The system required users to look away from the road to navigate menus, which was distracting. Despite these issues, the system offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Higher trims included a Bose premium audio system and a surround-view camera system.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue's lower trims came with an 8-inch touchscreen, while SL and Platinum models featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Rogue was the first Nissan to offer Google built-in software, integrating Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play app store. This feature provided better performance and streamlined connectivity for Google users. The Rogue also offered multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad on higher trims. Nissan Connect Services extended its free trial period to three years, offering features like remote door lock/unlock and vehicle health reports.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Standard i-Activsense driver assistance features included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. However, the CX-5 lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night, a common issue with its running lights.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue received top safety ratings from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard driver assist features included automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert. ProPilot Assist, available on higher trims, added automated lane centering for highway driving. The SL and Platinum trims offered a more advanced version that used navigation data to slow for curves and interchanges.