2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was designed with a conservative approach, featuring proper proportions, chiseled styling, and just the right amount of SUV detailing to convey a rugged sense of purpose. It was an appealing vehicle, critical for attracting buyers who prioritize aesthetics. The Rogue lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from $27,360 to $37,140, plus a $1,295 destination charge. Our test vehicle, a Platinum trim with the Premium option package and additional features, had an MSRP of $43,100, overlapping with the entry-level Infiniti QX50. The Platinum trim offered upscale upgrades, including soft, diamond-pattern leather seats and high-quality materials.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 aimed to ensure it wasn't mistaken for a car, featuring excessive charcoal-colored plastic on the lower body. Despite this, the CX-30 was appealing with short overhangs, a long hood, sculpted flanks, and a rakish roofline. The interior felt a class above, with style, refinement, and attention to detail on par with entry-level luxury SUVs. The gauges were clear, the infotainment screen integrated into the dashboard, and the dual-zone climate controls were artful. The CX-30 offered eight versions, with prices ranging from $24,995 to $36,800, plus a $1,420 destination charge. Our test car, a 2.5 Carbon Turbo trim, had an MSRP of $34,210, featuring an exclusive color combination and a turbocharged engine.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue initially featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine but switched to a new turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with variable compression for the 2022 model year. This VC-Turbo engine produced 201 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 225 pound-feet of torque from 2,800 to 4,000 rpm. The CVT included paddle shifters, and the Rogue offered Eco, Auto, and Sport driving modes, with AWD versions adding Off-Road and Snow modes. Despite the engine's unusual note and some vibration, the Rogue felt responsive in urban driving but lacked passing power on the highway. The EPA estimated 31 mpg in combined driving, but our test vehicle averaged 28.9 mpg. The Rogue's suspension provided a good balance of ride compliance and body control, though the steering felt lifeless.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, with its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 250 hp and 320 pound-feet of torque (227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas). The power delivery was smooth, and the six-speed automatic transmission shifted flawlessly. The CX-30's AWD system ensured power distribution to all four wheels. However, fuel economy was not its strong suit, with the EPA estimating 25 mpg in combined driving, but our test vehicle averaged 21.3 mpg. The CX-30 was fun to drive, with a firm, connected ride and excellent outward visibility. It handled well on winding roads and offered standard AWD, an Off-Road traction assist setting, and eight inches of ground clearance.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue served as a replacement for the traditional family car, accommodating four people comfortably and a fifth person when necessary. Our Platinum test vehicle featured a triple-zone automatic climate control system, a dual-panel panoramic sunroof, and premium leather upholstery. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seat lacked leg support and comfort. The Rogue offered good outward visibility, though the key fob design was frustrating. The rear doors opened to a nearly 90-degree angle, and the cargo area provided up to 36.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with the back seats folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's interior featured quality materials and logical controls. The driver and front passenger enjoyed comfort, with heated seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat. However, the back seat was cramped. The cargo area offered 20.2 cubic feet of space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the back seats folded. The CX-30's interior design included gloss black trim, metallic accents, and exposed stitching, adding a touch of elegance.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue used an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen display. Our test vehicle had the larger screen, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, NissanConnect services, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a navigation system. It also featured a wireless smartphone charging pad and a Bose premium audio system. However, the Alexa Built-in system was unreliable. The Rogue also had a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 Turbo models featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with touchscreen functionality for smartphone mirroring platforms. However, the screen was far from the driver and front passenger. The CX-30 included a three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services, in-vehicle Wi-Fi, two USB-C ports, a wireless smartphone charger, and a Bose premium audio system.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and Safety Shield 360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, rear automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist with Navi-link, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 added new standard features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rear-seat alert system. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, front and rear parking sensors, rear automatic braking, a surround-view camera system, and a Cruising and Traffic Support system. The CX-30 earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.