2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was designed with a focus on appealing aesthetics and practical proportions. It featured chiseled styling and SUV detailing that conveyed a rugged sense of purpose. 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. The Platinum trim, which we tested, came loaded with upscale features, including diamond-pattern leather seats and a host of premium options, pushing its MSRP to $43,100. Despite its high price, the Platinum trim offered a luxurious feel with soft-touch materials and high-quality controls.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 maintained its traditional Mazda styling, which had aged well since its second-generation debut in 2017. Our test vehicle, the new-for-2024 Carbon Turbo trim, featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts. The CX-5 lineup included 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with prices ranging from $29,300 to $40,600, plus a $1,420 destination charge. The Carbon Turbo trim we tested had a rear bumper guard and an interior lighting kit, bringing its MSRP to $39,355. The CX-5's interior materials, seating, and technology upgrades over the years resulted in an upscale crossover SUV at a mainstream price.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with a variable compression design, producing 201 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 225 pound-feet of torque from 2,800 rpm to 4,000 rpm. This engine was paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and offered front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The Rogue's driving modes included Eco, Auto, and Sport, with additional Off-Road and Snow modes for AWD versions. Despite its responsive performance in urban and suburban settings, the Rogue lacked passing power on the highway and had a fuel economy of 28.9 mpg, falling short of the EPA's 31 mpg estimate.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, on the other hand, delivered 256 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 320 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The CX-5's six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive provided a smooth and connected driving experience. However, its fuel economy was unimpressive, with an observed 22.9 mpg compared to the EPA's 24 mpg estimate. The CX-5's suspension, frame, and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology contributed to a sophisticated ride, making it zippy and stable on twisty roads and capable of handling well-traveled trails with its 7.9 inches of ground clearance.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue offered a practical and spacious interior, making it a suitable replacement for a traditional family car. It comfortably accommodated four people, with the option to carry a fifth. The Platinum trim featured premium semi-aniline leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the rear seat comfort was lacking, with low-mounted cushions and diamond-shaped pleats that felt uncomfortable. The Rogue provided up to 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down, along with Nissan's Divide-N-Hide feature for versatile cargo configurations.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5, while smaller in interior room compared to its segment rivals, offered a comfortable and supportive cabin for four adults. The rear seat provided good support and a proper sitting position, with rear air conditioning vents and a center fold-down armrest enhancing passenger comfort. The CX-5's design and quality materials elevated its cabin to near-luxury standards. It offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down, which was less than most other compact crossovers.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a navigation system. The Platinum trim included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display (HUD). However, the Alexa Built-in system was unreliable, struggling with basic voice commands. The Rogue's infotainment system, while functional, felt outdated compared to newer offerings.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens in favor of traditional switchgear for most controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons on the center console. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting, a find my car feature, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. The Carbon Turbo trim included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, adding to the SUV's premium feel.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, Safety Shield 360, and ProPilot Assist with Navi-link. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received lower scores in updated small overlap frontal-impact and side-impact tests.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 also offered a robust set of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating, but did not earn a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS for 2024.