2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was available in three trim levels: S, SV, and SL Platinum, with a straightforward engine and transmission setup, offering both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. The SL Platinum trim, which was tested, had an MSRP of $37,998 CAD, excluding a $1,930 destination charge. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, with a bold V-Motion grille and exaggerated fender swells. The 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels on the SL Platinum trim added to its appeal. However, the interior design showed its age, with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. A positive aspect was the padded centre console sides, providing comfort for drivers' legs.

In contrast, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in executing a premium feel, with captivating style and continual improvements. The model year saw enhancements in standard equipment, cabin appearance, and noise reduction. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD versions gained an off-road traction feature. Prices ranged from $27,950 to $41,900 CAD, with the Signature trim at the top end. The CX-5's "Kodo" design themes remained appealing and distinctive, giving it an upscale look. Inside, the Signature trim featured premium Nappa leather, real wood, and a black headliner, creating a luxurious atmosphere. However, the Caturra Brown leather lacked contrast, diminishing the premium feel.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured a single powertrain: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Weighing 1,664 kilograms, the Rogue's performance was adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. The CVT made the most of the power, but acceleration and passing were underwhelming, often resulting in noise rather than action. Fuel efficiency was disappointing, with a combined consumption of 9.4 L/100 km during testing, despite Natural Resources Canada's rating of 8.2 L/100 km for FWD models. The Rogue's ride and handling improved with Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the driving experience was not engaging, with lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard on lower trims, with AWD optional. The GT Turbo and Signature trims featured a turbocharged engine, producing 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The turbocharged engine provided strong acceleration, but fuel efficiency was lower, averaging 10.6 L/100 km during testing. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving enjoyment, but excessive body motions detracted from the experience. Despite this, the steering and brakes were responsive, making the CX-5 enjoyable in typical driving situations.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior comfort was compromised for taller drivers, with limited seat height adjustment. The rear seats, however, offered excellent thigh support, legroom, and visibility, enhanced by a panoramic glass moonroof. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area provided 1,112 litres of space, with underfloor compartments and a Divide-n-Hide system.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior was stylish and well-equipped, but less spacious than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The CX-5's upscale cabin featured heated front seats, power-adjustable seats, and a heated steering wheel. Higher trims added ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and luxury materials. The front seats were comfortable, but rear legroom was limited. Cargo space measured 875 litres, with a power liftgate on higher trims, expanding to 1,687 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Upgrades offered navigation, a Bose audio system, and NissanConnect Services with remote access and safety features. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response and subpar voice recognition.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured a Mazda Connect system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Higher trims added SiriusXM, a Bose sound system, and a surround-view camera. The system required acclimation, with controls on the centre console and steering wheel. Voice recognition was unreliable, and a new system was planned for 2021.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue included Safety Shield 360, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional options included ProPilot Assist and a surround-view camera. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were subpar, with a 4-star NHTSA rating and no IIHS Top Safety Pick designation.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard ADAS features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a 5-star NHTSA rating, with high marks in individual tests.