2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, giving it a more muscular and imposing presence. Its squared-off nose featured a deeper interpretation of Nissan’s V-Motion grille, flanked by narrow, angled LED headlamps and separate LED daytime running lights. Functional forward air vents and active grille shutters contributed to a lower coefficient of drag, despite the SUV's boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was limited to a few options, with two-tone configurations available on the Platinum grade. Inside, seating surfaces varied from cloth to semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, depending on the trim level, with the Platinum model offering the most luxurious interior.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 maintained a familiar look with subtle updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned rear liftgate. The top-of-the-line Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's premium aspirations. The interior remained unchanged stylistically, but new seats improved comfort and support. The Signature trim boasted premium Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents, enhancing the upscale feel. The CX-5 offered a range of trims, from the fuel-efficient GX to the turbocharged Sport Design and Signature models, catering to different preferences and budgets.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. This engine improved performance and fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. The Rogue's curb weight ranged from 1,536 kg for the front-wheel-drive S grade to 1,653 kg for the all-wheel-drive Platinum model. Despite the continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Rogue's handling was enhanced by a 27% improvement in torsional rigidity, a 40-kg weight reduction, and a revamped multi-link rear suspension. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with the front-wheel-drive model achieving 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 L/100 km on the highway, while the all-wheel-drive version consumed slightly more.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a base Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was standard across the lineup. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine provided 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The turbocharged model consumed 9.8 L/100 km in combined driving, though real-world testing showed higher consumption. The CX-5's driving dynamics were improved with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, resulting in a quieter, smoother, and sportier ride.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered functional updates across all trims, including a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system that added storage space. The rear doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and second-row headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and exterior mirrors. The SV trim added a 360-degree Around View Monitor, remote start, and a panoramic sunroof. The Platinum grade featured a redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system, offering 1,028 litres of cargo space with the seats up and 2,064 litres with them folded.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, more comfortable seats and a sportier driving position. Most trims included a height-adjustable front passenger seat, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug but offered heated outboard cushions and air vents. The control layout was less intuitive due to the non-touchscreen Mazda Connect infotainment system. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with them folded, comparing favourably to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SV grade added an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and additional USB ports. The Platinum grade upgraded to a 9-inch screen, wireless phone charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay. It also included a 10.8-inch head-up display and a Bose 10-speaker audio system. However, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster had readability issues due to low contrast.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, operated via centre console controls. While lacking a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Mazda Connected Services included a two-year trial subscription. The GT and higher trims featured a 10-speaker Bose sound system, which performed adequately. SiriusXM satellite radio was also available.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came standard with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model added ProPILOT Assist, a hands-on highway driving assist feature. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with improvements in frontal crash testing for later models.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 included the i-Activsense package with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 also earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, matching or exceeding many luxury rivals in safety.