2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 presented a refreshed exterior with new LED headlights and taillights, aiming to improve visibility for drivers. The model also featured updated bumpers, a revised grille, and a redesigned rear liftgate, alongside new alloy wheel designs. The top-tier Signature trim received body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing Mazda's premium brand aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 maintained its luxurious feel, especially in the Signature trim, with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The seats were redesigned for 2022, promising improved comfort.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Rogue maintained its appealing design with chiseled styling and SUV detailing, ensuring it remained attractive to buyers. The Rogue lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from $30,898 to $43,748, excluding a $1,920 destination charge. The Platinum trim, which was tested, offered upscale features like diamond-pattern leather seats and soft-touch materials. Despite its premium feel, the Rogue's pricing approached that of the Infiniti QX50, Nissan's luxury brand, highlighting its value proposition.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with a standard Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). Fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged version offered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas, with a slightly higher fuel consumption of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension, providing a sporty yet comfortable ride.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine with variable compression technology, delivering 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and offered AWD as an option. The Rogue's fuel economy was rated at 7.7 L/100 km, though real-world testing showed 8.1 L/100 km. The Rogue's ride quality was supported by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, though it lacked passing power on the highway and had some issues with engine noise and vibration.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating with new, more comfortable seats and a sportier driving position. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. However, the back seat remained snug, and the infotainment system's control layout was frustrating due to the lack of a touchscreen. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue offered a spacious interior, accommodating four adults comfortably, with the option to fit a fifth passenger. The Platinum trim included features like triple-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and premium leather upholstery. The Rogue's rear doors opened wide for easy access, and the cargo area provided up to 1,028 litres of space, expandable to 2,064 litres with the seats folded. However, the rear seat comfort was lacking, and the key fob design was criticized for its lack of usability in low light.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, lacking touchscreen capability and natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on centre console controls, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. A Bose premium sound system was available on higher trims, providing decent audio quality.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen. The test vehicle included the larger screen, Bluetooth, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a navigation system. Voice recognition was limited, and the system struggled with certain requests. The Rogue also offered a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came with Safety Shield 360, offering features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims included ProPilot Assist with adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it had some lower scores in specific crash tests.