2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to be a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was known for its stylish design and high-quality materials, giving it the appearance and feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Mazda had plans to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50, a move similar to Infiniti's rebranding strategy. Regardless of the version chosen, the CX-5 exuded quality, refinement, and sophistication, with a range of models priced competitively within the compact crossover segment.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Rogue was designed with a focus on appealing aesthetics and rugged SUV detailing. The lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from $30,898 to $43,748, excluding destination charges. The Platinum trim, which was tested, offered a host of upscale features, including diamond-pattern leather seats and a range of interior and exterior enhancements. While the Rogue's design was appealing, it was noted that the vehicle's performance and comfort, particularly in the rear seats, left room for improvement.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The base model featured a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). It had a fuel economy rating of 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The more powerful 2.5 Turbo variant boasted a turbocharged engine producing 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. This engine also came with AWD and a six-speed automatic transmission, with a fuel economy of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5's performance was enhanced by structural and suspension improvements, providing a firm and communicative ride quality.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, featured a new turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with a variable compression design, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and offered front-wheel drive or optional AWD. The Rogue's fuel economy was rated at 7.7 L/100 km, but it averaged 8.1 L/100 km during testing. While the Rogue's powertrain was responsive in urban settings, it lacked passing power on the highway. The vehicle's ride quality was generally good, but it exhibited more body motion on uneven roads, and the steering felt lifeless.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 featured improved front seats for enhanced comfort and support, with options for power adjustment, heated and ventilated seats, and premium Nappa leather upholstery in higher trims. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with smaller storage areas, cramped rear seats, and a cargo capacity of 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, designed as a family car replacement, offered ample space for four passengers, with the option to accommodate a fifth. The Platinum trim included premium features like a triple-zone climate control system, panoramic sunroof, and Zero Gravity seat designs. However, the rear seats were less comfortable, and the key fob design was criticized for its lack of usability in low light. The Rogue's cargo space was generous, with up to 1,028 litres behind the rear seats and 2,064 litres with the seats folded, along with versatile storage solutions.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system, despite its appealing 10.25-inch display, was criticized for its awkward controls and lack of a voice recognition system. The system required memorization and focus, making it distracting to use while driving. However, it offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen, stereo knobs, and main menu buttons. The test vehicle included a 9-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition technology was limited, and the system struggled with certain commands. The Rogue also offered a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense driver assistance technology, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and a head-up display. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick ranking from the IIHS. However, it lacked a warning system for driving without headlights at night.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came equipped 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 received lower scores in updated crash tests.