Suv Showdown: Nissan Rogue Vs. Mazda Cx-5 – Which One Reigns Supreme?

In the realm of compact crossover SUVs, two formidable contenders stand out: the Nissan Rogue and the Mazda CX-5. These automotive powerhouses have captivated drivers with their blend of practicality, style, and performance. But which one emerges as the ultimate champion? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the depths of the Nissan Rogue vs Mazda CX-5 rivalry, scrutinizing their key features, specifications, and overall driving experience to determine the undisputed victor.

Performance and Power: Unleashing the Beasts Within

1. Engine Options and Configurations:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue boasts a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine, generating 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter inline-4 producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, or a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-4 delivering 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, both mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

2. Acceleration and Speed:

• Nissan Rogue: With its CVT, the Rogue delivers smooth acceleration, reaching 60 mph in approximately 8.8 seconds.

• Mazda CX-5: The naturally aspirated CX-5 reaches 60 mph in around 8.4 seconds, while the turbocharged variant rockets to 60 mph in a mere 6.3 seconds.

3. Fuel Efficiency:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue’s CVT contributes to its fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

• Mazda CX-5: The naturally aspirated CX-5 returns an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged model delivers 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Handling and Driving Dynamics: Carving Through the Curves

1. Steering and Maneuverability:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue’s electric power steering provides a light and responsive feel, making it easy to navigate urban streets and parking lots.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5’s steering is precise and communicative, offering a more engaging driving experience, especially on winding roads.

2. Suspension and Ride Quality:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue’s suspension absorbs road imperfections well, delivering a comfortable ride quality for daily commutes.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5’s suspension strikes a balance between comfort and agility, providing a composed ride without compromising handling.

3. Off-Road Capabilities:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue offers an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that enhances traction in slippery conditions, but it’s primarily designed for urban and highway driving.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5’s available all-wheel-drive system, combined with its slightly higher ground clearance, provides better off-road capabilities, making it more suitable for light off-road adventures.

Interior Comfort and Convenience: A Haven for Passengers

1. Cabin Space and Seating:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue’s spacious cabin offers ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a comfortable choice for families.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5’s cabin is slightly smaller than the Rogue’s, but it still provides adequate space for passengers, with supportive and well-bolstered seats.

2. Cargo Capacity and Versatility:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue boasts a generous 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 offers 30.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

3. Infotainment and Connectivity:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with a six-speaker audio system.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, complemented by a Bose 10-speaker audio system.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features: Shielding You from Harm

1. Standard Safety Features:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue comes standard with a suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 also offers a comprehensive array of standard safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

2. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue offers available features like ProPILOT Assist, which provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities, along with a 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5’s available driver assistance features include adaptive headlights, a head-up display, and a traffic jam assist system for smoother commutes.

Reliability and Maintenance Costs: Ensuring Peace of Mind

1. Reliability Ratings:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue has received generally positive reliability ratings, with J.D. Power awarding it a score of 83 out of 100 for overall dependability.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 has consistently earned high marks for reliability, with J.D. Power giving it a score of 84 out of 100 for overall dependability.

2. Maintenance Costs:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue’s maintenance costs are relatively affordable, with an average annual cost of around $450.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5’s maintenance costs are slightly higher than the Rogue’s, averaging around $500 per year.

Pricing and Trims: Finding Your Ideal Fit

1. Starting Price:

• Nissan Rogue: The Nissan Rogue has a starting MSRP of $27,490 for the base S trim.

• Mazda CX-5: The Mazda CX-5 has a slightly higher starting MSRP of $28,070 for the base Sport trim.

2. Trim Levels and Features:

• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue offers five trim levels: S, SV, SL, SL Premium, and Platinum, each with its unique set of features and amenities.

• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 also has five trim levels: Sport, Touring, Carbon Edition, Grand Touring, and Signature, each providing a range of features and options.

The Verdict: Crowning the Compact Crossover Champion

After meticulously comparing the Nissan Rogue and Mazda CX-5 across various aspects, it’s time to reveal the victor. Both vehicles offer compelling attributes, but one emerges as the ultimate champion.

The Mazda CX-5 stands tall as the victor, thanks to its superior driving dynamics, more engaging interior, and slightly better fuel efficiency. Its turbocharged engine option provides exhilarating performance, while its sharp handling and composed ride quality make it a joy to drive. The CX-5’s cabin is also more upscale, with premium materials and a sleek design.

However, the Nissan Rogue is a formidable contender, offering a spacious cabin, generous cargo capacity, and a comfortable ride. Its standard safety features and affordable maintenance costs make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Ultimately, the choice between the Nissan Rogue and Mazda CX-5 depends on individual preferences and priorities. Those seeking a sporty and engaging driving experience, along with a touch of luxury, will find the CX-5 an excellent choice. If practicality, affordability, and a comfortable ride are top priorities, the Rogue is the ideal pick.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Q: Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency, the Nissan Rogue or Mazda CX-5?

• A: The Nissan Rogue offers slightly better fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway compared to the CX-5’s 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

2. Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious cabin, the Nissan Rogue or Mazda CX-5?

• A: The Nissan Rogue offers a more spacious cabin, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, compared to the CX-5’s slightly smaller cabin.

3. Q: Which vehicle offers more cargo capacity, the Nissan Rogue or Mazda CX-5?

• A: The Nissan Rogue provides more cargo capacity, with 39.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down, compared to the CX-5’s 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down.