2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more muscular and imposing presence for this compact SUV. 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 boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was simplified to a few core colours, with additional two-tone options available on the Platinum grade. Inside, seating surfaces varied from cloth to semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, depending on the trim, with the Platinum model offering the most luxurious interior.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, resembled a downsized CX-5 with its upright grille and smooth, flowing fenders. Built on the same platform as the Mazda3, it was essentially a raised-up version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30 featured a raked windshield that could distort the view for taller drivers, but its cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a solid feel to all components. The interior design was one of the best among affordable cars, with an artful blend of conventional and digital displays. However, the infotainment system, controlled by a rotary dial, had a steep learning curve, which could be frustrating for users accustomed to touchscreens.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was powered by a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, available at 3,600 rpm. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, while not offering alternate powertrains, provided a standard level of performance across the lineup. The Rogue's handling was improved with a 27% increase in torsional rigidity and a revamped multi-link rear suspension. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, with the front-wheel drive model achieving 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway, while the all-wheel drive version used slightly more fuel.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a range of engines, with the base GX model featuring a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower. The GS and GT models came with a 2.5-litre engine delivering 186 horsepower, while the tested GT model had a turbocharged version producing up to 250 horsepower on 93 octane fuel. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and sport mode provided lively performance, with quick and precise steering. However, the sporty suspension resulted in a rough ride over uneven surfaces, though it handled dirt and gravel roads well.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system, creating additional storage space under the centre stack. The rear doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and the second-row headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats and a steering wheel, with upgrades available in higher trims. The cargo space was generous, offering 1,028 litres with the seats up and 2,064 litres with them folded, though the Divide and Hide cargo system was simplified from previous iterations.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 1,280 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 572 litres with them in use. The GT grade included a power rear liftgate, and the front seats had a sliding centre console cover, though it could get stuck when the rear seats were folded. The rear seats offered decent headroom for short-to-medium trips, but longer journeys might be uncomfortable for taller passengers.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SV grade added in-car Wi-Fi and additional USB ports, while the Platinum grade featured a 9-inch screen, wireless phone charging, and a Bose audio system. However, the digital instrument cluster's graphics were difficult to read due to low contrast.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was integrated into the dash and controlled by a rotary dial, lacking touch functionality. This setup, inspired by luxury systems like BMW's iDrive, was criticized for its usability, particularly when navigating Apple CarPlay. Despite the elegant design, the system was challenging to use, even after setting up presets.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue included the Safety Shield 360 suite as standard, featuring forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model added ProPILOT Assist for highway driving, and the Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered driver-assistance features like forward collision avoidance and lane-keeping assist, though many were not standard in Canada. The GT model included adaptive headlights and a 360-degree parking camera. The CX-30 earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS.