2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was a testament to the brand's commitment to maintaining a classic yet appealing design. With its well-proportioned and chiseled styling, the Rogue exuded a rugged sense of purpose that resonated with consumers. The vehicle's design was not overly adventurous, but it struck a balance that made it attractive to a broad audience. The Platinum trim, in particular, offered upscale features such as diamond-pattern leather seats and soft-touch materials, enhancing the overall premium feel of the interior.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 aimed to stand out with its bold design choices, including an abundance of charcoal-coloured plastic cladding. While some might have found this excessive, the CX-30's overall aesthetic was undeniably appealing, with its sculpted flanks and rakish roofline. Inside, the CX-30's interior was a class above, offering style and refinement akin to an entry-level luxury SUV. The gauges were clear, and the infotainment screen was seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, contributing to a sophisticated cabin environment.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This VC-Turbo engine was designed to offer a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, though it fell short of expectations with an observed fuel economy of 8.1 L/100 km. The Rogue's CVT, equipped with paddle shifters, provided a responsive driving experience in urban settings, but lacked passing power on highways. The SUV's ride quality was enhanced by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, though the steering felt lifeless, and the tires offered modest grip.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Despite its impressive power figures, the CX-30's acceleration was smooth and gradual, making it feel like the sports car of its class. The six-speed automatic transmission shifted flawlessly, and the standard AWD system ensured power was distributed effectively. However, the CX-30's fuel economy was less impressive, with an observed 13.3 L/100 km on a mountainous route. The CX-30 excelled in driving dynamics, offering a nimble and connected ride, though it felt slightly soft in mountainous terrain.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was designed as a practical family vehicle, offering ample space for four adults and the option to squeeze in a fifth passenger. The Platinum trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The Rogue's Zero Gravity seats provided comfort, though the rear seats were less impressive, lacking leg support. The cargo area was generous, with up to 2,064 litres of space when the rear seats were folded, and the Divide-N-Hide feature added versatility.

In comparison, the 2024 Mazda CX-30's interior was more compact, particularly in the rear seats. The front seats were comfortable and heated, with power adjustments available on higher trims. The CX-30 offered 572 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,280 litres with the seats folded. While not as spacious as the Rogue, the CX-30's cargo area was practical, with a flexible load floor and underfloor storage.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system featured a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system. However, the voice recognition system was limited in functionality, and the infotainment system felt outdated compared to newer offerings. The Rogue also included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's GT and Suna trims boasted a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with touchscreen functionality for smartphone mirroring. While the screen was positioned far from the driver, it represented an improvement over previous static displays. The CX-30 also included a Bose premium audio system, wireless smartphone charging, and a two-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services, offering a comprehensive tech package.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Safety Shield 360, ProPilot Assist, and a surround-view camera. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received lower scores in specific crash tests.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 also offered a robust set of safety features, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a surround-view camera system available on higher trims. It received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, ensuring peace of mind for drivers.