2024 Nissan Rogue vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Nissan Rogue underwent its first major styling update since the 2021 model year, offering a refreshed look with a larger grille that seamlessly integrated with its distinctive stack headlights and daytime running lights. The rear fascia saw minor changes, primarily in the taillight elements. The Rogue's exterior was further enhanced with satin-finish badging and new wheel designs, including 18-inch wheels for the SV grade and 19-inch machined-finish wheels for the Platinum model. The interior received a significant upgrade with a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, giving the cabin a more premium feel. The Rogue Platinum trim featured leather seats with quilted stitching, adding to its upscale appeal.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, maintaining its modern and appealing look. The new Suna trim in the U.S. featured exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts. Mazda improved the fuel economy for the base engine models and added wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to several trims. The CX-5 lineup included various trims with both base and turbocharged engine options, offering a balance of performance and luxury at a mainstream price. The interior boasted high-quality materials and a sophisticated design, making it feel like a luxury vehicle.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, a VC-Turbo that could vary its compression ratio for optimal power or fuel economy. With 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, it outperformed many competitors' engines, including the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was less impressive, often slow to transfer power to the wheels. The Rogue's suspension was firmer than expected, affecting ride quality without enhancing handling. Despite its quiet cabin, the Rogue's droning exhaust note was a downside.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo offered a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, allowing the torque to build. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with a combined rating of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5's suspension was re-tuned for a smoother ride, and its G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced cornering. The CX-5 provided a quiet and stable ride, with excellent visibility and handling, making it a confident choice for various driving conditions.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue offered competitive passenger space, with slight differences in legroom compared to rivals. Its cargo space was 1,033 litres with rear seats up and 2,098 litres with seats folded, slightly less than some competitors. The optional Divide-N-Hide system allowed for flexible cargo configurations, and a power liftgate was available on higher trims. The centre console provided additional storage, though accessing it could be awkward.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5, while smaller in interior room, provided comfortable seating for four adults. The rear seats offered good support, and the cabin's design and quality elevated it above many mass-market rivals. The CX-5's cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with seats folded, less than most compact crossovers. Despite its snug interior, the CX-5's premium materials and thoughtful design made it a standout in its segment.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch screen on SL and Platinum models, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It was the first Nissan to include Google built-in software, integrating Google Maps and Assistant. The Rogue provided multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad on higher trims. Nissan Connect Services extended its free trial period to three years, offering remote features via a smartphone app.

Mazda's approach to infotainment in the 2024 CX-5 focused on minimizing driver distraction, with traditional controls for key functions. The 10.25-inch display allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity available on several trims. Mazda Connected Services offered remote features and emergency assistance. The CX-5's premium sound system added to its upscale interior experience, though its native voice interface could be improved.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue received strong safety ratings, with top scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. ProPilot Assist, available on higher trims, offered advanced driver assistance with lane centring and adaptive cruise control.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, though it did not earn a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS in 2024.