2024 Nissan Rogue vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Nissan Rogue underwent its first major styling update since the current generation debuted in 2021. This revamp maintained the vehicle's lineup of trims—S, SV, SL, and Platinum. The updated design featured a new, larger grille that blended seamlessly with the stack headlights and daytime running lights, distinguishing the Rogue from its competitors. The rear fascia also saw minor changes, although the primary alteration was the redesigned inner taillight elements. Satin-finish exterior badging, a new 18-inch wheel design for the SV trim, and a new 19-inch machined-finish wheel for the Platinum trim added to the aesthetic appeal. The Platinum trim also featured more black exterior trim and an optional black roof.

Inside, the Rogue received a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, giving the dashboard a more premium feel. The upscale design included new materials for the SV trim, covering door panels, seats, the center console, and more. Most models in the lineup now came with dual-zone automatic climate control. The interior of the Platinum model boasted leather seats, with a new Chestnut brown color and quilted stitching, contributing to an overall luxurious cabin.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 carried forward its design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, with minor updates. Our test vehicle, a new-for-2024 Carbon Turbo trim, showcased Zircon Sand paint and featured distinctive Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts, and a black headliner. This model also featured gloss-black exterior detailing, which complemented the Zircon Sand paint, and was available in a premium Rhodium White color.

Mazda made small tweaks to improve fuel economy for CX-5 models equipped with the base engine and introduced wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on multiple trims. Like the Rogue, the CX-5 lineup included various trims with a clear distinction in price and features. The interior quality and design continued to elevate the CX-5 as one of the more premium-feeling vehicles in its segment, making it competitive despite its age.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured a unique 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine capable of varying its compression ratio to emphasize either power or fuel economy. It delivered 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, making it more powerful than the 1.5-liter engines in the Honda CR-V and the Subaru Forester's 2.5-liter boxer-four. However, the CVT transmission let the Rogue down, as it was slow to transfer power to the wheels, impacting the overall driving experience. The Rogue’s suspension also felt firmer than necessary, degrading ride quality without significantly improving handling. It was, however, quiet and comfortable for daily commutes.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo was equipped with a more traditional powertrain. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine rewarded patient drivers with 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, and 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The CX-5 drove smoothly and handled confidently thanks to a well-tuned suspension. It was less fuel-efficient, though, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined and actual observed mileage of 22.9 mpg. The CX-5 also offered a versatile driving experience with options for Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes. The exceptional handling made it a pleasure to drive on twisty roads and straightforward in city conditions.

Inside, the 2024 Nissan Rogue offered nearly identical passenger space to its rivals but fell slightly short in cargo capacity. With 36.5 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up and 74.1 cubic feet with them folded, it provided less space than the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson but more than the Subaru Forester. Notable features included the Divide-N-Hide cargo system, flexible storage solutions at the front, and available power liftgate.

Conversely, the 2024 Mazda CX-5’s compact dimensions translated into smaller interior and cargo space. It offered 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a maximum of 59.3 cubic feet when the rear seats were folded. Despite its snugger space, it was thoughtfully designed with quality materials and comfortable seating. Many amenities, such as heated and ventilated seats and high-grade leather, elevated the comfort level. Practical features like rear air conditioning vents and fold-down armrests with integrated storage further enhanced passenger convenience.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue came equipped with technology that catered well to modern demands. Lower trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while SL and Platinum trims received an upgraded 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless versions of these apps. The SL and Platinum trims also boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Amazon Alexa connectivity, and Google built-in apps. USB-C ports for charging and a standard wireless charging pad in higher trims added convenience.

Mazda’s approach to technology in the 2024 CX-5 emphasized minimal driver distraction. It provided traditional control mechanisms for essential functions, and only allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while driving. The CX-5’s infotainment system, controlled via a central knob and buttons, featured a 10.25-inch display with a clean and simplistic interface. The system included remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, automatic 911 dialing, and various other connected services. Trim-dependent upgrades such as a 10-speaker Bose sound system were also available.

Safety was a strong point for both vehicles. The 2024 Nissan Rogue received top scores from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Standard driver-assist features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, rear automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beams. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and ProPilot Assist for enhanced lane centering and navigation integration.

Mazda equipped all versions of the 2024 CX-5 with essential ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims featured additional safety tech like adaptive headlights and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 garnered a five-star rating from the NHTSA, though it did not achieve the coveted Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for 2024.