2022 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2022 Nissan Rogue

Rising gas prices have prompted many modern drivers to shop for a new compact crossover SUV. Two of the finest vehicles available in the United States in 2022 are the Mazda CX-5 and the Nissan Rouge. One of these well-known models might be preferable to the other, despite the fact that they both have a lot to offer. Find out how the 2022 Mazda CX-5 compares to the 2022 Nissan Rogue in this side-by-side analysis.

Design & Style

Mazda is the only mass-market automaker that can successfully pull off a professional touch. The updated CX-5 isn't quite as minimally elegant as the CX-30, but it still has one of the class' best interiors. Everything you touch feels high-end, and the crimson leather and matching stitching are a nice addition. 

Despite the Rogue's '80s-inspired wheel design, the interior is cleaner and more conventional than its predecessor. Both crossovers have large doors in the back, making it simple to load and unload children's car seats. Although the Rogue hasn't reached up to the quality of the Mazda, the difference isn't as large as you might assume. Undoubtedly, this victory goes to Mazda.

Technology & Safety

Both of the front seats in the CX-5 may be adjusted electrically, with the driver's seat offering ten different configurations and the passenger seat offering six. In addition, there includes a driver seat recollection feature, which is unusual for a vehicle of this price category. The inside is equipped with a total of four USB ports, two of which are located in the rear of the seatback armrest that can be folded down. Every single Mazda CX-5 comes equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, which is enough for the vehicle to receive the Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

In all honesty, the Rogue's technological suite is consistent with the rest of the product: there are no extra bells and whistles, and everything just functions as intended. The infotainment system is not particularly attractive, but it is quick to respond to and simple to read. Both Apple CarPlay and Android are included in this model, identical to what Mazda offers. Given that Mazda received the highest score from the IIHS, it is clear that CX-30 is the victor here.

Performance

The first time you crank the steering wheel of the CX-5, you immediately understand why Mazda is the brand of choice for drivers. The steering wheel of the CX-5 instills a sense of confidence by providing a more distinct indication of what is taking place at ground level. The CX-5 has exceptional damping, which allows it to swiftly resettle after encountering larger bumps while maintaining its original course throughout the entire journey. The engine with a displacement of 2.5 liters is more refined than the engine hiding behind the V-Motion grille, which has the same displacement. It produces 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, but thanks to precise throttle calibration and a silky smooth six-speed automatic transmission, it has the sensation of having significantly more power than it actually has.

A 2022 Rogue was not accessible for this test because of the chip shortage that has been going on for some time. This suggests that the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine is used in the 2021 model, which is an engine that will be removed from the lineup in 2022. It is adequate, boasting 181 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque that is transmitted through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CX-5 is the clear winner here. The CX-5 also features the superior engine of the two vehicles.

The Bottom Line

So which one is the loser?  Neither. However, it is very evident that the winner on the road this time is the Mazda CX-5 because of its elegant interior design, its five-star safety system, its cutting-edge technology, and most significantly, its superior engine performance.