2021 Nissan Rogue vs Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Nissan Rogue and Mazda CX-5 have all the features to make them top contenders in an increasingly competitive market. If you're looking for a two-row SUV with plenty of interior space, robust engine performance, and cutting edge technology options, then either model could be just what you need. With great value for your budget and personalized preferences taken into consideration - let these models help guide your search.

The Powertrain

Whether you need to haul heavy cargo or conquer steep inclines, the Mazda CX-5 has plenty of power with its turbocharged 2.5L engine that pumps out up to 250 hp and 320 lb.-ft. torque while a more manageable 187hp/186lb.-ft non-turbo alternative is also available for those who don't require extreme performance capabilities. On the other hand, Nissan Rogue owners have only one choice when it comes to their engines - an efficient yet less powerful option offering 181 horsepower and 181 pound feet of torque perfect for daily commutes but not as sturdy if your vehicle needs extra oomph.

Both SUVs can be equipped with all-wheel drive to increase traction on slippery roads. Front-wheel drive is standard.

Nissan vehicles feature a continuously variable transmission with manual mode for drivers who prefer more control. Sport driving mode can also be selected when people want an exhilarating experience, while Eco works to boost efficiency at the expense of responsiveness. All-wheel drive models also have Snow and Off-Road modes available.

No matter which engine is chosen, the CX-5 uses a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and Sport mode. Although there's no manual option available, offering these modes may appeal to some drivers; others might never need them anyway - and that's perfectly acceptable too. In lieu of specific Snow and Off-Road modes, Mazda offers Off-Road Traction Assist which can be engaged when dealing with particularly challenging conditions.

Fuel efficiency should be taken into account when shopping for a new vehicle, since long-term fuel costs can add up quickly. The Nissan Rogue and Mazda CX-5 both do fairly well in this department despite not being hybrids; the Rogue can achieve up to 35 miles per gallon on the highway and 27 in the city, while the CX-5 manages an estimated 31 miles per gallon in both cases; its turbo model boasts slightly lower numbers. All-wheel drive on either model results in slightly reduced fuel economy.

Drivability

Due to their relatively compact dimensions and powerful engines, these vehicles can be fun to drive. The higher trims of the CX-5 offer especially thrilling experiences due to their more powerful engines.

The Rogue measures 183 inches from front to back and offers 43.3 inches of leg room in the front and 38.5 inches for second row passengers. The CX-5 is slightly shorter but provides more second-row legroom. Rear seat passengers have 39.6 inches while front passengers could enjoy up to 41 inches. While these vehicles offer different space arrangements, both vehicles provide ample seating capacity - easily accommodating five total passengers.

On the Nissan Rogue, cargo space can be ample - 36.5 cubic feet behind its rear seats can be expanded to 74.1 cubic feet when folded down. Mazda was generous with their legroom but didn't build the CX-5 as large as some of its rivals; behind its rear seats is 30.9 cubic feet and when those seats are lowered, maximum cargo capacity increases to 59.6 cubic feet - an advantage if people plan to fill their vehicles with larger items.

When considering the overall driving experience, one factor to take into account is a vehicle's infotainment system. Technology can truly enhance this aspect if it keeps people entertained and connected while they drive.

In the Nissan Rogue, most models feature an eight-inch touchscreen with voice recognition, Bluetooth, Android Auto and SiriusXM radio. Unfortunately, Apple CarPlay isn't included as part of the standard package; higher trims boast nine-inch screens with navigation as well as wireless Apple CarPlay, head-up displays, wireless charging and Bose premium audio systems. Plus select models come equipped with Wi-Fi capability - ideal for passengers who enjoy streaming media content or need internet while on-the-go.

In the Mazda CX-5, each trim level boasts a 10.25-inch full-color display with Apple CarPlay as standard equipment, along with Android Auto, Bluetooth, Pandora radio and HD Radio - SiriusXM is only available on certain mid-level and premium trims. Many of the models also feature Bose speaker systems similar to what the Rogue offers. The most advanced CX-5s boast head-up displays (Mazda calls them an Active Driving Display) plus integrated navigation through Mazda Connected Services which lets it act as Wi-Fi hotspot too. However, one thing missing from this great list is wireless charging!

Safety

Similar to the technology packages found in the Rogue and CX-5, there is much to admire regarding these SUVs' respective safety packages. Not only do they include standard components like multiple advanced airbags and tire pressure monitoring, but they offer much more than that.

Both vehicles come with a comprehensive list of driver-assist technologies as standard equipment, such as Intelligent Trace Control and automatic emergency (forward) braking. With these features, the Rogue can correct its steering and slow itself down if necessary to avoid an accident. While drivers will be alerted about problematic situations so they can take action themselves, having this vehicle take action on its own is quite impressive. Furthermore, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and automatic high beams are all included too - providing added peace of mind when driving the Rogue!

Higher trims of the Nissan Rogue come with 360-degree monitoring systems and sonar systems to help with parking and traffic sign recognition. Furthermore, ProPILOT Assist is available - a semi-autonomous driving mode that can be engaged on open highways. It utilizes sensors to decide how best to steer the vehicle while also adjusting speed accordingly to maintain proper distance from others. With ProPILOT Assist plus navigation, your Rogue will anticipate changes in road conditions related to curves or speed limits and adjust accordingly; of course, you still retain complete control at any time!

The Mazda CX-5 offers many of the same technologies as its counterpart. It comes with adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert as standard equipment, automatic high beams for convenience, automatic braking, lane keep assist, front collision warning and pedestrian detection. On top trim levels there are parking sensors, driver attention alert system and 360-degree monitor; unfortunately there isn't rear automatic braking available here either.

Which Offers the Best Value?

Nissan Rogue and Mazda CX-5 offer four trim levels, starting with S ($25,750), followed by SV ($27,440) and SL ($32,100). Finally, Platinum costs $35,530. Which model offers you the most value?

The Sport is the entry-level trim of the Mazda CX-5 and costs $25,370; this price point is similar to that of a Rogue. Touring ($27,110), Carbon Edition ($28,955), Turbo ($30,760), Grand Touring ($30,560) and Grand Touring Reserve ($35,385) are mid-level options; Signature ($37,505; few thousand dollars more expensive than Platinum trim on Rogue).

Both models boast luxurious appointments and feature many cutting-edge technology and safety features that may appeal to modern consumers. Remember that the Carbon Edition Turbo, Grand Touring Reserve and Signature all benefit from turbo engines for added performance.

By taking a closer look at some of the exterior and interior features of Nissan Rogue models, people can get an even better sense of their excellent value. The Rogue starts out with 17-inch wheels while other trims offer 18-inch or 19-inch wheels. LED headlights and taillights come standard; upgrades also include LED fog lights, heated side mirrors with turn signals, power liftgate that could have hands-free operation, and panoramic moonroof options.

On the CX-5, LED headlights and fog lights come as standard equipment in all trim levels; adaptive front lighting, LED taillights and adaptive front lighting can be found at the middle and higher ends as well. Side mirror heating elements may also be found on higher models. Furthermore, you have your choice of power liftgate or moonroof (though not a panoramic one), with either 17- or 19-inch wheels available.

The Rogue offers an array of upholstery choices, such as cloth, leatherette, leather or quilted leather. The steering wheel can be leather-wrapped and heated for added comfort while front and rear seats may also feature heating capabilities. All models boast push-button ignition with keyless entry; most models also feature intelligent key entry with remote engine start capability.

The CX-5 offers many advantages to its owners. All trims feature push-button start with advanced keyless entry system and remote start, plus heated front seats in many models (leatherette or leather seats are optional). Even the base model offers cloth seats. Higher trims boast heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheels, and heated rear seats as standard features.

Which Is Better?

These vehicles are very comparable in many aspects. Both offer similar interior and exterior components, though there are some minor distinctions such as heated and ventilated front seats in the CX-5 and panoramic moonroof in the Rogue. Even their technology packages are similar - though with one exception: Mazda's larger screen. On the other hand, Rogue boasts more advanced safety features, wireless charging capability, plus standard SiriusXM Satellite Radio service.

When it comes to size, the Rogue offers more cargo capacity than its rival, the CX-5. But on the downside, its turbocharged engine may prove too tempting for some people to pass up.

People must decide which feature they value more - performance or size? Additionally, they should take into account which high-tech elements and interior amenities are particularly important to them. Both 2021 Nissan Rogue and Mazda CX-5 are sure to meet these lofty expectations.