Mazda
CX-5
Nissan
Rogue
Mazda CX-5 vs Nissan Rogue: 2025 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mazda CX-5 comes out ahead of the Nissan Rogue on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
CX-5
Overall
The sentiment is predominantly positive, with the CX-5 consistently praised for its reliability, premium interior feel, and engaging driving dynamics. It is frequently cited as a top recommendation for buyers seeking a dependable, well-built compact SUV. Owners appreciate its refined interior materials, which are often described as superior to mainstream competitors, and its handling, which is noted to be more car-like and enjoyable than many rivals.
Best version to buy
The consensus favors models equipped with the naturally aspirated 2.5L engine for its proven reliability, though the turbo variant is acknowledged for its added power. For used models, there is a strong preference for vehicles without Cylinder Deactivation (often found in non-turbo models from certain years) due to concerns about added complexity.
Known issues
- ⚠• **Infotainment interface dissatisfaction**: Lack of touchscreen (pre-2026) criticized as slower and less intuitive; the new 2026 touchscreen is criticized by owners who preferred the previous rotary dial system.
Rogue
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and powertrain. For models from approximately 2011-2020 equipped with the 2.5L four-cylinder and traditional CVT, sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, dominated by widespread and severe concerns over CVT transmission reliability, which is described as a notorious, well-known failure point. Long-term owners of these generations report transmissions failing between 67,000 and 130,000 miles, with associated high repair costs and dealer warranty disputes.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best version." Discussion indicates the current generation (2022+) is preferred for its redesigned interior and updated features over older models. There is no specific trim level repeatedly endorsed; focus remains almost entirely on powertrain generation.
Known issues
- ⚠CVT Transmission Failure (Pre-2022 Generations): Complete transmission failure, whining noises, judder, and high replacement costs. Cited as a widespread, well-known industry issue. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠CVT Transmission Reliability Concerns (All Generations): Persistent anxiety about long-term durability, even for newer models. Requires strict, frequent fluid service intervals. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠1.5L Turbo Engine Reliability Apprehension (2022+ Generations): Concerns about the long-term viability of the complex, turbocharged three-cylinder engine with variable compression. Fear of costly engine replacement. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Mazda CX-5 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Nissan Rogue, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mazda CX-5 are a dealbreaker, the Nissan Rogue is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Mazda CX-5 or the Nissan Rogue?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mazda CX-5 than the Nissan Rogue. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Mazda CX-5 or the Nissan Rogue?
The Nissan Rogue seats more passengers than the Mazda CX-5 on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Mazda CX-5 is classed as a SUV, the Nissan Rogue as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Mazda CX-5 or the Nissan Rogue?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Mazda CX-5 or the Nissan Rogue?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Nissan Rogue than the Mazda CX-5. See the known issues comparison above.