QUESTION
Is the Mazda CX-5 more reliable than the Nissan Rogue?
Generally, yes — the Mazda CX-5 is usually the more reliable choice than the Nissan Rogue.
Mazda has a strong long-term reliability reputation, and the CX-5 has typically used a relatively straightforward, proven powertrain: a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine paired with a conventional automatic transmission. The Rogue has had a more mixed reliability record over time, especially older models with Nissan’s CVT, and the current 1.5-liter variable-compression turbo engine is more complex and has a shorter track record than Mazda’s setup.
For a used vehicle, the CX-5 is usually the safer bet if your priority is minimizing the risk of major repair bills over the next several years. For a brand-new 2026 model, the reliability gap may be narrower than it was in some earlier years, but the CX-5 still tends to have the stronger overall reputation.
That said, reliability can vary a lot by specific model year and maintenance history, so it’s worth checking the exact year you’re considering in Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and owner reviews before buying.