Mazda CX-5 vs. Nissan Qashqai: which is better?
Looking for a compact crossover SUV? Read on as we compare these two popular models on performance, size, tech features and more
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The family SUV market is a very crowded sector, and there are lots of models to pick from, including budget-friendly, premium and less obvious cars.
The Mazda CX-5 and Nissan Qashqai are affordable cars that don’t compromise on quality and refinement, and are well worth considering for anyone who fancies a slice of luxury without the high price tag associated with more premium brands.
Does the Mazda CX-5 or Nissan Qashqai offer more style?
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Although these are both mid-sized family SUVs, they look noticeably different from one another. Beginning with the Mazda CX-5, it’s clearly the sportier of the two, which is no surprise given Mazda’s history. It has a long bonnet and a sloping rear that make it look different to many other SUVs.
It’s worth mentioning that there have been a few versions of the CX-5 on sale, between new generations and mid-life facelifts, but while improvements have been made to make them look sharper and more modern, they all look very similar.
The two most recent generations of Nissan Qashqai have their own distinctive styling – the previous model sold up until 2021 has a prominent V-shaped grille area with plenty of eye-catching chrome and sharp angles across the entire front end, including the bumper design and headlights.
The latest model is still very familiar, but it’s much less busy. It has smooth panels and fewer creases, which are made more obvious in the optional flat grey paintwork, which we think looks great.
Is the Nissan Qashqai or Mazda CX-5 better to drive?
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These cars serve very different purposes within the SUV market – offering different driving experiences.
In keeping with the sporty theme, the Mazda CX-5 offers a really engaging drive with confidence-inspiring, weighty steering and some pretty punchy engines. You’ll notice that Mazda sells large engines compared with many other modern rivals, but they have clever technology, including mild hybrid assistance, to improve fuel economy.
The Nissan offers a softer ride with lighter steering, making it more suited to the tight streets of towns and cities.
Some older models came with efficient diesel engines, but most newer cars use a Renault-sourced 1.3-litre petrol. It’s really impressive, surprisingly powerful and very economical, especially in the latest model, which also uses mild hybrid technology.
Mazda CX-5 vs. Nissan Qashqai: interior
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Mazda interiors have come a long way in the past decade or so, and the latest-generation CX-5 benefits from high-quality, soft-touch materials throughout, including plenty of leather on higher-spec trims.
Everything is logically laid out, and there are plenty of physical controls for things like the climate control and the infotainment system, which is controlled via a rotary knob on the centre console like ina BMW.
The previous Nissan Qashqai, sold up until 2021, had a fairly busy interior. The reasonably small touchscreen was surrounded by a lot of buttons.
It’s a perfectly reasonable interior but is outshone by the latest-generation mode, which has a more minimalist layout with lots of car tech.
These are both budget-friendly compared with premium brands, but they offer a lot of car tech. You can find versions with things like heated seats, a head-up display, a powered boot lid and a 360-degree parking camera.
Nissan Qashqai vs. Mazda CX-5: which has more boot space?
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The Mazda CX-5 has the largest boot, but at 522 litres, it’s pretty average – plenty of cars in this class have more space. Still, it’s a lot more than you’d get in a family hatchback.
The Nissan Qashqai’s 504-litre boot isn’t much smaller, but higher trim levels have smaller boots, so you could have as little as 436 litres. This is to accommodate things like the upgraded sound system.
Compare Nissan Qashqai and Mazda CX-5: which is more reliable?
Although Mazda might not have the widespread reach of other car manufacturers, it’s known for its dedication to engineering and excellent design. On a similar note, Nissan has a big global presence, and its ties with Renault have helped maintain high levels of quality.
Both cars perform well in customer satisfaction reports, and they’ve been around for a long time so they’ve had plenty of time to iron out any major issues.
Mazda CX-5 vs. Nissan Qashqai size and dimensions
There’s not an awful lot that separates these two in terms of size, however, the CX-5’s more conventional, rugged styling does make it look larger than it is.
It’s 4,575mm long, 1,675mm tall and 1,845mm wide, excluding mirrors. The Qashqai is only marginally smaller, at 4,425mm long, 1,625mm tall and 1,835mm wide.
Used Nissan Qashqai vs. used Mazda CX-5: which should you buy?
If you like SUVs and crossovers because they offer a higher driving position and more interior space, the Qashqai offers everything a hatchback does but in a larger package.
If you’re in the market for something that can handle life’s challenges, the more robust CX-5’s more powerful engine options could be more appropriate.