Head to Head

In this week's Head-to-Head, it's between the Nissan X-Trail and the Mazda CX-5--two Japanese SUVs that are among the most recognizable ones in their segment. Watch this.

The X-Trail 4x4's is powered by a 2.5-liter engine which produces 169 horsepower and 233 Nm of torque. Although the X-Trail has a massive body size, which comes with the 4x4 mechanism, there will be no problem pulling the crossover. It's also a plus that the engine layout is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission.

Meanwhile, CX-5 is powered by a 2.5-L SKYACTIV-Gas that produces 175 ps of power and 420 Nm of torque. The engine displacement is paired with the SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission, and is also equipped with G-Vectoring Control, a system that enhances chassis behavior, which is also part of the SKYACTIV dynamics.

The CX-5 obviously has more when it comes to the powertrain, but both vehicles bears generous figures for the engine.

Talking about suspension, X-Trail 4x4's suspension setup uses an Independent Strut Type with Stabilizer at the front and an Independent Multi-link Type with Stabilizer at the rear. Meanwhile, the CX-5 uses MacPherson Struts at the front while it uses Multi-link beam at the rear. They have completely different suspension setups but both are reliable when it comes to taking rough roads.

Now onto the more visible parts: the exteriors and the interiors.

The exterior looks of the X-Trail 4x4 comes with a wide V-Motion grille, reshaped fog and LED headlamps and restyled daytime running lights. This fascia is highlighted by a set of 19-inch dual tone alloy wheels. There's not much new to the exteriors of the X-Trail 4x4 aside from these features, but one can still easily tell that Nissan leveled up its game for one of their latest models.

On the other hand, the CX-5 boasts Mazda's enhanced "Kodo: Soul of Motion" design, giving the model a sportier and more dynamic look. Compared to its predecessor, it now has a more distinguished grille and matching fog light frames, plus new front and rear full LED lights, and a 19-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the X-Trail's has that subtly-redesigned vibes that is visible with the revamped door finishers and instrument panel accents, shift knob design, center console, and D-shaped steering wheel. The combination of leather and fabric incorporated on the seats also contribute to the overall interior feels of the car.

For the infotainment system, which is the star of every car's interior, the X-Trail has a display head unit that is easy to connect with smartphones via Bluetooth or USB. It comes with 6 speakers that producean enjoyable sound.

Meanwhile, climbing inside the CX-5, one will notice the standard leather seats immediately. The electronic dual-zone air-conditioners are also one of the treats in this model. Moreover, the CX-5 is equipped with reclining rear seats.

But the highlight of the CX-5's interior is the Mazda's new infotainment system, the MZD Connect. It works with a smartphone for hands-free and voice-activated connectivity. The touchscreen is positioned within the driver's line of sight, with its multi-function control buttons located on the floor console and can be operated by feel so the driver's attention won't be diverted from the road.

Let's check out one of the most important aspects in every car: the safety and security features.

The X-Trail is equipped with Nissan's standard features. Though aside from the regular, the X-Trail 4x4 takes pride in it coming with Nissan's new set of smart technology called the Nissan Intelligent Mobility. The X-Trail is equipped with cameras all over the car. It also displays an Around View Monitor that makes parking easier with its 360-degree overhead view.

On the other hand, the CX-5 is equipped with a few more systems that are under the SKYACTIV technologies, including the i-STOP Idle Stop System. It automatically shuts off the engine when the car comes to a complete stop after braking. The CX-5 also comes with adaptive LED headlamps with 12-split array which improves visibility at night.

Adding to the list of features is the Blind Spot monitoring system that is mounted in the rear bumper to detect vehicles approaching from behind and in the adjacent lane. The CX-5 also comes with Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist.

Buyers often find it difficult to choose between the Nissan X-Trail and the Mazda CX-5, and it's understandable given that both nameplates have proven to be good. We hope this week's Head-to-Head has helped you with that.