Source type: Mazda Southern Africa
Mazda CX-5 vs Nissan X-Trail
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — we cover price, performance, petrol economy, safety and what it'll actually cost you to own each one long term.
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Mazda CX-5
2.0 Carbon Edition Auto FWD
Petrol
6-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 688,400
ex-showroom
⚡ 121 kW
🔧 213 Nm
⛽ 14.5 km/l
VS
Nissan X-Trail
2.5 Acenta Plus 4WD CVT 7-seat
Petrol
CVT
Current
ZAR 812,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 135 kW
🔧 244 Nm
⛽ 12.8 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Mazda CX-5 vs Nissan X-Trail: the short answer
CX-5 and X-Trail are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
CX-5 starts ZAR 117,400 cheaper
CX-5 from ZAR 570,500 · X-Trail from ZAR 687,900
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | CX-5121 kW @ 6000 rpm | X-Trail135 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | CX-5213 Nm @ 4000 rpm | X-Trail244 Nm @ 3600 rpm |
| Engine Size | CX-51998 cc | X-Trail2488 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | CX-514.5 km/l | X-Trail12.8 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | CX-5200 mm | X-Trail211 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Source type: Nissan South Africa X-Trail specifications page and September 2025 brochure
Model imagery
CX-5 and X-Trail image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
Mazda CX-5
View 8 more CX-5 images
Nissan X-Trail
View 8 more X-Trail images
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
CX-5
Strengths
- Better fuel efficiency
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Efficiency
Specification evidence leader
X-Trail
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Lower fuel efficiency
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Practicality
Which One's Right for You?
CX-5
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
X-Trail
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2017 | 2001 |
| Generation | Second-generation KF-series Mazda CX-5, current outgoing South African range | T33 fourth-generation Nissan X-Trail for South Africa |
| Facelift History | The second generation arrived in 2017 and received a substantial update from 2021. An all-new replacement is scheduled to reach South Africa on 1 August 2026, while this current range remains on sale. | Current South African T33 X-Trail specification from Nissan official page and September 2025 brochure |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2017 | 2023 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | SUV | SUV |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | Active | published |
| Segment | Mid-size family SUV | Family SUV |
| Tare Mass Kg | 1575 kg | 1666 kg |
| Vehicle Type | SUV | SUV |
| Color Note | - | White, Silver, Black, Grey, Blue |
| Dealer Stock Note | - | Top grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Drivetrain Note | - | Drive layout derived from the official derivative naming: 2.5 Acenta Plus 4WD CVT 7-seat |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4575 mm | 4680 mm |
| Width | 1845 mm | 1840 mm |
| Height | 1680 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm | 2705 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 200 mm | 211 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 l | 55 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 438 l | 485 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1575 kg | 1666 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 2065 kg | 2295 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 490 kg | - |
| Towing Capacity | 1000 kg | 2000 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 5.95 m | 11.1 m |
| Front Legroom | 1041 mm | 1095 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 1007 mm | 892 mm |
| Front Headroom | - | 1050 mm |
| Rear Headroom | - | 1000 mm |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | Dual-zone climate control | Dual-zone automatic temperature control |
| Power Windows | Front & Rear | Front and rear power windows |
| Keyless Entry | Smart | Smart keyless entry with hands-free walk-away lock and approach unlock |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Charging | Standard | Standard |
| Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Electric Tailgate | Standard | Not Available |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 1340 l | 1298 l |
| AC Type | Dual-zone climate control | Dual-zone automatic temperature control |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Adaptive Dampers | - | Not Available |
| Battery Preconditioning | - | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | - | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | - | Not Available |
| Digital Speedometer | - | 12.3-inch |
| Heads Up Display | - | 10.8-inch head-up display |
| Intelligent Battery System | - | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | - | Standard |
| Load Bed Cover | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | - | Not Available |
| One Pedal Driving | - | Not Available |
| Performance Data Logger | - | Not Available |
| Propilot | - | Standard |
| Rear Electric Motor | - | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | - | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | - | Standard |
| Rev Matching | - | Not Available |
| Seat Type | - | Quilted premium leather |
| Skid Plates | - | Confirmed 4WD derivative |
| Sound System | 10 | 6 |
| Source Model Column | - | x-trail |
| Sport Plus Mode | - | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | - | Not Available |
| Surround View Monitor | Not Available | Standard |
| Tailgate Damper | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | - | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | - | Not Available |
| Trailer Stability Assist | - | Standard |
| Trailer Sway Control | - | Standard |
| Trim Level | - | top |
| Unlocking | Smart | Smart keyless entry with hands-free walk-away lock and approach unlock |
| Variant Role | - | Off-road or adventure derivative |
| Vehicle To Grid | - | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | - | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | - | Standard |
| Walk Away Lock | - | Standard |
| Wireless Charger | Standard | Standard |
| Rim Size | 19x7J | 19 |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Standard |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Standard |
| Air Conditioning | Dual-zone climate control | Dual-zone automatic temperature control |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | Auto dimming mirror |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Standard |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | - | Power adjustable, folding and heated mirrors |
| Heated Mirrors | - | Standard |
| Power Mirrors | - | Power adjustable, folding and heated mirrors |
| Rear Defogger | - | Standard |
| Rear Privacy Windows | - | Standard |
| Drag Coefficient | - | 0.33 |
| Roof Load | - | 100 kg |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 1340 l | 1298 l |
| Spare Wheel | Temporary spare 155/80 R17 | Temporary spare wheel |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | Second-row air vents |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Standard |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | 12V outlet in instrument panel and cargo area |
| Tail Lamps | - | Standard |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Standard |
| Vdc | - | Standard |
| TPMS | - | Standard |
| Speed Limiter | - | Standard |
| Driver Alertness | - | Intelligent Driver Alert |
| Tie Down Hooks | - | 4 cargo tie-down hooks |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | Auto dimming mirror |
| Bottle Holders | - | Front 2 / second row 2 / third row 2 cupholders |
| Centre Console | - | Butterfly opening centre console |
| Climate Zones | - | 2 |
| Common Rail Injection | - | Direct injection |
| Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Difflock | - | Not Available |
| Driver Display | - | Full TFT meter with speed, tachometer and gauges |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Power adjustable, folding and heated exterior mirrors |
| Front Armrest | - | Butterfly opening centre console |
| Front Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Front Power Outlet | - | 12V instrument panel outlet |
| Front Wiper | - | Variable intermittent, speed-sensitive wipers |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Washer nozzle with variable intermittent, speed-sensitive wipers |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | - | 7.8 |
| Fuel Lid Opener | - | Capless fuel filler door |
| Hill Start Assist | - | Standard |
| Manual Aircon | - | Not Available |
| Mirror | - | Electric folding heated mirrors |
| Multi Function Steering | - | Standard |
| Passive Entry Start | - | Smart keyless entry with push-button start |
| Power Socket 12v | - | Instrument panel and cargo area 12V outlets |
| Rear Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | - | LED tail lights |
| Rear Seat Split | - | 40/20/40 second row and 50/50 third row |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | Auto dimming mirror |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Power adjustable, folding and heated exterior mirrors |
| Ride Mode Selection | - | Eco / Normal / Sport |
| Sonar | - | Parking distance sensors |
| Speed Alert System | - | Speed limiter |
| Stabilizer Bar | - | Front and rear stabiliser bars |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | - | Standard |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Standard |
| Steering Column Adjustment | - | Tilt and telescopic |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Meter, audio, telephone, voice, cruise and limiter controls |
| Tachometer | - | Standard |
| Telescopic Steering | - | Standard |
| Tilt Steering | - | Standard |
| Trip Computer | - | Full TFT meter with gauges |
| Tyre Repair Kit | - | Not Available |
| Vanity Mirror | - | Illuminated vanity mirrors |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | - | Standard |
| Voice Command | - | Voice recognition |
| Voice Command Support | - | Voice recognition |
| Accelerator 0 100 | - | 10.4 sec |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | - | Silver roof rails / 100 kg maximum roof load |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | Standard |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | Not Available |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | - | - |
| Engine Check Warning | - | - |
| Steering Response | - | - |
| Side Steps | - | - |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | - |
| Headrest Adjustable | - | - |
| Rear Reading Lamps | - | - |
| Remote Engine Start | - | - |
| Remote Start | - | - |
| Door Ajar Warning | - | - |
| Boot Opener | - | - |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | - |
| Headlamp Washer | - | - |
| Roof Antenna | - | - |
| Rear Wing | - | - |
| Aero Kit | - | - |
| Chrome Grille | - | - |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | - | - |
| Powered Tailgate | - | - |
| Service Reminder | - | - |
| Glove Box | - | - |
| Lift Gate | - | - |
| Sub Frame | - | - |
| Reading Lights Rear | - | - |
| Side Impact Bars | - | - |
| Engine Warranty | - | 6 years / 150,000 km |
| Power Sliding Doors | - | Not Applicable |
| Intercooler | - | Not Applicable |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | - | - |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol | 2.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 1998 cc | 2488 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | Not Officially Disclosed | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | Not Officially Disclosed | 4 |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Not Officially Disclosed | Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Bore | 83.5 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Stroke | 91.2 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Maximum Power | 121 kW @ 6000 rpm | 135 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 213 Nm @ 4000 rpm | 244 Nm @ 3600 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | FWD | 4WD |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic | CVT |
| Top Speed | 182 km/h | 195 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 10.3 sec | 10.4 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Sport | Eco, Normal, Sport plus terrain modes |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 76.8 kW/tonne | 81 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 135.2 Nm/tonne | 146.5 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | 6-Speed Auto | Xtronic CVT |
| Drivetrain Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel drive | Intelligent 4x4 |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Intelligent 4x4 direct-coupling system |
| Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Paddle Shifters | Standard | Standard |
| Final Drive Ratio | 4.624 | Not Applicable |
| Number of Gears | 6 | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Gear Shift Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | Intelligent 4x4 |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Automatic Intelligent 4x4 |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Standard |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Drive and terrain mode selector |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | Standard | Standard |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | Automatic | Xtronic CVT |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | 4x2 | 4WD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | 6 | Not Applicable |
| Drive Mode Selector | - | 4WD/off-road drive mode support |
| LSD Available | - | Standard |
| Clutch Type | - | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Indicator | - | Not Applicable |
| Differential Type Front | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | - | Not Available |
| Transfer Case Guard | - | Not Available |
| Engine Position | - | - |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | - |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 14.5 km/l | 12.8 km/l |
| City Mileage | 11.7 km/l | 11.1 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 17.1 km/l | 15.7 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 l | 55 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro stage IV | - |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | Standard | Not Applicable |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 56 | 55 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Real-world Mileage | 14.5 km/l | 12.8 km/l |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | - |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | Driver, passenger, curtain, front side and front far-side airbags |
| ABS | Standard | Standard |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Standard |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Standard |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Standard |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Standard | Standard |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Standard |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Front & Rear | Driver, passenger and rear seat belt reminder |
| Front Parking Sensors | Not Available | Standard |
| BA | Standard | Standard |
| Curtain Airbags | Standard | Standard |
| Driver Airbag | Standard | Standard |
| EBD | Standard | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Standard |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Standard |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard | Standard |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Standard | Standard |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Standard | Not Available |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Front & Rear | Driver, passenger and rear seat belt reminder |
| Side Airbags | Standard | Standard |
| Stability Control | Standard | Standard |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | Not Available |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Standard |
| Traction Control | - | Standard |
| TCS | - | Standard |
| Brake Override System | - | Not Available |
| Child Safety Lock | - | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | - | Standard |
| AEB | - | Standard |
| Central Locking | - | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | - | Standard |
| Far Side Airbag | - | Standard |
| Alarm System | - | Vehicle security system |
| Anti Theft Alarm | - | Vehicle security system |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | - | Driver, passenger, front side, curtain and front far-side airbags |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | - | Driver, passenger, front side, curtain and front far-side airbags |
| ESC With Traction Control | - | Vehicle Dynamic Control with Traction Control System |
| Fatigue Detection | - | Intelligent Driver Alert |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Standard |
| Speed Alert System | - | Speed limiter |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Blind Spot Warning and Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention |
| Side Impact Beams | - | - |
| Whiplash Protection | - | - |
| Safety Rating | - | - |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard | Intelligent Cruise Control |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Intelligent Cruise Control |
| Lane Keep Assist | Standard | Intelligent Lane Intervention |
| Lane Departure Warning | Standard | Intelligent Lane Intervention |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Standard | Standard |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Standard | Standard |
| Parking Sensors | Front & Rear | Front and rear parking sensors |
| Rear View Camera | Standard | Standard |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Available | Standard |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Standard | Standard |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not Available | Not Available |
| Auto Highbeam | Standard | Standard |
| Auto Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Not Available | Standard |
| Reverse Camera | Standard | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Intelligent Cruise Control |
| Around View Monitor | Not Available | Standard |
| Blind Spot Warning | Standard | Standard |
| EV Mode | - | Not Available |
| Surround View Camera | Not Available | Standard |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | - | Standard |
| Park Assist | - | Not Available |
| Forward Collision Warning | - | Standard |
| Blind Spot Intervention | - | Standard |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Standard |
| Auto Lights | - | Automatic headlights |
| Eco Mode | - | Standard |
| Emergency Braking | - | Intelligent Emergency Braking with junction assist and pedestrian/cyclist detection |
| Front Camera | - | Around View Monitor camera system |
| Parking Distance Sensors | - | Front and rear parking sensors |
| Parking Sensor | - | Front and rear parking sensors |
| Pre-Collision System | - | Intelligent Forward Collision Warning and Emergency Braking |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | Standard |
| Rear View Camera | - | Standard |
| Reverse Camera Type | - | Rear parking camera |
| Reversing Camera | - | Standard |
| Sport Mode | - | Standard |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Black Leather & Suede Combination | Leather-accented |
| Heated Seats | Not Available | Standard |
| Ventilated Seats | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Ambient Lighting | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Front Shoulder Room | 1451 mm | 1451 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 1391 mm | 1422 mm |
| Steering Wheel Material | with red stitching | Leather-accented |
| 60 40 Split Seat | (40:20:40) | 40/20/40 split-fold second row |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | 8-Way Power adjustable w. memory (Driver) 6-Way Power adjustment (Passenger) | Power slide, reclining, lifter, tilt and 2-way lumbar |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | 8-Way Power adjustable w. memory (Driver) 6-Way Power adjustment (Passenger) | Manual slide and reclining |
| Seat Trim | Black Leather & Suede Combination | Leather-accented / synthetic leather |
| Fabric Seats | - | Quilted premium leather |
| Instrument Cluster Type | - | 12.3-inch full TFT digital meter |
| Interior Colour Options | - | 5 |
| Interior Colours | - | 5 |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | - | Spacious cabin, touchscreen infotainment, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, flexible seating layout |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | - | Quilted premium leather |
| Massage Seats | - | Driver and passenger seat massage functionality |
| Heated Front Seats | - | Standard |
| Folding Rear Seats | - | 40:20:40 sliding/reclining second row and 50:50 third-row dive-down seats |
| Third Row Seats | - | Standard |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 651 |
| Steering Type | - | Dual pinion electric power steering |
| Seat Adjustment | - | Power driver seat with manual passenger seat |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | 2-way power driver lumbar |
| Steering Adjustment | - | Tilt and telescopic |
| Rear Armrest | - | Second-row centre armrest |
| Second Row Seat Configuration | - | 40/20/40 split second row with manual slide, manual recline, single folding and armrest through to third row |
| Third Row Seat Configuration | - | 50/50 split third row with manual reclining and dive-down folding |
| Third Row Seating Capacity | - | 2 |
| Cup Holders | - | 6 |
| Rear AC Vents | - | Standard |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | - | 8-way power driver seat with 2-way power lumbar |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | Manual slide and reclining passenger seat |
| Front Armrest | - | Centre armrest |
| Armrest Front | - | Centre armrest |
| Armrest Rear | - | Rear centre armrest |
| Cooled Seats | - | Not Available |
| Driver Seat | - | 8-way power driver seat with 2-way power lumbar |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | Black |
| Leather Seats | - | Leather-accented / synthetic leather |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Front seat back pockets |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | Standard |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | Power reclining |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Driver, passenger and rear seat belt reminder |
| Seat Fold Type | - | 40/20/40 split second row and 50/50 dive-down third row |
| Rear USB Ports | - | 2 |
| Memory Seats | - | - |
| Front Headrest | - | - |
| Rear Headrest | - | - |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Standard | 12.3-inch NissanConnect display with navigation |
| Apple CarPlay | Wireless | Standard |
| Android Auto | Standard | Standard |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Standard |
| Number of Speakers | 10 | 6 |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Standard | 12.3-inch full TFT digital meter |
| USB Ports | 2 | 4 |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch | 12.3-inch touchscreen display |
| Touchscreen | 10.25-inch | 12.3-inch touchscreen display |
| Audio Speakers | 10 | 6 |
| Audio System | - | 6 speaker audio system |
| Connected Services | - | NissanConnect smartphone integration |
| Display Audio | - | 12.3-inch |
| Head Up Display | - | 10.8 inch Head-Up Display |
| Infotainment Display | - | 12.3-inch |
| Multi Information Display | - | 12.3-inch |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 10.25-inch | 12.3-inch touchscreen display |
| Navigation System | - | Satellite navigation |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Wireless | Standard |
| Wireless Android Auto | Standard | Standard |
| Voice Recognition | - | Standard |
| Radio | - | AM/FM radio and DAB+ digital radio |
| FM Radio | - | Standard |
| Rear Usb | - | 2 |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | - | Front USB-A/USB-C and second-row USB-A/USB-C |
| Audio | - | AM/FM, DAB+, Bluetooth audio streaming |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Meter, audio, telephone, voice, cruise and limiter controls |
| Smartphone Connectivity | - | Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Meter, audio, telephone, voice, cruise and limiter controls |
| Voice Control | - | Voice recognition |
| AUX Input | - | - |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | - |
| Premium Audio | - | Bose sound system with 10 speakers |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | Standard |
| Daytime Running Lamps | Standard | Standard |
| Alloy Wheel Design | Black Metallic | 19-inch alloy wheels |
| Exterior Colour Options | Current paint selection depends on edition and remaining dealer allocation as the next-generation CX-5 approaches local launch. | Two-tone colours available on Acenta Plus, plus monotone palette |
| Headlights | Standard | Standard |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | - | Not Available |
| Body Type | - | SUV |
| Exterior Colour Options | - | 5 |
| Load Bed Liner | - | Not Available |
| Fog Lamps | - | Standard |
| Roof Rails | - | Silver roof rails |
| Front Overhang | - | 935 mm |
| Front Overhang Mm | - | 935 mm |
| Rear Overhang | - | 1040 mm |
| Rear Overhang Mm | - | 1040 mm |
| Front Fog Lamps | - | Standard |
| Front Fog Lights | - | Standard |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | - | Power adjustable, folding and heated mirrors |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Standard |
| Exterior Mirror Heated | - | Standard |
| Headlamps | Standard | Standard |
| Headlight Type | Standard | Standard |
| Led Headlights | Standard | Standard |
| Daytime Running Lights | Standard | Standard |
| DRL | Standard | Standard |
| Fog Lights | - | Standard |
| Led Taillights | - | Standard |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body colour |
| Body Cladding | - | Black side moulding |
| Auto Headlights | - | Standard |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Standard |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body colour |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Electric folding heated mirrors |
| Rear Wiper | - | Standard |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | - | Not Available |
| Roof Type | - | Two-tone body colour |
| Rear Fog Lights | - | - |
| Rear Spoiler | - | - |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | - | - |
| Headlamp Levelling | - | - |
| Rear Spoiler | - | - |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Departure Angle | 22.5 deg | Not Available |
| Terrain Modes | Sport | Mud / Snow / Sand |
| Locking Differential | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Intelligent 4x4 |
| Ground Clearance Max | 200 mm | 210 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 200 mm | 210 mm |
| Energy Recovery Display | - | Not Available |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Standard |
| Off Road Traction Assist | - | Confirmed 4WD derivative |
| Terrain Mode Mud | - | Mud |
| Terrain Mode Sand | - | Sand |
| Terrain Mode Snow | - | Snow |
| Underbody Protection | - | Confirmed 4WD derivative |
| Approach Angle | - | Not Available |
| Breakover Angle | - | Not Available |
| Wading Depth | - | Not Available |
| Off Road Descent Control | - | Standard |
| Crawl Control | - | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Recovery Hooks | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | - | Mud / Snow / Sand terrain modes |
| Underbody Camera | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | - | Eco / Normal / Sport drive modes |
| Terrain Mode Rock | - | Not Available |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | Not Available |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | Not Available |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | Not Available |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | Not Available |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 225/55 R19 | 235/55 R19 |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated disc | Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Solid disc | Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Temporary spare 155/80 R17 | Temporary spare wheel |
| Wheel Rim Size | 19x7J | 19 |
| Handbrake Type | Electronic | Electric parking brake with auto hold |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | - | Not Available |
| Wheel Material | Black Metallic | 19-inch alloy wheels |
| Wheel Type | Black Metallic | 19-inch alloy wheels |
| Wheels | Black Metallic | 19-inch alloy wheels |
| Wheel Diameter | 19x7J | 19 |
| Towing Unbraked Kg | - | 750 kg |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | - | Standard |
| Brakes | - | Front and rear disc brakes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | - | Standard |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Standard |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Electric parking brake with auto hold |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Electronic parking brake with auto hold |
| Brake Type Front | - | Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | - | Disc |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | - | Standard |
| Front Tyre Width | - | 235 mm |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | - | Brake Assist System |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather-accented |
| Rear Tyre Width | - | 235 mm |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | - | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather-accented |
| Tyre Pressure Display | - | Standard |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 235/55 R19 |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | - |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | - |
| Tyre Load Index | - | - |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | - |
| Cornering Brake Control | - | - |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Temporary steel spare wheel |
| Tyre Type | - | Radial |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Macpherson strut | Independent front strut |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link | Independent multi-link rear suspension |
| MagneRide Damping | - | Not Available |
| Front Track Width | - | 1585 mm |
| Rear Track Width | - | 1590 mm |
| Front Suspension Type | Macpherson strut | Independent front strut |
| Rear Suspension Type | Multi-link | Independent multi-link rear suspension |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | - | Standard |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | - | Standard |
| Power Steering | - | Dual pinion electric power steering |
| Rear Axle Type | - | Multi-link rear suspension |
| Steering Column | - | Tilt and telescopic |
| Suspension | - | Independent front strut / multi-link rear |
| Chassis Type | - | - |
| Front Spring Type | - | - |
| Rear Spring Type | - | - |
| Shock Absorber Type | - | - |
| Shock Absorbers | - | - |
| Chassis Material | - | - |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 160 g/km | 183 g/km |
| Hybrid System Type | - | Not Available |
| Particulate Filter | - | Not Available |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | - | Petrol |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | - | 183 |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | - |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | - |
| Idle CO2 Output | - | - |
| Green NCAP Rating | - | - |
| Start Stop System | - | - |
| Euro Emission Standard | - | - |
| Noise Level | - | - |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | 5 Years/Unlimited km | Not Available |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 15 000 km |
| Service Interval | - | 15 000 km |
| Service Intervals | - | 15 000 km |
| Maintenance Plan | - | Not Available |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | - |
| Alternator | - | - |
| First Service At | - | - |
| Approx Service Cost | - | - |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | - | - |
| Battery Warranty | - | - |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | style-focused upper derivative | Seven-seat family SUV flagship grade |
| Price Zar | 688400 ZAR | 812900 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | style-focused upper derivative | Top 4WD seven-seat Xtronic CVT grade |
| Starting Price | 688400 | 812900 |
| Starting Price Zar | 688400 | 812900 |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 5 Years/Unlimited km | 6 years / 150,000 km |
| Basic Warranty | 5 Years/Unlimited km | 6 years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | - | Standard |
| Roadside Assistance | - | Standard |
| Warranty Kilometers | 5 Years/Unlimited km | 6 years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | - | Standard |
| Warranty Years | 5 Years/Unlimited km | 6 years / 150,000 km |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | - |
| Spec | CX-5 | X-Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | - | - |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | - | - |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | - | - |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | - | - |
In depth: how these cars differ
This CX-5 and X-Trail comparison uses the exact South African derivatives selected above. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: CX-5 48 vs X-Trail 56.
Efficiency index: CX-5 56 vs X-Trail 50.
Safety-equipment index: CX-5 88 vs X-Trail 94.
Practicality index: CX-5 61 vs X-Trail 78.
Ownership-cover index: CX-5 not separately scored vs X-Trail not separately scored.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
X-Trail leads by 7 points
CX-5 and X-Trail are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Evidence leader
70
/100
Lead
7
points
Data
70%
source coverage
70
#1
Evidence leader
X-Trail
70% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 94
Check
Efficiency 50
Performance
56
Efficiency
50
Safety
94
Practicality
78
Leads by 7 points
63
#2
CX-5
78% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Safety 88
Check
Performance 48
Performance
48
Efficiency
56
Safety
88
Practicality
61
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
X-Trail +8
Efficiency
CX-5 +6
Safety
X-Trail +6
Practicality
X-Trail +17
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
X-Trail
Performance
56/100
Efficiency
50/100
Safety
94/100
Practicality
78/100
CX-5
Performance
48/100
Efficiency
56/100
Safety
88/100
Practicality
61/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
Nissan X-Trail
leads the specification evidence index with 70 pts
vs 63 pts for CX-5
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, X-Trail leads. However, CX-5 may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
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CX-5 vs X-Trail questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the exact South African derivatives on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.