2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2023 Toyota RAV4

2023 Nissan Rogue

VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE
Base/As Tested: $39,725/$42,395
Options: two-tone premium paint, $745; floor mats and cargo area protector, $425; Head-Up Display package, $400; illuminated kick plates, $400; interior accent lighting, $350; external ground lighting, $350

ENGINE
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 12-valve variable-compression inline-3, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 90-91 in³, 1478-1498 cm³
Power: 201 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque: 225 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

TRANSMISSION
continuously variable automatic

CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 11.7-in vented disc/11.5-in vented disc
Tires: Dunlop Grantrek PT21
235/55R-19 101V M+S

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 106.5 in
Length: 183.0 in
Width: 72.4 in
Height: 66.5 in
Passenger Volume: 101 ft³
Cargo Volume: 37 ft³
Curb Weight: 3715 lb

2023 Toyota RAV4

VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE
Base/As Tested: $37,155/$42,822
Options: TRD Off-Road Technology package, $1950; premium audio, $1620; TRD Off-Road Weather package, $1015; running board, $549; door sill protector, $199; door edge guard, $140; mudguard, $129; blackout emblem overlays, $65

ENGINE
DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port and direct fuel injection
Displacement: 152 in³, 2487 cm³
Power: 203 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque: 184 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic

CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 12.0-in vented disc/11.1-in disc
Tires: Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail 01A
225/60R-18 100H M+S

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 105.9 in
Length: 181.5 in
Width: 73.4 in
Height: 70.0 in
Passenger Volume: 99 ft³
Cargo Volume: 37 ft³
Curb Weight: 3724 lb

A Comprehensive Comparison

Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of SUVs, the 2023 Nissan Rogue and 2023 Toyota RAV4 emerge as prominent contenders, each offering a distinct set of features and characteristics. This comprehensive comparison aims to dissect the strengths and weaknesses of both vehicles, providing potential buyers with essential insights to guide their decision-making process.

Overview of the 2023 Nissan Rogue:

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, despite its rugged exterior, is positioned as a gentle-natured crossover, excelling in practicality for daily errands and road trips. With a contemporary cabin, a unique turbocharged three-cylinder engine, and a generous list of tech features, the Rogue competes in the compact SUV segment.

Key Points:

Square-jawed looks and compliant suspension tuning.
Unique turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 201 horsepower.
Generous list of standard technology and convenience features.

Overview of the 2023 Toyota RAV4:

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 maintains its status as a bestseller, offering practicality and efficiency. With a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, good fuel economy, and a cargo-friendly interior, the RAV4 caters to a wide range of buyers, excelling in suburban tasks like daily commuting and trips to the home improvement store.

Key Points:

Easygoing driving demeanor with rugged good looks.
203-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with competitive performance.
Cargo-friendly interior and sensible road manners.

Comparison of Engine Options

The performance of these SUVs hinges on their respective engine options. While the Rogue opts for a unique turbocharged three-cylinder, the RAV4 sticks to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, each catering to different driving preferences.

Key Points:

Rogue: Turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder with 201 horsepower.
RAV4: 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower.

Comparison of Exterior Design

External aesthetics contribute significantly to the overall appeal of these SUVs. The Rogue boasts square-jawed looks with a contemporary design, while the RAV4 focuses on easygoing elegance with rugged good looks.

Key Points:

Rogue: Square-jawed looks with contemporary styling.
RAV4: Easygoing design with rugged good looks.

Comparison of Interior Features and Comfort

Luxurious interiors define both the Rogue and RAV4, emphasizing different aspects of comfort and technology. The Rogue’s interior borrows styling cues from sedans, while the RAV4 prioritizes ergonomics and cubby storage.

Key Points:

Rogue: Contemporary cabin with thoughtful storage cubbies.
RAV4: Comfortable interior with emphasis on ergonomics and storage.

Pricing and Value for Money

Affordability is a crucial consideration, and both vehicles offer competitive pricing. The Rogue positions itself with a starting price of $28,725, while the RAV4 starts at $29,625, providing value through distinct features within their respective price ranges.

Key Points:

Rogue: Starting at $28,725.
RAV4: Starting at $29,625.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount, and both the Rogue and RAV4 come equipped with advanced safety features. The Rogue boasts standard automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and ProPilot Assist. The RAV4 matches up with Toyota Safety Sense and a suite of standard driver-assistance features.

Key Points:

Rogue: ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driving mode.
RAV4: Toyota Safety Sense as standard.

Cargo Space and Practicality

Balancing passenger space and cargo capacity is crucial for SUVs. The Rogue, with two spacious rows of seating, competes with practical features like a bi-level dashboard, while the RAV4 strikes a balance between passenger comfort and cargo capacity.

Key Points:

Rogue: Two spacious rows of seating with thoughtful design elements.
RAV4: Balances passenger comfort and cargo capacity.

Conclusion

Choosing between the 2023 Nissan Rogue and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 depends on individual priorities. The Rogue caters to those seeking a contemporary design with a unique turbocharged engine, while the RAV4 appeals to buyers looking for easygoing elegance, efficiency, and a proven track record. Consider your unique preferences and requirements to make an informed decision in the competitive compact SUV market.