Which SUV is Best? Nissan Rogue vs. Toyota RAV4 Comparison

Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 Overview

The Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 are two of the most popular compact SUVs on the market today. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, versatility, and performance, making them appealing choices for many drivers. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore these two SUVs’ key features and specifications, helping you determine which one best suits your needs.

Interior Dimensions Comparison

Interior Dimensions: Nissan Rogue

• Headroom (front/rear)  41.6 in / 38.5 in
• Legroom (front/rear)  43.0 in / 37.9 in 
• Shoulder Room (front/rear)  56.4 in / 55.9 in 
• Hip Room (front/rear)  53.6 in / 52.4 in 

Interior Dimensions: Toyota RAV4

• Headroom (front/rear) 39.5 in / 39.5 in
• Legroom (front/rear) 41.0 in / 37.8 in
• Shoulder Room (front/rear) 57.8 in / 56.4 in
• Hip Room (front/rear) 54.3 in / 47.7 in

The Nissan Rogue offers slightly more headroom and legroom in the front row, while the Toyota RAV4 has a slight edge in rear-seat shoulder and hip room. Both vehicles provide ample passenger space, but the Rogue may be better for taller drivers who prioritize front-seat comfort.

Exterior Dimensions Comparison

Exterior Dimensions: Nissan Rogue

• Length  184.5 in 
• Width  72.4 in 
• Height  66.5 in 
• Wheelbase  106.5 in 

Exterior Dimensions: Toyota RAV4

• Length 180.9 in
• Width 73.0 in
• Height 67.0 in
• Wheelbase 105.9 in

The Nissan Rogue is slightly longer and narrower than the Toyota RAV4, while the RAV4 is slightly taller. The Rogue’s longer wheelbase may provide a more stable and comfortable ride, while the RAV4’s slightly larger dimensions offer a more spacious interior.

Fuel Consumption Comparison

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 are pretty comparable:

• Nissan Rogue: 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined (FWD model)
• Toyota RAV4: 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined (FWD model)

The Toyota RAV4 has a slight edge in both city and highway fuel economy, but the difference is relatively small. Both SUVs offer good fuel efficiency, making them cost-effective for daily commuting and long-distance travel.

Seating Capacity Comparison

Both the Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 are five-passenger SUVs. They can accommodate up to five people and offer comfortable and supportive seating with ample head and legroom.

Cargo Space Comparison

Cargo Space Dimensions: Nissan Rogue

• Cargo Volume (behind 2nd row)  39.3 cu ft 
• Cargo Volume (with 2nd row folded)  70.0 cu ft

Cargo Space Dimensions: Toyota RAV4

• Cargo Volume (behind 2nd row) 37.6 cu ft
• Cargo Volume (with 2nd row folded) 69.8 cu ft

The Nissan Rogue offers slightly more cargo space behind the second row, with 39.3 cubic feet, compared to the Toyota RAV4’s 37.6 cubic feet. With the rear seats folded, the Rogue and RAV4 have nearly identical maximum c

Transmission Comparison

Both the Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 have automatic transmissions. The Rogue features a standard Xtronic continuous variable transmission (CVT), while the RAV4 has an 8-speed automatic transmission.

CVT transmissions are known for their smooth, seamless power delivery, while traditional automatics like the one in the RAV4 can provide a more familiar and responsive driving experience. The choice between the two ultimately comes down 

to personal preference and driving style.

Horsepower Comparison

As mentioned earlier, the Toyota RAV4 has a slight edge in horsepower, with its 2.5-liter engine producing 203 hp, compared to the Nissan Rogue’s 170 hp. This difference in power output may be noticeable during acceleration and when passing other vehicles.

However, it’s important to note that horsepower is not the only factor that determines a vehicle’s performance. Factors like torque, weight, and transmission tuning also significantly affect how a vehicle feels and responds on the road.

Towing Capacity Comparison

The Nissan Rogue’s maximum towing capacity is 1,350 pounds, while the Toyota RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

If you regularly need to tow a small trailer, boat, or other lightweight cargo, the RAV4 would be the better choice. However, for lighter towing needs, the Rogue should still be capable of handling the task.