Toyota RAV4 vs Nissan Rogue

The 2024 Nissan Rogue presented a significant styling update since its 2021 debut. With an established lineup of trim levels encompassing S, SV, SL, and Platinum models, the Rogue received a facelift that included a larger grille, seamlessly integrated stacked headlights, and redesigned inner taillight elements. Satin-finish exterior badging and new wheel designs underscored its revamped appearance. The top-tier Platinum model boasted a more aggressive presence with more black exterior trim and an optional black roof.

Inside, the Rogue featured a refreshed dashboard designed to accommodate a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The upgraded materials on the SV models graced almost every surface, from door panels to seats, enhancing the overall premium feel. High-end Platinum trims received leather seats with quilted stitching, and a new Chestnut brown color option for 2024. In essence, the Rogue’s interior was a testament to thoughtful, upscale design within its segment.

Conversely, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 sported a rugged demeanor, aiming to exude toughness. Its aggressive front fascia, lower gray body cladding, dual exhaust outlets, and skid plates hinted at performance capabilities. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $41,925 including destination, stood at the pinnacle of the lineup with exclusive off-road elements such as robust roof racks and a distinctive Army Green color option.

The RAV4’s interior was a paragon of utility, with practical features such as oversized rubberized control knobs and numerous storage nooks. The SofTex artificial leather upholstery on TRD Off-Road trims and functional elements like all-terrain tires affirmed its off-road intent. Additionally, the model accommodated features catering to various weather conditions, provided the optional Weather package was chosen.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue’s powertrain was an engineering marvel, featuring a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with VC-Turbo technology, capable of altering its compression ratio for optimized power or fuel economy. With 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, it outperformed some competitors' engines, such as the Honda CR-V’s 1.5-liter turbo and the Subaru Forester’s 2.5-liter boxer-four. However, the CVT transmission was sluggish in transferring power to the wheels, and the firm suspension in the Rogue Platinum detracted from ride quality without offering substantial handling benefits.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4, powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, required higher revving to access maximum power. An eight-speed automatic transmission, paired with a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, enhanced its performance. The TRD Off-Road model’s exclusive off-road suspension tuning and 8.6 inches of ground clearance provided a rugged driving experience, although it didn’t rival the capabilities of more purpose-built off-road vehicles. The RAV4’s handling was generally competent, benefitting from its off-road suspension during daily commutes, even though the engine’s noise and lack of refinement were noticeable.

Both the 2024 Nissan Rogue and 2024 Toyota RAV4 offered nearly identical passenger space, with nuances in legroom distribution. The Nissan Rogue provided 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, and 74.1 cubic feet when folded, slightly less than its Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson rivals but more than the Subaru Forester. Features like the Divide-N-Hide system and options for a power liftgate added to its practicality.

The Toyota RAV4, designed for recreational activities, provided a 37.6 cubic-foot cargo area that expanded to 69.8 cubic feet with seatbacks folded down. Although slightly behind the Rogue in total cargo capacity, the RAV4 excelled in practical interior features, such as its power liftgate, numerous storage options, and user-focused layout. The TRD Off-Road trim’s interior reflected robust utility, with elements designed for easy cleaning and hard use.

For 2024, the Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a new 12.3-inch touchscreen on SL and Platinum trims, integrating wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Unique to Nissan, the Google built-in software provided Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play app store connectivity for five years. Nissan Connect Services extended its free trial period to three years for most models, coupling convenience with advanced technology.

The Toyota RAV4, despite its age, featured Toyota Audio Multimedia with an 8-inch or available 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and multiple connected services plans. Drive Connect, available for one year, offered a cloud-based navigation system and digital voice assistant. However, the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and the silent operation of the digital assistant in some functions were drawbacks. The standard digital rear-view mirror and optional surround-view camera added practical technology for daily use.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue garnered solid safety scores, with a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and top “Good” ratings in several IIHS tests. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist, which brought advanced highway driving aids.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4, equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist but lacked blind-spot monitoring on the base LE trim. The system performed adequately, though it was better suited to straight highways. However, due to the aging design, it did not qualify for the latest IIHS Top Safety Pick award, receiving less favorable scores in newer crash tests.