Nissan Rogue vs Kia Telluride

The 2024 Kia Telluride was a standout with its impressive range of features and trim levels, including LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. The X-Line and X-Pro packages added unique aesthetics and functional upgrades, like increased ground clearance and improved towing capacity. The test model, SX Prestige with the X-Line package, featured the sophisticated Wolf Gray paint and premium interiors, including Nappa leather seats. Its bold, blacked-out styling elements and metallic accents provided a near-luxury experience. A dual-screen digital display and premium finishes further enhanced this model's high-end feel.

Conversely, the 2024 Nissan Rogue introduced a significant styling refresh to its already practical and efficient design. Available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, the Rogue sported a new, larger grille and updated taillights, lending a modern look. The new wheel designs for the SV and Platinum grades added to its curb appeal. Inside, the Rogue Platinum's Leather seats with quilted stitching and an upgraded dashboard design contributed to a more premium interior feel. The addition of a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster provided a tech-forward environment.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with its 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, was robust, providing a solid towing capacity of up to 5,500 pounds with the X-Pro package. Despite its brawn, the Telluride struggled with fuel efficiency, averaging 19 mpg in mixed driving conditions. Its AWD system included a locking center differential and multiple driving modes, which made it versatile in various terrains. Notably, the Telluride's ride was firm at lower speeds but became smoother and compliant at higher velocities, providing a comfortable experience on uneven roads.

In comparison, the 2024 Nissan Rogue featured a unique 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder VC-Turbo engine, capable of adjusting its compression ratio for better efficiency or performance. It produced 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, more than most of its rivals' standard offerings. However, the Rogue fell short with its CVT, which was less responsive. The firm suspension in the Platinum trim degraded the ride quality without enhancing handling, though it remained quiet during drives. The Rogue’s AWD system was available but didn’t provide the same robust performance as the Telluride's.

The interior space of the 2024 Kia Telluride was among its strong suits. The SX Prestige X-Line model offered features like premium Nappa leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a third-row that could comfortably accommodate adults. Its dual sunroof added a feeling of openness. The dashboard design was user-friendly, with a mix of physical and digital controls. Storage solutions were thoughtful, including a hands-free power liftgate. In terms of cargo capacity, the Telluride excelled with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 87 cubic feet, one of the best in its segment.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue also managed to provide a comfortable cabin with competitive passenger space. The front and rear seats offered ample legroom, though not quite matching the Telluride’s spaciousness. Cargo-wise, the Rogue's 36.5 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 74.1 cubic feet when folded were respectable but still fell short of the Telluride's impressive figures. However, the Rogue's Divide-N-Hide system added versatility, allowing for a customizable cargo area layout.

Kia equipped the 2024 Telluride with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that required a wired connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its voice recognition system, available with a Kia Connect subscription, facilitated various functionalities. Four levels of Kia Connect plans offered features like remote start, climate pre-conditioning, and Alexa compatibility. Additional tech highlights included a Harman Kardon audio system, wireless charging, a camera-based rearview mirror, and a 10-inch head-up display.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue also featured a robust tech suite. Lower trims came with an 8-inch touchscreen, while the SL and Platinum trims upgraded to a 12.3-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Rogue took a step further by integrating Google built-in apps, enhancing connectivity and user experience. Standard USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad in higher trims catered to modern connectivity needs. The extension of the free trial period for Nissan Connect Services was a notable addition, providing remote access and control features for up to three years.

Safety was a priority for the 2024 Kia Telluride, which included a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features under the Kia Drive Wise umbrella. Standard features like collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring were complemented by advanced options like Highway Driving Assist 2.0 and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Telluride’s safety credentials were reinforced by top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue also boasted solid safety features and ratings. It received high marks from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety tech included automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist, an advanced driver assistance system with lane centering and adaptive cruise control, adding an extra layer of safety and convenience.