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2023 nissan rogue vs. ford explorer: the ultimate compact suv showdown

What To Know

  • The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, offers a more powerful engine but sacrifices some fuel efficiency, with its base model returning 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
  • The Rogue features a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a suite of driver-assist systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
  • If you need a more powerful engine, more spacious interior, and more advanced technology features, the Ford Explorer is a better fit.

In the realm of compact SUVs, two formidable contenders stand out: the Nissan Rogue and the Ford Explorer. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, performance, and style, but which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to uncover their strengths and weaknesses.

Fuel Efficiency and Performance

The Nissan Rogue boasts impressive fuel economy, with its base model achieving up to 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, offers a more powerful engine but sacrifices some fuel efficiency, with its base model returning 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Interior Space and Comfort

The Nissan Rogue provides ample interior space for passengers and cargo. Its second row offers generous legroom, while the rear cargo area can accommodate up to 39.3 cubic feet of luggage. The Ford Explorer, with its larger size, offers even more spacious seating and cargo room. Its second row provides ample legroom and headroom, and the rear cargo area expands to an impressive 87.8 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded down.

Technology and Safety Features

Both the Nissan Rogue and the Ford Explorer come equipped with a range of advanced technology and safety features. The Rogue features a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a suite of driver-assist systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. The Explorer offers a larger 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with similar connectivity options, along with a more comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.

Off-Road Capabilities

While neither the Nissan Rogue nor the Ford Explorer are true off-roaders, the Explorer offers some enhanced off-road capabilities with its available all-wheel drive system and terrain management system. This allows it to tackle light off-road trails with more confidence than the Rogue, which is primarily designed for on-road driving.

Reliability and Maintenance Costs

The Nissan Rogue has a solid reputation for reliability, with J.D. Power giving it a score of 83 out of 100 for dependability. The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, has had some reliability issues in the past, but recent model years have shown improvements.

Price and Value

The Nissan Rogue has a lower starting price than the Ford Explorer, making it a more affordable option. However, the Explorer offers a more spacious interior, more powerful engine, and more advanced technology features, which may justify its higher price tag for some buyers.

Which SUV is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Nissan Rogue and the Ford Explorer depends on your individual needs and preferences.

  • If you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and affordability, the Nissan Rogue is an excellent choice.
  • If you need a more powerful engine, more spacious interior, and more advanced technology features, the Ford Explorer is a better fit.
  • If you frequently venture off-road, the Ford Explorer’s enhanced off-road capabilities may be a deciding factor.

Honorable Mentions

  • Toyota RAV4: Another popular compact SUV with impressive fuel economy, spacious interior, and advanced technology features.
  • Honda CR-V: A well-rounded SUV with a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and excellent fuel economy.
  • Mazda CX-5: A sporty and stylish SUV with a premium interior, powerful engine, and sharp handling.

FAQ

Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Rogue has better fuel economy than the Ford Explorer.

Q: Which SUV has more interior space?
A: The Ford Explorer has more interior space than the Nissan Rogue.

Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: The Nissan Rogue has a better reputation for reliability than the Ford Explorer.

Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Nissan Rogue has a lower starting price than the Ford Explorer.

Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Ford Explorer has better off-road capabilities than the Nissan Rogue.

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