Family-friendly face-off: nissan rogue vs. subaru outback for space and comfort
What To Know
- The Outback, on the other hand, exudes a more rugged and adventurous vibe, with a higher ride height and protective cladding.
- The Nissan Rogue with the standard engine gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- The Subaru Outback with the standard engine gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
The world of compact SUVs is a competitive one, with automakers constantly vying for market share. Two of the most popular models in this segment are the Nissan Rogue and the Subaru Outback. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of space, versatility, and capability, but they also have their unique strengths and weaknesses.
In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback side-by-side, examining their key features, performance, and value propositions. By the end of this blog post, you will be fully equipped to make an informed decision about which compact SUV is right for you.
Exterior Design
The Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback have distinct exterior designs that reflect their respective brand identities. The Rogue features a sleek and modern look, with sharp lines and a bold grille. The Outback, on the other hand, exudes a more rugged and adventurous vibe, with a higher ride height and protective cladding.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both the Rogue and Outback offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Rogue has a slightly larger cabin, providing ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Outback’s interior is also roomy, but it has a slightly lower roofline, which may be a concern for taller passengers.
Cargo Capacity
Cargo space is an important consideration for many SUV buyers. The Rogue offers a generous 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 70 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Outback has a slightly smaller cargo capacity, with 35.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Performance and Handling
The Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback offer different powertrain options. The Rogue comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. The Outback, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.
The Rogue also offers an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 248 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides significantly more power and acceleration than the standard engine. The Outback does not offer a turbocharged engine option.
In terms of handling, both the Rogue and Outback offer a comfortable and stable ride. The Rogue has a slightly softer suspension, which provides a more plush ride quality. The Outback has a firmer suspension, which provides better handling and stability, especially in corners.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many car buyers. The Nissan Rogue with the standard engine gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. With the turbocharged engine, fuel economy drops to 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
The Subaru Outback with the standard engine gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The Outback also offers an optional 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Both the Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. The Rogue also comes standard with lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Outback comes standard with adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, and blind spot monitoring.
Price
The Nissan Rogue has a starting price of $26,500, while the Subaru Outback has a starting price of $27,845. The price of both vehicles can vary depending on the trim level and options selected.
Which Compact SUV is Right for You?
The Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback are both excellent compact SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Rogue offers a more spacious interior, a more powerful optional engine, and a lower starting price. The Outback offers a more rugged exterior design, better handling, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features.
Ultimately, the best compact SUV for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize space, power, and value, the Nissan Rogue is a great choice. If you prioritize ruggedness, handling, and safety, the Subaru Outback is a better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Nissan Rogue with the optional turbocharged engine has a more powerful engine than the Subaru Outback.
Q: Which SUV has a larger cargo capacity?
A: The Nissan Rogue has a slightly larger cargo capacity than the Subaru Outback.
Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Outback with the standard engine has a slightly better fuel economy than the Nissan Rogue with the standard engine.
Q: Which SUV has a lower starting price?
A: The Nissan Rogue has a lower starting price than the Subaru Outback.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Subaru Outback is better for off-roading due to its higher ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive.