2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was designed with a focus on appealing aesthetics, featuring well-proportioned and chiseled styling that conveyed a rugged sense of purpose. It was available in several trims, including S, SV, SL, and Platinum, with prices ranging from $27,360 to $37,140, plus a destination charge. The Platinum trim, which we tested, offered a luxurious experience with features like diamond-pattern leather seats and a host of upscale upgrades, though it came with a hefty price tag of $43,100.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution in Volvo's design language, moving away from the boxy shapes of the past. The XC90's design was purposeful yet understated, with a bold grille and distinctive "Thor’s Hammer" headlights. Our test vehicle, in the Ultimate trim, featured 21-inch wheels and a sophisticated Platinum Gray paint. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with two-tone leather, metal speaker covers, and Nappa leather upholstery, all contributing to a refined and luxurious cabin experience.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with a VC-Turbo design, producing 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a CVT and offered various driving modes, including Eco, Auto, and Sport. While the Rogue felt responsive in urban settings, it lacked passing power on highways and had a unique engine note that some drivers might find unrefined. The Rogue's fuel economy was rated at 31 mpg combined, but our test vehicle averaged 28.9 mpg. The suspension provided a good balance of ride compliance and body control, though the steering felt lifeless.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines with mild-hybrid technology, offering improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The B6 powertrain in our test vehicle delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle handled well, with minimal roll through corners, and provided a quiet cabin thanks to excellent insulation. The XC90's brakes were confidence-inspiring, and while it lacked extensive off-road features, it offered a straightforward driving experience.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue provided a practical alternative to a midsize car, with easy entry and exit, good visibility, and a spacious cargo area. The Platinum trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the rear seat comfort was lacking, and the key fob design was frustrating. The Rogue offered 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was elegant but had limited storage space for small items. The second row was comfortable, but accessing the third row was challenging. The XC90 offered 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 65.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. While the XC90 drove like a smaller car, its cargo capacity was less than some competitors.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, satellite radio, and wireless Apple CarPlay. The test vehicle included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display. However, the Alexa Built-in system struggled with voice recognition, leading to some frustration.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's infotainment system ran on Google OS, featuring a 9-inch vertical touchscreen. It included Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant, offering excellent natural-language recognition. However, many functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, which could be frustrating for some users. Despite this, the system's integration with Google Home devices was a notable advantage.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came equipped with 10 airbags, Safety Shield 360, and ProPilot Assist with Navi-link. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, it received lower scores in some crash tests.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist technology. It received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, making it one of the safest vehicles on the road.