2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2024 Chevrolet Trax

The Chevrolet Trax is technically a subcompact crossover, meaning it’s not a direct competitor of the compact Nissan Rogue. However, it’s still interesting to compare the two. The 2023 Nissan Rogue plays a pivotal role in Nissan's lineup. Following a comprehensive redesign and the subsequent introduction of a new turbocharged engine, the Rogue continued to evolve with offerings like the Midnight Edition package and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Despite these enhancements, the Rogue navigated a competitive landscape chock full of formidable rivals. The 2024 Chevrolet Trax marked a significant departure from its first-generation, no-frills persona with a complete overhaul that transforms it into a larger, more stylish, and tech-equipped vehicle. Aimed at retaining owners of discontinued Chevy small cars while competing in the subcompact crossover segment, the Trax introduced a range of trim levels and designs intended to offer a blend of affordability and modern features.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue's performance is rated 7 out of 10, with its turbocharged 1.5-liter engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) setup providing a blend of efficiency and responsiveness, albeit with some drawbacks in refinement and highway passing power. Its advanced suspension and driving aids contribute to a composed ride, though it falls short in terms of steering feel and tire grip. The 2024 Chevrolet Trax, scoring an 8 out of 10 for performance, introduces a smaller 1.2-liter turbocharged engine that, despite lower horsepower, offers a quicker acceleration and a more engaging drive compared to its predecessor. The Trax's car-like handling and improved noise cancellation techniques reflect Chevy's focus on delivering a refined and enjoyable driving experience in a subcompact crossover format.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, scoring a 7 out of 10, serves as a practical family vehicle with its spacious and comfortable interior. It is designed to replace traditional family cars, offering easier access, better visibility, and the versatility of available AWD. The Rogue accommodates four people comfortably, with space for a fifth if necessary. Premium features like triple-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof enhance its appeal. The Rogue’s cargo capacity stands out, offering up to 36.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, which can be expanded to 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down, thanks to Nissan's Divide-N-Hide cargo system. Despite its many advantages, the Rogue's design has some ergonomic oversights, and rear seat comfort could be improved. In comparison, the 2024 Chevrolet Trax receives an 8 out of 10 rating and showcases a notable improvement in interior space utilization, despite its overall larger size not uniformly translating into increased interior dimensions. The new Trax offers three more inches of rear-seat legroom and a modest increase in front-seat legroom, but experiences a slight decrease in headroom and shoulder room. It boasts a cargo space of 25.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up, expanding to 54.1 cubic feet with the seats folded, reflecting a thoughtful balance between passenger comfort and luggage capacity. The Trax also introduces a more car-like driving position and excellent outward visibility, emphasizing its appeal as a practical yet compact crossover choice.

The Rogue's technology offering receives a 7 out of 10, with its aging infotainment system in need of an update despite the addition of new features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa. The 2024 Trax surpasses the Rogue with a 9 out of 10 rating, thanks to its standard and available tech features, including larger touchscreens, digital instrument clusters, and wireless connectivity options, setting a new standard for the segment.

Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, with the 2023 Nissan Rogue and the 2024 Chevrolet Trax each scoring a 7 out of 10. The Rogue's extensive driver-assistance technologies and strong safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlight its commitment to safety. The Trax offers a solid array of standard and optional safety features, keeping in line with Chevy's focus on safety across its model range.

The Rogue's value proposition is challenged by its 4 out of 10 rating, highlighting the need for Nissan to enhance its offerings with better maintenance, warranty terms, and electrified options to stay competitive. Conversely, the Trax shines in this category with a 9 out of 10 rating, offering impressive fuel economy, competitive pricing, and a strong warranty, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.