2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2024 Ford Escape

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was designed with a focus on appealing aesthetics and practical proportions. It featured chiseled styling and SUV detailing that conveyed a rugged sense of purpose. The Rogue lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from $27,360 to $37,140, plus a $1,295 destination charge. The Platinum trim, which we tested, came loaded with upscale features, including diamond-pattern leather seats and a host of premium options, pushing the MSRP to $43,100.

In contrast, the 2024 Ford Escape received a significant facelift in 2023, which carried over into the 2024 model. The front end was restyled for a more aggressive look, while the rest of the SUV retained a soft, generic appearance. The Escape was available in Active, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, Platinum, and Plug-in Hybrid trims, with prices ranging from $29,345 to $40,500, excluding a $1,495 destination charge. Our test vehicle, the ST-Line Elite, featured Rapid Red paint, black 19-inch wheels, and a Premium Technology Package, bringing the total price to $43,650.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with variable compression, producing 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), the Rogue offered front-wheel drive as standard, with optional all-wheel drive (AWD). The Rogue's driving modes included Eco, Auto, and Sport, with AWD models adding Off-Road and Snow modes. Despite its responsive performance in urban settings, the Rogue lacked passing power on the highway and had a somewhat unrefined engine character. The EPA estimated fuel economy at 31 mpg combined, but our test vehicle averaged 28.9 mpg.

The 2024 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite offered a choice between a 192-horsepower hybrid powertrain and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Our test vehicle had the turbo engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The Escape's driving modes included Eco, Normal, Sport, and Slippery, but it lacked an Off-Road mode. The turbocharged engine provided quick acceleration, but the overall driving dynamics did not match the sporty appearance. The Escape averaged 24.1 mpg on our testing route, falling short of the EPA's 26 mpg estimate.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was designed as a family-friendly compact SUV, offering ample space for four passengers and the ability to accommodate a fifth. Our Platinum trim test vehicle featured premium semi-aniline leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Rogue's rear doors opened to a nearly 90-degree angle, making it easy to load and unload passengers. However, the rear seat comfort was lacking, and the key fob design was frustrating. Cargo space was generous, with up to 36.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2024 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite had a black interior with cloth inserts and artificial leather bolsters, accented by red stitching. Our test vehicle included ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats, but lacked ventilated seats. The front seats were large and supportive, while the rear seats were comfortable when slid back. Interior storage was ample in the front but limited for rear passengers. The Escape offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. Our test vehicle had the 9-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system. The system included a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a head-up display (HUD). However, the voice recognition system was unreliable, and the key fob design was problematic.

The 2024 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite boasted a 13.2-inch Sync 4 infotainment system with a landscape format, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. The digital instrument display measured 12.3 inches, and the vehicle included an optional HUD. While the infotainment system was intuitive, it had a washed-out color theme and integrated climate controls that were less user-friendly. The voice recognition system performed well, but the wireless charger overheated our test phone.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came equipped with Safety Shield 360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist with Navi-link, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received lower scores in some specific tests.

The 2024 Ford Escape featured Ford Co-Pilot360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Our ST-Line Elite test vehicle added adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and a 360-degree camera system. The Escape earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. The IIHS had not yet rated the 2024 model at the time of writing.