2024 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2023 Nissan Rogue presented itself as an SUV that prioritized appealing aesthetics without taking significant design risks. With its balanced proportions, chiseled styling, and purposeful SUV detailing, it exuded a sense of rugged refinement that many found attractive. Offered in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trim levels, the Rogue catered to various preferences, with prices ranging from $27,360 to $37,140, not including the $1,295 destination charge. Higher trim levels like the Platinum, especially when loaded with options including AWD and Premium packages, climbed to $43,100.

The Platinum trim showcased upscale features such as soft, supple, diamond-pattern leather seats, a mix of high-quality materials, and thoughtful control layouts, enhancing the Rogue’s luxurious feel. Nissan's attention to such details made the Rogue a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, on the other hand, maintained a familiar look akin to its 2023 predecessor but introduced new sheet metal, chassis tweaks, and additional colors like Sun Blaze and Sapphire Blue. The Wilderness trim added a unique Geyser Blue option, complementing its rugged outdoor-oriented enhancements.

While the Crosstrek’s wheelbase and overall dimensions remained largely unchanged, a steeper departure angle and minor reductions in cargo space were introduced. The base trim featured 17-inch alloy wheels and standard roof rails from the Premium trim upwards, accentuating its outdoorsy appeal. Furthermore, the Wilderness trim level stood out with exclusive design elements such as a hexagonal front grille, increased ground clearance to 9.3 inches, and a ladder-style roof rack capable of supporting substantial loads. StarTex synthetic leather and copper accents adorned the interior, delivering both practicality and style.

In essence, while the Rogue emphasized a sleek, luxurious look, the Crosstrek struck a balance between familiar design and functional enhancements suited for adventure.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue underwent a significant powertrain update, transitioning from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with Nissan’s exclusive variable compression (VC) technology. This new VC-Turbo engine produced 201 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 225 pound-feet of torque between 2,800 and 4,000 rpm, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite its innovative design aimed at providing a blend of performance and fuel efficiency, the engine’s character received mixed reviews. While the Rogue felt responsive in urban settings, the engine's unusual sound and vibration through the pedal might have detracted from the overall driving experience for some.

Different driving modes (Eco, Auto, Sport) added versatility, and AWD versions included Off-Road and Snow modes. Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control contributed to a balanced ride, despite some lifeless steering feedback and occasional tire noise issues. Fuel efficiency fell short of expectations, averaging 28.9 mpg against an EPA rating of 31 mpg combined.

Conversely, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek carried forward its reliable 2.5-liter flat-four engine, offering 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, now standard on the Wilderness trim as well. A smaller 2.0-liter engine with 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque was available on the base and Premium trims, each mated to a refined CVT that included simulated shift points. Despite the general shortcomings in acceleration across all trims, the larger engine provided a marginally better driving experience, particularly in the Wilderness trim.

The Wilderness model’s shorter final-drive ratio enhanced uphill and off-road capabilities while increasing road noise and reducing fuel efficiency. Moreover, the emphasis on improving engine vibration and shuddering made for a smoother ride. Subaru’s X-Mode traction management system was standard, providing enhanced grip on challenging terrains. Fuel economy varied by trim, with the Wilderness at 25 mpg city and 27 mpg combined, reflecting a modest decrease due to its robust off-road setup.

Overall, the Rogue offered a more responsive urban drive, while the Crosstrek leaned towards rugged outdoor reliability.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue excelled as a practical alternative to a midsize car, appealing to families with its higher ground clearance, easier ingress and egress, and spacious cargo area. The Platinum test vehicle featured luxurious amenities such as triple-zone automatic climate control, a dual-panel panoramic sunroof, and premium leather upholstery. Comfort was a notable strength, with Nissan’s Zero Gravity seat design offering substantial support. However, the rear seats, although roomy, fell short in comfort compared to the front.

Storage solutions were abundant but lacked lining, potentially causing noise issues. The Rogue’s rear doors opened wide, facilitating easy access. Cargo-wise, the Rogue offered 36.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with seats folded, enhanced by the Divide-N-Hide system for versatile cargo configurations.

In contrast, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, built on the Impreza platform, was adept at balancing compact dimensions with utility. While smaller than the Nissan Rogue, it presented competitive cargo space with 19.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 54.7 cubic feet with seats folded, albeit less than its larger competitors like the Honda CR-V. Yet, thoughtful interior design compensated for its size, with durable, easy-to-clean materials, a protective cargo tray, and storage solutions designed for outdoor enthusiasts, including space for large Nalgene bottles. The Wilderness trim further augmented cargo functionality with features like Nalgene cupholders and all-weather mats.

In summary, both models provided practical storage and comfort, with the Rogue offering more sheer space and luxury, whereas the Crosstrek focused on durable, adventure-ready interior design.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue’s technology package was anchored by an aging infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen. Despite the larger touchscreen's availability, voice recognition through Alexa Built-in proved lackluster, struggling with basic tasks. However, the infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and navigation, supplemented by a Bose premium audio system in higher trims.

The Rogue also boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a HUD, enhancing the driving experience, albeit with some operational hiccups during testing.

Conversely, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek stepped up its technological offerings with an eye-catching 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen, standard on all trims except the Base. Its vivid display and retained physical controls for essential functions were user-friendly, despite occasional glare issues and menu complexity. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across higher trims, along with optional wireless charging.

Nevertheless, Subaru's decision to remove certain features in states with Right to Repair laws, such as Massachusetts, was notable. Despite this, the Crosstrek’s overall tech suite remained robust.

In summary, the Crosstrek’s infotainment system offered a more modern and user-friendly interface compared to the Rogue’s dated setup.