2024 Nissan Rogue vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from the brand's past design ethos, which was often likened to utilitarian appliances. This model showcased a purposeful yet understated aesthetic, with a stout front end and an assertive grille that avoided being overly flashy. The signature "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, distinguishing it from the boxy Volvos of the past. The XC90's rectilinear dimensions were complemented by 21-inch wheels that added a hint of drama to its otherwise stoic appearance. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with its two-tone leather steering wheel, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist interior design was enhanced by wood deco inlays, creating a serene and sophisticated cabin environment.

In contrast, the 2024 Nissan Rogue underwent its first major styling update since its 2021 launch, maintaining its lineup of S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims. The Rogue featured a new, larger grille that seamlessly integrated with its distinctive stack headlights and daytime running lights. The rear fascia saw minor changes, with redesigned inner taillight elements. The Rogue SV received new 18-inch wheels, while the Platinum trim boasted 19-inch wheels with a machined finish and additional black exterior trim. Inside, the Rogue's dashboard was updated to accommodate a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, giving it a more premium feel. The Rogue Platinum's interior was further elevated with leather seats featuring quilted stitching, offering a refined cabin experience.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines, replacing the older T5 and T6 powertrains. These new engines incorporated mild-hybrid technology, offering improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The B5 engine, with a turbocharger and 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The B6 powertrain, similar to the T6, utilized both a supercharger and turbocharger, delivering 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Despite not being full hybrids, these powertrains provided a refined driving experience with minimal fuel-saving auto stop-start technology. The XC90's eight-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth acceleration, while its brakes offered a solid pedal feel. The XC90's driving dynamics were straightforward, with limited customizable driving modes, but it handled well in various conditions, including a New Hampshire snowstorm.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, part of Nissan's VC-Turbo lineup, which allowed for variable compression ratios to optimize power or fuel economy. This engine delivered 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, outperforming many competitors in its class. However, the Rogue's continuously variable transmission (CVT) was less impressive, often slow to transfer power to the wheels. The Rogue's suspension felt firmer than expected, affecting ride quality without enhancing handling. Despite its engine's performance, the Rogue's overall driving experience was not as engaging as some rivals, though it did offer a quiet cabin.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 offered a peaceful and pleasant front-seat experience, though its Scandinavian minimalism led to limited storage space. The XC90 lacked a dedicated cell phone space, and its small center console bin housed the USB port. While the second row was comfortable, accessing the third row was challenging, especially with the standard seven-passenger seating. The XC90 provided 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. Despite its smaller size compared to typical three-row SUVs, the XC90 drove like a more compact vehicle.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue offered competitive passenger space, with legroom variations among rivals. Its cargo space measured 36.5 cubic feet with rear seats in place and 74.1 cubic feet with them folded, falling short of some competitors but exceeding others. The Rogue featured the optional Divide-N-Hide system for flexible cargo configurations and a molded space for grocery bags. The center console provided a pass-through space, though accessing the floor-level storage tray was awkward.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch vertically positioned touchscreen running Google OS, the first standard infotainment system of its kind. It integrated Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant, with natural-language recognition enhancing user experience. However, many functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, leading to some frustration. While the minimalist design was appealing, more physical controls would have been appreciated for ease of use.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue offered an 8-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on lower trims, while SL and Platinum models received a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity. The Rogue was the first Nissan to feature Google built-in software, integrating Google Maps, Assistant, and Play store apps. This setup provided streamlined connectivity for Google users, though it required a vehicle data plan for third-party apps. The dual 12.3-inch screen setup improved graphics and menu navigation, though the touchscreen occasionally experienced slow boot-up times. The Rogue included multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad on higher trims, with an extended free trial for Nissan Connect Services.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS in 2022. It featured advanced driver safety tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, which combined to support Volvo's Pilot Assist technology. These safety features were standard on the XC90, enhancing its reputation as a safe vehicle.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue received good safety scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with driver assist features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist, an advanced driver assistance system with automated lane centering and navigation-based speed adjustments.