Nissan Rogue vs Subaru Crosstrek

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek retained much of its predecessor's design, yet introduced new elements like fresh sheet metal, a new chassis, and additional color options such as Sun Blaze, Offshore Blue, and Sapphire Blue. The Wilderness trim offered an exclusive Geyser Blue paint job. While the wheelbase and overall length remained similar, the Crosstrek featured a steeper departure angle and slightly reduced cargo space. The base trim came with 17-inch alloy wheels and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it suitable for off-road adventures. Roof rails were standard on higher trims, enhancing its outdoorsy appeal. The front fascia had a unique design with headlights merging into a wing bar, giving it a smiling appearance. Black plastic cladding with air inlets and outlets improved aerodynamics and reduced road noise. The split taillight design allowed for wider trunk access, reflecting Subaru's commitment to continuous improvement. The Wilderness trim added unique exterior elements, increased ground clearance, and a ladder-style roof rack, while the interior featured StarTex synthetic leather and copper accents.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue, particularly in the Platinum trim, showcased a luxurious interior with semi-aniline leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Google built-in capability offered seamless connectivity and navigation. The exterior design featured a blocky shape, large grille, and thin headlights, giving it a bold look. The optional two-tone color combo added a sporty touch. The Rogue Platinum also included advanced features like ProPilot Assist 2.1, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a surround-view parking camera. The Tech Package and Platinum Premium Package further enhanced its offerings with features like a hands-free power liftgate, heated rear seats, and tri-zone climate control.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and a smaller 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Subaru had refined to minimize droning and rubber banding. The Crosstrek Wilderness trim featured a shorter final-drive ratio, improving acceleration and towing capacity to 3,500 pounds. The X-Mode traction management system, standard on all trims, enhanced off-road capabilities. Fuel economy was decent, with the 2.0-liter engine achieving 27 mpg city, 34 highway, and 29 combined, while the 2.5-liter engine offered 26 city, 33 highway, and 29 combined. The Wilderness trim had slightly lower figures due to its off-road focus.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue was powered by a 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, paired with a CVT. While not the most powerful in its class, the engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving. The CVT was smooth and refined, contributing to a pleasant driving experience. The Rogue's steering was light and accurate, though not particularly sporty. Braking was smooth and predictable. The Rogue's AWD system was available on all trims except the Rock Creek, where it was standard. Overall, the Rogue offered a comfortable and composed ride, suitable for both city and highway driving.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, built on the Subaru Impreza platform, offered competitive cargo space and utility for a subcompact SUV. Rear-seat legroom and headroom were adequate, though taller passengers might prefer the front seats. The trunk provided 19.9 cubic feet of space, expandable to 54.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior featured durable materials, with a focus on practicality. The Wilderness trim added adventure-oriented features like Nalgene cupholders and all-weather floor mats.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue boasted a well-designed interior with quilted leather seating and upmarket trim in the Platinum model. The cabin layout was user-friendly, with physical controls for HVAC and other functions. Rear legroom measured 38.5 inches, offering ample space for passengers. The cargo area provided 31.6 cubic feet of space, with the Divide-and-Hide storage system adding versatility. The Rogue's interior was thoughtfully designed, with creative storage solutions like a compartment beneath the center console.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek featured an 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen, standard on all but the Base trim. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. While the system was visually impressive, it suffered from glare in bright sunlight and required navigating through multiple menus for some features. In states with Right to Repair laws, certain features were removed, such as remote start via the Subaru Starlink app.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue's entry-level trims came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, while upper trims featured a 12.3-inch screen with wireless smartphone connectivity. The system was user-friendly, with quick response times and crisp graphics. Google navigation was particularly helpful during detours. ProPilot Assist allowed for hands-free operation on pre-mapped roads, enhancing highway driving. A wireless charging pad was conveniently located at the base of the center console.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek was expected to maintain its strong safety record, with previous models receiving top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. The EyeSight safety system, standard on all trims, included features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The system's wider-angle lens and automatic emergency steering further enhanced safety.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue received a five-star rating from the NHTSA, with the 2024 model scoring well in IIHS tests. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Optional features like ProPilot Assist and a surround-view parking camera added to its safety credentials.