
Find Your Perfect SUV
When it comes to compact SUVs, two vehicles consistently top the list: the Nissan Rogue and the Toyota RAV4. The Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 are two of the most popular compact SUVs in the market. These vehicles are known for their everyday practicality, strong safety ratings, and modern tech, making them standout choices in the segment. Buyers looking for a new vehicle often compare these two models, as they excel in key categories such as safety, efficiency, and comfort. Compared to traditional cars, these compact SUVs offer greater versatility and appeal, which is why many drivers are making the switch from sedans to SUVs. In this side-by-side comparison of the Nissan Rogue vs. Toyota RAV4, we’ll explore key specs, dimensions, fuel efficiency, and standout features to help you decide which SUV is the better fit. And if you’re leaning toward the Nissan Rogue, you’re not alone—this smart and stylish SUV continues to win over drivers here at Crossroads Nissan of Wake Forest.
Interior Space & Comfort: Nissan Rogue Takes the Lead
If interior comfort and clever design are priorities, the Nissan Rogue vs. Toyota RAV4 dimensions tell an important story. The Nissan Rogue delivers a spacious, more refined experience for both driver and passengers. With up to 105.4 cu.ft. of passenger volume, the Nissan Rogue feels open and inviting, especially in the rear seats where legroom outpaces that of the Toyota RAV4. Both SUVs offer seating capacity for five passengers. The Nissan Rogue’s front seats are notably comfortable and supportive, while the Toyota RAV4’s front seats are also well-designed but may feel less spacious.
The Toyota RAV4 offers 98.9 cu.ft. of passenger space, and while cargo space is similar between the two, the Nissan Rogue’s Divide-N-Hide® storage system adds smart versatility you won’t find in the Toyota RAV4. Leather upholstery and heated seats are offered as premium options in higher trims of the Nissan Rogue, enhancing comfort and luxury. The Nissan Rogue provides up to 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Toyota RAV4 offers similar cargo space, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. For families, road-trippers, or weekend warriors, the Nissan Rogue simply offers a more comfortable and flexible interior.
Efficiency That Doesn’t Compromise Power
Comparing the Nissan Rogue vs. Toyota RAV4 gas mileage, both vehicles offer strong performance, with the Nissan Rogue’s engine featuring a turbocharged 1.5L VC-Turbo® system that produces 201 horsepower and 225 lb.-ft. of torque, while the Toyota RAV4’s engine delivers 203 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. The Nissan Rogue stands out as a fuel efficient option in its segment, offering impressive efficiency with up to 30 MPG city and 37 MPG highway according to EPA ratings—excellent numbers for a non-hybrid SUV.* The Toyota RAV4’s standard gas engine earns 27 MPG city and 35 MPG highway per EPA ratings, slightly behind in both categories.
Both the Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 are available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, with AWD versions providing enhanced capability for off-road and challenging conditions, though AWD versions typically see a slight decrease in fuel economy compared to front-wheel drive models. These wheel drive options allow buyers to choose the right balance of efficiency and capability. The Nissan Rogue’s engine, with its advanced turbocharged system, delivers responsive acceleration and strong torque, making it well-suited for a variety of driving situations. When it comes to towing, the Toyota RAV4 hybrid model offers a higher towing capacity than the Nissan Rogue, giving it an edge for those who need to haul heavier loads, though the gas towing capacity is the same as the Nissan Rogue’s.
The Nissan Rogue also benefits from responsive acceleration thanks to its variable compression turbo technology, which balances fuel economy and power on the fly. In terms of everyday drivability and efficiency, the Nissan Rogue hits the sweet spot.
Features & Technology: Innovation Where It Counts
Both SUVs are well equipped with advanced technology and safety features, but the Nissan Rogue’s features are more intuitive and upscale. When comparing standard features, the Nissan Rogue includes Nissan Safety Shield® 360 with Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, and more as standard across all trim levels. Some features, such as a heated steering wheel and advanced infotainment upgrades, are optional and available in higher trim levels. Higher trims add ProPILOT Assist 2.1, giving you semi-autonomous driving support for stress-free highway commutes.
The Toyota RAV4 also includes Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5 as part of its standard features, but features like Adaptive Cruise Control are optional and require a step up in trim level or package selection. Both vehicles offer Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® for seamless connectivity. The availability of a heated steering wheel as a premium feature further distinguishes higher trims. In terms of interface, the Nissan Rogue’s available 12.3-inch digital dashboard, head-up display, and Amazon Alexa® Built-In offer more flexibility and personalization than the Toyota RAV4’s system.
Nissan Rogue Offers More Where It Matters
In the Toyota RAV4 vs. Nissan Rogue specs breakdown, both SUVs bring a lot to the table, but when it comes to finding the clear winner, the Nissan Rogue often stands out with smarter design, better fuel economy, a more refined ride, and strong reliability—key factors for many buyers. Both the Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 have earned high safety ratings, giving you peace of mind on the road. For those seeking adventure and off-road capability, the Nissan Rogue Rock Creek® offers features like a black tubular roof rack, all-terrain tires, Off-oad Mode, and increased ground clearance, while the Toyota RAV4’s off-road trims provide a Multi-errain Select dial that includes MUD mode and specialized hardware for rugged terrain. Entry-level shoppers will appreciate the value and features found in the Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Rogue base trims.
Ready to make your move? Test-drive the Nissan Rogue at Crossroads Nissan of Wake Forest and see firsthand why more drivers are choosing the Nissan Rogue over the Toyota RAV4.
*EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions—use for comparison only.

