Skip to main content

Sometimes the Nissan Rogue feels like an underdog against the popular Toyota RAV4. While it has fewer sales and gets less attention, the 2023 Nissan Rogue should actually be in the spotlight. See where it pulls ahead of the 2023 Toyota RAV4. 

2023 Nissan Rogue vs. 2023 Toyota RAV4: Which is better?

The 2023 Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 actually have a lot in common. For example, they are similar in size, power, and passenger space. But each SUV has unique advantages to consider as well. 

For example, the RAV4 is better suited for off-roading, while the Rogue is more comfortable for taller drivers. It also starts a bit cheaper with an MSRP of $27,360. The RAV4 has an MSRP of $28,275. That’s a small win, but it still works in the Rogue’s favor. 

1. Is the Nissan Rogue bigger than the Toyota RAV4? 

The 2023 Nissan Rogue is slightly longer than the 2023 Toyota RAV, and the Rav4 is about an inch wider. The extra space in the Rogue makes it more comfortable for taller drivers and passengers up front. It has a little more leg space in the rear. 

With the Rouge, you get up to 36.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 74.1 cubes in total. The RAV4 has 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 69.8 cubic feet overall. 

So the Rogue is bigger in terms of passenger and cargo space, but the RAV4 can tow more. It can haul up to 3,500 lbs, while the Rogue maxes out at 1,500 lbs. 

2. Is the Rogue more comfortable than the RAV4? 

The 2023 Nissan Rogue on the pavement
2023 Nissan Rogue | Nissan

According to a few critics, like NewCars, the 2023 Nissan Rogue is more comfortable than the 2023 Toyota RAV4. Some of the extra comfort is attributed to the extra head and leg space in the Rogue. 

The RAV4’s seats may feel stiff after long drives, and the passenger doesn’t have enough adjustment controls to find the perfect riding position. Plus, it has tri-zone climate control, which is rare for SUVs in its class. 

Also, the RAV4 sounds a bit louder at highway speeds. The engine can sound course while accelerating. But it handles well. Both SUVs absorb impacts well for a drama-free commute, and the Rogue is easier to access. 

3. Is the 2023 Rogue sportier than the RAV4? 

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 parked on display
2023 Toyota RAV4 | Toyota

The 2023 Nissan Rogue is a smidge sportier than the 2023 Toyota RAV4, but don’t expect either option to ride like a sports car. The Rogue’s 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine cranks out 201 hp and 225 lb-ft of torque. 

With the RAV4, you get a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 184 lb-ft of torque. The Rogue can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds, and the RAV4 gets there in roughly 9.1 seconds. 

While both SUVs suffer from vague steering, the Rogue has a tighter turning radius. Sometimes the Rogue can be slow to respond while accelerating, and at times the RAV4 can feel confused while hunting for the right gear. But the RAV4 has a hybrid and PHEV option, while the Rogue only has one gas engine. 

These SUVs are similar in price, performance, and size. The Rogue has more space, comfort, and athleticism. However, the RAV4 can tow more and is better for off-roading.