Toyota gets credit for being a pioneer in the crossover SUV market with its Toyota RAV4. Today, the RAV4 faces various competitors, one of the most popular rivals being the Nissan Rogue. As you shop for your ideal crossover, you might wonder, is the Nissan Rogue better than the Toyota RAV4?

The 2020 Nissan Rogue and gentle and smooth

We recognize Nissan’s 2020 Rogue for its comfort and peaceful nature. U.S. News specifically celebrates the Rogue because of its affordability and smoothness on the road. While the Rogue is neither sporty nor fast, it appeals to drivers who want a chill, everyday ride. 

The Rogue features a 170-hp four-cylinder paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission. U.S. News gave the 2020 Rogue its Best New SUV for Teens Award because of its safety ratings and gentle ride quality. But at the same time, reviewers note that the Rogue can feel underpowered as you reach highway speeds. U.S. News also says that the Rogue’s CVT can make the engine drone. 

Regarding fuel economy, the Rogue is average. It has a fuel economy rating of a combined 29 mpg with front-wheel-drive. If you opt for all-wheel-drive, that sacrifices two points. 

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 presents more power and range 

Like the Rogue, Toyota’s RAV4 is known to get loud as you reach higher speeds. But what may draw you toward the RAV4 is that it provides a quicker experience than the Rogue does thanks to its more powerful engine. The RAV4 has a 203-hp four-cylinder linked to an eight-speed automatic. Fuel efficiency is also a highlight of the RAV4.

The standard RAV4 has an above-average fuel economy rating of 30 mpg; AWD drive models get up to a combined 29 mpg. And if fuel efficiency is among your top priorities, there are two electrified RAV4 variants available. The RAV4 Hybrid is among the best EVs to buy, and Toyota has also introduced a new plug-in hybrid option for 2021 called the RAV4 Prime.

As you can tell, the RAV4 has an advantage over the Rogue when it comes to variety. In addition to the optional powertrains, the RAV4 also offers more diverse trim levels. Those interested in hitting the trails might want to consider the new-for-2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road or the Adventure models.

Interior elements 

Both the Rogue and RAV4 boast spacious cabins that can seat up to five passengers and offer upscale amenities. These models are also among the better options for available cargo space, but the Rogue is more generous in this department. On the other hand, the RAV4 earns praise for its modern tech.

As U.S. News highlights, both the Rogue and the RAV4 come standard with infotainment systems that include a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, the RAV4’s system provides sharper graphics. The RAV4 also comes with Amazon Alexa and a wifi hotspot, which is partly why U.S. News named it the Best Compact SUV for Families.

The Rogue and RAV4 are also good options if you value advanced safety features. The two come standard with gadgets such as pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking. Once again, the RAV4 comes with more functions, including traffic sign recognition. 

The final verdict 

A 2020 Rogue begins at $25,490 and a 2020 RAV4 starts at $25,950. While the Rogue is a dependable and pleasant ride, the RAV4 is the more compelling option. The RAV4 offers more power and variety, plus Toyota’s signature reliability.