What To Know
- The Xterra comes equipped with a wide range of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a CD player.
- The Rogue offers a more extensive list of standard features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
- The Rogue’s more efficient engine delivers improved fuel economy, with an estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.
When it comes to rugged and adventure-ready SUVs, the Nissan Xterra and Rogue stand out as top contenders. Both vehicles offer exceptional capabilities, but they also have distinct characteristics that cater to different needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Nissan Xterra vs Rogue, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and which one emerges as the ultimate choice for off-road enthusiasts and urban adventurers alike.
Performance and Capabilities
Engine Power and Torque
The Xterra boasts a powerful 4.0L V6 engine, generating 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivers impressive acceleration and towing capacity, making it an ideal choice for hauling heavy loads or tackling challenging terrain.
In contrast, the Rogue offers a more fuel-efficient 2.5L inline-four engine, producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. While it may lack the raw power of the Xterra, the Rogue’s engine provides adequate performance for most everyday driving situations.
Off-Road Prowess
The Xterra excels in off-road environments thanks to its robust body-on-frame construction, high ground clearance, and advanced four-wheel drive system. It features a low-range transfer case, hill descent control, and an optional rear differential lock, allowing it to conquer rugged trails with ease.
The Rogue, on the other hand, is better suited for light off-roading. It offers a standard front-wheel drive system, with an optional all-wheel drive configuration. While not as capable as the Xterra, the Rogue’s all-wheel drive system provides enhanced traction and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces.
Interior and Comfort
Space and Versatility
The Xterra offers a spacious cabin with ample seating for up to five passengers. Its rear seats fold flat, creating a generous cargo area for hauling gear or camping equipment.
The Rogue boasts a more modern and refined interior, with a comfortable and well-appointed cabin. It offers slightly less cargo space than the Xterra, but its rear seats also fold flat, providing ample storage for everyday use.
Features and Amenities
The Xterra comes equipped with a wide range of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a CD player. Higher trim levels add features such as leather upholstery, heated seats, and a sunroof.
The Rogue offers a more extensive list of standard features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Its higher trim levels feature advanced safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
Fuel Economy and Emissions
Gas Mileage
The Xterra’s powerful engine results in lower fuel economy compared to the Rogue. It has an estimated 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway with four-wheel drive.
The Rogue’s more efficient engine delivers improved fuel economy, with an estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.
Emissions
The Xterra’s larger engine produces more emissions than the Rogue. It has an estimated CO2 emissions rating of 316 g/km.
The Rogue’s smaller engine results in lower emissions, with an estimated CO2 emissions rating of 215 g/km.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features
The Xterra offers a range of standard safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Higher trim levels add features such as side curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system.
The Rogue comes standard with a more comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. Its higher trim levels feature advanced safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control and pedestrian detection.
Reliability
Both the Xterra and Rogue have a reputation for reliability. The Xterra has received above-average reliability ratings from J.D. Power and Associates, while the Rogue has consistently ranked among the most reliable compact SUVs on the market.
Price and Value
Starting Price
The Xterra has a lower starting price than the Rogue, with a base price of around $26,000. However, its higher trim levels can approach the price of the Rogue.
The Rogue has a higher starting price of around $27,000. However, its standard features and available safety technologies provide a strong value proposition.
Resale Value
The Xterra has a slightly higher resale value than the Rogue. Its rugged construction and off-road capabilities make it a popular choice among adventure enthusiasts, which helps maintain its value over time.
Ultimate Choice: Which One to Choose?
The choice between the Nissan Xterra vs Rogue ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road performance, towing capacity, and rugged durability, the Xterra is the clear winner.
However, if you seek a more fuel-efficient, comfortable, and feature-packed SUV for everyday use and occasional off-road adventures, the Rogue is an excellent option.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which one has better off-road capabilities?
The Xterra has superior off-road capabilities due to its body-on-frame construction, high ground clearance, and advanced four-wheel drive system.
2. Which one is more fuel-efficient?
The Rogue is more fuel-efficient than the Xterra, with an estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.
3. Which one has a higher resale value?
The Xterra has a slightly higher resale value than the Rogue due to its rugged construction and off-road capabilities.
4. Which one is better for towing?
The Xterra has a higher towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the Rogue has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.
5. Which one has a more spacious interior?
The Xterra has a more spacious cabin and a larger cargo area than the Rogue.
6. Which one has more standard safety features?
The Rogue has more standard safety features than the Xterra, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
7. Which one is more reliable?
Both the Xterra and Rogue have a reputation for reliability, with the Rogue consistently ranking among the most reliable compact SUVs on the market.
8. Which one has a lower starting price?
The Xterra has a lower starting price than the Rogue.
9. Which one has a better warranty?
Both the Xterra and Rogue come with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
10. Which one is better for families?
The Rogue is a better choice for families due to its more comfortable interior, higher safety ratings, and better fuel economy.