Quick Overview
- With its smaller engine and CVT, the Rogue achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model.
- 0-liter V6 engine returns 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the rear-wheel-drive model, while the all-wheel-drive version gets 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
- Standard features in the Nissan Rogue include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a rearview camera, and a six-speaker sound system.
In the realm of compact SUVs, two formidable contenders stand out – the Nissan Rogue and the Ford Explorer. These vehicles have garnered immense popularity among families and adventure enthusiasts alike. With their spacious interiors, versatile features, and impressive performance, the Nissan Rogue and Ford Explorer have become top choices in the SUV segment. This comprehensive comparison dives into the intricate details of these two exceptional vehicles, helping you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs and preferences best.
Performance and Power
Engine and Powertrain
The Nissan Rogue offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers smooth and efficient power delivery.
The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, boasts a wider range of engine options. The base engine is a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the Explorer offers a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission that provides responsive shifting and enhances overall driving dynamics.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Nissan Rogue takes the lead. With its smaller engine and CVT, the Rogue achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model. The all-wheel-drive version returns 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
The Ford Explorer, with its more powerful engines, has slightly lower fuel efficiency ratings. The base 2.3-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for the rear-wheel-drive model. The all-wheel-drive version gets 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The more potent 3.0-liter V6 engine returns 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the rear-wheel-drive model, while the all-wheel-drive version gets 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
Interior and Comfort
Seating and Space
The Nissan Rogue offers ample seating for up to five passengers. The front seats provide excellent comfort and support, with ample headroom and legroom. The rear seats can accommodate three adults comfortably, with sufficient legroom and headroom. The Rogue’s cargo space is generous, offering 39.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
The Ford Explorer provides more spacious seating for up to seven passengers. The front seats are宽敞的and supportive, with ample adjustments to ensure a comfortable driving position. The second row offers ample legroom and headroom, while the third row is best suited for children or occasional use. The Explorer’s cargo space is impressive, with 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and 87.8 cubic feet with both rows folded down.
Features and Amenities
Both the Nissan Rogue and Ford Explorer offer a wide range of features and amenities to enhance comfort and convenience. Standard features in the Nissan Rogue include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a rearview camera, and a six-speaker sound system. Available features include a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, a Bose premium audio system, and a navigation system.
The Ford Explorer comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a rearview camera, and a six-speaker sound system. Available features include a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and a navigation system.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features
The Nissan Rogue has earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Available safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and a surround-view camera system.
The Ford Explorer has also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Available safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and a surround-view camera system.
Reliability
The Nissan Rogue has a good reliability rating from Consumer Reports, with an average score of 4 out of 5. The Ford Explorer has a slightly lower reliability rating, with an average score of 3 out of 5 from Consumer Reports.
Off-Road Capabilities
All-Wheel Drive Systems
Both the Nissan Rogue and Ford Explorer offer all-wheel drive systems for enhanced traction and stability in challenging conditions. The Nissan Rogue’s all-wheel drive system is designed to automatically engage when needed, sending power to the wheels with the most grip. The Ford Explorer’s all-wheel drive system offers multiple modes, including a 4×4 high mode for slippery surfaces and a 4×4 low mode for extreme off-road conditions.
Ground Clearance
The Nissan Rogue has a ground clearance of 8.2 inches, while the Ford Explorer has a ground clearance of 8.6 inches. This gives the Explorer a slight advantage in tackling rough terrain and obstacles.
Pricing and Value
Starting Prices
The Nissan Rogue has a starting price of $25,750 for the base S trim, while the Ford Explorer starts at $33,240 for the base XL trim. The Rogue offers more value for the price, with a lower starting price and a generous list of standard features.
Top-of-the-Line Models
The top-of-the-line Nissan Rogue SL Platinum trim starts at $35,080, while the top-of-the-line Ford Explorer Platinum trim starts at $56,935. The Explorer Platinum offers more luxury and features, but it comes at a significantly higher price.
Final Note: Which One is Right for You?
The Nissan Rogue and Ford Explorer are both excellent choices for those seeking a spacious and versatile SUV. The Rogue offers a more affordable price, better fuel efficiency, and a good reliability rating. The Explorer provides more powerful engine options, a more spacious interior, and better off-road capabilities. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which SUV has better fuel efficiency, the Nissan Rogue or the Ford Explorer?
A: The Nissan Rogue has better fuel efficiency than the Ford Explorer, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior, the Nissan Rogue or the Ford Explorer?
A: The Ford Explorer has a more spacious interior than the Nissan Rogue, with seating for up to seven passengers and a larger cargo area.
Q: Which SUV has better off-road capabilities, the Nissan Rogue or the Ford Explorer?
A: The Ford Explorer has better off-road capabilities than the Nissan Rogue, with a higher ground clearance and a more advanced all-wheel drive system.