Quick summary
- The Rogue returns an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the RDX gets 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
- Both the Nissan Rogue and Acura RDX come equipped with a range of advanced safety features to keep occupants protected on the road.
- The RDX, on the other hand, provides more power, a more refined interior, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features, but it comes with a higher price tag.
When it comes to choosing a compact SUV, two models that often come to mind are the Nissan Rogue and the Acura RDX. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality, making them popular choices among car buyers. But which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Nissan Rogue against the Acura RDX to determine which compact SUV emerges victorious.
Performance and Efficiency: A Battle of Power and Fuel Economy
The Nissan Rogue and Acura RDX offer distinct powertrains that cater to different driving styles and needs. The Rogue comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient power delivery.
The Acura RDX, on the other hand, boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates a more impressive 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission that offers quick and responsive shifts.
In terms of fuel economy, the Nissan Rogue has a slight edge over the Acura RDX. The Rogue returns an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the RDX gets 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Interior Space and Comfort: Roominess and Refinement Compared
When it comes to interior space, the Nissan Rogue and Acura RDX offer generous accommodations for passengers and cargo. Both vehicles have ample legroom and headroom in both rows of seats, making them comfortable for long road trips or daily commutes.
The Rogue provides 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The RDX offers slightly less cargo space, with 31.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 79.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
In terms of interior refinement, the Acura RDX has a slight edge over the Nissan Rogue. The RDX’s cabin is adorned with higher-quality materials and features a more sophisticated design. It also comes standard with a larger touchscreen infotainment system and a more comprehensive suite of driver assistance features.
Safety Features: Advanced Technologies for Peace of Mind
Both the Nissan Rogue and Acura RDX come equipped with a range of advanced safety features to keep occupants protected on the road. Standard safety features on the Rogue include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
The RDX takes safety to the next level with a more comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and a surround-view camera system. It also offers a wider range of available safety features, such as a head-up display and a blind-spot intervention system.
Driving Dynamics: Handling and Performance Put to the Test
The Nissan Rogue and Acura RDX offer distinct driving experiences that cater to different preferences. The Rogue is known for its comfortable and composed ride quality, making it a great choice for daily commutes and long road trips. It also handles well, with responsive steering and predictable handling.
The Acura RDX, on the other hand, offers a more engaging driving experience. Its turbocharged engine provides plenty of power for spirited acceleration, and its sport-tuned suspension delivers agile handling and precise cornering.
Price and Value: Comparing the Bottom Line
The Nissan Rogue has a starting price of $26,500, while the Acura RDX starts at $40,600. This significant price difference reflects the RDX’s more powerful engine, more refined interior, and more comprehensive suite of safety features.
Which One is Right for You? Making the Final Decision
The Nissan Rogue and Acura RDX are both excellent compact SUVs with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Rogue offers a comfortable ride, good fuel economy, and a spacious interior at an affordable price. The RDX, on the other hand, provides more power, a more refined interior, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features, but it comes with a higher price tag.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a comfortable and fuel-efficient SUV for everyday use, the Nissan Rogue is a great option. If you’re looking for a more powerful and engaging SUV with a luxurious interior and advanced safety features, the Acura RDX is worth considering.
Summary: Choosing the Ideal Compact SUV for Your Needs
The Nissan Rogue and Acura RDX are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality. While the Rogue is a great choice for those seeking a comfortable and affordable SUV, the RDX is the better choice for those who prioritize power, refinement, and safety. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Nissan Rogue or the Acura RDX?
A: The Nissan Rogue has better fuel economy than the Acura RDX. The Rogue returns an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the RDX gets 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space, the Nissan Rogue or the Acura RDX?
A: The Nissan Rogue has more cargo space than the Acura RDX. The Rogue provides 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The RDX offers slightly less cargo space, with 31.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 79.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Q: Which SUV has more powerful performance, the Nissan Rogue or the Acura RDX?
A: The Acura RDX has more powerful performance than the Nissan Rogue. The RDX’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, compared to the Rogue’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque.