Quick summary
- In terms of fuel efficiency, the Nissan Rogue with the base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- The Subaru Outback with the base engine earns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged Outback gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
- However, if you value a more comfortable ride, better ground clearance, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the Subaru Outback may be the better option for you.
The Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback are two of the most popular compact SUVs on the market, and for good reason. Both offer a comfortable ride, plenty of cargo space, and a variety of features that make them ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison guide, we’ll pit the Nissan Rogue against the Subaru Outback in a head-to-head matchup to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Efficiency: A Duel of Power and Economy
Under the hood, the Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback offer different engine options to cater to varying driving needs. The Rogue comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is available, generating 248 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque.
The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, features a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It also offers a more potent 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Nissan Rogue with the base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged Rogue gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The Subaru Outback with the base engine earns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged Outback gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Capability and Versatility: Exploring Rugged Terrain and Urban Streets
When it comes to capability, the Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback both offer all-wheel drive systems for enhanced traction and stability in various conditions. However, the Subaru Outback has a slight edge in terms of ground clearance, with 8.7 inches compared to the Rogue’s 8.2 inches. This additional ground clearance can be beneficial when tackling rough terrain or navigating snowy roads.
In terms of cargo space, the Nissan Rogue offers 39.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Subaru Outback provides slightly more cargo room, with 35.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Interior Comfort and Convenience: A Haven of Refinement and Technology
Inside, the Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback offer comfortable and well-equipped cabins. Both vehicles feature a variety of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The Rogue has a slightly larger touchscreen at 8 inches compared to the Outback’s 7-inch display.
In terms of seating space, the Rogue offers more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. However, the Outback provides a more comfortable ride quality, thanks to its softer suspension and well-cushioned seats.
Safety Features: Protecting Your Precious Cargo
The Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback both come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Rogue offers additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Outback, on the other hand, features a standard EyeSight suite of safety technologies, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking.
Price and Value: Weighing the Scales of Affordability and Features
The Nissan Rogue has a starting price of $26,500, while the Subaru Outback starts at $27,845. When comparing similarly equipped models, the Rogue offers a slight price advantage over the Outback. However, the Outback comes standard with more safety features, which may be worth the extra cost for some buyers.
Which One Should You Choose? Decoding Your Needs and Preferences
Ultimately, the decision between the Nissan Rogue and Subaru Outback depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, a spacious interior, and a lower price, the Nissan Rogue is a compelling choice. However, if you value a more comfortable ride, better ground clearance, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the Subaru Outback may be the better option for you.
A Final Verdict: Unveiling the Victor
After a thorough comparison, the Subaru Outback emerges as the winner in this matchup. Its superior ride quality, better ground clearance, and more comprehensive safety features make it a more well-rounded choice for those seeking a compact SUV that excels in both urban and outdoor environments.
Frequently Asked Questions: Unraveling Common Queries
Q1. Which vehicle has a better fuel economy rating?
A1. The Nissan Rogue offers slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Outback, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway compared to the Outback’s 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Q2. Does the Nissan Rogue offer more cargo space than the Subaru Outback?
A2. The Subaru Outback provides slightly more cargo space than the Nissan Rogue, with 35.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down compared to the Rogue’s 39.3 cubic feet and 74.1 cubic feet, respectively.
Q3. Which vehicle has a more comfortable ride quality?
A3. The Subaru Outback offers a more comfortable ride quality than the Nissan Rogue, thanks to its softer suspension and well-cushioned seats.