Crossover SUVs have taken over the market thanks to their practicality, efficiency, and value pricing. But with so many options available, how do you decide which is right for you?


The best way is to simply start comparing one against the other, test drive, and really get to know each model. To help you throughout your car buying journey, we're going to compare two of the most popular compact crossover SUVs of 2017: the 2017 Nissan Rogue vs. 2017 Toyota RAV4.


Both have made names for themselves, and are most often cross-shopped against each other. So we'll put them both under the microscope to figure out which comes out on top in three key categories that are most important to today's car buyers.


Performance and Fuel Economy


While there are some very small details that affect a car buyer's decision to go with one vehicle over another, two of the most important factors are still performance and fuel economy. You want a vehicle that has the right amount of power, but you want that balanced with great fuel economy as well.


In 2017, though, the competition is neck and neck each and every year for the best numbers in horsepower and fuel economy. Even in a segment like compact crossovers, both Nissan and Toyota understand the importance of winning each section of a comparison like this.

But the battle is extremely close. In performance, the 2017 Nissan Rogue and the 2017 Toyota RAV4 are nearly identical. The Rogue features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 170 hp and 175 lb-ft. of torque. The RAV4 is fitted with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine as well, producing 176 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque.


With performance numbers that close, there's no way to declare a winner. So the real differentiating factor for these two crossover SUVs will be fuel economy. Using the AWD models for both vehicles, here are the numbers:


  • 2017 Nissan Rogue (AWD) - 27 combined mpg (25 city mpg / 32 highway mpg)*

  • 2017 Toyota RAV4 (AWD) - 26 combined mpg (23 city mpg / 30 highway mpg) or 24 combined mpg (22 city mpg / 28 highway mpg) for Limited AWD and SE AWD trim levels.*


While some trim levels of the RAV4 are very close in efficiency to the Rogue, the higher level trims, Limited and SE, bring it down and make the Rogue the clear winner.


Interior Features and Technology


The interior is where most vehicles stand out in 2017. The comfort, technology, and safety features are some of the most important things to buyers. So getting deciding on the best crossover between the 2017 Rogue and 2017 RAV4 means really diving into the interior details.


Both of these vehicles come available with plenty of features that are becoming more and more common, such as heated seats, navigation, and advanced backup cameras and sensors. So instead of just listing off feature after feature, let's look at the unique features and technology available on each vehicle.


2017 Nissan Rogue


  • Power Panoramic Moonroof

  • Premium Leather-Appointed Seats with Quilted Leather Inserts

  • 3rd Row Seats


2017 Toyota RAV4


  • Smart Key System - unlock any door just by touching the handle


We scoured the details for each vehicle to find the key differences, and despite having a higher price tag for comparable models, the RAV4 came up short compared the Rogue. The only unique feature it had over the Rogue was its Smart Key system.


Pricing


Performance, fuel economy, interior features, and technology are all important to you as a car buyer; however, price is still one of the biggest determining factors.


Now, looking at the base price for the 2017 Rogue vs. 2017 RAV4, they're nearly identical. The 2017 Rogue starts at $24,420, while the 2017 RAV4 starts at $24,410. But as we saw in the previous section, it's when you start adding on features that one pulls ahead of the other. And that one is the 2017 Nissan Rogue.


The top-of-the-line Rogue trim is the SL, which starts at $30,360. The advertised starting price for the RAV4 Platinum, its highest available trim level is $34,750. Even after adding in all of the available options, the Rogue SL is still more affordable than the RAV4 Platinum, despite offering more features!


Which is Right for You?


From our comparison, it's clear that the Nissan Rogue is the winner. For available features, more fuel efficiency, and even a better value in overall pricing. What more could you want?


And with its redesigned styling, the Rogue is more than just a value for its features, it's also a value for its luxurious styling. Be sure to visit a Nissan dealer near you to experience the 2017 Nissan Rogue for yourself!