2024 Nissan Rogue vs 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe presented a more conservative exterior design compared to some of Hyundai's recent models. While it maintained an attractive appearance, it lacked the standout looks of other vehicles in the brand's lineup. This design approach was set to change with the upcoming 2024 redesign. The 2023 model continued with the same look as the 2022 version, offering a five-passenger configuration across four trim levels in Canada, all featuring standard all-wheel drive. The U.S.-spec Ultimate Calligraphy trim, tested in Stormy Sea paint, showcased a distinctive wide grille and thin LED headlights, though the overall design quickly normalized. Inside, the black leather interior of the Calligraphy trim was high-quality but dark, with Nappa leather seats providing comfort and style. Heated and cooled front seats were standard, enhancing the driving experience in varying weather conditions.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue underwent its first major styling update since the 2021 model year. The new design featured a larger grille that blended seamlessly with the stack headlights and daytime running lights, while the rear fascia received minor updates. The Rogue's exterior was further enhanced with satin-finish badging and new wheel designs, with the top Platinum grade offering additional black trim and an optional black roof. Inside, the dashboard was updated to accommodate a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, giving the Rogue a more premium feel. The Rogue Platinum test car featured leather seats with quilted stitching, and the interior design was upscale, though the leather upholstery felt more refined than some competitors. Despite the engine's impressive performance, the Rogue's ride quality was firm, and the exhaust note was less appealing.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe offered two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged version delivering 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged engine, available in the Urban and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, provided a significant performance boost, with immediate acceleration and no discernible turbo lag. The eight-speed "wet" dual-clutch automatic transmission contributed to a smooth driving experience, with no low-speed clunkiness. The Santa Fe's drive-mode selector allowed for customization, and the vehicle handled well, with minimal body lean during cornering. Towing capacity varied between 907 kilograms for the non-turbo version and 1,587 kilograms for the turbo version, with trailer brakes required for maximum capacity.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, part of Nissan's VC-Turbo lineup, capable of varying its compression ratio for optimal power or fuel economy. With 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, the Rogue's engine outperformed many competitors in its class. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was slow to transfer power to the wheels, detracting from the engine's potential. The Rogue's suspension was firmer than expected, affecting ride quality without improving handling. While the engine's performance was commendable, the exhaust note was less so, and the Rogue's overall driving experience fell short of expectations.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe prioritized spaciousness by offering a two-row configuration, resulting in generous rear-seat legroom of 1,060 millimetres and competitive cargo space of 1,032 litres behind the second row. Folding the rear seats expanded the cargo area to 2,041 litres, with additional underfloor storage. The Santa Fe's interior featured comfortable seating, with an eight-way power driver's seat and heated front seats as standard. Higher trims included advanced features like a hands-free smart liftgate, ventilated front seats, and a head-up display. The panoramic sunroof was a highlight, though the driver's seat height adjustment could be problematic for some.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue offered similar passenger space to its competitors, with slight variations in legroom. Cargo space was competitive, with a maximum of 1,033 litres with the rear seats in place and 2,098 litres with the seats folded. The optional Divide-N-Hide system provided flexibility in cargo management, and the Rogue featured a power liftgate on higher trims. The centre console offered additional storage, though accessing the lower tray was awkward. Overall, the Rogue's interior was well-designed, with thoughtful features to maximize space.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in technology, offering a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims. The digital instrument cluster varied in size, with the larger 12.3-inch display available on Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy trims. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though voice recognition had mixed results. The Santa Fe's technology package was comprehensive, with numerous customization options.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue introduced a 12.3-inch touchscreen on SL and Platinum models, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Google built-in apps. The dual 12.3-inch screen setup improved the infotainment experience, though the system was occasionally slow to boot up. The Rogue offered multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad on higher trims. Nissan Connect Services extended its free trial period, providing connectivity features like remote door lock/unlock and vehicle health reports.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added Highway Driving Assist, enhancing adaptive cruise control. The Santa Fe received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, earning a five-star overall rating and a "Top Safety Pick+" designation.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue also received strong safety ratings, with top scores in several IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. ProPilot Assist, available on higher trims, offered advanced driver assistance capabilities, though it required driver engagement.