2023 Nissan Rogue vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was a testament to the brand's commitment to maintaining a classic SUV aesthetic without taking significant design risks. Its proportions were well-balanced, and the chiseled styling, combined with subtle SUV detailing, gave it a rugged yet appealing look. This was crucial, as aesthetics play a significant role in consumer decisions. The Rogue's design was both practical and attractive, ensuring it remained a popular choice among buyers who valued a vehicle's appearance as much as its functionality.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a bold departure from its predecessors with a more assertive and truck-like design. The sixth-generation model was longer and wider, giving it a muscular stance that was visually striking. The CR-V retained its signature D-pillar taillights, now enhanced with a modern three L-shape design, contributing to a more aggressive rear appearance. The use of LED lighting throughout and the blockier rear end complemented the bold front fascia, making the CR-V Hybrid a standout in its segment.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with a variable compression design, replacing the previous 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine. This VC-Turbo engine delivered 201 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 225 lb-ft of torque from 2,800 to 4,000 rpm. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) included paddle shifters, and the Rogue offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Auto, and Sport, with additional Off-Road and Snow modes for AWD versions. Despite its responsive performance in urban settings, the Rogue's engine had a unique note and some vibration, which might not appeal to all drivers. Fuel economy was slightly below expectations, averaging 8.1 L/100 km in combined driving.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid, on the other hand, combined a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, with a top speed of 185 km/h and a towing capacity of up to 450 kg. The CR-V Hybrid featured a CVT and four drive modes, including a new Snow mode. The updated Real Time AWD system could send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels. The CR-V Hybrid's fuel economy was impressive, with an estimated 6.4 L/100 km combined, making it a more efficient choice than its non-hybrid counterparts.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue offered a practical and spacious interior, suitable for families. It comfortably accommodated four passengers, with the option to squeeze in a fifth. The Platinum trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the rear seats were less comfortable, with low-mounted cushions and diamond-shaped quilted pleats. The Rogue provided ample storage space, with up to 1,028 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 2,064 litres with them folded. The hands-free power liftgate and Divide-N-Hide feature added convenience, though the key fob design was less user-friendly.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid benefited from its larger exterior, translating to more interior space. It offered 1,028 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 2,030 litres with them folded. The Touring model included a hands-free power tailgate, and the wide-opening rear doors facilitated easy access. Rear seat legroom increased to 1,042 mm, providing ample space for taller passengers. The CR-V Hybrid's interior featured a cubby for smartphones, eight cupholders, and a traditional console design, ensuring practicality and comfort for all occupants.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system featured an older version with an 8-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen. The test vehicle included the larger screen, Bluetooth, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system. However, the voice recognition technology was limited in its capabilities. The Rogue also had a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display, both of which performed well during testing.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a more advanced technology suite. The standard 7-inch touchscreen came with physical volume and tuning knobs, while the 9-inch screen on higher trims had a volume knob and hard Seek buttons. The CR-V Hybrid included multiple USB ports, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The Touring trim featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Honda's smart navigation system optimized fuel efficiency based on the route, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, Safety Shield 360, and NissanConnect services. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist with Navi-link, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received lower scores in specific crash tests.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid came standard with the Honda Sensing suite, featuring improved collision mitigation, road-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist systems. New safety features included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The CR-V Hybrid also had a blind-spot monitoring system, cross-traffic monitor, and rear-seat reminders. It received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, with additional structural enhancements for improved crash protection.