Nissan Rogue vs Hyundai Ioniq 9

The 2025 Nissan Rogue presented a robust lineup in Canada with six trims, including the popular SV model, which offered a balance of affordability and desirable features. Priced at $40,685, the SV trim included amenities such as an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. All-wheel drive was standard across all trims, enhancing its appeal in Canadian climates. The Platinum trim, which we tested, was equipped with luxurious features like semi-aniline leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Google built-in capability was a highlight, providing seamless navigation and connectivity. The Rogue's exterior, finished in Champagne Silver Metallic, featured a sporty two-tone colour scheme and 19-inch alloy wheels, adding to its bold styling.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 stood out with its distinctive design, drawing inspiration from various sources to create a sleek, aerodynamic shape. Measuring 5,060 millimetres in length with a 3,130 mm wheelbase, it offered impressive interior space for seven passengers. Despite its size, the Ioniq 9 achieved a 0.27 drag coefficient, enhancing its efficiency. The design featured a swooping roofline and a unique rear end, with LED taillights wrapping around the tail. Available in seven paint colours, the Ioniq 9 offered trim-specific options, with the Preferred AWD+ Ultimate Calligraphy package showcasing matte paint and 21-inch wheels. Inside, the Ioniq 9 provided a spacious and airy environment, with flat floors and a sliding centre console. The interior featured high-quality materials, though some elements, like the dashboard insert, felt underwhelming.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue was powered by a 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that delivered power to all four wheels. While the engine provided adequate performance for routine driving, it lacked the punch for more spirited acceleration. The CVT was smooth and unobtrusive, contributing to a refined driving experience. The Rogue's steering was light and accurate, though not particularly engaging, and the braking system offered smooth and predictable performance.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 featured a 110.3-kWh battery pack on Hyundai's e-GMP platform. The base Essential trim came with a 160-kW rear-mounted motor producing 215 horsepower, while AWD trims offered more power, with the Preferred AWD+ generating 422 hp. The Ioniq 9 impressed with its energy efficiency, often exceeding the estimated 500-kilometre range. The ride was smooth and quiet, thanks to a softly sprung chassis and advanced noise cancellation features. However, its handling was more akin to a minivan, prioritizing comfort over agility. The Ioniq 9 offered towing capacities of 1,587 kg for RWD and 2,268 kg for AWD models, with charging options including NACS and CCS-port chargers.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue's interior was well-crafted, with quilted leather seating and a user-friendly layout. The steering wheel was chunky and ergonomic, and essential controls were easily accessible. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with ample rear legroom of 978 millimetres. The cargo area offered 1,028 litres of space, with a practical Divide-and-Hide storage system. Additional storage solutions included a compartment beneath the centre console, ideal for keeping valuables out of sight.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 focused on family-friendly practicality, offering seating for seven or six with the Ultimate Calligraphy package. The middle row provided 1,086 millimetres of legroom, while the third row was tighter at 813 mm. The Ioniq 9 featured dual-zone climate control, a heat pump, and heated seats, though the driver's seat adjustability was limited. Cargo space was generous, with 620 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,462 litres with seats folded. The small front trunk was best suited for storing charging accessories.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system varied by trim, with an 8-inch screen on lower trims and a 12.3-inch screen on upper trims, offering wireless smartphone connectivity. The system was intuitive, with quick response times and crisp graphics. Google navigation was particularly useful, and ProPilot Assist provided hands-free driving on pre-mapped roads. A wireless charging pad was conveniently located at the base of the centre console.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 featured dual curved 12.3-inch displays, offering a familiar and effective interface. Standard features included SiriusXM, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a wireless charging pad, though it struggled to keep up with high-demand devices. The Ioniq 9 boasted six USB-C ports for ample device charging. The 14-speaker Bose audio system delivered impressive sound quality, enhancing the in-car experience.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" side impact score. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Optional safety technologies included a head-up display, ProPilot Assist, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. However, it came equipped with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including collision avoidance, lane guidance, driver attention warning, and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Luxury package and Preferred AWD+ trims added a surround-view monitor and blind-spot view monitor, enhancing safety and convenience.