Nissan Rogue vs Lexus NX Hybrid

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, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel were standard across all Canadian models. The Platinum trim, which was the focus of a recent test drive, boasted luxurious touches 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 design, with its blocky shape and large grille, was complemented by a two-tone colour scheme and 19-inch alloy wheels, adding a sporty flair.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid, specifically the NX 350h F Sport 3, was characterized by its bold and intricate design, featuring a large spindle grille and squinting LED headlights. The profile was sporty yet understated, with dark trim and 20-inch wheels enhancing its F Sport elements. Inside, the NX combined a sporty aesthetic with modern technology, including a digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen angled towards the driver. The F Sport 3 model featured dark graphite aluminum trim, metal pedals, and Circuit Red synthetic leather upholstery, creating a high-quality and upscale feel. The interior was designed for comfort, with heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. Despite its coupe-like roofline, the NX offered adequate rear headroom and legroom, though cargo space was somewhat limited compared to competitors.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue was powered by a 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine, which provided adequate performance for everyday driving. The engine was paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that delivered power smoothly to all four wheels. While the Rogue's acceleration was not particularly brisk, the CVT was refined and contributed to a quiet driving experience. The steering was light and accurate, making it easy to maneuver, though it lacked the sporty feel of some competitors. Braking was smooth and predictable, adding to the overall ease of driving.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid, with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, delivered a combined 240 horsepower. The hybrid system provided standard all-wheel drive, with a rear motor adding torque for improved traction. Despite its sporty F Sport designation, the NX's handling was more controlled than agile, with a firm suspension that offered a comfortable ride on most surfaces. The hybrid powertrain was efficient but lacked the excitement of more powerful options. The NX's steering was weighty, especially in Sport S and Sport S+ modes, but feedback was limited. The hybrid system's power delivery was smooth, though the engine could become noisy under hard acceleration.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue's interior was well-designed, with quilted leather seating and a user-friendly layout. The steering wheel was chunky and ergonomic, and controls for climate and seat heating were easily accessible. The Rogue offered competitive rear legroom of 978 millimetres and a cargo capacity of 1,028 litres behind the second row. The Divide-and-Hide storage system added versatility to the cargo area. Interior storage was generous, with creative solutions like a compartment beneath the centre console for valuables or small items.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid's interior was spacious and comfortable, with well-bolstered front seats and ample room for tall adults. The F Sport 3 model included heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. Rear seat space was adequate, with 950 millimetres of headroom and 917 millimetres of legroom. The NX's cargo space was limited compared to rivals, offering 643 litres behind the rear seats and 1,328 litres with them folded. The coupe-like roofline contributed to the reduced cargo capacity, but the space was still practical for everyday use.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen in lower trims, while upper trims like the Platinum offered a larger 12.3-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was intuitive, with quick response times and crisp graphics. Google navigation was particularly useful, and the ProPilot Assist system provided hands-free driving on pre-mapped roads. A wireless charging pad was conveniently located at the base of the centre console.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid came standard with a 9.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen, both offering wireless smartphone connectivity. The infotainment system was responsive and easy to use, with physical controls for volume and temperature. A head-up display and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system were optional. The NX also included a three-year Remote Connect subscription, allowing remote vehicle access and status alerts. The instrument cluster could be customized using touch-sensitive controllers on the steering wheel.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, with the exception of an "Acceptable" score for side impact tests. 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 Lexus NX Hybrid earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award and received high marks in NHTSA crash tests, with four stars in the frontal crash test and five stars in the side crash test. The NX 350h came with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, which included blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included automatic parking, front cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system.