When it comes to compact crossovers, we truly are spoiled for choice as there are dozens upon dozens of models in this segment, all of which promise to offer something unique. Hyundai offers the Tucson crossover while Nissan offers the Rogue. Both of these used to be fairly boring and bland-looking, but are now really trying to take things to the next level.
So, Hyundai Tucson vs Nissan Rogue – Which is better? I’d say that the Hyundai Tucson takes it by a smidgeon, but it all depends on what you value more. When it comes to engines, these two are really similar as their entry-level engines are solely gasoline-powered and offer less than 200hp. You can go for hybrid powertrains with both which is the better choice overall.
Design-wise, it’s down to your personal preference as both of these SUVs look futuristic, especially when you look at the lights. The Rogue is the slightly more rugged and utilitarian option which means the Tucson is slightly more civilized and more road-oriented. Interior design is also up to personal preference, but I think the Tucson takes it.
Pricing is really similar as well, but the Rogue does cost a thousand or two less in pretty much all categories. Practicality is excellent with both as these can easily pack up to four adults inside, and loads of cargo in the back.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson starts at around $27,000 in today’s day and age which means that most relatively well-equipped models are likely going to cost around $35,000 to $37,000 on road. Engine-wise, you can choose between the smaller 1.6L 54-cylinder with 150hp or you can go for a higher-end hybrid model that offers either 235hp or 265hp. MPG is rated at 29MPG combined and AWD is available as an option.
Design-wise, the Tucson looks really interesting thanks to a relatively rounded design but with diamond-shaped straight design touches that do elevate the car. Probably the most interesting design aspects are reserved for the car’s lights as both the headlights and taillights look really modern and authentic. The interior design is really nicely laid out with large screens and futuristic trinkets such as ambient lighting.
Reliability is really good with the Tucson as is the case with most Hyundai SUVs these days. Practicality is also really good as the Tucson offers one of the largest trunks in this segment. Visibility is really good getting in and out of the Tucson is a breeze thanks to a higher ride height.
Nissan Rogue
You can save a few hundred dollars with the entry-level Rogue as it starts slightly less than $27,000, but higher specified models tend to cost between $33,000 and $36,000. Engines on offer are slightly more potent than in the Tucson as the entry-level Rogue offers a 184hp 4-cylinder gasoline engine. The Rogue is still not available with a hybrid which is certainly a drawback, but a hybrid is coming probably next year.
Design-wise, the Nissan Rogue employs a slightly more rugged and utilitarian approach which means that it can traverse terrain that the Tucson simply can’t. Interior design is also really well laid out but is not as exciting as in the Tucson. Design is up to personal preference, and some people will like what Nissan has to offer more than the Tucson.
Reliability is excellent with the Rogue as most reliability charts and surveys give it 5 out of 5 stars. Depreciation is slightly more exaggerated with the current Rogue, but this is likely to change with the imminent redesigned version. One benefit you get with the Rogue is the ability to choose between the standard Rogue or the Rogue Sport.
Practicality is also really good as the standard Rogue does offer a bit more seating space than the Tucson.
Verdict – The Hyundai Tucson is better
The Hyundai Tucson takes this one because it is available with a hybrid powertrain and the Nissan Rogue is not. Moreover, I’d say that the Tucson looks better both inside and out, but the Nissan Rogue Sport is also a really good-looking car.
The Rogue is a more utilitarian SUV which means that it offers a slightly more robust design that is able to withstand beating better. Slightly higher ground clearance also enables you to go over road undulations with greater ease. On the other hand, the Tucson is the better-behaved SUV on smooth tarmac, but not by much.
I’d say that the Tucson is a more modern, more technology-infested SUV while the Rogue is a more classical SUV. As such, your purchasing decision is likely going to be based on where you usually tend to drive and which one looks better.
FAQ Section
Is the Hyundai Tucson a better off-roader than the Nissan Rogue?
The Hyundai Tucson comes with a FWD system from the factory, but you can go for an AWD model which means that it can be used for mild to moderate off-roading. The Nissan Rogue is also available with AWD which means that it can do the same. However, the Rogue is slightly beefier which means that it should tackle off-roading a bit better.
This only goes for the standard Nissan Rogue as the Nissan Rogue Sport is pretty much the same as the Hyundai Tucson.
Is the Hyundai Tucson more efficient than the Nissan Rogue?
You can expect around 29MPG combined with the Tucson while the Nissan Rogue is able to return around 28MPG. The difference in efficiency is most noticeable at highway speeds where the Rogue manages to beat the Tucson by up to 4MPG.
However, the Tucson does come with a hybrid engine which means that city driving is much better with the Tucson. According to credible online sources, the HEV version of the Tucson should be able to return up to 40MPG combined.
How much does it cost to lease the Hyundai Tucson and the Nissan Rogue?
The Hyundai Tucson costs around $250 to $260 per month for 26 months while the Nissan Rogue costs a few dozen dollars more. It all depends on the deal you can get which means that these are really similar in that regard.
