2019 Toyota RAV4 (FOCUS) vs. 2018 Nissan Rogue

Size Comparison

Shopping by size might not help you out much here, given that the 2019 RAV4 and 2018 Rogue share similar stature, though the Rogue is longer and a tad taller. Consider the following, side-by-side comparison:

	2019 Toyota RAV4	2018 Nissan Rogue
Length	180.9''	185''
Width	73''	72''
Height	66.9''	68-69''
Wheelbase	105.9''	106.5''

Although the specs above indicate a little extra room in the Rogue, passengers do not necessarily notice the space difference between the two, in real time.

Interior Differences

While both the RAV4 and Rogue are matched in seating capacity, the Rogue features an interesting interior option, which the brand refers to as an ''occasional use'' third row of seating. Occasional is the operative word here, as this option is not intended for either extended or routine car rides.

Despite not having the most enticing crossover interior on the market, the Rogue does offer what is arguably the most advanced ADAS system in the class -- Nissan?s ProPilot Assist. This collection of driver assistance aids is intuitive, innovative, and accessible; however, the major drawback is its optional-only status within the Rogue lineup. Nissan would do well to consider making the ProPilot Assist a standard system.

Restyled for added edge in 2017, the Rogue comes in six trims: the S, S AWD, SV, SV AWD, SL, and SL AWD -- each distinguished by their own interior enhancements and optional features.

All new for 2019, the Toyota RAV4 will introduce the 5th generation of this popular model, focusing on three trim levels: the Limited -- complete with 19-inch wheels and an 8-inch touchscreen; the uber-athletic XSE HV, marketed by Toyota as ''the sportiest RAV4 yet,'' featuring enhanced horsepower, quicker acceleration, improved fuel economy, and a sport-tuned suspension -- naturally. Finally, the Adventure is designed for those with off-the-beaten path adventures in mind, and offers Multi-terrain Select, Dynamic Torque-Vectoring AWD with Rear Driveline Disconnect.

Thanks to Toyota's TNGA, for 2019, the RAV4 features a 57% more rigid unibody chassis, along with an extra half inch of ground clearance, while still managing to boast better aerodynamics. Overall, handling and ride quality is reportedly much improved, thanks to these interior and design tweaks.

Cargo space falls in favor of the 2018 Nissan Rogue, at least when compared to the 2018 RAV4, given that official cargo capacity has yet to be released for the 2019 model year. Comparing the two for 2018, the Rogue offers 41.6 inches of cargo space, while the RAV4 falls short at 39.8 inches. Sure, it's less than a two-inch difference, but anyone who has ever tried to squeeze that extra bag into the back knows that almost two inches can make a huge difference.

Performance

Covering the performance specs from the Nissan Rogue is pretty quick and easy. Outfitted with a single engine option -- a 2.5-liter four-cylinder -- the Rogue generates 170 horsepower.

Fuel economy is rated at 26 city mpg and 33 highway mpg. That 33 mpg represents a competitive figure against top contenders in the crossover class. For example, returning to the 2018 RAV4, the best it could do was 30 mpg, which the 2018 Ford Escape matched, while the 2018 Subaru Forester made 32 mpg. If saving at the pump is a priority, the Rogue offers some penny-pinching potential.

Fortunately, the powertrains for the 2019 Toyota RAV4 have been confirmed, so we know that potential buyers and lessees can expect a Dynamic Force 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine with VVT-iE, matched to an eight-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission. This configuration will feature in all five gasoline-powered models.

While we continue to await performance figures like horsepower, we can report that the 2018 RAV4 generated 176 horsepower from its standard inline-four cylinder. Given the all-new redesign of the upcoming RAV4, it's fair to expect that number will increase. Regardless, the current RAV4 already represents a slightly larger stable of horses than the Rogue.

By early 2019, expect the option of driving a RAV4 equipped with Toyota's Hybrid System II (THS II), with Electronically-Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT), powering all four of the RAV4's hybrid models.

Depending on any green ambitions you might be harboring, waiting a tad longer for the hybrid RAV4 variant might be worthwhile. Either way, as soon as Toyota releases official specs, you'll have greater details, regarding performance and fuel efficiency to better guide your decision.

Pricing

Although Toyota has yet to release official pricing for the 2019 RAV4, the current model starts at $24,660. Again, the difference between these two models is negligible, with the 2018 Nissan Rogue priced to start at $24,800. As is the case with any automotive manufacturer, trim level options, packages, and available equipment add-ons will impact the price.

Which is Right for You?

Choosing a vehicle is a personal decision, certainly; however, in the case of the 2019 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2018 Nissan Rogue, it's easy to make the case for waiting on the new RAV4's winter arrival. Driving the latest and greatest is often enough to make the argument for one vehicle over another, but in this case, the RAV4's upcoming trims leave the 2018 Rogue looking a little lackluster. Of course, time is always of the essence, so if you?re in the market for a solid crossover, the Rogue is a popular option, with good reason.

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