If it seems like you need to be sitting on a big pile of cash to afford a new SUV, take heart. There are good deals on compact crossover SUVs. Two of the best values available are the Nissan Rogue and Hyundai Tucson. Both offer a lot of creature comforts and safety technology. And you and your passengers will have plenty of space to stretch out and a variety of seating and cargo options. So, between the Nissan Rogue vs. Hyundai Tucson, which one is better?
Which Interior Sparks Joy?
If you’re all about KonMari, the Tucson’s uncluttered, wraparound cockpit will definitely spark joy. Its airy layout offers extra a little extra space in the back seats, while the Rogue gives the driver and front passenger a skosh more head and legroom.
When you’ve got kids to haul to daycare and school, both crossovers make it easy to install and access forward and rear-facing car seats. The Tucson and Rogue now have rearseat occupant/rear door alerts available to prevent you from accidentally leaving a child or pet in the car. Only the Tucson offers the Safe Exit Warning that alerts you to oncoming traffic before opening the door.
Tucson Lets You Cut the Cord
When you’re rushing out the door, you don’t have time to hunt down your USB cord so you can charge your phone and make calls on the way to work. Good news! The Hyundai Tucson gives you wireless access to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in every trim, with Qi wireless charging available starting with the SEL trim. In the Nissan Rogue, you’ll have to spring for the Platinum trim though it doesn’t offer wireless Android access at all.
Load ‘em Up!
Whether you’re packing for a road trip or the big monthly stop at the Big Warehouse Store, you want a crossover that can handle the load. No matter how you measure it (straight cubes or the SAE method), the Tucson offers more cargo volume than the Rogue.Not only does the Tucson hold more, but it’s rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds—700 pounds more than the Rogue.
Hyundai Can Save You More at the Pump
No doubt, the Rogue and Tucson are excellent choices for cost-conscious buyers. Both come in at a commuter-friendly 29 combined MPG. But if you want to spend even less at the gas pump, only Hyundai offers a hybrid Tucson. The Rogue no longer has a hybrid model.
The Bottom Line
When you’re trying to figure out how much a vehicle will cost you, you don’t stop at the sticker price and financing. The five-year True Cost to Own is where the Hyundai Tucson really outshines the Nissan Rogue. According to Edmunds.com, the Tucson will cost you a little over $29k over five years, compared to nearly $35k for the Rogue. This factors in Hyundai’s industry-leading three years of complimentary maintenance and warranties. And the Tucson retains more of its value than the Rogue.So, if you’re looking for a crossover SUV with the perfect blend of value, convenience, and comfort, we think you’ll be happier with the Hyundai Tucson over the Nissan Rogue.
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