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There are many fantastic crossover SUVs available on the market today. Two of the most popular choices come from Japanese manufactures: the Subaru Outback and Nissan Rogue. There are many similarities between these vehicles, which can make it hard for prospective buyers to choose between them. We’re here to help!
Subaru’s Outback and Nissan’s Rogue are both crossover SUVs that can seat five people. The Outback offers more trim levels and engine choices, as well as better connectivity features. The Rogue offers better safety features and fuel economy. The vehicles are tied in terms of warranty and price.
In this article, we’re going to compare these crossover SUVs. We’ll be considering aspects such as pricing, trim levels, engine choices, fuel efficiency, connectivity features, safety features, and more. Through these comparisons, you’ll be able to make the best decision for your driving needs!
Comparing Subaru’s Outback with Nissan’s Rogue
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty aspects of this comparison, it’s important for you to have a brief overview of these different cars. In this section, we’ll briefly outline the history of Subaru’s Outback and the Nissan Rogue.
While the design is an homage to their station wagons, the Outback is an SUV crossover from Japanese manufacturer Subaru. This car has been produced for more than twenty-five years! Since its inception in 1994, there have been many updates to the Outback. However, Outback models are typically all-wheel drive.
The Nissan Rogue is a much newer car when compared to the Outback. Entering production in 2007, the Rogue became a popular selection from the Japanese manufacturer’s lineup. In fact, in the United States, the Rogue is Nissan’s best-selling vehicle. The Rogue is classed as a compact crossover SUV. Due to this, it is a popular competitor to Subaru’s Outback.
Subaru Outback vs. Nissan Rogue
To adequately compare these vehicles, we’ll be comparing the latest available year model for both vehicles. For the Subaru Outback, this is the 2022 model. For the Nissan Rogue, this is the 2021 model. Let’s see how these cars compare to one another!
Trim Levels And Pricing
Subaru offers eight trim levels for the current 2022 Outback. A majority of buyers opt for lower trim levels, such as Base and Premium. Intermediary trim levels include Limited and Wilderness. The highest trim levels include Touring, Touring XT, and Limited XT. For the current year model, the price ranges from $26,000 to $33,000.
There are fewer trim options for the Nissan Rogue than the Outback. The four trim levels are S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Typically, buyers opt for the SV trim level. However, there are many great features for the highest trim level, such as leather upholstery and a sunroof. For the 2021 Nissan Rogue, the price will range between $27,000 and $37,000.
While the base trim levels for both start at similar price points, the Rogue’s top trim levels are more expensive than those of the Outback. Let’s see how the other features compare!
Engine and Transmission
In terms of engine, there are only two choices for the current Outback models. The standard engine in the 2022 Outback is a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that generates 182 hp. Subaru also offers a 2.4L turbo engine that delivers a staggering 260 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard, regardless of the selected trim level.
For the 2021 Nissan Rogue, all models utilize a four-cylinder 2.5L engine that delivers 181 hp. Although front-wheel drive is standard, drivers can opt for all-wheel drive. Compared to the Outback, the Rogue’s engine is tied with the base engine choice for the Outback.
However, the 2022 Outback ultimately comes out victorious. That comes down to the choice of the upgraded turbocharged engine. Especially when you consider the fact that the Outback’s highest trim level is roughly $4000 cheaper than the Rogue’s highest trim level.
Fuel Efficiency
For the current Outback, models with the base, the non-turbo engine has a combined city and highway MPG of 29.5. However, for turbocharged models, this combined MPG drops to 26.5. Front-wheel-drive Rogue models, the combined MPG is 31. For the all-wheel-drive Rogue models, the combined MPG drops to 29.5.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Nissan Rogue offers the most fuel-efficient model with their front-wheel-drive 2021 Rogue. However, the all-wheel-drive Rogue and base-engine Outback (which have remarkably similar engine specs) have the same combined MPG. Ultimately, both cars are on par with one another in terms of fuel economy.
Seating and Cabin
Subaru’s 2022 Outback features a rugged exterior design and an interior cabin that puts your comfort first. Two-row seating is standard across all models. The Outback can seat up to five people in the cabin.
Like the Outback, Nissan’s Rogue offers two rows of seating that can seat up to five passengers. The Rogue’s cabin shines in its ability to accommodate taller individuals. Ultimately, in terms of their cabins and seating, the Outback and Rogue are remarkably similar.
Safety Features
In terms of safety features, the current Outback lineup offers adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking. Drivers will also be able to use Subaru’s rear-cross traffic alerts, as well as advanced technology to help mitigate blind spots while driving.
The Nissan Rogue comes with many standard safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, pedestrian alerts, and blind-spot monitoring. There are also more advanced features for higher trim levels, such as Nissan’s proprietary semi-autonomous driving technology. Ultimately, in terms of safety features, Nissan’s current Rogue outshines Subaru’s Outback.
Connectivity
On the base trim levels, 2022 Outback features dual 7-inch infotainment systems. These are horizontally positioned for ease of use. On the other trim levels, a vertical 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen is included. Prospective buyers will be able to add more technological features, such as a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging.
For the bottom two trim levels (S and SV), an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is included. However, for SL and Platinum trim levels, a 9.0-inch screen is included. Buyers have the ability to add in-dash navigation and a sound system from Bose.
In terms of connectivity, the 2022 Outback comes out on top. With a modernized infotainment system and the right features to keep you connected, the Outback is a winner.
Warranty
For the 2022 Outback, the limited warranty will provide coverage for the car for 36,000 miles or 36 months (3 years). For the vehicle’s powertrain, the warranty will provide coverage for 60,000 miles or five years.
For the 2021 Rogue, a limited warranty will also cover the vehicle for 36,000 miles or 36 months. The powertrain warranty is also identical to that of the Outback, offering coverage for five years or 60,000 miles.
Some manufacturers offer complimentary scheduled vehicle maintenance to buyers. However, this is offered by neither Subaru nor Nissan. Due to this, these vehicles are tied in terms of their warranties.
Conclusion
In many aspects, Subaru’s Outback and Nissan’s Rogue are remarkably similar – and not because they’re both from Japanese manufacturers. In terms of the Outback’s base engine and the Rogue’s engine, both cars provide similar performance. Their warranties are also virtually the same. Fuel economy and seating are also neck-and-neck.
However, the Outback shines with its dynamic connectivity features. The Outback also offers a turbocharged engine! However, the Nissan Rogue outshines its competitor in terms of safety features.
The car you choose ultimately depends on how you value these aspects. With similar starting prices, both of these vehicles would be stellar choices.
Sources:
Stanley Subaru: About Subaru Warranties