2025 Ford Explorer vs 2024 Nissan Rogue

The 2024 Nissan Rogue underwent its first major styling update since the 2021 model year. It retained its lineup of S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims. The new design featured a larger grille that seamlessly integrated with its distinctive stack headlights and daytime running lights. The rear fascia saw minor changes with redesigned taillight elements. The Rogue SV received new 18-inch wheels, while the Platinum trim boasted 19-inch wheels with a machined finish and additional black exterior trim. Inside, the Rogue's dashboard was updated to accommodate a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, enhancing its premium feel. The Rogue SV models received upgraded materials throughout the interior, and the Platinum trim offered leather seats with quilted stitching and a new Chestnut brown color.

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued its sleek design with a refreshed front end, giving it a wider and more rugged appearance. The rear featured new LED taillights connected by a trim strip with the SUV’s name. The interior saw significant improvements, with enhanced colors, materials, and displays. Ford reduced the available trims from eight to four: Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST. Prices ranged from $39,755 to $55,505. During a driving event in Michigan, the ST-Line with RWD and additional packages was highlighted, showcasing its stylish design and features.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. This engine outperformed many competitors in its class, including the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was less impressive, often slow to transfer power to the wheels. The Rogue offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available. Despite its powerful engine, the Rogue's suspension was firmer than expected, affecting ride quality without improving handling.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines. Most trims had a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The ST and optional Platinum trims featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. All models came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive optional. The Explorer's turbo four provided quick acceleration, and the 10-speed automatic delivered decisive shifts. The ST-Line trim, with its larger wheels and performance brakes, offered a delightful ride and handling experience.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue offered competitive passenger space, with slight differences in legroom compared to rivals. It provided 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats up and 74.1 cubic feet with them folded. The optional Divide-N-Hide system allowed for flexible cargo configurations. The Rogue also featured a power liftgate and a motion-activated liftgate on higher trims. The center console offered additional storage, though accessing it could be awkward.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional second-row bench increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line trim included features like a heated steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats, and a Premium Package with additional comforts. The second-row captain’s chairs were comfortable, but the third row was less suitable for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet behind the second, and a maximum of 85.8 cubic feet.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch screen on SL and Platinum models. It was the first Nissan to offer Google built-in software, integrating Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store. The Rogue also provided multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad on higher trims. Nissan extended its Connect Services trial to three years, offering features like remote door lock/unlock and vehicle health reports.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrumentation. It included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Explorer offered B&O sound systems, with the ST-Line featuring 10 speakers and higher trims boasting 14 speakers. The system was user-friendly, with Google Assistant providing reliable voice control.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue received good safety ratings from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It included standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring. ProPilot Assist was available, offering adaptive cruise control and lane centering.

The 2025 Ford Explorer came with Ford CoPilot 360+, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. Higher trims featured BlueCruise, Ford’s hands-free highway driving system. The NHTSA had not fully rated the 2025 Explorer, but it received five-star side-impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings.