2025 Nissan Rogue vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2025 Nissan Rogue was available in five trims, with the SV trim being particularly popular due to its balance of features and price. Priced at $30,930, it included amenities like an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, Wi-Fi hotspot, and adaptive cruise control. The Platinum trim, which we tested, offered a luxurious experience with semi-aniline leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Google built-in capability was a standout feature, providing seamless navigation and connectivity. The Rogue's design, especially with the optional two-tone color combo, gave it a sporty and aggressive look, complemented by 19-inch alloy wheels.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was offered in the Rugged Woodland trim and three Sport grades, including the SE, XSE, and the exclusive GR Sport. The RAV4 maintained its footprint but added buffer bumpers for a more robust appearance. The Woodland trim emphasized off-road capabilities with features like a black roof rack and all-terrain tires, while the GR Sport showcased racier elements like red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. The interior was optimized for storage, with features like a shelf over the dashboard and a center console that could be flipped for more space. The RAV4's design was consistent with Toyota’s new SUV lineup, offering a boxy, truck-like presence.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue was powered by a 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, which provided adequate performance for everyday driving. The engine was paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which delivered power smoothly and quietly. While the Rogue's performance was not particularly thrilling, it offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The steering was light and accurate, and the braking system was smooth and responsive.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 186 horsepower, and a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. This combination resulted in a total output of 324 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. The RAV4 PHEV offered an estimated electric range of 52 miles and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in the low five seconds. The GR Sport trim, with its lower ride height and performance tires, provided a sportier driving experience. The RAV4's powertrain offered seamless transitions between electric and hybrid modes, and the chassis enhancements contributed to a comfortable and quiet ride.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue's interior was well-designed, with quilted leather seating and a user-friendly layout. The cabin offered 38.5 inches of rear legroom and 31.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which could be expanded with the split-folding rear seats. The Rogue featured creative storage solutions, such as a compartment beneath the center console, providing ample space for personal items.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's interior was equipped with features like a power driver’s seat and heated front seats. The RAV4 offered 37.8 inches of rear legroom and 33.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which could be expanded to 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The interior was optimized for storage, with multiple shelves and deep door pockets. The RAV4's design allowed for comfortable seating for four passengers, with the option to accommodate a fifth.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen in the lower trims, while the upper trims boasted a 12.3-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was intuitive and responsive, with Google navigation providing accurate directions. The ProPilot Assist system offered hands-free operation on pre-mapped roads, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch screen available on top trims. The touchscreen featured customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy access to settings. The RAV4's new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and voice command functionality. The vehicle also included a built-in dash cam and a feature to locate chargers along the route.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Optional features included a head-up display and ProPilot Assist.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, which included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. The system offered enhanced camera and radar detection, improving responsiveness. The RAV4 also included a safe-exit alert and a surround-view camera system on higher trims.