2025 Nissan Rogue vs 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid

The 2025 Nissan Rogue was available in five trims, with the SV trim being particularly popular due to its reasonable price of $30,930 (excluding a $1,390 destination charge) and a host of desirable features. These included an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The Platinum trim, which we tested, was equipped with optional AWD and boasted luxurious features such as 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, offering seamless navigation on our test drive in Tennessee. The Rogue's exterior, finished in Champagne Silver Metallic with an optional two-tone color combo, featured a sporty black roof and 19-inch alloy wheels, adding to its bold styling.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid presented a bold design that could polarize opinions, particularly with its flat, wide grille. The vehicle's personality varied with color and trim, with the X-Line and X-Pro models offering distinctive grille designs and amber accent lights. The side profile featured angular fender sculpting and unique black plastic tabs, while the rear resembled a Range Rover with rounded corners and vertical taillights. Inside, the Hybrid SX Prestige trim with the Executive package offered a luxurious two-tone interior, though the silver buttons were hard to read. The seats, covered in synthetic leather and suede, were somewhat firm, but the surrounding materials were of high quality, with options like engineered wood and carbon fiber trim.

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) that delivered power smoothly to the front wheels, with AWD available for an additional $1,400. The CVT was praised for its refinement and quiet operation, a testament to Nissan's experience with this type of transmission. The Rogue's steering was light and accurate, though not particularly sporty, and the braking system offered smooth and predictable performance.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 274 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The Hybrid model added electric motors, increasing output to 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed transmission. The Telluride Hybrid was praised for its quiet operation and seamless transition between electric and gas power. The ride was comfortable, with the X-Pro Prestige trim offering a surprisingly smooth experience despite its off-road suspension. The Telluride's handling was composed, and the braking system, while soft, provided immediate response during panic stops.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue's interior was well-designed, with quilted leather seating and a user-friendly layout. The steering wheel was chunky and ergonomic, and the controls were easily accessible without relying solely on the touchscreen. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 38.5 inches of rear legroom, making it competitive among compact SUVs. The cargo space measured 31.6 cubic feet, with a practical Divide-and-Hide storage system. Additional storage options included a compartment beneath the center console, ideal for keeping valuables out of sight.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid offered ample space for adults in all three rows, though the third row was better suited for smaller passengers due to low-mounted seat cushions. The second row featured power-adjustable seats with heating and ventilation, providing comfort comparable to business-class airline seats. The Telluride's cargo capacity was impressive, with 22.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 89.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Hybrid model lost only about one cubic foot of cargo space. The Telluride also offered practical storage solutions, including a large center bin and deployable cupholders.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen in the base trims, while upper trims boasted a 12.3-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was intuitive, with quick response times and crisp graphics. Google navigation was particularly useful, and the ProPilot system allowed for hands-free operation on pre-mapped roads. A wireless charging pad was conveniently located at the base of the center console.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 5-inch climate control screen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with dual wireless phone chargers. While the infotainment system was generally user-friendly, it occasionally required a hard tap to register inputs. The Telluride also offered customizable themes and a 14-speaker Meridian premium audio system in higher trims.

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

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of writing. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered additional features like a surround-view camera system and highway driving assist.