2019 Nissan Rogue vs Subaru Forester

With so many small crossovers on today’s market, some car shoppers will have a hard time picking the best model. The 2019 Nissan Rogue and the 2019 Subaru Forester are definitely up to the task. Both have some great traits. Let’s find out whether you should pick the Rogue or the Forester as your next vehicle.

The Powertrain

The Rogue’s standard four-cylinder engine pumps out a sufficient 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. An automatic CVT is the only available transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is optional on every trim. Rogue buyers also have access to a hybrid powertrain, which develops 176 horsepower.

Every new 2019 Subaru Forester is motivated by a 182-horsepower engine. Like the Rogue, it uses an automatic CVT. However, all-wheel drive is standard across the board.

Neither of these small crossovers delivers a blistering performance. While the 2019 Nissan Rogue hits 60 mph in 10.0 seconds, the 2019 Subaru Foresters takes around 9.4 seconds to reach 60 mph. Despite the Forester being slighter quicker, it’s still not going to wow the average driver.

Although the Forester will never be described as being a powerhouse, it is more suitable for pulling a trailer. Subaru rates it with a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. The Nissan Rogue can only tow up to 1,100 pounds. This may be a big deal for drivers who need to pull something like an ATV. Furthermore, Trailer Stability Assist is found on the Forester.

Drivers will enjoy the Rogue's pleasing fuel economy. Models equipped with the standard powertrain can deliver a combined 29 mpg. Meanwhile, Hybrid models can return a combined rating of 34 mpg. Only a few rivals will save more money at the pump. Both powertrains are designed to be fed regular unleaded gas.

While the 2019 Subaru Forester isn’t as economical as the Rogue Hybrid, it’s still very good on gas for an AWD-equipped SUV. Plan to get a combined 29 mpg on regular octane.

Drivers looking to go off-roading will find the Subaru Forester to be the superior crossover. It has an excellent ground clearance of 8.7 inches. Because the Rogue sits lower to the ground, most people don’t consider it to be a serious off-road machine. Furthermore, Subaru equips the Forester with an innovative X-Mode traction management system. This feature optimizes traction by limiting wheel slippage on slick trails. Nissan does not offer the Rogue with a similar system.

Owners have always found the Subaru Forester to be reliable. Based on the latest J.D. Power Dependability Survey, drivers can expect the new model to be a trustworthy vehicle. While the Nissan Rogue is a well-engineered vehicle, it’s not quite as dependable as the Forester. Both of these crossovers have a 60,000-mile warranty that protects the powertrain.

Drivability

Families will love the 2019 Nissan Rogue’s easy-to-drive nature. It’s far more relaxing to drive than a big SUV. The same thing can be said for the 2019 Subaru Forester. Even parking takes very little effort. However, a tighter turning circle does give the Forester the upper hand in cramped spots.

In terms of overall handling, the Subaru Forester slightly edges out the Nissan Rogue. When driving on curvy roads, there’s less body lean in the Forester. A more responsive steering system also helps the Forester’s drivability. Luckily, both vehicles feel extremely stable at highway speeds.

Expect the Nissan Rogue to offer good ride comfort. Its suspension is clearly geared towards comfort as opposed to sporty handling. Potholes and rough pavement are absorbed well. Passengers will also enjoy the Subaru Forester’s soft ride. Because of the Forester’s bump-free ride, it’s a great SUV for long-distance traveling.

The build quality of these SUVs is very good. Wind noise and rattles are virtually non-existent. This means the automakers did a great job of insulating the cabin. Although the Forester and Rogue are not luxury vehicles, they still have a rather plush feel on the road.

Of these two crossovers, the Subaru Forester offers the best driving position. Its seat gives you a commanding view of the road. A highly adjustable driver’s seat and a standard tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel ensure an impressive level of comfort. Excellent outward visibility adds to the Forester’s appeal.

The Nissan Rogue is not quite as comfortable for drivers. Its small windows also create more blind spots. This means the driver’s outward visibility will not be as good.

Whether a person chooses the Rogue or the Forester, their family will be able to spread out. These small SUVs provide a good amount of passenger room. However, the Forester provides even more legroom in the rear. This may interest drivers who will regularly be traveling with full-grown adults and teenagers. Keep in mind that the Rogue does provide more cargo space. However, most people will be happy with the Forester’s storage capabilities.

The Nissan Rogue’s infotainment is relatively hassle-free. However, Subaru’s Starlink interface is especially good. Drivers will enjoy its easy operation and quick reaction time. Because the system’s voice controls work so well, it does not require much effort to make verbal commands.

Families can also take advantage of the Forester’s rear USB ports. Charging phones and laptops will be easy. Unfortunately, Nissan does not equip the Rogue with rear USB ports. One plus for the Nissan Rogue is its hard-hitting Bose sound system, which is standard on the range-topping SL trim. The Subaru Forester’s available Harman Kardon audio system does not sound as impactful at high volumes.

Safety

Is the 2019 Subaru Forester the safest small crossover on the road? It definitely scores top marks in crash protection. An excellent performance in various impact tests enabled it to receive a five-star overall safety rating. The IIHS also stamps the Forester with a Top Safety Pick+ rating.

While the 2019 Nissan Rogue is a recommended family hauler, it took home a less satisfying safety rating. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall score. A weaker headlight rating from the IIHS also puts the Rogue a notch behind the Forester.

On the bright side, plenty of accident-avoidance technologies are standard on the Nissan Rogue. While blind-spot monitoring helps ensure more confident lane changes, forward collision warning with automatic braking assists drivers during emergencies. Pedestrian detection and lane keeping are standard as well. Aside from blind-spot detection, most of these safety technologies also come standard on the Subaru Forester.

When tested during real-world driving conditions, the Subaru Forester’s advanced driving aids performed remarkably well. From adaptive cruise control to forward collision warning, every system did a great job of reacting to potential emergencies. Meanwhile, Nissan’s lane departure warning system was too sensitive.

This year, the 2019 Subaru Forester is offered with a new Driver Focus system with facial recognition software. It can actually scan the driver to detect signs of inattention and sleepiness. This system is a great asset for drivers who may become a bit distracted at the wheel. Adaptive headlights are also only offered on the new Forester. Folks living in rural areas will especially appreciate the enhanced lighting at night.

Some special safety innovations are also available for the Nissan Rogue. Many drivers will want the 360-degree camera, which enhances visibility in packed parking areas. A class-exclusive ProPILOT Assist system is another one of the Rogue’s great options. This feature integrates lane centering technology and adaptive cruise control for a more relaxing highway drive.

Which Has the Best Value?

Prices for the new 2019 Nissan Rogue start at about $25,020 Many car shoppers will have no problems spending the money on such a solid all-around SUV. However, the 2019 Subaru Forester starts at a lower $24,295. At the end of the day, both of these SUVs offer a lot of value for the cash.

When checking out the base Rogue, the SUV’s standard accident-avoidance package immediately stands out. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration also make its standard touchscreen very rewarding. Car shoppers shouldn’t feel guilty when buying the slightly more expensive Rogue.

However, the Subaru Forester may prove to be an even better bargain. Not only does the Forester come standard with a similar list of features, but it also benefits from all-wheel drive. If you get the Rogue with all-wheel drive, it’s an extra cost. Standard LED headlamps also highlight the Forester as a superior value.

According to research, the base Nissan Rogue’s average total cost of ownership is roughly $32,650. Expect the base Forester’s total cost of ownership to be around $34,277.

For drivers seeking a more luxurious ride, Subaru offers the Forester Touring. It comes standard with niceties like heated front and rear seats. A premium sound system and leather upholstery are also featured on the Forester Touring. Anticipate a sticker price of around $34,295.

The Rogue SL is just as nice as the Forester Touring. It provides Nissan’s nifty ProPILOT Assist system and a Bose premium sound system. Automatic rearward braking is included as well. Prices for the Rogue SL start at $31,390.

Remember, Nissan does offer some of the Rogue’s premium features on the lower trims. This means navigation and a Bose premium sound system are not just reserved for the range-topping SL model. Subaru only offers its most luxurious features on the Limited and Touring trims, which cost more money.

Which Is Better?

Let’s first discuss some other factors that drivers may consider. Styling will likely play a role in a person’s final decision. While the 2019 Subaru Forester has been fully redesigned, it still doesn’t look drastically different from the previous generation. Subaru has introduced a cooler Sport trim, which features black wheels and orange exterior accents. Some car shoppers may be seeking a bolder-looking SUV. The 2019 Nissan Rogue certainly has a unique appearance with its aggressive front fascia.

Outdoor lovers who crave adventure should pick the 2019 Subaru Forester without any hesitation. It’s made for venturing off the beaten path. Standard all-wheel drive and an X-Mode traction management system make it ready to hit the trails. The 2019 Nissan Rogue isn’t as rugged.

While neither of these SUVs offers a lot of performance, the Subaru Forester is a bit more engaging to drive. It handles better and offers slightly quicker acceleration.

Drivers who’re looking for a low-maintenance family hauler will be happy with either crossover. They both provide good interior space and come standard with a safety package. A flexible cargo area also makes these SUVs a practical choice.

When the final numbers are tallied up, the 2019 Subaru Forester wins this small crossover battle. Aside from not packing a lot of power, it does not have any big weaknesses. All of its technologies work flawlessly. Drivers will also love the Forester's adventurous nature.