Volkswagen Tiguan vs the Nissan Rogue

Comparing two vehicles can be a little tricky, especially when they don’t seem to have much in common, like the Volkswagen Tiguan vs. the Nissan Rogue, for instance. Sure, on paper, they’re both midsize SUVs, and they have similar price points, but that’s sort of where the similarities end—heck, they even originate from opposite sides of the globe.

So, they’re different, but one of them has to be better than the other, right? Well, spoiler alert, at Molle Volkswagen of Kansas City, we’re big fans of the Tiguan. Here are just a few reasons why.

	Volkswagen Tiguan	Nissan Rogue
4MOTION all-wheel drive	Yes	No
Rear cargo space	37.6 cu. ft.	36.5 cu. ft.
Adaptive cruise control	Standard	Optional
Wireless Apple CarPlay	Standard	Optional

Driving Fun

Most people don’t buy a midsize crossover expecting a thrilling ride, but it’s worth mentioning that the Tiguan is a lot of fun to drive thanks to VW’s trademark 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which puts out a respectable 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain is completed by standard front-wheel drive, but the 4MOTION all-wheel drive is also available. In their review of the 2024 Tiguan, Car and Driver noted that it “turns an athletic if not breathtaking performance;” high praise for a family people mover, and almost certainly part of the reason the Tiguan earned their Editor’s Choice award.

The Rogue, on the other hand, has a smaller 1.5-liter three-cylinder, which nevertheless manages to make more power, cranking out 201 horses and 225 pound-feet of torque. It also has the option of either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. So, why doesn’t it feel as responsive as the Tiguan? For one, the Rogue’s engine is paired with a notoriously problematic CVT (continuously variable transmission) while the Tiguan has an 8-speed. The VW SUV also has significantly more robust suspension, which helps it achieve a more poised on-road manner when turning at speed, despite marginally less acceleration. To top it off, the Tiguan has a drive mode selector to amp things up even further.

Interior Options

Perhaps the most essential difference in the Tiguan vs. Rogue debate is the fact that the former is capable of seating seven. Yes, despite its midsize proportions, the VW Tiguan has an available three rows, while the Rogue is only configurable with two.

Picking the number of seats in the Tiguan is one of the biggest decisions faced by VW buyers. It’s one of the few vehicles on the market right now that changes layout depending on which drivetrain you’re after. The front-wheel drive version has seven-seats, while choosing all-wheel drive gives you the five-seater. The upshot is that the Tiguan gives you options based on your needs, while the Rogue doesn’t, which is why the Tiguan is the best midsize SUV for folks who want plenty of choice.

The five-seater Tiguan also boasts more cargo space than the Rogue.

Impressive Features

On paper, the Nissan’s infotainment features look a little more impressive. The base model comes with an 8-inch screen compared to the Tiguan’s 6.5-inch, though higher trims of Rogue get a 9-inch screen, while the upgraded Tiguan’s screen measures 8 inches. So, regardless of which version you buy, the Rogue gets slightly more touchscreen real estate.

However, the Tiguan comes with much better standard features. The base level Tiguan S has two USB ports, 3 12-volt power outlets, wireless device connection with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and adaptive cruise control with pedestrian detection, all of which are absent in the Rogue S. Upgrading to the top-level Tiguan SEL R-Line gets some added goodies that the Rogue simply can’t compete with, including a premium sound system by Fender, wireless device charging, and a host of added driver assistance features.

Speaking of driver assistance and safety, both are outfitted with an impressive array of ADAS. But, the Tiguan gains the edge with better parking assistance features, and a more extensive list of features overall in the lower trims, plus the Volkswagen IQ.DRIVE. The Tiguan also has better safety ratings—for the 2023 model, it was given the Top Safety Pick+ award by the IIHS, whereas the Rogue was not, proving once again that VW makes the safest SUVs for families.

The Tiguan: The Best Midsize SUV

There are plenty of fine vehicles out there for families looking for a roomy, well-appointed SUV at a great price. However, in our midsize SUV comparison, the VW Tiguan comes out as the clear winner. Don’t just take our word for it, though. Contact us on our website to schedule a test drive and try the Tiguan out for yourself, and while you’re at it, don’t forget to ask us about our Super Specials on new vehicles, including the Volkswagen Tiguan for sale in Kansas City.

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