When one dives into the world of midsize SUVs, it's hard not to notice the whispers of competition between two giants in the segment - the Nissan Rogue and the Hyundai Tucson. Both are highly-regarded vehicles, often praised for their innovative features and unparalleled commitment to quality. However, the 2024 models have given us a few talking points where the Rogue notably pulls ahead of the Tucson. Here's a look at three key domains where Nissan's best-seller seems to have an edge.
- The Pinnacle of Engine Technology:
Nissan has taken a bold leap into the future with its 1.5-litre variable compression (VC) Turbo engine, which proudly wears the badge of "Nissan's most advanced engine." Pushing out a commendable 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, the Rogue exhibits a commendable improvement in terms of raw power over its predecessors. The real marvel, however, lies in the VC-Turbo system's ability to seamlessly alter its compression ratio, juggling between dynamic performance and eco-efficiency on-the-fly, depending on the driver's whims.
In the opposite corner, the Tucson's 2.5-litre engine makes a respectable stand with 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. But when placed side-by-side with the Rogue's groundbreaking variable compression technology, it finds itself playing catch-up.
- A Tale of Fuel Efficiency:
It's clear that in a world increasingly conscious of its carbon footprint, fuel efficiency is no longer a mere footnote – it's a headline. The 2024 Rogue's figures tell a story of impressive ingenuity with a best-in-class 7.6L/100 km combined (AWD) fuel economy. This is even more laudable considering its power uptick.
Comparatively, the Tucson, with its 9.3L/100 km combined (AWD), though no slouch, can't quite match the Rogue's impressive combination of power and frugality.
- The Transmission Triumph:
Power and efficiency are pivotal, but how a vehicle transfers that power to its wheels can be a game-changer. The 2024 Rogue houses the new generation Xtronic transmission, boasting a broader gear ratio and a notable 32% reduction in friction over previous iterations. This not only results in enhanced acceleration but also contributes to its stellar fuel efficiency.
The Tucson counters with its eight-speed automatic transmission, emphasizing quick shifts and fuel efficiency. However, the Rogue's Xtronic transmission, with its forward-thinking features like the twin oil pump system, sets a new bar in the realm of responsive driving experiences.
In Conclusion:
While both the Nissan Rogue and Hyundai Tucson are paragons in the SUV domain, the 2024 Rogue, with its advanced engine technology, commendable fuel efficiency, and next-gen transmission, places itself a notch above in this head-to-head comparison. Only time will tell how Hyundai responds, but for now, Nissan's Rogue proudly wears its best-seller crown.