Compact SUVs remain a top choice for families, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts, and the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue are among the most popular contenders. Both have evolved to meet the needs of modern drivers. For 2026, each introduces notable updates that could influence your decision. Here’s a look at the 2026 Nissan Rogue compared to the 2026 Honda CR-V.
2026 Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue returns for 2026 in five trims: S, SV, Rock Creek, SL, and Platinum. The new-for-2026 Dark Armor edition fits into the lineup above the SV trim and combines black 19-inch wheels with gloss black exterior accents (outboard mirrors, grille, pillars, and roof rails). Other new features include an HD surround-view monitor with moving object detection, as well as heated front seats and heated steering wheel. This year the SV trim also gains an all-new Cold Weather Package for those in colder climates.
Standard equipment on the Rogue now consists of an 8-inch touchscreen, while the SL and Platinum trims have a larger 12.3-inch display. Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto combine with two USB ports for device connectivity, with the two top trims getting wireless connectivity. Safety gets enhanced by Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite, which includes front and rear automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning, providing added peace of mind.
Nissan Rogue Highlights
Great fuel economy: A 201-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine paired to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and choice of front- or all-wheel drive became the standard powertrain for the Rogue starting with the 2022 model year. This powertrain results in excellent gas mileage, with up to an EPA-rated 33 mpg in a mix of city and highway driving. For those seeking even better fuel economy, Nissan recently revealed a Rogue Hybrid model for 2026.
Zero Gravity front seats: No, you won’t levitate while you’re driving, but you should feel like you’re floating down the highway in the Rogue. Nissan studied NASA’s ideal seating position for spacecraft and developed these seats, which they call “Zero Gravity.” All our test drivers called them “very comfortable” and agree they are some of the best in this segment.
Google-based infotainment system: The SL and Platinum trims now include a 12.3-inch touchscreen powered by a Google-based operating system, offering highly accurate Google Maps navigation. Don’t worry, though — iPhone users can still enjoy Apple CarPlay compatibility. Other available tech highlights include a 10.8-inch head-up display and a wireless charging pad, adding convenience and modern functionality to the cabin.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Rogue models for sale near you.
2026 Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V comes in three non-hybrid trims: the base LX, mid-level EX, and range-topping EX-L. A CR-V Hybrid is also available, but we review it separately.
As our Best Buy Award winner for 2025 and a top-rated compact SUV, the Honda CR-V didn’t need major changes to stay competitive. Still, for 2026, Honda focused on its weakest area — technology — while preserving the comfort, value, and easygoing nature that fans appreciate.
Every 2026 CR-V now includes a 9-inch touchscreen, previously reserved for higher trims, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless phone charging pad. The EX-L trim adds a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and Honda improved off-road traction for all-wheel-drive models, including up to five driving modes on the top trim.
Honda CR-V Highlights
Honda Sensing: All Honda CR-V models have the robust Honda Sensing set of active driving and safety features, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and more.
Multi-time Best Buy Award winner: Honda’s long list of awards speaks volumes about the engineering behind the CR-V. The real story is its consistency: This SUV has virtually no major weaknesses. Sure, more power and a few extra mpg would be nice, but those are minor wishes. After countless test drives, one thing is clear: The CR-V delivers a balanced, dependable experience without missing a beat.
Roomy interior: Few compact SUVs can match the Honda CR-V’s practicality, offering 39.3 cubic feet of cargo room behind its split-folding rear seats. The Nissan Rogue trails by a small margin, leaving the CR-V with a modest edge in this key category.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the CR-V models for sale near you.
Similarities
In terms of dimensions and pricing, the CR-V and Rogue are direct competitors in the compact SUV segment. Differences in rear-seat space, cargo capacity, and engine output are minimal, leaving neither with a clear advantage. Likewise, both vehicles deliver comparable levels of standard safety technology and infotainment, ensuring drivers get modern features regardless of which one they choose. Both models are even available in adventure-ready trims with rugged styling and all-terrain tires to satiate some off-road wanderlust.
New 2026 Nissan Rogue Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (22401)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$30,180 |
$28,500 |
|||
$31,180 |
$29,400 |
|||
$35,080 |
$33,100 |
|||
$36,680 |
$34,600 |
|||
$40,380 |
$38,000 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 Nissan Rogue vehicles and New 2026 Honda CR-V vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
| 2026 Nissan Rogue | 2026 Honda CR-V | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 1.5-liter turbo 3-cylinder | 1.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 pounds | 1,500 pounds |
| Horsepower | 201 hp @ 5,600 rpm | 190 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 225 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm | 179 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic | Automatic, CVT |
| Fuel Economy | N/A | 28 city/34 highway/30 combined mpg |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | Not rated | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 106.5 inches | 106.3 inches |
| Overall Length | 183.0 inches | 184.8 inches |
| Width | 72.4 inches | 73.5 inches |
| Height | 66.5 inches | 66.2 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 35.4 feet | 37.3 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 41.1 inches | 40.0 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 39.2 inches | 38.2 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.5 inches | 41.3 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 38.5 inches | 41.0 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 57.1 inches | 57.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 55.9 inches | 55.9 inches |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | N/A | N/A |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | N/A | 76.5 feet |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
The Nissan Rogue and Honda CR-V remain two of the most compelling choices in the compact SUV segment thanks to their balanced size, spacious interiors, and elevated driving position. The Rogue offers a satisfying blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and premium details, like the optional dual-pane moonroof, ultra-comfortable front seats, and available diamond-stitched leather. It also gives buyers standout storage solutions, including rear doors that open a full 90 degrees, large door pockets for 36-ounce bottles.
Still, the CR-V holds a slight edge, offering smooth yet engaging driving manners, slightly more cargo room, proven resale value, and an available hybrid option for those prioritizing efficiency. Test-drive both, but don’t be surprised if the CR-V feels like the complete package.
