2026 Nissan Rogue SL vs 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE
6 mpg better vs $1,885 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 201 vs 201 hp, 31 vs 25 MPG.
The Rogue SL leads on 6 MPG better. The Tiguan SE leads on $1,885 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Nissan Rogue SL | 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,990 | $35,105 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I3 Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 225 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 35 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 31 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,694 lbs | 3,801 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.5" | 109.9" |
| Length | 183.0" | 184.4" |
| Width | 72.4" | 73.0" |
| Height | 66.5" | 66.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Nissan Rogue SL and 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE starts at $35,105, $1,885 less than the 2026 Nissan Rogue SL at $36,990. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $33/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Rogue SL?
The 2026 Nissan Rogue SL is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $325/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,885 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Rogue SL or 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Nissan Rogue SL rates 31 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Rogue SL or 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
Both produce 201 hp. The 2026 Nissan Rogue SL also leads in torque at 225 lb-ft vs 221 lb-ft. The 2026 Nissan Rogue SL runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Nissan Rogue SL bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE is 1.4″ longer at 184.4″ vs 183.0″. The 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE has a 3.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Nissan Rogue comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Tiguan offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Nissan trims, Nissan Rogue trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Tiguan trims
- 2026 Nissan Rogue SL Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Rogue–Tiguan Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Rogue and Tiguan compare. The $-1,885 gap is about $33/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Nissan Rogue SL runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. Both produce 201 hp. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Nissan Rogue SL saves roughly $325/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,625.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Nissan Rogue SL when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $325/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE when you want to keep $1,885 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan SE covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Nissan or Volkswagen or any dealership.