2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium vs 2026 Nissan Rogue SL
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Rogue SL starts at $37,940, $860 less. RAV4 XLE Premium leads with 39 MPG. RAV4 XLE Premium makes 219 hp (+18).
| Spec | 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium | 2026 Nissan Rogue SL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $38,800 +$860 | $37,940 Save $860 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Hybrid | 1.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 219 hp +18 hp | 201 hp 18 hp less |
| Torque | 163 lb-ft | 225 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 41 +13 | 28 13 less |
| Hwy MPG | 38 +3 | 35 3 less |
| Combined MPG | 39 +8 | 31 8 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 37.5 cu ft | 36.5 cu ft |
| Screen | 12.3" | 12.3" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Panoramic |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,790 lbs | 3,750 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.9" | 106.5" |
| Length | 181.5" | 183.4" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 19" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | TSS 3.0 | Safety Shield |
RAV4 XLE Premium or Rogue SL?
Both are competitive. Rogue SL has a lower entry price, RAV4 XLE Premium leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium and 2026 Nissan Rogue SL?
Which gets better gas mileage, the RAV4 XLE Premium or Rogue SL?
Should I buy a 2026 Toyota RAV4 or Nissan Rogue?
Which is more reliable, the Toyota RAV4 or Nissan Rogue?
Is the Toyota RAV4 bigger than the Nissan Rogue?
What is the cost of insurance for the RAV4 XLE Premium vs Rogue SL?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium?
Who Should Choose the RAV4 XLE Premium
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium appeals to buyers who prioritize what Toyota does best: practicality and resale value. At $38,800, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 39 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Toyota ownership comes with industry-leading reliability and resale value. Compare more: RAV4 LE vs RAV4 XLE, RAV4 LE vs RAV4 XLE Premium, RAV4 LE vs RAV4 Adventure.
Who Should Choose the Rogue SL
The 2026 Nissan Rogue SL is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price.
Nissan's approach to this suv emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Rogue SL deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $860 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The RAV4 XLE Premium is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the RAV4 XLE Premium makes 18 more hp. Feature differences like 18 more horsepower also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Toyota and Nissan often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.