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Head-to-Head Comparison

2026 Honda CR-V AWD TrailSport vs 2026 Nissan Rogue FWD

Full side-by-side comparison of specs, performance, fuel economy, safety, and pricing — plus our verdict on which is the better buy.

Expert analysis

2026 Honda CR-V AWD TrailSport vs 2026 Nissan Rogue FWD: Which SUV Suits You Best?

If you’re eyeing a compact SUV and have narrowed your options to the 2026 Honda CR-V AWD TrailSport and the 2026 Nissan Rogue FWD, you’re looking at two solid contenders with distinct strengths. Both deliver around 200 horsepower and respectable fuel economy, but their price points, drivetrain setups, and feature sets target different types of buyers. This comparison is for shoppers who want a dependable, efficient SUV but need clarity on whether to prioritize all-wheel capability and premium touches or affordability and front-wheel simplicity.

Key Differences

  • All-Wheel Drive vs Front-Wheel Drive: The CR-V TrailSport comes standard with AWD, enhancing traction and confidence in poor weather and light off-road situations, while the Rogue sticks to FWD, which is generally more fuel-efficient but less capable in slippery conditions.
  • Price Gap: At $41,495 MSRP, the CR-V TrailSport commands a significant premium over the Rogue’s $29,000 starting price, reflecting its more rugged TrailSport trim and AWD system.
  • Fuel Economy: The CR-V’s combined 35 mpg is impressive for an AWD SUV, edging out the Rogue’s 32 mpg despite the latter’s FWD layout.
  • Power Output: Both SUVs are closely matched in power, with the CR-V’s 204 hp just slightly ahead of the Rogue’s 201 hp, meaning performance differences will be subtle in everyday driving.

Who Should Buy the Honda CR-V?

The 2026 Honda CR-V AWD TrailSport is ideal for buyers who want a compact SUV that can confidently handle varied driving conditions, including rain, snow, or light off-road trails. If you value higher fuel efficiency despite AWD, plus a more premium feel and don’t mind paying a premium for capability and versatility, the CR-V TrailSport fits the bill.

Who Should Buy the Nissan Rogue?

The 2026 Nissan Rogue FWD is best suited for budget-conscious buyers who primarily drive in urban or suburban environments with minimal need for AWD. If your priority is affordability, a lower MSRP, and reliable daily transportation without extra drivetrain complexity, the Rogue offers solid performance and decent fuel economy at a wallet-friendly price.

Verdict

For most buyers, the 2026 Honda CR-V AWD TrailSport justifies its higher price with superior fuel efficiency, AWD capability, and a more rugged character. However, if your driving rarely demands all-wheel traction and you want to save close to $12,500 upfront, the Nissan Rogue FWD remains a compelling, practical choice.

Not sure yet?

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Full Spec Comparison

Every number, side by side.

Spec2026Honda CR-V2026Nissan Rogue
Body Type
suv
suv
Fuel Type
hybrid
gasoline
Drivetrain
AWD
FWD
Seating
5 passengers
5 passengers
MSRP
$41,495
$29,000
Destination
$1,395
$1,390
Spec2026Honda CR-V2026Nissan Rogue
Engine
2L 4-Cylinder Hybrid
1.5L 3-Cylinder Turbo
Displacement
2L
1.5L
Horsepower
204 hp
201 hp
HP @ RPM
204 hp @ N/A
201 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque
247 lb-ft
225 lb-ft
Torque @ RPM
247 lb-ft @ N/A
225 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm
Transmission
Automatic (variable gear ratios)
8-speed Automatic (AV-S8)
Drivetrain
AWD
FWD
0-60 mph
7.9s
8s
Spec2026Honda CR-V2026Nissan Rogue
MPG City
38 mpg
29 mpg
MPG Highway
33 mpg
36 mpg
MPG Combined
35 mpg
32 mpg
Fuel Tank
14.0 gal
14.5 gal
Spec2026Honda CR-V2026Nissan Rogue
Length
184.8"
183.0"
Width
73.5"
72.4"
Width w/ Mirrors
84.1"
Height
66.2"
66.5"
Wheelbase
106.3"
106.5"
Ground Clearance
8.2"
8.2"
Curb Weight
3,937 lbs
3,488 lbs
Gross Weight
4,630 lbs
Cargo Volume
36.3 cu ft
36.5 cu ft
Cargo (Max)
76.5 cu ft
74.1 cu ft
Passenger Volume
103.5 cu ft
105.4 cu ft
Turning Circle
39.0 ft
35.4 ft
Towing Capacity
1,000 lbs
1500 lbs
Payload Capacity
1142 lbs
Spec2026Honda CR-V2026Nissan Rogue
NHTSA Overall
★★★★★
★★★★★
NHTSA Frontal
★★★★☆
★★★★☆
NHTSA Side
★★★★★
NHTSA Rollover
★★★★☆
★★★★☆
IIHS Overall
Top Safety Pick
Airbags
10
10
Spec2026Honda CR-V2026Nissan Rogue
Infotainment
9.0-inch touchscreen
8.0-inch touchscreen
System
Honda infotainment system with Google built-in
NissanConnect
Apple CarPlay
Android Auto
Wireless Charging
USB Ports
4
4
Wi-Fi Hotspot
Sound System
Bose 12-speaker premium audio
4-speaker audio system
Heated Seats
Ventilated Seats
Heated Wheel
Sunroof
Standard
None
Keyless Entry
Push Start
Remote Start
Power Liftgate
Headlights
LED
LED
Adaptive Headlights
Spec2026Honda CR-V2026Nissan Rogue
Basic
3 yr / 36k mi
3 yr / 36k mi
Powertrain
5 yr / 60k mi
5 yr / 60k mi
Corrosion
5 yr
5 yr
Roadside Assist
3 yr / 36k mi
3 yr / 36k mi
Overall
8.5
8.1
Performance
7.8
7.8
Comfort
8.6
8.2
Interior
8.4
8.0
Technology
8.7
8.1
Safety
9.2
8.7
Value
8.1
8.0
Reliability
8.8
7.8