The 2017 BMW X5 remains one of the top picks in the very competitive midsize luxury SUV class. Strong performance, a luxurious cabin and an efficient diesel engine option help distinguish it from its accomplished rivals.
Pros Strong performance from every model Luxurious and comfortable cabin that lives up to its price tag Optional diesel engine is as potent as it is efficient A long list of optional features allows for a wide range of customization.
Cons Less legroom in the second row compared to some of its competitors Optional third-row seats are tight even for children.
The 2017 BMW X5 boasts a solid set of powertrains and features that move the sedan toward the top of any list of luxury SUVs. BMW's charge into every SUV segment hasn't watered down the one that started it all. The 2017 BMW X5 is a benchmark for luxury SUVs and the bar by which many are compared. Its off-road ability is eclipsed only by its on-road manners, and its interior style and comfort make this SUV a must-see for shoppers.
Pros Bright and stunning interior cabin Very advanced safety features available Strong powertrains, top to bottom Comfortable and quick
Cons Exterior is languishing, a bit Very small third row Price can balloon up to six figures (!) now Hybrid isn't very fuel efficient either.
Visually, this hybrid X5 is differentiated only by minor details, such as the door on the front fender that houses the charge port and the model-specific badging inside and out. In this way, this X5 mostly hides the fact that it's electrified; you can even opt for 19- or 20-inch wheels or an M Sport package, further obscuring the fact that it’s designed to save energy, not waste it M-style. One of the hybrid’s disadvantages is its smaller cargo hold, which shrinks significantly in order to make room for the lithium-ion batteries. And in a prototype that we drove last year, the switch between electric and gasoline-fueled travel was discernible, although we expect that issue to be ironed out by the time of launch. Taking into consideration the considerable extra heft and the expected higher cost, drivers of all stripes—eco-minded, performance-minded, and everyone in between—might conclude that they’re better off with a nonhybrid gasoline or diesel X5. But as we know, it’s government regulations that are providing the impetus behind automakers’ rush to plug-ins, not consumer demand—at least not yet.
The 2017 Nissan Rogue could beat the world of compact crossover SUVs, were it not for mediocre performance and safety ratings. The Nissan Rogue covers the middle of the automaker's crossover SUV lineup. Tucked in between the teensy, utterly impractical Juke and the big three-row Pathfinder, the Rogue relies on good seats and interior space to move its metal.
Pros Surround-view cameras are a must-have feature USB and Bluetooth streaming, standard Lots of safety features Good looks
Cons Carryover powertrain Noisy under hard acceleration Still a crossover... ...with a third-row seat?
The 2017 Nissan Rogue ranks 9 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Nissan Rogue is a solid, middle-of the-road vehicle. Nothing about the Rogue elevates it to the top of this fiercely competitive compact SUV class, but nothing about it is so terrible as to banish it to the bottom either.
Pros Classy interior with upscale finishes Large cargo area with innovative storage system Excellent fuel economy
Cons Transmission can be loud under heavy acceleration Engine could use more power Majority of driver assistance features are exclusive to top trim leve
For 2017, the Nissan Rogue gains a new hybrid option, a slight styling refresh and additional sound insulation. Other available enhancements include a hands-free liftgate, adaptive cruise control with forward collision mitigation, remote ignition, a heated steering wheel, driver-seat memory functions and a premium Platinum Reserve interior package.
Pros Best-in-class front seat comfort Ride quality remains comfortable over varying terrain User-friendly tech options Versatile cargo storage
Cons Weak acceleration Poor visibility Transmission is slow to respond Advanced safety features are only available on top trim level
