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
The 2020 Tesla Model Y electric crossover is the next big thing from the automaker, until the next thing.
Pros Another electric crossover Another Tesla Another tech spectacle Another car for non-car people
Cons Another deadline for Tesla to miss Another wait for mainstream buyers Another distraction Another promise of self-driving
The 2020 Tesla Model Y is an all-new model.Part of the first Model Y generation introduced for 2020.
Pros 300-mile projected maximum range Stunning acceleration from the Performance model Convenient Supercharger network Cutting-edge technology
Cons Unreliable delivery and pricing expectations Reputation for poor build quality Tiny third-row seats No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support
The newest ambitious project from Tesla is the all-electric Model Y compact crossover. Tesla founder and CEO Elon Musk touted a driving range of up to 300 miles and a zero-to-60-mph time of as little as 3.5 seconds when he unveiled the Model Y during a livestreamed event in March. The 2020 Tesla Model Y looks very similar to the compact Model 3 sedan but can be outfitted with a third row of seats for a total seating capacity of seven.
Pros Peppy electric powertrain, spacious cargo hold, cutting-edge technology features.
Cons Chassis isn't as taut as the four-door Model 3, fit-and-finish needs polish, too reliant on the touchscreen for simple vehicle settings.