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 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a benchmark SUV; it's a luxury vehicle, a talented off-roader, a scalding-hot track runner, and a family wagon extraordinaire. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a great family vehicle—just one that's also potentially ready to go off-road, tow a trailer or, on occasion, do things that are more workhorse-like than you'd attempt in most other typical family crossovers.
Pros Premium look and feel Responsive 8-speed automatics Ecodiesel's 30-mpg rating, 730-mile range Easy-to-use infotainment SRT is fit for track time
Cons Quite pricey, to be without a luxury badge Grille design still not in alignment Hemi is too thirsty for what it provides No rearview camera on base Laredo
The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee ranks 8 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee gives you the best of both worlds: a rough-and-ready off-road SUV with a handsome, refined interior and comfortable performance on pavement.
Pros Excellent off-road capabilities Powerful engine lineup Upscale cabin Intuitive infotainment system
Cons Small cargo space
A Trailhawk model with extra off-road kit debuts for 2017, while the top-of-the-line Summit gets slightly revised styling and additional luxury-oriented interior garnishes. Newly available features include a self-parking system and lane departure warning. A rearview camera and rear parking sensors are now standard on every Grand Cherokee.
Pros Appealing engines, including a thrifty diesel V6 and a brawny V8 Enough off-road ability to conquer practically any trail Plush interior with plentiful luxury and technology Impressive tow ratings for the class
Cons Diesel engine is noisy at idle and low speeds Ride quality may disappoint, even with air suspension
