2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2021 Nissan Rogue: choose ruggedness

Are you looking for a new compact SUV and don't know which model is right for you? You are not alone. The reality is, with so much choice in the compact SUV segment, it can be difficult to find the perfect model for our needs. The key is to determine our needs and then try out the models that best meet those needs. Take for example the 2021 Jeep Cherokee and the 2021 Nissan Rogue.

Here we are treated to two SUVs that offer a lot of versatility and modern technologies, but they nevertheless differ in terms of ruggedness, off-road capabilities and choice of powertrains. While the 2021 Jeep Cherokee is tested in the most extreme off-road conditions and offers one of the few V6 engines in the compact SUV segment, the 2021 Nissan Rogue is mostly confined to the city. Let's take a closer look.

Many more engine choices and better towing capacity in the 2021 Jeep Cherokee

The first thing you notice when you compare the 2021 Jeep Cherokee to the 2021 Nissan Rogue is that the Jeep offers a lot more powertrain options than the Rogue. While the 2021 Nissan Rogue offers only one engine, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee offers three separate engines. Plus, no matter what engine you take in the Jeep Cherokee, you'll have more power under your right foot than the Nissan Rogue.

The base engine in the 2021 Jeep Cherokee is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that develops 180 horsepower and 171 pound-feet of torque. This engine is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission, more gears than any other SUV in the segment. The 2021 Nissan Rogue comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 181 horsepower, but since it's mated to a CVT, it's a lot less dynamic on the road than the Cherokee. .

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee is also entitled to two more engines in its lineup, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo that develops 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque while the 3.2-liter V6 engine offers 271 horsepower. and 239 lb-ft of torque. Yes, Jeep knows that many consumers still want a V6 in their vehicle and thus offers one of the few options still available.

This V6 can tow up to 4,500 lbs which is the best towing capacity in the segment by far. That's almost 3,000 lbs more than the 2021 Nissan Rogue!