2008 Compact Crossover Comparison

Based upon the new estimates from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Rogue promises the best gas mileage: 22 mpg in city driving and 27 mpg on the highway with two-wheel drive, each figure dropping by 1 mpg if all-wheel drive is installed. As expected, the least frugal model is Toyota's RAV4 with V-6 power, earning a 19/24 mpg estimates with all-wheel drive. Honda's all-wheel-drive CR-V, with a four-cylinder engine, manages a slightly better 19/26 mpg.


Toyota is the only manufacturer in this group to offer optional three-row seating, to hold up to seven passengers. The CR-V and Rogue have two seating rows for five-occupant capacity. Cargo volume is smallest in the Nissan Rogue, whether the backseat is folded or upright.

Interior Comfort

2008 Toyota RAV4

Second-row RAV4 (shown here) legroom is acceptable and headroom ample, but somewhat hard cushioning detracts from comfort. Getting into the third row is possible but useless for grown-ups, demanding something approaching a crawl. Third-row seats fold flat, but not to floor level.


Except for a little elbow restriction, space is plentiful up front in the CR-V, and also in the back, though some heads could touch the roof edge when leaning to the side. The backseat is on the hard side, compromising comfort.


Rogue seats cradle the occupants, with gentle yet effective bolstering and good thigh support. Long bottoms are nicely cushioned. Back support is satisfying, but never stern. Headrests cut a bit into the rearward view.