2017 Kia Sportage vs. 2016 Nissan Rogue

Flashy. Exuberant. Nice-looking. Those aren't adjectives normally associated with crossovers or SUVs, but the times, they are a-changing. We'll look at two popular small SUVs, performing a side-by-side comparison with the 2017 Kia Sportage vs. 2016 Nissan Rogue and come to a decision about which is the better crossover.

The 2017 Kia Sportage is a next-generation small SUV with plenty underneath the hood, checking in with a thunderous peak of 240 HP, thanks to a new-for-2017-models SX Turbo model option that comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. But it's thunderous on the outside, too, with color choices that would have made Jackson Pollock blush: Take, for example, the exclusive Burnished Copper color, or the Hyper Red, and you'll feel like you're driving a vehicle in a movie montage of awesomeness.

The 2016 Nissan Rogue is a top-seller, but it tops out at 170 HP in all model options, which is a significant difference from the 2017 Sportage's available 240 HP when you want to make your way to work before the coffee gets cold. Plus, the 2016 Rogue can only tow half the freight the 2017 Sportage can, with 1,000 pounds to the Sportage's 2,000. Which means if you want to hitch up a trailer to move a couch or a refrigerator, among other items, you're likely going to have to make extra trips with the 2016 Rogue. Click here to read more about the Features and Advantages of the Kia Sportage

We forgive you if you think a crossover with as much muscle as the 2017 Kia Sportage would be slow on the draw – but in fact, its curb-to-curb turning radius is the equal of the compact Kia Forte. Now that's some nice handling. And praise for its predecessor the 2016 Kia Sportage, such as being named "Highest Ranked Small SUV in Initial Quality" by J.D. Power in its 2016 Initial Quality Study* creates a halo effect for the 2017 Sportage as well, which is a redesign of 2016 Sportage models, with 10 percent improvements in fuel economy and cargo room. You might also think a vehicle as superior as the 2017 Sportage would be pricier, but at Friendly Kia you can get one for prices starting around $19,515 with our VIP Pricing, while our competition has the 2016 Rogue set at prices that start at $24,744. In addition to the savings you get with a 2017 Sportage, you also have next-level tech like the new-for-2017 UVO3 infotainment with 14 available telematics features. You also get an available rear hatch – a liftgate – where you can program its height, so you won't have to jump to reach it or worry it will hit a ceiling or overhang in a cramped garage. The 2016 Rogue has a liftgate as well, but not one where you can adjust its height.

Whether you're looking for a smooth, powerful, or feature-filled ride, the 2017 Kia Sportage provides a superior experience. We have the Kia Sportage on the lot at Friendly Kia, which is located at 5819 US Highway 19 in New Port Richey, FL, about 20 miles from Clearwater, less than 40 miles from Tampa, and less than 25 miles from Spring Hill. Call us at 877-544-6706 or come visit us to take a 2017 Sportage for a test drive today. If you plan on purchasing a new or used car, please take advantage of our trade-in policy and our exclusive partnership with Kelley Blue Book KBB.com's Trade-In Marketplace/Buying Center.

*Disclaimer: The Kia Sportage received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles among small SUVs in the J.D. Power 2016 Initial Quality Study, based on 80,157 total responses, evaluating 245 models, and measures the opinions of new 2016 vehicle owners after 90 days of ownership, surveyed in February-May 2016. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com