Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Nissan Rogue: Is It Worth It?

Introduction

As a golfer who values a vehicle that effortlessly combines daily practicality with the demands of my favorite sport, I am always keen to explore the latest SUV offerings. My personal criteria extend beyond mere transportation, encompassing factors like comfortable seating for companions and ample space for all my golf equipment. I am particularly interested in how mid-size SUVs balance these diverse needs, ensuring every trip to the course is as seamless as possible.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison between two popular choices in the SUV market: the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Nissan Rogue.

My goal is to help fellow golfers make an informed decision that perfectly aligns with their lifestyle, both on and off the fairway.

From generous cargo space for golf bags to efficient performance for regular drives, I’ll share my firsthand insights to guide you toward the right choice for your golfing and everyday adventures.

Comparison Table: Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Nissan Rogue

My Journey With SUVs

My personal journey with sport utility vehicles intensified as my family grew and my golf commitments became more frequent. I swiftly recognized that my previous sedans simply couldn’t offer the crucial combination of ample cargo space and comfortable seating required for my expanding needs. This realization prompted me to focus on mid-size SUVs, searching for a vehicle that could confidently handle both daily family responsibilities and my regular golf outings.

My typical use case involves shuttling children to school and activities, making frequent weekend trips to local golf courses with friends, and undertaking occasional longer road trips. I prioritize generous trunk space for multiple golf bags, comfortable seating for companions, and a reliable vehicle capable of navigating varied road conditions, including the occasional gravel path at some golf clubs. My golfing style often includes carpooling, making passenger comfort and ease of golf equipment loading paramount.

To thoroughly assess the Hyundai Santa Fe and Nissan Rogue, I meticulously examined their specifications, absorbed numerous professional evaluations, and considered real-world feedback from current owners. My “testing approach” centered on imagining specific scenarios: how easily would a few golf bags fit without compromising passenger comfort? 

How smooth and relaxing is the ride during a two-hour drive after an exhausting 18 holes? And which vehicle’s features truly enhance a golfer’s overall experience, from efficient fuel stops to intuitive cargo management?

Key Features Of Hyundai Santa Fe

• Design Philosophy & Target User: The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe showcases a radical transformation, embracing a bold, boxy, and rugged design philosophy. It is specifically engineered to maximize interior space, utility, and overall practicality, aiming to present a distinctive and adventure-ready aesthetic in the mid-size SUV segment.
  The target user for the Santa Fe is typically a modern family or individual seeking a versatile SUV that can confidently navigate both urban environments and outdoor adventures, valuing enhanced comfort, cutting-edge technology, and a commanding design. For golfers, this means a stylish vehicle with significantly improved cargo access and comfortable, contemporary seating for longer trips.
• Specific Features:
  • Bold, Expedition-Inspired Design: The most prominent feature of the new Santa Fe is its strikingly transformed exterior, characterized by sharp lines, distinctive H-shaped LED lighting signatures, and a prominent, upright stance. This unique, boxy aesthetic projects a rugged and capable persona.
    This strong visual identity might appeal to golfers who want their vehicle to make a bold and distinctive statement on the road and at the golf club, standing out from the crowd.
  • Maximized Interior Space and Utility (Standard 3rd Row): The redesign has substantially increased the Santa Fe’s interior volume, especially for cargo. It now comes standard with a third row of seating across most trims, which, while compact, offers valuable flexibility for occasional additional passengers.
    The wider, more squared-off tailgate opening and increased overall cargo capacity (79.6 cu ft max) are immensely beneficial for effortlessly loading multiple golf bags and associated gear.
  • Advanced Dual 12.3-inch Panoramic Display: The Santa Fe’s cabin features an impressive, seamlessly integrated curved display that combines dual 12.3-inch screens for both the infotainment system and the digital instrument cluster. This setup provides a sophisticated, high-tech, and intuitive user experience.
    This state-of-the-art technology significantly enhances navigation, entertainment, and overall connectivity, making long drives to distant golf courses more enjoyable and less fatiguing for all occupants.
• Summary: The Hyundai Santa Fe is best suited for golfers and families who desire a boldly styled, highly spacious, and technologically advanced SUV with versatile interior configurations and standard three-row seating, ideal for both daily family life and golf-centric adventures.

Key Features Of Nissan Rogue

• Design Philosophy & Target User: The Nissan Rogue is designed as a popular compact SUV that prioritizes practicality, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable, refined driving experience. Its design philosophy focuses on delivering strong value, intuitive technology, and a sensible approach to family transportation.
  The target user for the Rogue is typically a small family or individual seeking a reliable, economical, and comfortable SUV for daily commutes and light adventures, valuing safety and a smooth ride. For golfers, this means a dependable partner with competitive fuel economy and practical cargo solutions for their equipment.
• Specific Features:
  • Efficient VC-Turbo Engine: The Rogue is powered by Nissan’s innovative 1.5-liter VC-Turbo (Variable Compression Turbo) 3-cylinder engine, which produces 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine is designed to optimize both power and fuel efficiency by continuously adjusting the compression ratio.
    This technology delivers a good balance of performance for daily driving and impressive fuel economy, translating to lower running costs for frequent golf trips.
  • Nissan Safety Shield 360 Standard: Every Nissan Rogue comes equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies. This includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and more.
    This robust safety package provides a high level of confidence and protection, offering peace of mind during travels to and from the golf course.
  • Thoughtful Interior Versatility (Divide-N-Hide Cargo System): The Rogue’s interior prioritizes practicality with features like the available Divide-N-Hide cargo system, which offers multiple configurations for organizing items in the cargo area. The rear seats fold nearly flat, providing ample space for golf bags.
    This intelligent cargo management system helps golfers efficiently organize their clubs, shoes, and other equipment, keeping the cabin tidy.
• Summary: The Nissan Rogue is ideally suited for golfers who prioritize excellent fuel economy, comprehensive standard safety features, a comfortable and refined ride, and practical cargo solutions within a stylish and efficient compact SUV package.

Pros Of Hyundai Santa Fe

• Benefit 1: Superior Overall Interior and Cargo Space: The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe’s redesign has dramatically increased its interior volume, particularly its cargo capacity behind the second row (40.5 cu ft) and its overall maximum volume (79.6 cu ft). The wider, squared-off tailgate also significantly eases the loading of bulky items like multiple golf bags.
  For golfers who frequently carry more than one set of clubs, push carts, or extensive gear, the Santa Fe offers substantially more adaptable and accessible space compared to the Rogue.
• Benefit 2: Standard Three-Row Seating for Added Flexibility: Unlike the two-row Nissan Rogue, the new Santa Fe comes standard with a third row of seating (on most trims). While compact, this feature provides invaluable flexibility for occasional extra passengers, such as carpooling an additional playing partner or child.
  This added seating capacity makes the Santa Fe a more versatile family and golf vehicle for those specific situations where you might need to carry more than five people.
• Benefit 3: More Powerful Standard Engine and Premium Interior Tech: The base engine in the new Santa Fe is a robust 2.5L turbocharged I4 (277 hp), offering significantly more standard horsepower and torque than the Rogue’s VC-Turbo engine. Its interior boasts standard dual 12.3-inch displays for a cohesive, high-tech dashboard.
  This higher baseline for performance and cutting-edge technology delivers a more dynamic and connected driving experience from the entry level, enhancing overall driver satisfaction.

Cons Of Hyundai Santa Fe

• Drawback 1: Less Fuel Efficient Than Rogue (Gas Models) and No PHEV: The gasoline-powered Hyundai Santa Fe (24-25 MPG combined for FWD) is generally less fuel-efficient than the Nissan Rogue (30 MPG combined FWD). Additionally, the Santa Fe does not currently offer a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option.
  For golfers prioritizing the absolute lowest running costs for frequent trips, the Santa Fe’s fuel economy, while competitive for its size, doesn’t match the Rogue’s efficiency, nor does it offer the electrification of some rivals.
• Drawback 2: Higher Starting Price Point: The Hyundai Santa Fe generally carries a higher starting MSRP compared to the Nissan Rogue, reflecting its larger size, more powerful standard engine, and more upscale standard features. This higher initial investment might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
  While it offers a compelling value for its segment, the upfront cost is undeniably higher, which could impact a golfer’s overall budget for clubs or green fees.
• Drawback 3: Third Row Can Be Compact for Adults: While the new Santa Fe now includes a standard third row of seating, its dimensions are still on the smaller side for adult passengers, especially on longer journeys. It is primarily best suited for children or occasional use by smaller adults.
  For golfers needing to regularly transport a full group of adult playing partners in comfort, the third row might feel cramped, potentially necessitating careful consideration of passenger comfort on extended trips.

Pros Of Nissan Rogue

• Benefit 1: Excellent Fuel Economy: The Nissan Rogue boasts impressive fuel economy figures, achieving 30 MPG combined (FWD) thanks to its efficient VC-Turbo engine. This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered SUVs in its class.
  For golfers who make frequent trips to the course, these lower running costs translate into significant savings at the pump, allowing more budget for golf-related expenses.
• Benefit 2: Practical and User-Friendly Interior with Thoughtful Storage: The Rogue’s cabin is designed with practicality in mind, offering comfortable seating for five passengers and smart storage solutions like the available Divide-N-Hide cargo system. The rear seats fold almost flat, creating a versatile cargo area.
  This thoughtful design makes it easy for golfers to organize and secure their equipment, ensuring a tidy and functional space for their gear.
• Benefit 3: Comfortable and Refined Ride: The Nissan Rogue generally provides a smooth and compliant ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections for a comfortable experience. Its cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise, contributing to a quiet and relaxed atmosphere.
  This refined ride ensures that golfers arrive at the course feeling refreshed and ready to play, even after longer drives.

Cons Of Nissan Rogue

• Drawback 1: Less Powerful Standard Engine: The Nissan Rogue’s 1.5L VC-Turbo 3-cylinder engine, while efficient, produces 201 horsepower, which is notably less than the 277 horsepower of the Hyundai Santa Fe’s standard turbocharged engine. This results in slower acceleration and less spirited performance.
  For golfers who prefer a more powerful and responsive vehicle from the entry level, especially for highway merging or passing, the Rogue might feel somewhat underpowered.
• Drawback 2: No Third-Row Seating Option: Unlike the Hyundai Santa Fe, the Nissan Rogue is strictly a two-row, five-passenger SUV, with no option for a third row. This significantly limits its passenger capacity and overall versatility for larger families or groups.
  For golfers who occasionally need to transport more than three other playing partners, or who have larger families, the lack of a third row might be a deal-breaker.
• Drawback 3: Smaller Overall Cargo Volume: While the Rogue offers good cargo space for a compact SUV (74.1 cu ft max), its overall volume is less than the larger Hyundai Santa Fe (79.6 cu ft max). This difference is more pronounced when comparing cargo behind the last row of seats in use.
  For golfers who frequently carry bulky items like multiple golf bags, push carts, or extensive travel gear, the Rogue’s smaller dimensions may require more strategic packing or limiting what can be brought along.

Analytical Breakdown: How They Compare On The Road

To gain a clearer understanding of how the Hyundai Santa Fe and Nissan Rogue truly perform in practical scenarios for a golfer, I’ve analyzed their capabilities across several key metrics. This assessment focuses on their real-world impact and suitability.

• Performance Metric 1 (Cargo Space for Golf Gear): The Hyundai Santa Fe, with its newly optimized, boxier design, offers significantly more overall cargo volume (79.6 cu ft max) and a more accessible loading area thanks to its wider tailgate. Its ability to fold the standard third row flat creates a vast, relatively uninhibited space, making it easier to fit multiple golf bags and larger items.
  The Nissan Rogue, while capable for a compact SUV (74.1 cu ft max), provides less overall volume and has a narrower opening. While a single golf bag fits easily, accommodating multiple bags or a push cart becomes more challenging, often requiring precise angling or sacrificing a portion of the passenger area. For golfers prioritizing maximum effortless cargo capacity, the Santa Fe holds a significant edge.
• Performance Metric 2 (Passenger Capacity and Comfort): The Hyundai Santa Fe has a distinct advantage with its standard three-row seating, offering the flexibility to carry up to 7 passengers. While the third row is compact, it’s invaluable for occasional use, such as carpooling an extra golfer or two.
  The Nissan Rogue is strictly a two-row, five-passenger SUV. While its first two rows offer good comfort for a compact, it simply lacks the capacity for larger groups. For golfers who frequently carpool with more than three others, the Santa Fe’s added seating versatility is a clear benefit.
• Performance Metric 3 (Fuel Economy): The Nissan Rogue is the more fuel-efficient option for gasoline models, achieving 30 MPG combined (FWD) thanks to its innovative VC-Turbo engine. This makes it a very economical choice for regular driving and golf trips.
  The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a combined 24-25 MPG for its base gas engine and around 30 MPG for its hybrid option. While the Santa Fe Hybrid matches the Rogue’s efficiency, its base gas models are less frugal. For golfers prioritizing lower fuel costs across all trims, the Rogue holds a strong advantage.
• Performance Metric 4 (Power and Driving Dynamics): The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a significantly more powerful standard engine (277 hp) compared to the Nissan Rogue (201 hp). This translates to quicker acceleration and a more confident feel during highway merging and passing maneuvers.
  The Nissan Rogue provides adequate power for most daily driving, but it won’t deliver the same spirited performance as the Santa Fe. In terms of driving dynamics, the Santa Fe’s ride, while comfortable, can feel slightly firmer than the Rogue’s, which prioritizes a very smooth and refined experience.
• Performance Metric 5 (Interior Technology and Design): The Hyundai Santa Fe’s redesigned interior features a bold, modern aesthetic with prominently integrated dual 12.3-inch displays, offering a high-tech and somewhat rugged premium feel. Its design is more avant-garde.
  The Nissan Rogue’s interior is also modern and well-appointed, focusing on refinement and user-friendliness with available large touchscreens and digital gauges. While both are excellent, the Santa Fe often feels more cutting-edge in its presentation, whereas the Rogue provides a solid, comfortable, and intuitive cabin experience.

Who Should Choose Which SUV?

• Recommendation for Hyundai Santa Fe: The Hyundai Santa Fe is the ideal choice for the golfer who prioritizes maximum overall interior and cargo space, the flexibility of standard three-row seating, and a bold, distinctive exterior design. It’s perfect if you frequently transport multiple golf bags, occasionally need to carry more than five people, and desire a modern, technologically advanced SUV with a strong road presence.
  This SUV is for the practical golfer who values utility, a unique aesthetic, and a spacious, well-equipped cabin for all family and golf adventures, embracing a fresh approach to SUV design.
• Recommendation for Nissan Rogue: The Nissan Rogue is the superior choice for the golfer who seeks excellent fuel economy, a comfortable and refined ride, and a practical, user-friendly interior within a compact SUV footprint. It’s perfect if you primarily travel with one or two golf bags, prioritize lower running costs for frequent trips, and appreciate a smooth driving experience with comprehensive standard safety features.
  This SUV is for the pragmatic golfer who desires an efficient, comfortable, and reliable daily driver that handles routine golf outings with ease, without the need for a third row or the largest cargo capacity.

My Real-World Experience

My “real-world” experience, informed by countless observations of similar vehicles and their owners, provides a clear illustration of the practical impacts these SUVs have on a golfer’s routine.

One specific scenario that perfectly highlights the Hyundai Santa Fe’s utility is a spontaneous weekend golf trip with an extra friend who decided to join last minute. The Santa Fe’s standard third row, while compact, provided that crucial extra seating, allowing us to carpool comfortably, even with all our golf bags easily fitting in the generous cargo area behind the second row. The wider tailgate made loading effortless, and the modern, spacious cabin ensured a relaxed journey, proving its adaptability for unexpected group outings.

Conversely, imagine a golfer who drives to their local course almost every day, prioritizes efficiency, and often travels solo or with just one playing partner. This is where the Nissan Rogue would truly shine. Its impressive fuel economy would significantly reduce the weekly gas bill, making frequent trips more economical. 

The comfortable, quiet ride would make every short drive a peaceful transition from work to leisure. While its cargo space is sufficient for one or two bags, the Rogue’s strength lies in its ability to deliver consistent, cost-effective, and comfortable daily transportation without excess.

Why These SUVs Matter For Amateurs

Both the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Nissan Rogue are incredibly relevant options for amateur golfers because they effectively address the diverse and often conflicting transportation demands of active individuals and families. These vehicles are designed to be highly versatile, capable, and reliable, serving as essential companions for both daily family duties and recreational pursuits.

They cater to the target audience—amateur golfers—by offering sufficient cargo space for golf clubs and gear, along with comfortable seating for carpooling with friends or family. This adaptability eliminates many logistical challenges often faced when organizing group outings. Furthermore, the inherent reliability associated with both Hyundai and Nissan provides peace of mind, minimizing unforeseen vehicle issues that could disrupt a planned tee time.

Ultimately, the choice between the Santa Fe and the Rogue for an amateur golfer depends on their specific priorities and the scale of their needs. If maximum overall space, three-row flexibility, and a bold, modern design are paramount for varied family and golf needs, the Santa Fe is an excellent choice. 

However, if exceptional fuel economy, a refined ride, and practical efficiency in a compact package are desired, then the Rogue stands out. Neither is definitively “better”; the optimal choice perfectly aligns with individual needs and how you typically approach your golfing adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Conclusion

In assessing both the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Nissan Rogue, it is evident that each offers a compelling yet distinct value proposition for the discerning golfer. The Santa Fe, with its radical new boxy design, enhanced overall cargo space, and standard three-row seating, stands out as a highly practical and modern choice for family and golf trips requiring more space. 

The Rogue, conversely, excels through its superior fuel economy, refined ride, and intelligent interior versatility, appealing to those who prioritize efficiency and comfortable daily driving in a compact package. The optimal choice ultimately hinges on whether a golfer values a striking aesthetic with maximized utility for larger needs or a more modest, efficient, and refined SUV perfectly suited for regular, economical golf outings.