2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2019 Honda CR-V

The 2019 Honda CR-V was a versatile choice for consumers, offering four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. It featured standard front-wheel drive with an option for all-wheel drive, except in Canada where AWD was standard on all trims except the base model. Prices ranged from $27,690 to $39,090, plus destination charges. The CR-V's design was generally appealing, with 17-inch aluminum wheels on the base model and 18-inch wheels on higher trims. The interior was noted for its quality materials and thoughtful layout, although the abundance of hard plastic was a minor drawback. The CR-V's rear design was considered upscale, but the front styling was less popular.

In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL Platinum trims, maintained an attractive appearance despite its age. The SL Platinum trim, priced at an estimated $37,998 plus destination charges, featured a bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels. However, the interior design showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. The Rogue's centre console was padded for comfort, but the overall interior lacked the modernity seen in newer models. Despite these drawbacks, the Rogue's exterior design remained appealing to many consumers.

The 2019 Honda CR-V in Canada was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it offered both FWD and AWD options. The engine was responsive and provided satisfying acceleration, although it had issues in cold weather and with battery reliability. The CR-V's fuel economy was slightly below expectations, averaging 10.2 L/100 km compared to the expected 8.0 L/100 km. The AWD system provided extra traction in slippery conditions, and the vehicle's driving dynamics were impressive, with excellent steering and braking performance.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. While the powertrain was adequate for most driving situations, it struggled during highway acceleration and mountain climbs. The Rogue's fuel economy was also disappointing, achieving 9.4 L/100 km compared to the expected 8.2 L/100 km. The vehicle's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the steering was lifeless, and the CVT drone was noticeable. Overall, the Rogue's performance was less engaging than the CR-V's.

The 2019 Honda CR-V offered a comfortable interior, although the lack of a height adjuster for the front passenger seat was a drawback. The driver enjoyed a 12-way power adjustable seat, and heated front seats were standard in Canada. The rear seats provided ample space and comfort, with air vents and USB ports for convenience. The CR-V excelled in cargo space, offering 1,110 litres behind the rear seats and 2,146 litres with the seats folded down, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior comfort was compromised by the inability to adjust the driver's seat height adequately. The rear seats, however, were comfortable and offered good legroom and visibility, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area was generous, with 1,112 litres of space and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system. Despite these features, the Rogue's interior was less accommodating than the CR-V's.

The 2019 Honda CR-V featured a comprehensive infotainment system with Bluetooth, a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered additional features like SiriusXM, navigation, and a premium audio system. However, the system's small screen and lack of a tuning knob were drawbacks, and the voice recognition was often unreliable.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included similar features, such as Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Upgrades included navigation, a Bose audio system, and NissanConnect Services. Despite these offerings, the system's 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, and the interface was slow and unresponsive, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2019 Honda CR-V came with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features, on all trims except the base LX FWD. It included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The CR-V received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, although its headlight performance was rated as Acceptable.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured Safety Shield 360, which included forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional options included ProPilot Assist and a surround-view camera. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and no Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS due to issues with headlight and frontal-impact protection.