2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Honda CR-V

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was available in three trim levels: S, SV, and SL Platinum, with a straightforward engine and transmission setup, offering both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. The SL Platinum trim, which was tested, had an MSRP of $37,998 Canadian, excluding a $1,930 destination charge. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, though the V-Motion grille and fender swells were somewhat exaggerated. The 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels on the SL Platinum added to its appeal. However, the interior design showed its age, with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. The padded centre console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

In contrast, the 2020 Honda CR-V, part of the fifth generation, had a familiar and fun design, with curvy, car-like lines and a family resemblance to Honda's sedan lineup. Its styling leaned more towards a station wagon than an SUV, defining modern family transportation. Inside, the CR-V's interior was a mix of textures and materials, with upscale touches like wood-look trim and leather upholstery clashing with low-quality plastics. The base CR-V LX trim started at $29,970 Canadian, with AWD available for an additional $2,800. The CR-V offered five trim levels, each with a standard three-year or 36,000-mile warranty. The CR-V's wheel options ranged from 17-inch alloy wheels on the base model to 19-inch wheels on higher trims, with various upholstery options and features like a retractable or panoramic moonroof on select trims.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured a single engine and transmission option, a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Weighing up to 1,664 kilograms, the Rogue's powertrain was adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. The CVT made the most of the available power, but the Rogue struggled during highway acceleration, passing, and climbing. Fuel efficiency was also a concern, with the FWD version rated at 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres combined, but achieving no better than 9.4 L/100 km during testing. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the driving experience was marred by lifeless steering, lack of suspension isolation, and CVT drone.

The 2020 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, came standard with a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine across all trims, delivering 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. The CR-V's powertrain was well-matched, offering a quick feel, especially in Sport mode. The CVT mimicked a conventional automatic transmission effectively, providing a smooth driving experience. The CR-V's car-like road manners were excellent, with nimble handling, minimal body roll, and a firm yet comfortable chassis. Its lighter curb weight, ranging from 1,521 kg for the FWD LX model to 1,641 kg for the AWD Touring and Black Edition, contributed to its agility and fuel efficiency. The CR-V's fuel consumption was rated at 7.7 L/100 km for FWD models and 8.1 L/100 km for AWD models, making it one of the most efficient in its class.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior posed challenges for taller drivers, with seats that were somewhat undersized compared to Nissan's usual Zero Gravity designs. The driver's seat height adjustment was limited, affecting comfort for those with longer legs. However, the rear seats offered excellent thigh support, legroom, and a proper backrest angle, with a stadium-style seating arrangement providing a great view. The panoramic glass moonroof, rear climate control vents, and USB charging ports added to rear passenger comfort. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area was spacious, offering 1,112 litres of space with underfloor storage compartments and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2020 Honda CR-V excelled in interior space and storage solutions. Its cabin was roomy, with excellent head- and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The CR-V's seating position and low cowl enhanced visibility. The cargo compartment matched the Volkswagen Tiguan in volume, with a two-position load floor allowing for flexible cargo space. The centre console featured a deep well with a sliding cover, inspired by the Honda Odyssey, providing ample storage for small items. The rear offered 1,065 litres of cargo space in the Touring and Black Edition trims and 1,110 litres in other grades. The CR-V's door pockets were also spacious, making it easy to store and access items.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades included navigation, a Bose premium audio system, and NissanConnect Services, offering features like remote engine start and door lock operation. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition, detracting from the overall tech experience.

In contrast, the 2020 Honda CR-V's infotainment system showed its age, with a standard 7-inch touchscreen that felt small compared to competitors. The system lacked hard buttons, making it challenging to operate, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto felt tacked on. Navigation was only available in the Touring and Black Editions. However, the CR-V offered ample USB ports, with two in the front and two high-powered ports in the backseat. The Touring and Black Edition trims also featured a wireless phone charger, enhancing device connectivity and charging options.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came equipped with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional features included a Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert system. Optional safety features included automatic high beams, pedestrian detection, and ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and issues with frontal-impact protection.

The 2020 Honda CR-V featured the Honda Sensing suite as standard, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Automatic high beams were standard, with blind-spot monitoring available on higher trims. The CR-V earned a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS, with LED headlights on the Touring and Black Edition trims improving nighttime visibility. A safety recall for rear subframe failure affected a limited number of vehicles.