2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Toyota 4Runner

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL Platinum trims, offered a straightforward design with a single engine and transmission choice, and options for front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The SL Platinum trim, priced at an estimated $37,998 CAD, featured a bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, giving it an appealing look despite its age. However, the interior design felt dated, with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. The padded centre console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner, despite its 12-year-old design, maintained a timeless and utilitarian appearance. Its two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches provided balanced proportions and undeniable utility. The 4Runner's design was more about function than form, with a rugged look that aged well. The Trail and SR5 trims, along with various packages, offered a range of features, with prices starting at $46,200 CAD. The interior was practical, with hard plastic surfaces that suited its off-road mission.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Weighing 1,664 kilograms, the Rogue's powertrain was adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. The CVT managed power well, but the Rogue struggled with acceleration, especially on highways or steep grades. Fuel efficiency was disappointing, with a tested consumption of 9.4 L/100 km, higher than the expected 8.2 L/100 km. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it lacked driving excitement.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner excelled off-road, thanks to its A-Trac traction control system and optional TRD Off-Road, Venture, or TRD Pro packages, which added features like a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. Powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, the 4Runner had a five-speed automatic transmission and a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. On-road, the 4Runner felt slow and clunky, with heavy steering and brakes. Its truck-like characteristics were part of its charm, but fuel consumption was high, averaging 14.0 L/100 km.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior was a mixed bag. The front seats, though equipped with Quick Comfort heating, were undersized and challenging for taller drivers to adjust comfortably. The rear seats, however, offered excellent thigh support, legroom, and visibility, enhanced by a panoramic glass moonroof. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area was spacious, with 1,112 litres of space and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's high ground clearance could be a challenge for shorter passengers, but once inside, the seats were supportive, with ample legroom and visibility. The rear seats had air conditioning vents and USB ports, and the vehicle offered an open-air feel with its moonroof and power windows. Cargo space was generous, with up to 1,337 litres behind the rear seats and 2,540 litres with them folded down, plus a large roof rack for additional storage.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM, with upgrades like navigation and a Bose audio system. NissanConnect Services offered remote access and safety features, but the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's Trail grade had basic technology, with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation, even with gloves. Upgraded packages added dynamic navigation and concierge services, enhancing the infotainment experience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional options included ProPilot Assist and a surround-view camera. However, its safety ratings were not stellar, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and issues with frontal-impact protection.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. Its safety ratings reflected its age, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA and marginal frontal-impact protection from IIHS.