2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more muscular and imposing presence for this compact SUV. Its squared-off nose featured a deeper interpretation of Nissan’s V-Motion grille design, flanked by standard LED headlamps in a narrow and angled configuration. The inclusion of functional forward air vents and active grille shutters contributed to a lower coefficient of drag, despite the vehicle's boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was simplified to a few core colours, with additional two-tone options available on the Platinum grade. Inside, seating surfaces varied from cloth to semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, depending on the trim, with the Platinum model offering a more luxurious interior that aimed to win over skeptics.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and additional lower body trim. It featured unique 20-inch alloy wheels and a simulated suede interior headliner, enhancing its upscale appearance. The Palisade's unconventional styling drew mixed reactions, but its luxurious interior, especially in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim, was undeniable. The cabin boasted quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather, making it appear more expensive than it was. The Palisade's interior was a standout in the midsize three-row class, offering a level of luxury that was hard to match.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was powered by a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, which improved both performance and fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. The engine's power was well-matched to the Rogue's weight, ranging from 1,536 kg for the front-wheel-drive S grade to 1,653 kg for the all-wheel-drive Platinum model. Despite the continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Rogue's performance was consistent across the lineup, though there were no options for higher displacement or turbocharged engines. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with the front-wheel-drive configuration achieving 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway, while the all-wheel-drive version slightly increased these figures. The Rogue's handling was significantly improved, with better torsional rigidity, a revamped suspension, and updated stability control systems, resulting in a stable and planted road feel.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, was equipped with a robust 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Drivers could choose from various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport, along with a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade's fuel efficiency was rated at 11.1 L/100 km in combined driving, and it delivered a firm yet comfortable ride. The suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making the Palisade enjoyable to drive, though not necessarily sporty. It was easy to handle in urban and suburban environments, with plenty of power and a user-friendly driving experience. The Palisade also offered a towing capacity of 2,268 kg, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured several functional updates across all price points. The cabin was quieter, and a new shift-by-wire system allowed for additional storage space under the centre stack. The rear doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access to the second row, which offered ample headroom. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and exterior mirrors, with upgrades available in higher trims. The cargo space was generous, with 1,028 litres available with the second row upright and 2,064 litres with them folded. The redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system offered adjustable cargo floor height and a rail system for separating cargo.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space, seating, and accessibility. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added a touch of luxury, with eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and separate climate controls for third-row passengers. The second-row captain’s chairs provided ample legroom and support, and they could slide forward for easy access to the third row. The Palisade offered plenty of in-cabin storage, with a storage tray under the centre console. Cargo space was impressive, with 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,297 litres with the third row folded, and 2,447 litres with the second row folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, though it could be disabled if desired.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SV grade added an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and additional USB ports, while the Platinum grade upgraded to a 9-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and a wireless charging pad. The Platinum also included a 10.8-inch head-up display and a Bose 10-speaker audio system. However, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster had readability issues due to low contrast.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch and a 10.25-inch touchscreen display. Both allowed simultaneous Bluetooth pairing of two smartphones, but only the 8-inch system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included SiriusXM, HD Radio, navigation, Blue Link services, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Additional features included wireless charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a Quiet Mode. A head-up display and a surround-view camera system were also available.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model added ProPILOT Assist, enhancing highway driving with adaptive cruise control and steering assistance. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with improvements made to frontal crash testing in later models.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping systems as standard. Most trims included blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warnings, with higher trims offering a Blind View Monitor. Highway Driving Assist provided smooth adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.