2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2019 Ford Edge

The 2019 Ford Edge underwent a noticeable exterior update, featuring a new grille, headlights, and lower front fascia, which contributed to a sportier look. The rear of the vehicle also saw changes with new taillights and a larger black panel replacing the previous red connector, enhancing its athletic appeal. However, the interior remained largely unchanged from previous models, retaining a dated feel reminiscent of the 2010 version, despite the addition of a new infotainment system. The cabin, while functional with features like a rotary shifter, was criticized for its heavy use of plastics, which detracted from its modernity. The Edge offered a range of trims, from the base SE with standard features like 18-inch alloy wheels and keyless entry, to the performance-oriented ST, which included enhancements from Ford Performance and a higher price tag.

In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Rogue maintained an attractive exterior despite its age, with a bold V-Motion grille and exaggerated fender swells. The SL Platinum trim, equipped with 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, added to its visual appeal. Inside, the Rogue's age was more apparent, with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. However, the SL Platinum trim offered thoughtful touches like padded centre console sides for driver comfort. The Rogue's interior design, while not cutting-edge, provided a comfortable and practical environment for passengers.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a range of engine options, with non-ST trims featuring a 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided reliable performance with the option of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The ST trim, however, boasted a more powerful 2.7-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, also mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with standard all-wheel drive. The ST's performance was impressive, offering excellent acceleration and handling, particularly in Sport Mode. Fuel economy for the Edge varied, with the most efficient version consuming 10.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.0 on the highway, while the ST averaged 11.8 L/100 km in spirited driving.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, was equipped with a single engine and transmission combination: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the CVT made the most of the available power, the Rogue's performance was considered merely adequate, particularly during highway acceleration or when climbing grades. Fuel efficiency was also a concern, with the Rogue achieving no better than 9.4 L/100 km during testing, despite official ratings suggesting better performance. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by technologies like Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it lacked the fun-to-drive factor, with heavy steering and occasional CVT drone detracting from the experience.

The 2019 Ford Edge's cabin, though dated, was practical and spacious. It featured a deep cargo bin in the centre console, USB ports, and available wireless charging. The Edge ST's bucket seats, while designed for performance, were not ideal for taller drivers due to limited adjustability. However, the rear seats offered ample space and comfort, with 1,110 litres of cargo space behind them, expandable to 2,078 litres with the rear seats folded. This made the Edge competitive with other midsize crossovers in terms of cargo capacity.

In the 2020 Nissan Rogue, front-seat comfort was compromised for taller drivers due to limited adjustability, despite the inclusion of Nissan's Zero Gravity cushion designs. The rear seats, however, were more accommodating, offering good legroom, thigh support, and a high seating position. The Rogue's cargo area was generous, with 1,112 litres of space behind the rear seats, along with underfloor storage compartments and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system, providing versatility for various storage needs.

The 2019 Ford Edge's base infotainment system was basic, featuring a small 4.2-inch non-touchscreen with button controls. However, the available 8-inch Sync 3 system, standard on higher trims, offered a more user-friendly experience with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, despite its average graphics. The system was praised for its intuitive menu layouts and ease of use.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included standard features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with available upgrades such as navigation and a Bose premium audio system. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was criticized for its outdated appearance and slow response times. NissanConnect Services offered additional features like remote access and safety settings, but the overall tech experience was hindered by the system's limitations.

The 2019 Ford Edge came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a rear-view camera, traction control, and multiple airbags. Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite added advanced driver-assistance features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Edge received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was rated as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though its headlights received lackluster scores.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue also offered a robust set of safety features, with the standard Safety Shield 360 collection including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional options included ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and issues with frontal-impact protection preventing it from earning a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS.