2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Audi Q7

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL Platinum trims, offered a straightforward approach with a single engine and transmission combination, and a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The SL Platinum trim, priced at an estimated $37,998 Canadian, excluding a $1,930 destination charge, was the focus of our review. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, with its bold V-Motion grille and exaggerated fender swells. The 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels on the SL Platinum trim added to its appeal. However, the interior design revealed its age, with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. A positive note was the padded centre console sides, providing comfort for drivers' legs.

In contrast, the 2020 Audi Q7 offered multiple variations, including the 45 TFSI with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine and the 55 TFSI with a mild-hybrid turbocharged 3.0-litre V6. The performance-tuned Audi SQ7 with a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 was also available. Our evaluation focused on the Q7 55 TFSI, starting at $75,000 Canadian, with the Technik trim bringing the total to $86,100. The 2020 Q7 featured design updates, aligning it with the flagship Q8 model, and included standard 21-inch wheels. Inside, the Q7 adopted the high-tech dashboard and instrumentation from the Q8, with three digital displays replacing most physical controls. The cabin, decked out in Okapi Brown leather and Gray/Brown Fine Grain Ash wood inlays, exuded an upscale and high-tech vibe, enhanced by multi-colour ambient lighting.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped with a single 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 Xtronic CVT managed the power well, but the Rogue struggled during highway acceleration, passing, and climbing grades, often responding with noise rather than action. Fuel efficiency was also a concern, with the Rogue achieving no better than 9.4 L/100 km during testing, despite Natural Resources Canada's rating of 8.2 L/100 km for FWD versions. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the driving experience was marred by lifeless steering, suspension issues, and CVT drone.

The 2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI introduced a new 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, generating 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to conserve fuel. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro AWD, the Q7 offered multiple driving modes through Audi Drive Select. The 55 TFSI drivetrain accelerated the 2,275-kilogram SUV from zero to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, with a maximum tow rating of just under 3,500 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was decent, averaging 11.2 L/100 km during a road trip. The Technik trim included an adaptive air suspension, enhancing ride quality and off-road capability. The Q7 excelled in acceleration, agility, and cabin quietness, making it enjoyable to drive on various terrains.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior posed challenges for taller drivers, with limited seat height adjustment and space for longer legs. The seats, though undersized, featured Nissan's Zero Gravity design and Quick Comfort heating. Rear passengers enjoyed stadium-style seating with excellent thigh support, legroom, and a panoramic glass moonroof. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area offered 1,112 litres of space, with underfloor compartments and a Divide-n-Hide system.

The 2020 Audi Q7, while offering three rows of seats, was best suited for five passengers. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space to 402 litres when in use. Folding it down expanded capacity to 1,010 litres, with a maximum of 1,970 litres available with both rows folded. The Q7's interior was comfortable for long trips, with power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats, ample second-row legroom, and a panoramic sunroof. However, interior storage was limited, with the centre console and dashboard screen occupying valuable space.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades offered navigation, a Bose audio system, and NissanConnect Services with remote access and safety features. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition.

The 2020 Audi Q7 featured MMI Touch Response technology with dual touchscreens, natural voice recognition, and wireless Apple CarPlay. While the interface was generally intuitive, dry fingertips occasionally caused unresponsiveness. The Technik trim included a head-up display and a Bose sound system, though Audi planned to upgrade to a Bang & Olufsen system in 2021.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional options included ProPilot Assist and a surround-view camera. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and issues with IIHS ratings.

The 2020 Audi Q7 boasted HD Matrix LED headlights, though rated "poor" by IIHS for glare. The Q7 included numerous ADAS features, such as Emergency Assist, Turn Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Assist. However, traffic-sign recognition and Active Lane Assist were problematic. The Q7 received high IIHS ratings, except for the headlight assessment.