2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Land Rover Defender

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 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 Land Rover Defender brought back the classic, boxy design reminiscent of the beloved LR4. Its squared-off edges, rising roofline, and round headlights evoked nostalgia while maintaining a purposeful look. The Defender's design included functional elements like step plates and a ladder, though some were more for show than use. The vehicle's exterior could be customized with various design themes, making it versatile for urban or off-road adventures. Inside, the Defender's industrial cabin focused on durability, with options for cloth or water-resistant synthetic leather, and a minimalist design that emphasized functionality over luxury.

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). While the powertrain was adequate for everyday driving, it struggled during highway acceleration and uphill climbs, often responding with noise rather than action. The Rogue's fuel efficiency was also disappointing, with real-world consumption exceeding the expected 8.2 L/100 km. However, the Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, though it lacked excitement due to its heavy steering and CVT drone.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, offered a more powerful and refined driving experience. Its optional 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine delivered 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, aided by a mild hybrid system that eliminated turbo lag. The Defender's air suspension provided a smooth ride, and its off-road capabilities were enhanced by Terrain Response 2 and adjustable-height suspension. While the Defender's steering and handling were reminiscent of older SUVs, its off-road prowess was unmatched, making it a versatile vehicle for both on-road and off-road adventures.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. While the seats featured Nissan's Zero Gravity design, they were somewhat undersized, and taller drivers struggled to find a comfortable position. The rear seats, however, offered excellent legroom and thigh support, with a panoramic moonroof enhancing the view. The Rogue's cargo space was generous, with 1,112 litres available behind the rear seats and additional underfloor storage.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender prioritized functionality and durability in its interior design. The Defender 90 and 110 models offered flexible seating configurations, with options for a front jump seat and a third row. The cabin's minimalist design made controls easy to use, and the panoramic moonroof added to the spacious feel. Cargo space varied by model, with the Defender 110 offering up to 1,875 litres with seats folded. The Defender's towing capacity was impressive at 3,719 litres, and its rugged design was tested to withstand significant impacts.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, but its outdated interface and slow response times detracted from the experience. The 7-inch touchscreen felt dated, and voice recognition was subpar. NissanConnect Services offered remote access and safety features, but the overall tech experience was lacking.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender introduced the Pivi Pro infotainment system, a significant improvement over previous JLR systems. With dual SIM cards for streaming and updates, the system was faster and more reliable. The Defender's off-road capabilities were enhanced by front cameras and a rearview mirror that doubled as a screen. The digital instrument panel and optional head-up display provided sharp visuals, though some interface issues remained. The Defender's base model included a range of standard features, with higher trims offering luxury options like a Meridian sound system.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional options like ProPilot Assist and a surround-view camera were available, but the Rogue's safety ratings were not stellar. The NHTSA gave it a 4-star overall rating, with a concerning 3-star rating for driver protection in frontal impacts.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by U.S. crash testing agencies, and it lacked knee and rear side airbags. However, it included standard safety features like forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Defender's 360-degree cameras and driver attention monitor added to its safety credentials.