2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 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 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 Toyota 4Runner boasted a timeless design with tall slab sides, a high beltline, and short overhangs, emphasizing its utilitarian attitude. The flared wheel wells accommodated off-road tires, and the hood scoop, though non-functional, added to its rugged appearance. The 4Runner's lineup in Canada was based on the SR5 trim with five packages, including the Limited package, which focused on comfort with leather upholstery and an 8-inch touchscreen. Despite its chrome and leather, the 4Runner's utilitarian DNA was evident, with plenty of plastic and a seating position designed for off-road capability.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured 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, with a Sport driving mode that failed to deliver excitement. The CVT made the most of the power, but acceleration and highway merging were underwhelming. Fuel efficiency was disappointing, with the Rogue achieving 9.4 L/100 km during testing, despite claims of 8.2 L/100 km for FWD models. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the driving experience was marred by lifeless steering and CVT drone.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner, built on a truck chassis, featured a 4-litre V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, managed by a five-speed automatic transmission. This engine prioritized durability and off-road capability over smoothness and efficiency, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Fuel consumption was high, with estimates of 14.8 L/100 km city and 13.8 combined, though testing showed 13.3 L/100 km. The 4Runner excelled off-road, with body-on-frame construction and advanced traction systems like crawl control and Multi-Terrain Select. On-road, it exhibited significant body roll and vague steering, offering a nostalgic driving experience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior struggled to accommodate taller drivers, with undersized Zero Gravity seats and limited seat height adjustment. Rear passengers enjoyed better comfort, with high seat cushions, good legroom, and a panoramic 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 Toyota 4Runner provided excellent outward visibility and a surprisingly tight turning radius. The interior featured large, easy-to-use controls and an 8-inch touchscreen. The tall front seat position offered a commanding view, though entry and exit could be challenging without power-retractable running boards. The optional third row was cramped and best suited for occasional use, with narrow, thin jump seats.

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 and voice recognition were outdated and frustrating to use.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner received an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a welcome update. However, the onboard navigation system was challenging to use, and the 4Runner lagged behind competitors in features and usability. The SUV's technological strengths lay in its off-road capabilities, with advanced traction systems rather than dashboard features.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward-collision warning, 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 mediocre, with a 4-star NHTSA rating and issues in IIHS testing.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner benefited from Toyota Safety Sense P, with adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. It also had eight standard airbags. The 4Runner received a 4-star NHTSA rating, with a 3-star rollover score, and a Marginal rating in the IIHS small overlap front test. The adaptive cruise control worked well, but the high centre of gravity and imprecise steering limited its highway performance.