2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

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 FWD or AWD. 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. Inside, the Rogue's design showed its years with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces, though it did have thoughtful touches like padded centre console sides.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, inspired by the larger Blazer, presented a stylish and likable design with dark gray plastic trim and two-tone paint options. The Activ trim added rugged features like skid plate trim, unique wheels, and sport terrain tires. Priced at approximately $35,783 CAD, it boasted a Mosaic Black paint with a Summit White roof and Jet Black leatherette seats. The interior design was praised for its excellent layout and detailing, though it did have some hard plastic surfaces that detracted from its appeal.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. Weighing 1,664 kilograms, the Rogue's powertrain was adequate but not sporty, with the CVT doing its best to maximize performance. However, it struggled during highway acceleration and mountain climbs, and its fuel efficiency was disappointing, averaging 9.4 L/100 km. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it lacked driving excitement due to lifeless steering and CVT drone.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered a turbocharged 1.3-litre three-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The powertrain was agreeable, with torque available from 1,600 to 4,000 rpm, and the transmission provided smooth gear changes. The Trailblazer averaged 8.8 L/100 km, slightly below its official rating. While it handled well with good roll control and steering, it had quirks like transmission hesitation and a firm ride. The Trailblazer was best suited for gravel roads rather than off-roading.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior was less accommodating for taller drivers, with limited seat adjustments. However, the rear seats offered excellent comfort and legroom, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof and rear climate control vents. The cargo area was spacious, with 1,112 litres of space and a Divide-n-Hide system for organization.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer's front seats were comfortable with power adjustments, but the rear seats were less inviting due to a flat cushion and reclined backrest. The cargo space expanded from 716 to 1,540 litres with the rear seats folded, and the front passenger seat could also fold down for additional length. However, the lack of rear air vents and inconsistent climate control detracted from comfort.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM, with upgrades like navigation and a Bose audio system. However, the interface was outdated, with a slow 7-inch touchscreen and subpar voice recognition.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two infotainment systems, with the upgraded version featuring an 8-inch display, wireless connectivity, and a Bose audio system. The interface was intuitive, with physical controls for ease of use. The Bose system effectively masked road noise, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included ProPilot Assist and a surround-view camera. However, its crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star NHTSA rating and no IIHS Top Safety Pick designation.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer included Chevy Safety Assist with features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a high-definition reversing camera. It received a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, though some grades had headlight issues.