2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was available in three trim levels: S, SV, and SL Platinum, with a straightforward engine and transmission setup, offering both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. The SL Platinum trim, which was tested, had an MSRP of $37,998 CAD, excluding a $1,930 destination charge. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, with a bold V-Motion grille and exaggerated fender swells. The 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels on the SL Platinum added to its appeal. 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.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, a smaller sibling to the anticipated Bronco, offered a modern retro look reminiscent of Land Rover designs. It featured a short front overhang for better approach angles and a rear design that echoed its larger counterpart. The bold "BRONCO" lettering on the grille and tailgate, with a modest Ford badge, added to its rugged appeal. Wheel options varied across trims, with sizes ranging from 17 to 18 inches, and the interior was tastefully rugged with an uncluttered design. The centre stack included convenient storage cubbies and an 8-inch infotainment screen, while the interior trim improved with each model, offering options like leather-trimmed seats and rubberized flooring.

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 CVT managed power well, but the Rogue struggled with acceleration, especially on highways or steep grades. Fuel efficiency was disappointing, with real-world consumption at 9.4 L/100 km, higher than the expected 8.2 L/100 km. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the driving experience was marred by lifeless steering and CVT drone.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport offered two engine choices: a 1.5-litre EcoBoost three-cylinder with 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque for Base, Big Bend, and Outer Banks trims, and a 2.0-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder with 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft for the Badlands model. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, with a terrain management system offering up to seven G.O.A.T. modes. The Bronco Sport excelled off-road, with a short wheelbase, independent suspension, and good ground clearance. On-road, it was a capable commuter, with the 2.0-litre engine better suited to its character.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. The seats, though featuring Nissan's Zero Gravity design, were somewhat undersized, and taller drivers struggled to find a comfortable position. The rear seats, however, offered excellent thigh support, legroom, and visibility, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area was generous, with 1,112 litres of space and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport catered to active lifestyles with features like a cargo area designed to fit two 27.5-inch mountain bikes and over 100 accessories for outdoor gear. The roof could support up to 68 kilograms, and the 2.0-litre engine could tow up to 997 kilograms. The cargo area included a flip-up rear glass, a slide-out work table, and a 400-watt inverter. The front cabin offered ample storage, though visibility was a concern for taller drivers due to the roof overhang and hood bulges.

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 interface were outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport featured an 8-inch SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and FordPass Connect with a WiFi hotspot. A Bang & Olufsen sound system was available on higher trims. The terrain management system offered multiple drive modes, and trail control technology assisted off-road driving. Intelligent access with push-button start and a digital instrument panel were available on select trims.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional options included ProPilot Assist and a surround-view camera. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star NHTSA rating and no IIHS Top Safety Pick designation.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport included the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, with features like pre-collision assist, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and navigation. The Bronco Sport received top safety ratings, with a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation.