2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Honda Pilot

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 yet slightly exaggerated look. Inside, the Rogue's age showed through its waterfall control panel and rounded interior forms, which contrasted with modern design trends. Despite the less impressive plastic surfaces, the padded centre console sides provided a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance style with functionality, featuring a rugged appearance from a 2019 refresh and a blacked-out Black Edition. Available in five trims, the Pilot ranged from $42,905 to $56,805 CAD, with AWD as standard. The Black Edition, priced at $58,806 CAD, included exclusive black leather upholstery with red accents and ambient lighting. While the Pilot's exterior design was an acquired taste, its quality materials and minivan-like front seat layout offered a comfortable and practical driving experience, despite its drab exterior.

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 CVT. Weighing up to 1,664 kg, the Rogue's powertrain was adequate but not sporty, with the CVT doing its best to maximize performance. However, the Rogue struggled with acceleration and responsiveness, especially during highway merging or passing. Fuel efficiency was also a concern, with the Rogue achieving 9.4 L/100 km during testing, despite official ratings suggesting better performance. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the heavy steering and CVT drone detracted from the driving experience.

The 2021 Honda Pilot, on the other hand, featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine delivering 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Pilot's torque-vectoring AWD system and various driving modes, including Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand, provided a smooth and engaging driving experience. Fuel-saving technologies helped the Pilot achieve 10.9 L/100 km during testing. The Pilot's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension offered a comfortable ride and athletic handling, with well-weighted steering and responsive brakes. However, its off-road capability was limited by modest ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior was less accommodating for taller drivers, with limited seat height adjustment and space for longer legs. 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 provided 1,112 litres of space, with underfloor compartments and a Divide-n-Hide system for added utility.

The 2021 Honda Pilot excelled in interior space, offering seating for up to eight with comfortable and supportive front seats. The second-row captain's chairs, standard on Black Edition models, were nearly as comfortable as the front seats and included heating. The third-row seats were less comfortable for adults due to a low cushion. Storage was abundant, with compartments throughout the cabin and a large centre console. The Pilot's cargo space ranged from 524 litres behind the third row to 3,092 litres with seats folded, accommodating family road trips with ease.

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 7-inch touchscreen and NissanConnect interface were outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen with similar connectivity options, but the system lacked a tuning knob and required specific voice prompts. Higher trims offered navigation, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. The Touring trim added a rear-seat entertainment system and Cabin Talk feature, enhancing family travel. However, HondaLink services were limited to higher trims, and the infotainment system was adequate but not exceptional.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included ProPilot Assist and a surround-view camera. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star NHTSA rating and issues with headlight and passenger protection.

The 2021 Honda Pilot included Honda Sensing as standard, with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Touring trim added blind-spot monitoring. While the Pilot's Honda Sensing was not the most refined, its crash-test ratings were favourable, with a five-star NHTSA rating and mostly "good" IIHS ratings, except for some minor issues.