2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe 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 front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The SL Platinum trim, priced at an estimated $37,998 Canadian, 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 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe maintained the classic Wrangler design with signature elements like the seven-slot grille and removable doors, subtly distinguishing itself as a plug-in hybrid with blue decals and a charging port. The interior quality was consistent across the lineup, with the Unlimited Rubicon offering optional leather seats and a Cold Weather Group for added comfort. The combination of Dark Saddle brown leather seats and black leather inserts provided a rugged yet stylish interior, though the use of black plastic was prevalent.

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). Weighing 1,664 kilograms, 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 fuel efficiency, achieving no better than 9.4 L/100 km during testing. Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control improved ride and handling, but the Rogue's steering and suspension left much to be desired.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Wrangler's trail-rated capabilities included a Rock-trac transfer case, solid axles, and impressive ground clearance and water fording capabilities. The plug-in hybrid system offered an electric-only range of 35 kilometres, with hybrid, electric, and e-save modes for efficient energy use. The Wrangler 4xe provided a burst of energy from a stop, though it wasn't the quietest or best-handling vehicle for everyday driving.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. While the Zero Gravity seats were comfortable, the driver's seat adjustments were limited, making it difficult for taller drivers to find a comfortable position. The rear seats offered excellent thigh support and legroom, with a panoramic glass moonroof enhancing the view. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area was spacious, with 1,112 litres of space and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe was designed to accommodate its battery pack without sacrificing second-row space. The Sahara grades offered ample headroom and slightly reduced legroom, while the Rubicon's soft-top roof provided even more headroom. Cargo space was slightly reduced compared to other Wrangler models, with 784 litres available with the seats up and 1,908 litres with them folded. The Wrangler's width made it manageable in urban settings, and the optional power-retracting roof was a valuable feature for open-air driving.

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 NissanConnect interface was outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and slow response times. Voice recognition was subpar, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe featured Uconnect 4C with navigation on an 8.4-inch touchscreen, offering Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard. Uconnect was intuitive, with hard buttons and dials for essential functions. The system included off-road and Hybrid Electric Pages, though the instrument cluster was not fully digital. The Wrangler lacked some modern tech features, such as a wireless charging pad, which was surprising for its price point.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, 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 less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and issues with frontal-impact protection.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe shared its safety ratings with other Wranglers, receiving a Good rating in most IIHS tests but a Marginal rating for the driver's side small overlap front test. The NHTSA rated the Wrangler four stars for front crash tests and three stars for rollover resistance. Safety features were limited, with blind spot monitoring and rear park assist standard only on the Unlimited Sahara High Altitude.