2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Lexus GX

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 revealed its dated design with a waterfall control panel and rounded surfaces, lacking the modern angular motifs seen in newer models. The plastic surfaces were unimpressive, but the padded centre console sides provided a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus GX retained its decade-old body shell with minor updates, including the Lexus spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's styling was coherent despite its massive grille, offering a tough, aggressive look that appealed to SUV shoppers. However, the interior did not meet modern luxury standards, with wood trim resembling plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. The semi-aniline leather was standard, but the overall interior felt outdated compared to contemporary luxury SUVs.

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, even with a Sport driving mode. The CVT managed power well, but the Rogue struggled with acceleration, especially during highway merging or overtaking. Fuel efficiency was also a concern, 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 benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the driving experience was marred by lifeless steering and CVT drone.

The 2021 Lexus GX featured a 4.6-litre V8 engine delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Despite the powerful engine, the GX's 2,349-kilogram weight affected its performance, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride compared to unibody SUVs. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability with a Torsen centre differential, low-range 4WD, and features like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select. The GX offered 20.5 cm of ground clearance and a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms, but its off-road prowess came at the expense of on-road comfort.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior comfort was compromised for taller drivers, with limited seat height adjustment and legroom. 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 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics reflected its age, with limited legroom and an awkward steering wheel angle. Visibility was excellent due to the dashboard shape and boxy profile, but forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. Storage was limited, with small bins and cupholders. The GX offered three rows of seating, but the third row was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited with the third row up, and even with seats folded, it was less than competitors like the Land Rover Discovery.

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 interface was outdated and slow, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It featured a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, but the touchscreen graphics were dated, and the system offered limited functions. Analog controls were a practical alternative to the touchscreen, providing ease of use despite the primitive interface for a luxury SUV.

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 issues in IIHS testing.

The 2021 Lexus GX included the Lexus Safety System+ with features like pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera were standard, but the GX lacked some advanced features found in other Lexus models. Crash-test ratings were unavailable from NHTSA and IIHS.