2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL Platinum trims, offered a straightforward approach with a single engine and transmission combination, and a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Our test vehicle, the SL Platinum trim, was priced at an estimated $37,998 CAD, excluding a $1,930 destination charge. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, though the V-Motion grille and fender swells were somewhat exaggerated. The 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels on the SL Platinum trim added to its appeal. However, the interior design revealed its age, with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. A positive aspect was the padded centre console sides, providing comfort for drivers' legs.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD, priced at $45,341 CAD, presented a more modern and functional design. Despite its fully loaded status, it resembled a rental car, lacking larger alloy wheels found on non-hybrid versions. The RAV4 Hybrid's styling was tough for a compact SUV, though it could benefit from bolder wheels. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid was stylish and practical, with a mix of impressive materials and glossy hard plastics. The test vehicle had a minor rattle from the license plate, but overall, the interior was well-designed, with clear instrumentation and easy-to-use controls.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Weighing up to 1,664 kilograms, the Rogue's powertrain was adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. The CVT made the most of the available power, but the Rogue struggled during highway acceleration, passing, and climbing. Fuel efficiency was disappointing, with a tested consumption of 9.4 L/100 km, compared to 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 hindered by lifeless steering and CVT drone.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre gas engine with front and rear electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. The hybrid system provided instant torque, making the RAV4 Hybrid feel lively despite its weight of up to 1,720 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was impressive, averaging 5.9 L/100 km during testing. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The RAV4 Hybrid's steering was well-weighted, and the suspension design contributed to a comfortable ride. However, the all-season tires lacked grip, affecting cornering performance. Overall, the RAV4 Hybrid offered a pleasant driving experience, with the ability to handle light off-road conditions.

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 glass moonroof. 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 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided easy comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated, ventilated front cushions. Rear-seat legroom and foot space were decent, with reclining backrests and dual-zone climate control. The dashboard was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a roomy 1,059-litre cargo area. Folding the rear seats expanded the cargo space to 1,977 litres.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Upgrades offered navigation, a Bose audio system, and NissanConnect Services with remote access and safety features. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured a choice of 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreens, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system and dynamic navigation. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and responsive voice recognition. The RAV4 Hybrid also offered advanced camera-based technology, including a 360-degree camera system.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with 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 safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star NHTSA rating and issues with IIHS crash-test results.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. While some functions were erratic in heavy traffic, the RAV4 Hybrid received a 5-star NHTSA rating and top IIHS marks, except for its headlights.