2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

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 attractive, albeit slightly dated, appearance. Inside, the Rogue's age showed through its waterfall control panel and rounded interior design, which contrasted with the modern, angular motifs of newer vehicles. Despite the less impressive plastic surfaces, the padded centre console sides provided a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 showcased a distinctive design as an EV, moving away from the traditional styling of VW's gasoline models. Built on the MEB platform, the ID.4 featured a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, differentiating it from the Tiguan and Atlas. While it didn't fully resemble an SUV, the ID.4's design was in line with other EV crossovers like the Chevy Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalism with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic surfaces. The interior offered a modern feel, though the driver's seat lacked thigh support, impacting comfort during longer drives.

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 1,664 kilograms, the Rogue's powertrain was adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. The Xtronic CVT managed power well, but the Rogue struggled with acceleration, especially during highway merging or overtaking. Fuel efficiency was also a concern, with the Rogue achieving 9.4 L/100 km in testing, higher than the expected 8.2 L/100 km. The ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the Rogue's steering and suspension left much to be desired, making it more of a vehicle to endure than enjoy.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain options: a base RWD version with a single rear-mounted motor delivering 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, and an AWD version with dual motors producing 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The RWD setup provided balanced handling, with the rear wheels driving and front wheels steering. While not sporty, the ID.4 prioritized comfort, offering a smooth ride despite body roll in corners. The electric motor's instantaneous torque made city driving enjoyable. Unlike many EVs, the ID.4 didn't emphasize regenerative braking, opting for a more traditional driving experience with friction brakes, which might disappoint EV enthusiasts but catered to drivers transitioning from gasoline vehicles.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior posed challenges for taller drivers, with seats that were undersized compared to Nissan's usual Zero Gravity designs. The driver's seat height adjustment was limited, affecting comfort for those with longer legs. Rear passengers, however, enjoyed a high seat cushion, ample legroom, and a panoramic moonroof, making the back seat a preferred spot. Cargo space was a strong point, with 1,112 litres available behind the rear seats, along with underfloor storage and a Divide-n-Hide cargo system.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more headroom than its EV competitors, though legroom was average. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, surpassing many EVs but falling short of the CR-V and RAV4. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk," focusing instead on cabin space, which felt roomy from the driver's seat. Visibility was mixed, with good forward views but limited rearward visibility due to thick pillars. The centre console was narrow, offering limited storage, but the cabin included standard heated seats and steering wheel, enhancing comfort in colder climates.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM, with upgrades like navigation and a Bose audio system available. NissanConnect Services offered remote access and safety features, but the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a 10-inch touchscreen (with an optional 12-inch upgrade) and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The haptic touchpads replaced traditional controls, but their lack of tactile feedback made them challenging to use while driving. The ID.4 included a voice-control system and ID.Light, a light strip providing visual cues, though these features felt more gimmicky than practical. The touchscreen was well-positioned, with intuitive menus and smart graphics, offering a solid infotainment experience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, 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 due to issues with frontal-impact protection.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating for RWD models. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. New features like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist enhanced safety, with Travel Assist providing smooth lane centring and responsive acceleration and deceleration.