2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser presented a design that was understated yet functional, with subtle styling choices that became apparent over time. Its hood was uniquely dished in the center, enhancing forward visibility for the driver, a practical feature for off-road navigation. The fenders slightly bulged to accommodate wheel travel, subtly indicating the vehicle's width. The Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a distinctive grille, and bronze BBS wheels, while the interior offered a luxurious feel with black perforated leather seating and a functional, albeit plain, dashboard.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Rogue showcased a more modern and technical appearance, with dark gray cladding and bold skid plates that emphasized its SUV character. The clean LED lighting, V-Motion grille, and optional two-tone paint added to its contemporary aesthetic. Inside, the Rogue offered a light and airy cabin with an Almond color leather interior and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was marked by soft-touch surfaces and a logical arrangement of controls, with the Platinum trim providing quilted leather and ambient lighting for a luxurious touch.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, provided the Land Cruiser with the capability to tackle both urban and rugged terrains. Its off-road prowess was further enhanced by a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and a Multi-Terrain Select control knob, allowing drivers to adjust settings for various surfaces. Despite its size, the Land Cruiser offered a serene driving experience, with controlled body roll and a commanding driving position.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. While adequate for daily driving, the engine felt underpowered for more adventurous pursuits. The Rogue's CVT was smooth and unobtrusive, and the SUV offered AWD with Snow and Off-Road modes for light off-roading. The Rogue's ride and handling were commendable, thanks to a new architecture and advanced suspension systems. The steering was notably improved, providing a more engaging driving experience.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a dual-purpose design, with features like skid plates and tow hooks for off-road use, and a three-row configuration for family convenience. The interior was spacious, with heated second-row seats and a cooling box in the center console. The split tailgate design was both practical and charming, making loading and unloading easy. The Land Cruiser could tow up to 8,100 pounds, adding to its versatility.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue focused on comfort and practicality, with Zero Gravity seats that provided excellent support. The interior was spacious, with generous rear-seat headroom and legroom, and the rear doors opened wide for easy access. The Rogue offered a range of climate control options, with the SL and Platinum trims featuring a triple-zone system. Cargo space was ample, with a power rear liftgate and a Divide-N-Hide cargo management system in higher trims, providing flexibility for various storage needs.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a 9-inch touchscreen with Toyota Premium Audio, including navigation and a 14-speaker JBL sound system. However, it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were common in competitors. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system was a standout feature, aiding in off-road navigation and tight parking situations.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered a competitive infotainment package, starting with an 8-inch touchscreen and expanding to a 9-inch display with higher trims. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system. The Platinum trim added advanced features like wireless charging, a digital instrument cluster, and a head-up display, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser came with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering features like a pre-collision system and adaptive cruise control. It also included the Star Safety System and 10 airbags, providing a comprehensive safety package. However, it lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue prioritized safety with the Nissan Safety Shield 360, which included blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The Rogue also featured ten airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. ProPilot Assist with Navi-link technology was available, offering advanced driver assistance features. The Rogue's new architecture and increased use of high-strength steel suggested improved crash protection, though official ratings were not available at the time.