2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, following its 2019 redesign, presented a bolder and more angular appearance, enhancing its reputation for durability with a tougher look. The Trail trim, introduced the previous year, improved off-roading capabilities with a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, multiple driving modes, and downhill assist control. The TRD Off-Road package, available in 2020, further enhanced this with smaller, lighter matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and a special TRD suspension setup. The TRD Off-Road was distinguishable by its unique wheels, tires, and badges, while the interior featured TRD logos, rubber floor mats, and a rubber cargo mat, contrasting with the otherwise quality construction and soft-touch materials.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, giving it a muscular and imposing presence with a squared-off nose and a deeper V-Motion grille. Standard LED headlamps and functional air vents contributed to a lower coefficient of drag despite its boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was simplified, with two-tone options available on the Platinum grade. Inside, the Rogue offered cloth seating surfaces, with leatherette and semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather available on higher trims. The SV AWD model with the Premium Package included heated rear seats, manual rear sunshades, and a power liftgate, while the Platinum model elevated the interior with premium materials.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid, a separate model, offered 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, though it was not available with the TRD Off-Road package. The eight-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally struggled with gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system with fuel-saving driveline disconnect technology and multiple terrain select settings, making it capable on various surfaces. Despite averaging 10.0 L/100 km, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road excelled in urban environments and off-road trails, though its all-terrain tires were not ideal for fast mountain driving.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with direct injection, producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This engine was well-matched to the Rogue's weight, and the CVT was less droning than expected. The Rogue's fuel efficiency was respectable, with the AWD model achieving 9.2 L/100 km in the city and 8.3 combined. The Rogue's handling improved significantly with a 27% increase in torsional rigidity, a 40-kilogram weight reduction, and updated suspension and stability control systems, resulting in a stable and planted road feel.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy access with well-positioned seating hip points and a sporty driving position. The RAV4 Trail featured SofTex upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB ports. Interior storage was ample, with a dashboard shelf and a cargo space of 1,062 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,974 litres with the seats folded. Roof rails and a roof rack with crossbars added to the RAV4's utility.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue's cabin was quieter and featured a new shift-by-wire system, creating additional storage space. The rear doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and second-row headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and exterior mirrors. The SV trim added a 360-degree Around View Monitor, remote start, and a panoramic sunroof. The Platinum grade included a redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system, offering 1,028 litres of cargo space with the seats upright and 2,064 litres with them folded.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4's technology was user-friendly, with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The TRD Off-Road's infotainment system impressed with its voice-recognition technology and included wireless smartphone charging. A 360-degree surround-view camera and a digital rear-view mirror were available on higher trims.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SV grade added an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and additional USB ports. The Platinum grade offered a 9-inch screen, wireless phone charging, a 10.8-inch head-up display, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system. However, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster had readability issues.

The 2020 RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring automatic emergency braking, radar adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came standard with Safety Shield 360, including forward emergency braking, rear emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model introduced ProPILOT Assist, and the Platinum grade added Navi-link. The Rogue received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a four-star safety rating from the NHTSA, with improvements in later models.