2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Honda Pilot

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more muscular and imposing presence for this compact SUV. Its squared-off nose featured a deeper interpretation of Nissan’s V-Motion grille, flanked by standard LED headlamps in a narrow and angled configuration, separate LED daytime running lights, and functional forward air vents with active grille shutters. These elements contributed to a lower coefficient of drag than its predecessor, despite the boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was simplified to a few core colours, with additional two-tone options available on the Platinum grade. Inside, seating surfaces varied from cloth to semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, depending on the trim, with the Platinum model offering a more luxurious interior that could sway even the most skeptical of Nissan critics.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance ruggedness with practicality, following a 2019 refresh and the introduction of a Black Edition in 2020. The exterior design, however, remained an acquired taste. Available in five trims in Canada, the Pilot offered standard all-wheel drive and a range of features across its lineup. The Black Edition, which we tested, came fully loaded with exclusive black leather upholstery, red-tinted seat inserts, and ambient lighting. Despite its minivan-like front seat design, the Pilot boasted quality materials throughout, though its exterior design and some interior elements, like the floor mats, left room for improvement.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. This engine was a marked improvement over the previous generation, offering better performance and fuel efficiency. The Rogue's curb weight ranged from 1,536 kg for the front-wheel-drive S grade to 1,653 kg for the all-wheel-drive Platinum model. Despite the continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Rogue's performance was well-matched to its weight, though no alternate powertrains were available. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with figures of 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model, slightly higher with all-wheel drive. The Rogue's handling was notably improved, with a 27% increase in torsional rigidity and a revamped suspension system.

The 2021 Honda Pilot, on the other hand, was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided smooth and refined power delivery, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. The Pilot's fuel-saving measures included variable-cylinder management and automatic engine stop/start, with a combined fuel consumption of 11.0 L/100 km. The Pilot's suspension system offered a comfortable ride and surprisingly athletic handling, aided by its torque-vectoring AWD system and 20-inch alloy wheels. However, its off-road capability was limited by modest ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered significant functional updates across all trims. The cabin was quieter, and a new shift-by-wire system allowed for additional storage under the centre stack. Rear doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and second-row headroom was enhanced. Standard features included heated front seats and mirrors, with upgrades available in higher trims. The Platinum grade featured a redesigned cargo system, offering 1,028 litres of space with the second row upright and 2,064 litres with them folded. The system allowed for a 5 cm cargo floor height adjustment and a vertical cargo separator.

The 2021 Honda Pilot provided ample space for families, seating up to eight with a bench second-row seat. The test vehicle's front seats were comfortable and supportive, though the front passenger seat had limited adjustment. Second-row captain’s chairs were available, offering comfort and adjustability. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults due to a low cushion. Storage was abundant, with compartments throughout the cabin. Cargo space measured 524 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,583 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 3,092 litres with all seats down.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. The SV grade added in-car Wi-Fi and additional USB ports, while the Platinum grade offered a 9-inch screen, wireless phone charging, and a Bose audio system. However, the digital instrument cluster's graphics were difficult to read.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HondaLink services. The Touring trim added navigation, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 115-volt outlet and HDMI port. The infotainment system was functional but lacked some modern conveniences, like a tuning knob and intuitive voice recognition.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue included the Safety Shield 360 suite as standard, with features like forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model added ProPILOT Assist for highway driving. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with improvements in later models.

The 2021 Honda Pilot came with Honda Sensing as standard, offering adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Touring trim added blind-spot monitoring. The Pilot received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "good" ratings from the IIHS, with some exceptions in specific tests.