2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

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 design, 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 previous generation, despite its boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was simplified to four or five colours, with a sixth pearl grey option available on the SV with all-wheel drive. The Platinum grade offered four two-tone colour configurations, combining a lower paint colour with a blacked-out roof. Inside, seating surfaces were primarily cloth, with leatherette upholstery available in the SV AWD model with the Premium Package. The Platinum model featured semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, elevating the interior to a more luxurious level.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, while sharing its side glass and overall footprint with the Ford Expedition, distinguished itself with unique styling and features. Its elegance and understatement were evident in its simple rectilinear shapes defining the grille, windows, and headlights, complemented by a few chrome accents. The Pristine White example with a white-painted grille, black wheels, and illuminated Lincoln logo was particularly striking. The interior impressed with seven colour palettes and finer details like layered wood trim and a floating centre console. The Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, providing a luxurious experience. The Navigator's large windows and high driving position enhanced visibility, though parking was challenging due to its size.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder direct-injected engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. This engine improved performance and fuel efficiency compared to the previous generation. The Rogue's curb weight ranged from 1,536 kilograms for the front-wheel-drive S grade to 1,653 kilograms for the all-wheel-drive Platinum model. Despite the continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Rogue's handling was significantly better than its predecessor, with a 27% improvement in torsional rigidity and a revamped multi-link rear suspension. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with Natural Resources Canada estimating 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving for the front-wheel-drive configuration.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine from the Ford Raptor, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada, the Navigator offered impressive performance for its size. Its towing capacity was substantial at 3,765 kilograms. However, fuel efficiency was less impressive, with a combined rating of 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a comfortable ride, though not as refined as some competitors. The steering and brakes lacked the precision found in the Cadillac Escalade, but the Navigator's overall refinement and power were commendable.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered functional updates across all price points, including a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system that added storage space. The second-row doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats, 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 second row seats upright and 2,064 litres with them folded.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator provided ample space for passengers and cargo, with a boxy design that maximized interior volume. It could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third row's middle seat was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 behind the second, and 2,925 in total. The Navigator Reserve featured heated rear second-row seats and a three-zone climate system. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, enhancing the driving experience. However, parking was challenging due to its size, despite the 360-degree cameras.

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

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system felt outdated compared to newer competitors. It lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the cameras were low-resolution. However, the software was intuitive, and voice recognition was accurate. The Navigator offered wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming. Drive mode animations added a touch of sophistication to the instrument panel.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came standard with Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model introduced ProPILOT Assist, enhancing highway driving assistance. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance. It featured standard safety equipment like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Optional inflatable rear seat belts provided additional safety for the second row.