2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2019 Ford Edge

The 2019 Ford Edge received a significant facelift, featuring a new grille, headlights, and lower front fascia. The rear was updated with new taillights and a larger black panel replacing the red connector, giving the Edge a sportier look across all trims. However, the interior remained largely unchanged from previous models, feeling dated and heavily reliant on plastic materials. Despite the new rotary shifter, the cabin struggled to shake off its old-fashioned vibe.

In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Rogue maintained an attractive exterior, albeit with some exaggerated design elements like the V-Motion grille and fender swells. Inside, the Rogue's age was more apparent, with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. However, the padded sides of the center console were a thoughtful touch, providing comfort where drivers' legs might rest.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine for non-ST trims, producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, could be configured with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The ST trim featured a more powerful 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, exclusively with all-wheel drive. The Edge ST impressed with its acceleration and cornering abilities, though its fuel economy was less stellar, averaging 19.9 mpg in spirited driving.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with a single engine option: a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While the CVT made the most of the available power, the Rogue struggled during acceleration, passing, and climbing. The EPA estimated 29 mpg in combined driving for the front-wheel-drive version, but real-world testing yielded only 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it lacked the fun factor, with lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2019 Ford Edge's cabin, though dated, was practical with deep storage bins, USB ports, and large bottle holders. The front seats were comfortable, but the ST's bucket seats were not ideal for taller drivers. The rear seats offered ample space, and the cargo area provided 39 cubic feet of storage, expandable to 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. This made the Edge competitive with other midsize SUVs like the Nissan Murano and Chevy Blazer.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's front seats, while featuring Nissan's Zero Gravity design, were difficult to adjust for taller drivers. The rear seats, however, were spacious and comfortable, with excellent thigh support and a good view, enhanced by the panoramic sunroof. The Rogue excelled in cargo space, offering 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats and additional underfloor storage compartments, along with the Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2019 Ford Edge's base infotainment system was basic, with a 4.2-inch non-touchscreen and limited functionality. The available 8-inch Sync 3 system on higher trims was more user-friendly, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, despite its average graphics.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Higher trims offered additional features like SiriusXM, navigation, and a Bose sound system. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2019 Ford Edge came standard with a reversing camera, traction control, and a full suite of airbags. Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, automatic high-beams, and blind-spot monitoring, was also standard. Higher trims could be upgraded with Co-Pilot360 Assist+, adding adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and lane-centering.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beams. Additional safety features included Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert. Optional safety tech included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and some shortcomings in IIHS testing.