2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2019 Kia Sorento

The 2019 Kia Sorento was an attractive SUV, with updated styling that included revised front and rear bumpers, a new grille, new headlights and taillights, and redesigned aluminum wheel choices. These changes were well-received, enhancing the vehicle's overall appeal. The SX Limited trim, which was the top-tier option, featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, a pleasing fabric headliner, and metallic accents that worked well with the piano black trim. However, the presence of inexpensive plastic surfaces in a nearly $50,000 vehicle was a drawback.

In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Rogue maintained an attractive appearance despite its age. The bold V-Motion grille and exaggerated fender swells were notable design elements, especially with the SL trim's 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior revealed the Rogue's age, with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. The padded center console sides were a thoughtful touch, but overall, the interior design lagged behind more modern competitors.

The 2019 Kia Sorento offered two engine options: a standard 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and a 290-horsepower, 3.3-liter V6 engine. The V6 provided smooth power and quick acceleration, paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could choose between Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart driving modes, with AWD available for an additional $1,800. The Sorento's handling was athletic, thanks to its 19-inch wheels and Torque Vectoring Cornering Control (TVCC). During testing, the Sorento SX Limited returned 20.7 mpg, close to the EPA rating of 21 mpg. The ride was solid and silent, with responsive handling and a robust feel due to its high-strength steel architecture.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, was equipped with a single 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While the CVT made the most of the available power, the Rogue's performance was merely adequate, especially during acceleration, passing, and climbing. The EPA estimated 29 mpg in combined driving, but testing revealed a lower 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the vehicle lacked fun-to-drive characteristics. The steering was lifeless, and the CVT drone was noticeable, making the driving experience less enjoyable.

The 2019 Kia Sorento was a 3-row, 7-passenger SUV, but the third-row seat was best suited for emergency use due to its difficult access and lack of cushion support. As a 5-passenger SUV, the Sorento offered 38 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 73 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The SX Limited trim featured luxurious options like premium Nappa leather upholstery, a 14-way power adjustable driver's seat, and a panoramic sunroof. Front-seat comfort was good, but rear-seat comfort was less impressive due to tight legroom and a flat bottom cushion. Rear air-conditioning vents, sun shades, and power sources were available to keep passengers comfortable.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's front seats, though designed with Nissan's Zero Gravity cushion technology, were somewhat undersized and difficult to adjust for taller drivers. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed better comfort with high seat cushions, good thigh support, and a proper backrest angle. The panoramic sunroof, rear air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports added to the rear-seat appeal. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet available behind the back seat and additional underfloor storage compartments. The Divide-n-Hide cargo management system further enhanced utility.

The 2019 Kia Sorento offered three infotainment systems depending on the trim level. The base UVO play system included a 7-inch touchscreen, reversing camera, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The UVO eServices system, available on higher trims, added features like 911 Connect, roadside assistance, and safe teen driving features. The top-tier system included an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. A 360-degree surround-view camera system was optional for the SX trim and standard on the SX Limited.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Higher trims offered upgrades like SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, a Bose premium sound system, and NissanConnect Services. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface was dated, with slow response times and subpar voice-recognition technology, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2019 Kia Sorento excelled in safety, with most trims offering blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Sorento received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, making it a reliable choice for families.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue also featured a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional features like Rear Door Alert and Tire Fill Alert were useful. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and lower scores from the IIHS, reflecting its older design.