2020 Hyundai Kona vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trims, offered a straightforward approach with a single engine and transmission combination, and a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The test model featured the SL trim with front-drive, the SL Premium Package, and additional accessories, totaling $34,870. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, highlighted by its bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior design showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces, though it did include thoughtful touches like padded center console sides for driver comfort.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Kona stood out with its sleek, sporty, and dramatic exterior design, making it visually stimulating despite its compact size. The Kona's design cleverly masked the inherent stubbiness of small, short-wheelbase vehicles, with features like tiered lighting, slim LED running lamps, and two-tone wheels. The Limited and Ultimate models offered larger wheels and additional trim, enhancing the premium vibe. However, the interior couldn't match the exterior's quality, with hard plastics and lackluster finishes. While the layout and screens were acceptable, the fit and finish lagged behind competitors like the CX-30 and HR-V.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped with a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Weighing up to 3,671 pounds, the Rogue's powertrain was adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. The CVT managed the power well, but the Rogue struggled with acceleration, especially when merging onto highways or climbing grades. Fuel economy was another disappointment, with real-world testing yielding only 24.9 mpg compared to the EPA's 29 mpg estimate. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the driving experience was marred by lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2020 Hyundai Kona, on the other hand, offered a more dynamic performance with its 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This engine, available on the Limited and Ultimate trims, provided strong acceleration and confidence when merging onto highways. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) complemented the engine's eagerness, delivering quick responses. The Kona's handling was impressive, with fast steering and a stable suspension, rivaling more expensive models like the Mercedes-Benz GLA. However, the ride was stiffer, and the cabin was noisier compared to competitors. Fuel economy was average, with AWD models achieving around 29 mpg on the highway.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. While the seats featured Nissan's Zero Gravity design, they were somewhat undersized, making it challenging for taller drivers to find a comfortable position. The rear seats, however, offered excellent thigh support and a good view, thanks to the stadium-style seating and panoramic sunroof. Rear passengers also benefited from air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. Cargo space was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet available behind the rear seats, along with underfloor storage and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Kona struggled with interior space, particularly in terms of cargo capacity. With only 19 cubic feet of cargo space and 46 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, it lagged behind competitors. Rear legroom was average, and the scalloped roof provided additional headroom, but overall, the Kona felt cramped. Despite its easy-to-use controls and good sightlines, the Kona's utility was limited, making it more akin to a small hatchback than a true crossover.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue offered a comprehensive list of infotainment features, including Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Higher trims added SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, and a Bose premium sound system. NissanConnect Services provided remote access features and safety settings, but the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated and slow to respond, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2020 Hyundai Kona, except for the base SE model, came well-equipped with features like a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and proximity entry. The SEL trim added heated seats, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The SEL Plus introduced an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, wireless charging, and an eight-speaker Infinity stereo. The Limited trim featured leather upholstery, while the Ultimate trim boasted a sunroof, an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation, and adaptive cruise control. The Kona's tech offerings were robust, with Blue Link connectivity providing remote engine start and emergency services.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue included the Safety Shield 360 suite, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Additional options like a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist were available. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and issues with frontal-impact protection.

The 2020 Hyundai Kona excelled in safety, earning a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. The Ultimate trim added pedestrian detection, though it received a lower score for this feature. The Kona lacked front knee airbags and rear side airbags, but its overall safety performance was commendable.